EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 9/20/2012 4:04:01 AM

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Men News

*****************************************************
  ARGENTINA   


Standings - LigaA

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

Regular Season: Round 3

North

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

Round 1

Sep. 18: Argentino - Lanus 79-62

South

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


La Union wins in unbeliavable finish - by Leonardo Contieri

La Union Formosa got its first victory of the season 88-89 at Atenas court in a thrilling finish. After the lead change over a dozen times in the final quarter alone, Robert Hornsby assisted Mariano Fierro for an easy lay-up and a 88-87 Atenas lead with five seconds remaining. On the following posession, La Union put the ball on his best player, Kyle Lamonte (191-G-84, college: William Carey), but his lay-up attempt came in heavy traffic and his shot was blocked out of bounds. With 0.5 seconds remaining and all the home crowd celebrating the victory, Bruno Labaque (180-G-77, agency: Interperformances) kicked the ball like a football player and since the clock has still 5 tenths of a second to go he was whistled for a technical foul. Nicolas Lauria (202-F-88) was the player in charge to execute the two free throws for the visiting team, and he score both, giving La Union the victory.
Before that Kyle Lamonte had a very good game for La Union, with 23 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assits. Greg Lewis added 20, 9 rebounds and 5 assists and Ruben Wolkowisky scored 12. For Atenas, Javier Bulfoni was its tops scorer with 21 and 6 boards, Bruno Labaque added 15 and Diego Guaita and Robert Hornsby added 12 each.
Atenas: Labaque 15, Bulfoni 21, Hornsby 12, Fierro 10, Aprea 4 (starters) Lescano 5, Guaita 12, Elsener 2, Gonzalez 7, Colli. Coach: A. Lotterio
La Union: Gianella 5, Lamonte 23, Marin 5, Lewis 20, Wolkowisky 12 (starters) Brussino 11, Lauria 7, Melvin 6, Caceres. Coach: G. Garcia


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  AUSTRALIA   


36ers and Kings finalise rosters - by Hugh McAuliffe

The Adelaide 36ers and the Sydney Kings have completed their rosters for the start of the 2012-13 season. This week the 36ers signed Pero Vasiljevic (209-F/C-78, agency: Interperformances, college: Kansas St.). While the Sydney Kings found a replacement for Kevin Smith, signing former development player, Kevin White (189-G-87, college: Alaska-Anch.).

Vasiljevic has played 134 NBL games since 1999, he had his best season in 2003 when he averaged 16.5ppg, 8.3rpg and 1bpg for the Victoria Titans. Pero also played for the Melbourne Tigers, Canberra Cannons, West Sydney Razorbacks, Singapore Slingers and most recently with the Gold Coast Blaze (2010), where his season was cut short (just two games) due to injury. In between his NBL stints Pero has played in Germany, Poland, Sweeden and France.

Kevin White is still early in his NBL career playing for the Sydney Kings in 2010-11 as a development player, playing 14 games with a career high 5 points scored against the Tigers. White was brought in as a replacement for Kevin Smith after Smith and the Kings parted due to Smith's poor pre-season performances.


Luke Nevill signs with Indiana Pacers - by Hugh McAuliffe

Perth Wildcats star Luke Nevill (218-C-86, college: Utah) has signed with the NBA's Indiana Pacers ahead of their 2012-13 season, which opens on 31 October against the Toronto Raptors.

Nevill, 26, adds to the growing number of NBL players attracting NBA interest, after Julian Khazzouh attended Golden State Warriors training camp last December and Adelaide import Diamon Simpson signed with the Houston Rockets at the end of last season.

This trio also featured in recent NBA Summer Leagues alongside New Zealand Breaker Cedric Jackson and former Perth Wildcats Ater Majok, while Breaker Tom Abercrombie was invited for trials with a number of NBA teams in the off-season.

The 218cm Nevill, Perths starting centre as they powered to the 2012 NBL Grand Final, is one of 18 players currently signed to battle for a position on the Pacers 12-man roster.

As many as three additional players can be kept on injured reserve or farmed to the Pacers D-League team, the Fort Wayne Mad Ants, for call-up at any time.

Last season in Perth, Nevill impressively averaged 9.5 points at 50.6% to go with 4.9 rebounds, 1.5 assists and 1.1 blocks in just 19.3 minutes per game.

His smooth jump shot, excellent passing and ability to deter shots in the paint were keys to the Wildcats success and will hold Nevill in good stead with the Pacers.

Training camp commences on Tuesday, 2 October following the teams annual media day, while the Pacers will face Minnesota in their first pre-season game on Wednesday, 10 October.


Kings sign White - by Hugh McAuliffe

Former Sydney Kings development player, Kevin White (189-G-87, college: Alaska-Anch.), has officially signed up with the Sydney Kings. His final paperwork was completed on September 19, clearing the way for him to officially play in the famous purple and gold colours.

Kevin originally joined the Sydney Kings when the team returned to the NBL for the 2010-2011 season. He spent the following season improving his basketball skills with the Ballarat Miners in the SEABL league, where he played in all 28 Miners games and was recognised as one of the top players in the team.

The athletic 189cm, 90kg, 25 year-old established his basketball pedigree while playing college basketball in the US with the Alaska Anchorage Seawolves. Before that, he was a Manly junior.

Kevin said of his signing that it is every basketball kids dream to play in the NBL.

"After college in the USA, I trained with the Sydney Kings as a development player, before moving to the Ballarat Miners to improve my game", Kevin said.

"I was invited to a training camp in Sydney after a spot opened up in their roster. I played in a few pre-season games with the team in Tamworth and Toowoomba and I guess I must have given the coaching staff some confidence because I was offered a contract, which I have just signed. Im really excited to be back with the Sydney Kings", he added.

"I'm pretty happy I spent some time with the Ballarat Miners because it kept my fitness levels up, and I have definitely needed it for training with the Sydney Kings."

"It has been a tough few weeks catching up with the training regime that Head Coach Shane Heal puts us through, but I am sure it is going to pay off once the Sydney Kings NBL season tips off against Wollongong on October 5."

"The squad has been together for a couple of months and the imports arrived two weeks ago so Ive had a fair bit to learn. Shane Heal is a good guy, good coach, and hes got experience all over the world so Im looking forward to the season", Kevin said.

While playing with the Ballarat Miners, Kevin averaged 11.7 PPG, 5.6 RPG, 3.3 APG, and 45.1 FG% in 28 minutes (average) per game.

Kevin was a training player with the Kings in 2011-12 and replaces Kevin Smith (196-F-79, college: Lee) on the Kings roster after Smith was released due to poor pre-season performances.


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  BALTIC LEAGUE   


Pieno Zvaigzdes sign Gediminas Maceina - by Eurobasket News

Pieno Zvaigzdes finalized the deal with Gediminas Maceina (188-PG-84). The point guard will spend the next season with the team. Gediminas Maceina spent the previous season with Juventus Utenos. The guard notched 7.9 points, 3.6 assists, 3.5 rebounds per game in LKL. In Baltic League Gediminas Maceina posted 6.8 points, 4.3 assists, 4.0 rebounds per appearance. Eurobasket.com gave the guard All-Baltic League Honourable Mention. Previously Gediminas Maceina had stints with Panevezys, Rudupis, Siauliai, Barons/LMT Riga, Nevezis and Zalgiris. He made it into All-Lithuanian LKL 2nd Team in 2006. The season before Gediminas Maceina was named into LKL All-Newcomers Team. He was the member of U18 Lithuanian National Team. The guard also played for Lithuanian National Team in 2006.


Ventspils signs 2-year deal with Sandis Valters - by Eurobasket News

Sandis Valters (193-G-78) is a new member of Ventspils. The Latvian guard penned a 2-year deal with his new club. He was practicing with the team already for few weeks and now he officially became their new player. Valters had 10.3 ppg and 2.6 apg for 20 LBL games last season with VEF Riga. His numbers in VTB league were almost the same for 16 games. In EuroCup, the player collected 9.3 ppg, 2.8 apg and 2.6 rpg for 12 appearances. Sandis Valters won the LBL title with VEF Riga last season and in 2011 as well. In 2011 he was named Eurobasket.com All-Latvian League Player of the Year -11. Before VEF Riga, Sandis Valters played for Imola, ASK Riga, Azovmash and Anwil.
Kristaps Valters (190-G-81), who also was practicing with Ventspils recently, signed a deal with Artland Dragons.


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  BELGIUM   


Okapi Aalstar and Spirou seal the victories - by Eurobasket News

Okapi Aalstar overcame Phoenix Hagen 101:87. The Belgian team trailed 45:46 at the halftime but managed to win the game. Anderson and Thompson top-scored for the winners with 18 points each, while Clark netted 17. Thomas Dreesen (199-F-88, agency: Court Side) and Hartsock scored 13 points each in a win. White posted 26 points in the losing effort and Gordon scored 16.
Bent Schoenen Waregem outscored Gent Dragons 79:73. They led 40:39 at the halftime and then were glad to increase to 6-pont win. Ahmet Gueye (203-C/F-82, college: Hawaii) stepped up with 22 points and STEINBACH nailed 17. Thomas Foucart (195-F-84) posted 12, whilst Bart Willy Samaey (199-C-87) added 10. Thomas Van De Vondel (194-F/G-80) replied with 24 points in the losing effort.
Lietuvos rytas lost to Spirou 69:74. The Belgian team started the game with 22-19 and added 21-18 int he second frame. Moreover tehy won the thrid period 16-11 and did not mind 15-21 in the last stanza. Derrick Allen poured in 15 points and Matt Walsh (197-F/G-82, college: Florida) netted 14. Sacha Massot followed them with 10 points in the winning effort. Dejan Ivanov answered with 13 points in defeat and Nemanja Nedovic (191-PG-91, agency: Beo Basket) poured in 12. Leon Radosevic scored 10 and Steponas Babrauskas ended up with 9.


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


Smith and Upshaw sign with the Miracles - by Eurobasket News

The Miracles have brought in another player that has been said to be a NBA prospect.

Antonio Smith (6'5''-G), a 6-foot-5 guard, had pre-draft workouts this year with the Detroit Pistons as well as the Orlando Magic. Smith played NCAA Division II with the Shaw University Bears in his home state of North Carolina. Although this will be his first year playing professional basketball he is expected to fit right in.

It was between the NBA Development League and the NBL Canada, said Bo Dukes, who is Smiths agent. I didnt want to send him to Europe. I want him to be somewhere that he can really be well coached so that he can make that next step in his career. I think Moncton is a good place for him to develop.

Im sending him to the NBL Canada to get acclimated to playing professional basketball. Its not that often an NCAA Division II player gets invited by NBA teams to their pre draft workouts. Hes a legitimate point guard. The things he does well such as court vision and passing the ball come naturally to him.

Moncton has eight players under contract to attend training camp, including Christian Upshaw (5'10''-G-86) a Halifax native. Upshaw was acquired after a trade for the Miracles second overall pick to Halifax as well as Tyrone Levett.

Christian Upshaw has experience in the league, said Benitez. He was a point guard for Halifax last season and they went to the league final.

Courtesy of NBL Canada


Halifax Rainmen signs rookie Anthony Johnson - by Eurobasket

Halifax Rainmen (NBL Canada) inked 23-year old American forward Anthony Johnson (201-102kg-89, agency: Elite Talent Exchange). Johnson just graduated from Azusa Pacific (NAIA). His team won A-Sun Regular Season in 2011.
Johnson was also voted to All Big 8 Conference 1st Team in 2010 in his college time.
Of course it will be his first season in professional basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center (from @nblcanada)


Lightning match offer to Eddie Smith but that doesnt mean hell play in London - by Eurobasket News

In an effort to keep forward Eddie Smith (6'2''-G-83, agency: Veracity Sports, LLC, college: Ill.-Springfield), the London Lightning have matched the Laval Kebs offer for the National Basketball League of Canadas winner of its sixth man award.

Smith signed with the Kebs but as a player protected by the Lightning, London had a chance to match the offer.

But matchings not a guarantee that Smith will play in London this year.

You dont want a player who doesnt want to play here, Lightning general manager Taylor Brown said. We matched the offer but we havent been able to find out what he needs. Were going to talk to him and see where his head is at.

Smith was a key part of the Lightning team that won the inaugural NBL championship. He was voted the best sixth man and could well have been the playoffs most valuable player.

Brown said he wasnt aware of any major issues Smith had with the Lightning organization other than wanting to be a starter instead of coming off the bench.

Well talk to him about that and see what he wants and what hes thinking, Brown said. Hes too good a player to just let walk away.

Brown did say that by matching the offer, Smith would be near the top of the Lightning payroll.

If the Lightning cant convince Smith to play here, then a trade could be worked out with the Kebs.

The Lightning signed forward Tim Ellis and guard DeAnthony Bowden, both returning players from last year. Brown still expects Shamari Spears to return his signed contract within the next few days.

Shamari says hes been working hard and has lost some weight, Brown said. He said hes ready to play.

The Lightning have also signed first-round draft pick Adrian Terre Moss.

The five-foot-nine guard has been tearing up the summer leagues and will give the Lightning a fast penetrating guard.

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

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

Courtesy of www.lfpress.com


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


Darda signs four players - by Dajana Karl

Today, Vrijednosnice OS Darda presented four of young players: Antun Hrkac (192-F-94) , Luka Saric (200-F-93), Nikola Turalija and Robert Kujundzic (202-PF-94).

All four of them signed multi-year contracts. Robert Kujundzic signed a contract for 4 years, Luka Saric and Antun Hrkac signed a 5 year contact, while Nikola Turalija signed 7 year contact.

With these signings, Vrijednosnice OS Darda's roster is almost complete. Coach Senad Muminovic is still looking for a good center position player and this is going to be it for this season.




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


Interview with MaJic Dorsey - by Michael Aristidou

Interview with MaJic Dorsey (185-PG-81, agency: Three Eye Sports, college: S.Indiana)



1) New season in Pizza Express Apollon Limassol, what are you goals with the team?
First want to thank God and Apollon amazing organization for bringing me in as 1 of their Professional Athletes for the 2012/2013 Euro Season. My goal is to be a leader and professional on and off the court for Pizza Express Apollon Limassol. Help my Team Win a Championship and represent my country and the country of Cyprus with pride and respect. Because not to many people get the chance God has bless me with by being here playing with the name Pizza Express Apollon Limassol on the front of my jersey


2) You have the fame of the fan favorite everywhere you go how comes?
Hahahaha thats a blessing that God has blessed me with, but I think its because when people watch me play. They see Im not just playing the sport to win. But Im having fun on the court also. Plus the style of game I play makes it always an exciting game. I try my hardest to give the fans what they pay their hard earned $$$ to watch the game, because you never know what type of MaJic imam show you.


3) Basketball people in Cyprus want to know more about you, can you introduce yourself.
First thing of all Im truly happy to be in your country showing my talent. And Im here to win. Next I want to show love for my hometown Baltimore City. Its a big reason of my success today other then God and my family and friends who always believed in me. Baltimore was very rough for me growing up. So it makes me strong on and off the court because I know if anyone can make it on the streets of Baltimore City. You can make it through life anywhere. Next a lot of people ask me how I got the name MaJic. Well it was a name giving to me during a TV Show I did for ESPN called "AND 1 STREETBALL THE LIFE" during that time I was the #1 point guard in USA for Juco College Basketball. Furthermore I was invited to NBA Pre Draft Camp Top 60 players in the world. And NBA scouts was still calling Magic. But NBA great Magic Johnson was the real Magic. So I wasn't going to use it no more. But I was picked to do a TV Show for Magic Johnson on MTV and he said don't worry u can use it. Just change the spelling of it. So I paid to copy write it and changed it to the spelling MaJic. So its my official name on my driving License now.

4) Apollon team want to challenge for the title this year and eventually to win it, what is your personal ambition with the team considering the fact that Apollon never won the title before?
My main reason for coming here this season is to help lead Apollon to its first ever championship, along with the head coach and assistant coaching staff that we have. I think we can do that this season. The recruiting job the coaches did is amazing. We have every piece to win it all. Plus the way the coaches coach makes the game fun and a lot easier to learn from mistakes we all make on the court. Theres nothing like having a player coach. And thats they way they coaching us. They see the things we need to approve in as players on and off the court and apply it to practice and every day normal life since I been here. That makes my job a whole lot easier, as the leader and point guard of the team. Whatever coach tell me to do thats what I tell the players to do and let everything else take its place through God


5) You have some days in Cyprus and pre-season already started how you see things developing
I came here to work. And since I landed of the plane here in Cyprus thats what I been doing. This team is about to be something special. I really feel that. Every coach, every player, every organization staff member is doing their part to make sure we are a winning team. So that feeling is good also to see that happening. All I can say is I would make this home for me forever. Because its one of the most gorgeous beaches and places I have ever been. The food is amazing. The people are amazing, and Im big on great weather. I talk with each player, and we all feel the same way. So everyone working hard to make sure they stay apart of this team. So things are developing quickly and more than any team I have ever played on in my professional career.


6) Did you know anything for Apollon before you sign up?
If you a real professional basketball athlete overseas. Then everyone knows about basketball in Cyprus, and that Apollon is one of the best Clubs in this country along with a few others. Thats why when they contact me to sign a 1 year deal. I didn't hesitate to join.


7) Do you know anyone of your new teammates?
Yes I teamed with Brandon Brown in Mexico for Power House Xalapa Halcones and also we teamed in Ecuador for 2011 National League Champs "Mavort" also i knew of Diego, Gerald and Jaron before I joined team and knew they was great players and would be big pieces to the puzzle of winning a ship.

8) Apollon has European game in a few days, how prepared will be the team?
From the look of our team as a point guard I think we going be something very special this season. We only been together a week. But that vibe and feeling is just amazing right now, but we will see in a few days just how special things will turn out for all of us.

9) Apollon fans are demanding are you ready to bring them some success to the club?
Yes I have heard of how demanding they are, but I also heard how amazing there are also. I heard they the type of fans that got your back as long as you got there back. And to me thats what family do. So Im just happy to be a part of the family and hope my new family ready for work and for a great show. They do their part and we do our part and at the end of the day we all go home as WINNERS!

10) Give us your message for the fans
For my fans around the world. You know how much I love y'all. Thanks for always being there for me, and showing me love and support. No matter what country Im in performing my God giving talent. You know where to reach me. If you have any questions or need advice. Im here for you just as well as you always there for me. "God Bless and thank you so much for Believing in MaJic" Grrrrrrrrr <<>><<>>


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  EL SALVADOR   


San Marcos strengthens roster, technical staff - by Jaime Arevalo

Confirming its aim to 2012 Salvadorean National Champioship, San Marcos made an interesting announcement last week. The three times Champion team has added to active roster veteran backcourt player Salvador Bandek (181-G-78), who has just recovered from an injury. Also, San Marcos agreed to terms with experienced coach Ricardo Renderos , who will serve as Assistant to Arturo Mata . At this point, san Marcos seems to have all the cards to be succesful in 2012 too...


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  EUROLEAGUE   


Maccabi Tel Aviv releases Pops Mensah-Bonsu - by Eurobasket News

Pops Mensah-Bonsu (206-F-83, agency: SportsTalent, college: G.Washington) is no longer a member of Maccabi Tel Aviv. The Israeli powerhouse released him today. The medical tests showed that Mensah-Bonsu still didn't recover from knee injury suffered this summer with the British National Team.
Pops Mensah-Bonsu had very successful last season with Besiktas Istanbul. He joined the team in December averaging 18.5 points and 11.8 rebounds for 11 games in EuroChallenge. He was top rebounder and fourth assistant of the competition and was named Eurobasket.com All-EuroChallenge Player of the Year -12. In Turkish league, Mensah-Bonsu had 12.8 ppg and 7.8 rpg for 33 games. There he was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-Turkish League Center of the Year -12. Besiktas won EuroChallenge and TBL title last season, plus they won Turkish Cup trophy. Pops Mensah-Bonsu had 11.5 ppg and 7.3 rpg in 4 games at the Olympic Games in London with the British NT.


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  FINLAND   


Greg Logins signs at Lappeenranta NMKY - by Eurobasket News

Lappeenranta NMKY (Korisliiga) landed 24-year old American forward Greg Logins (200-109kg-88, college: Canisius). Logins played most recently at Barreteros in Mexican LNBP.

He graduated from Canisius College in 2011 and played just ten games last season. It will be his second season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center (from @basketfinland)


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  FRANCE   


Hyeres-Toulon signs Terence Dials - by Eurobasket News

Hyeres-Toulon Var Basket (ProB) signed 29-year old American power forward Terence Dials (206-113kg-83, college: Ohio State). The last season Dials played at Pure Youth in Taiwanese SBL.
He played in the final of French ProA in 2009.
Dials was also selected to Eurobasket.com All-Cyprus League 2nd Team in 2011.
He is quite experienced player. Dials played previously for China (Hebei and W.Liaoning), Germany (New Yorker Phantoms and Finke Baskets), Switzerland (BBC Nyon), Cyprus (Apollon) and Taiwan (Pure Youth).
He graduated from Ohio State in 2006 and it will be his seventh season as a professional player.

By Eurobasket Data Center


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  FYR MACEDONIA   


Kozuv hires Marjan Srbinovski as new Head Coach - by Eurobasket News

Marjan Srbinovski is a new Head Coach of Kozuv. The FYR Macedonian specialist is hired for the upcoming season. Most recently he worked as Assistant Coach of Fersped-Rabotnicki Skopje (from 2007 to 2010). Last summer Srbinovski served as Assistant Coach of the FYROM National Team at the EuroBasket in Lithuania. They made impressive result reaching Semifinals at this event. In the past, Marjan Srbinovski was professional basketball player for more than 12 years. He finished playing career with Rabotnicki in 2006/07. Srbinovski played there also from 1998 to 2000. In their second season together they won the Macedonian league title. In 2011, Srbinovski won the Macedonian Cup with MZT. Marjan Srbinovski played for FYROM NT from 1998 to 2003.


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  GERMANY   


Phoenix Hagen and SC RASTA Vechta achieve victories - by Eurobasket News

SC RASTA Vechta smashed BG Dorsten 119:54. They took 32-13 lead and added 33-18 in the second period. Moreover the second half also belonged to the winning side. Vechta produced 18-14 in the third period and finished the game with 36-9 in the last stanza. Daniel Krause (196-G-88) stepped up with 21 points and Benjamin Fumey (203-F-87, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: Valparaiso) posted 16. Williams collected 15 points and 10 rebounds, while Rudowitz also scored 15.
Phoenix Hagen edged BBC Bayreuth 111:108. They led 59:55 at the halftime and managed to seal 3-point victory. Davin White (186-G-81, college: CS Northridge) top-scored for the winners with 29 points and Larry Gordon (196-F-87, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: Cal Poly Pomona) notched 18. Lodwick poured in 17 and Bell delivered 15.
Earlier Okapi Aalstar overcame Phoenix Hagen 101:87. The Belgian team trailed 45:46 at the halftime but managed to win the game. Davin White posted 26 points in the losing effort and Larry Gordon scored 16.


The EWE Baskets Oldenburg Add Mustafa Abdul Hamid - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

With The injury to Indiana native Chris Kramer, the EWE Baskets Oldenburg had to react two weeks before the start to the 2012-2013 Beko BBL season by bringing in Mustafa Abdul-Hamid (188-G-88, college: UCLA).Hamid is a 24 year old 188cm guard from St Louis, Missouri. He will be starting his third professional basketball season after having played 49NCAA games for top NCAA basketball school UCLA. "With the injury to Chris, we were forced to find an involved defender and universal offensive player at that position. He can play both guard positions and gives us another option in the rotation", stated EWE baskets Oldenburg head coach Sebastian Machowski. Abdul-Hamid started his professional basketball career in 2010-2011 for KK Hemofarm Stada Vrsac (Serbia-A League): Serbian League: Euroleague Qualifying Round: 4 games: 5.3ppg, 3.0rpg, Assists-5 (3.5apg), Steals-4 (1.8spg), FGP: 44.4%, 3PT: 9.1%; Adriatic League: 24 games: 4.9ppg, 1.2rpg, 2.0apg; EuroCup: 10 games: 8.6ppg, 1.8rpg, 2.7apg, FGP: 52.0%, 3PT-1 (54.8%), FT: 64.3%, in Apr.'11 moved to Lille Metropole Basket Clubs (France-ProB): 6 games: 5.2ppg, 2.7rpg, 3.3apg, FGP: 30.0%, 3PT: 35.7%, FT: 66.7%. Last season, he played for v Krka Novo Mesto (Slovenia-Telemach League): Slovenian League: 16 games: 5.7ppg, 2.3rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 40.8%, 3PT: 31.7%, FT-1 (92.3%); Adriatic League: 10 games: 9.9ppg, 2.9rpg, 1.6apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 57.9%, 3PT: 46.9%, FT: 83.3%; EuroCup: 5 games: 5.8ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.2apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 36.4%, 3PT: 33.3%, left the same month, in Feb.'12 moved back to Krka Novo Mesto. Awards/Achievements in his basketball career have been NCAA Final Four -07, 08, Pac-10 Regular Season Champion -07, 08, Pac-10 Tournament Winner -08, Pac-10 Regular Season Runner-Up -09, Pac-10 Tournament Semifinals -09, 10, Pac-10 All-Academic 1st Team -10, Slovenian Cup Finalist -12, Slovenian League Regular Season Champion -12, and Slovenian League Champion -12.

Source: EWE Baskets Oldenburg


The Eisbaeren Bremerhaven Keep Justin Stommes - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

The Eisbaeren Bremerhaven announced today that Justin Stommes (200-G/F-88, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: E.Kentucky) will get a contract until the middle of December with an option until the end of the season. Stommes is a 23 year old 200cm swingman from Minnesota that will be starting his second professional basketball season. He is known for being a sharp shooter never averaging less than 40% from downtown at Eastern Kentucky in his four year NCAA career. Last season, he played for the Webmoebel Baskets Paderborn (Germany-ProA): 29 games: 16.1ppg, 3.4rpg, 2.0apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 52.1%, 3PT: 50.0%, FT: 72.5%. In the last weeks, he was able to convince Douglas Spradley (agency: Limelight Hoops ) and management of his basketball qualities. "I am happy for Justin. He has in the last test games after a good start had a difficult phase. However in the last games against against Leiden and Groningen, he was more active and had the needed intensity. If he keeps working hard then he can be an important player for us", stressed Bremerhaven head coach Douglas Spradley (agency: Limelight Hoops ). Stommes is thrilled for keeping his Beko BBL dream alive. "It is great that the Eisbaeren are giving me the chance to play in the Beko BBL. I came to Bremerhaven to make the next step. It couldnt have run better than it has so far", added Justin Stommes.




The New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig Test Eric Boateng - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Beko BBL team New Yorker Phnatoms Braunschweig who are still looking for a center have brought in Eric Boateng (208-C-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Arizona St.) and will test him. The 26 year old 208cm center that has the British and Ghana citzenship will play against the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven this Saturday. Boateng is has the size and rebounding skill to make an impact always at the European level. Last season, he played for DASH Peristeri GS Athens (Greece-A1, starting five), left in Jan.'12 because of injury: 7 games: 8.4ppg, 4.1rpg, FGP: 65.7%, FT: 46.4%. Boateng started his basketball career in 2005 for Duke (NCAA) where he played 20 NCAA games. He then finished his NCAA career at Arizona State from 2007-2010 playing a total of 98 nNCAA games. In his senior year, he played 33 games: 8.8ppg, 7.2rpg, FGP: 66.5%, FT: 54.2%. In 2010-2011, he started his professional basketball career for daho Stampede (D-League): 17 games: 5.2ppg, 4.9rpg, FGP: 46.1%, FT: 52.9%, in Feb.'11 moved to Austin Toros (D-League): 22 games: 4.9ppg, 4.9rpg. Awards/Achievements in his basketball career have been High School McDonald's All American Team -05, Hoop Summit -05 (World Team Selection), ACC Regular Season Champion -06, ACC Tournament Winner -06, NCAA Sweet 16 -06, Great Britain National Team -06, NIT Elite Eight -08, British National Team -08, 10-11-12, Qualifications to European Championships 2009 -08: 1 game: 0pts, Pac-10 Tournament Finalist -09, European Championships in Poland -09: 1 game: 0pts, Pac-10 Regular Season Runner-Up -10, Reese's College All-Star Game -10, English National Team -10, Qualifications to European Championships 2011 -10: 4 games: 1.0ppg, 1.3rpg, European Championships in Lithuania -11: 4 games: 1.5ppg, 2.0rpg, and Olympic Games in London (United Kingdon) -12: 3 games: 4.0ppg, 2.7rpg.

Source: New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig



The ETB Wohnbau Baskets Release Rickey Claitt - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Shortly before the start of the 2012-2013 PRO A season, the ETB Wohnbau Baskets Essen have made a change in their roster saying farewell to Rickey Claitt (188-PG-87, college: Oregon St.) Claitt is a 25 year old 188cm point guard from Orlando, Florida that was going to start his third professional basketball season, but wont with Essen. Claitt had a nasty back injury that would still take weeks to cure and the club felt it was more beneficial to terminate the contract with the American. "We dont have an adequate replacement at his position, and with the uncertainty when he will return, we cant start into the seaosn like that. It is a painful loss, because we are totally convinced of his skills. He fit perfect into the team with his charachter", stressed ETB Wohnbau baskets CEO Niklas Cox.

Source: ETB Wohnbau Baskets Essen



SC Rist Bring In Marvin Boadu, Chris Johnson Season Ends And Matt Reid Leaves - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

PRO B club SC Rist Wedel have made some changes today bringing in Marvin Boadu (193-G-89), saying good bye to Matt Reid and also announcing that the season has ended alreday for Chris Johnson. Chris Johnson suffered a achilles tendon rupture and will miss the whole season and has decided to return home to the states. The team had to respond and have brought in Marvin Boadu. Boadu is a 23 year old 193 cm guard that returns back to Wedel where he played in the 2008-2009 season. He played for SC Rasta Vechta the last three seasons playing a total of 70 PRO B games. Last season, he played 24 games: 12.3ppg, 3.4rpg, 3.7apg, FGP: 49.1%, 3PT: 31.9%, FT: 65.9%. The team announced that the try-out for Matt Reid has ended and he won't get a contract. "Matt is a great player and experienced playmaker, but on account of the injury to Chris Johnson, we had to react at another position", stressed SC Rist Wedel head coach Sebastian Gleim.
Source: SC Rist Wedel


Fraport Skyliner Johannes Herber Retires - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber


With the 2012-2013 Beko BBL season only two weeks away, the Fraport Skyliners and fan base got a inbetween breakfast-lunch shock as likeable Johannes Herber (197-G-83, agency: Pro One Sports, college: W.Virginia) announceed his retirement. Herber was going to start his seventh professional basketball season, but at the age of 29, the 197cm guard from Darmstadt, Germany had to listen more to his body than his heart. "The main reason for my decision is my heel. Last season, I carried a chronical inflammation with me. Therefore I took a longer break this summer to try to let it heel, but as the pre season came, I started getting problems again and seem to be going in the same direction as last season. I saw that I dont have the strength and motivation to be in agony for another season again", stressed Johannes Herber. Last season for the Fraport Skyliners, he played EuroCup: 6 games: 3.7ppg, 1.5rpg, 2.2apg; German League: 33 games: 4.8ppg, 2.1rpg, 1.3apg.

Herber started his basketball career in 1999 with TV Langen who already then was making waves as a big talent. In 2002, he decided to experience a four year college basketball ride and played at W.Virginia (NCAA). He played a total of 128 NCAA games and in his senior year played 9.3ppg, 3.5rpg, 4.4apg, 1.0spg, FG: 40.6%, 3PT: 25.4%, FT: 79.2%. There he played with ex Beko BBL players like D or Fischer, Mike Gnasey and Frank Young. In 2006-2007, he started his professional basketball career with Alba Berlin. There he played until February 2010, where he went to the Walter Tigers Tuebingen. He never got a real chance to show his full potential with Alba Berlin as he suffered a few ACL injuries limiting him to only 51 Beko BBL games. He won a Beko BBL title in 2008 and cup in 2009. In the 2010-2011 season, he played for the Walter Tigers Tuebingen (1.Bundesliga) 34 games: 6.6ppg, 2.5rpg, 2.0apg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 30.8%, FT: 66.7%. "I am sorry that I have to leave the team at this difficult phase. I want to thank the club and fans for supporting me and the cooperation. Now I am taking a parental leave, but feel connected to the organization and would like to sit down with them and see if we can come together in another form", said Johannes Herber. "We respect the decision of Johannes. However it hits us at a very unfavorable time. It is more or less impossible to get a German player of his quality so soon before the start of the season. Despite his decision, we will take him and put him on the report sheet and leave our options open", commented Skyliner sport director Kamil Novak. Awards/Achievements in his basketball career have been Adidas Summer Camp in Germany -99, German U20 National Team -01, German A2 National Team -03-05German University National Team -03, 05, World University Games -03, 05, Academic All-America 3rd Team -04, German National Team -04-08, 11, Big East Tournament Finalist -05, NCAA Tournament Elite Eight -05, NCAA Sweet 16 -06, World Championships in Japan -06: 9 games: 4.0ppg, 1.1rpg, German Bundesliga Regular Season Champion -07, 08, 09, Eurobasket.com German Bundesliga All-Newcomers Team -07, European Championships in Spain -07: 9 games: 5.0ppg, 1.7rpg, German Bundesliga Cup Semifinals -08German Bundesliga Champion -08, German Bundesliga Cup Winner -09, German Bundesliga Semifinals -09, and European Championships in Lithuania -11: 8 games: 3.3ppg, 2.6rpg

Source: FRAPORT SKYLINERS


McClellan ready for new challenge after parting ways with Uni-Riesen Leipzig - by Moritz Korff

Chris McClellan (182-G, college: Lewis) and Pro A team Uni-Riesen Leipzig have parted company and the 2012 graduate of Lewis University is now looking for a new place to play. McClellan averaged 15.7 points, 2.9 assists and 2.6 rebounds during his senior season at Lewis. He nailed 71 of his 160 attempts from beyond the arc (44.4%) and was ranked 20th nationally in free-throw percentage (87.5%). Following his last year in college, the Buffalo Grove, Illionois, native was named to the All-Great Lakes Valley Conference Second Team. He had joined the Leipzig team in pre-season, but was cut recently and is still in Germany trying to land a spot on another team.


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


Rotterdam Basketbal brings in big man Lowe - by Fred Roggen

Rotterdam Basketbal College completed its frontcourt with the signing of big man Lamarcus Lowe (210-F/C-88) for the upcoming season. Rotterdam Basketbal agreed to terms with center Lamarcus Lowe (210-F/C-88) this week.
Lowe arrives from the University of Detroit-Mercy, where he averaged 6.5ppg, 5.0rpg, 2.3bpg, FGP: 51.6%, FT: 72.1% per game in the Horizon League Conference last season.
He was selected a member of the Horizon League All-Tournament Team.



Matrixx Magixx, Martin to replace Harris - by Fred Roggen

Matrixx Magixx Wijchen have released forward Rashanti Harris after a few weeks and replaced him with American forward Kelvin Martin (195-F-89). Martin signed a one-year deal with Matrixx Magixx. Kelvin Martin is a former student of Charleston Southern University. He racked up impressive stats last season averaging 15.4ppg, 9.1rpg, 1.7apg, 2.1spg, 1.6bpg, FGP: 59.7%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 60.2% in 31 Big South Conference games.
Martin was named to the All-Big South Conf. 1st Team and All-Big South Conf. Defensive Player of the Year in 2011 and 2012.
We had to let Harris go because he wasnt giving us what we needed and decided to replace him for a forward who can play on three positions. Above all someone who brings even more intensity on the court, according to manager Raoul van Loon.


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  HUNGARY   


Market movements - by Tamas Deri

The management of Szeged decided not to keep american wingman Troy Brewer for the season. The rookie wingman did not have to wait too long for a new challenge as he got invited for a trial period by ZTE KK together with bosnian big man Teo Simovic.
Even the management of Szeged was finding a replacement already and has been testing serbian guard Dusan Bulut, who already played his first pre-season game last night and helped his team with 15 points.

Naturalized point guard Stefan Fekete arrived yesterday to Hungary and started his trial period with Alba Fehervar. The 26 years old, 188 cm tall playmaker spent the last season with Marso NYKK and averaged 11.3ppg, 5.2rpg, 4.6apg and 2.7 spg.


Market movements - by Tamas Deri

The management of Szeged decided not to keep american wingman Troy Brewer (195-G, college: American) for the season. The rookie wingman did not have to wait too long for a new challenge as he got invited for a trial period by ZTE KK together with bosnian big man Teo Simovic (205-C-84).
Even the management of Szeged was finding a replacement already and has been testing serbian guard Dusan Bulut, who already played his first pre-season game last night and helped his team with 15 points.

Naturalized point guard Stefan Fekete (188-G-86, agency: Beo Basket) arrived yesterday to Hungary and started his trial period with Alba Fehervar. The 26 years old, 188 cm tall playmaker spent the last season with Marso NYKK and averaged 11.3ppg, 5.2rpg, 4.6apg and 2.7 spg.


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  IRAN   


2012 Fiba Asia Cup: Iran storm past Uzbekistan into semifinals - by Eurobasket News

Iran - Uzbekistan 79:37

Iran eased into Fiba Asia Cup semifinal stage. They thumped Uzbekistan in the first quarterfinal of the day in Tokyo. Asghar Kardoust (212-C-86) posted 12 points and 8 rebounds to lead the winners.
Uzbekistan tried to stay close throughout the first frame. They trailed by just four points after ten minutes 13:17. But Iran held their opponents to just 3 points in the second quarter and boosted the gap. They ensured a 32:16 halftime advantage. Iran increased the tempo in the third term. They unloaded 27 points and piled up a 34-point lead before the fourth quarter. Iran never looked back afterwards cruising to the victory. Aren Davoudichegani (185-PG-86) posted 11 points, while Mohammad Jamshidi (197-SF-91) added 10 point for Iran. Vyacheslav Denisov (195-G-83) responded with 9 points for Uzbekistan. Aleksandr Yahin (205-C-89) netted 8 points and 9 rebounds in the loss.

Iran: Asghar Kardoust 12, Aren Davoudichegani 11, Mohammad Jamshidi 10
Uzbekistan: Vyacheslav Denisov 9, Aleksandr Yahin 8


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  ISRAEL   


Maccabi Tel Aviv releases Pops Mensah-Bonsu - by Eurobasket News

Pops Mensah-Bonsu (206-F-83, agency: SportsTalent, college: G.Washington) is no longer a member of Maccabi Tel Aviv. The Israeli powerhouse released him today. The medical tests showed that Mensah-Bonsu still didn't recover from knee injury suffered this summer with the British National Team.
Pops Mensah-Bonsu had very successful last season with Besiktas Istanbul. He joined the team in December averaging 18.5 points and 11.8 rebounds for 11 games in EuroChallenge. He was top rebounder and fourth assistant of the competition and was named Eurobasket.com All-EuroChallenge Player of the Year -12. In Turkish league, Mensah-Bonsu had 12.8 ppg and 7.8 rpg for 33 games. There he was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-Turkish League Center of the Year -12. Besiktas won EuroChallenge and TBL title last season, plus they won Turkish Cup trophy. Pops Mensah-Bonsu had 11.5 ppg and 7.3 rpg in 4 games at the Olympic Games in London with the British NT.


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  JAPAN   


Saitama Broncos tab Randall Orr - by Eurobasket News

Saitama Broncos deepened their roster. They added Randall Orr (207-C/F-82, college: Georgia Perimeter). The centre tipped off the previous season in Canada. He played for the Moncton Miracles in NBL. His stats read 6.3 points and 5.2 rebounds per game. Later Randall Orr moved to Uruguay. The centre signed with Plaza de Nueva Helvecia. He appeared in two games posting 5.5 points and 9.0 rebounds. Randall Orr finished the season with the Cincinnati Slam in UBA. Previously Randall Orr had stints in Kuwait, Ukraine, Venezuela, Paraguay, France, USBL, Sweden, WBA and NBDL. He is also now new to Japan. Randall Orr played for Tochigi Brex back in 2008/09 season.


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  KAZAKHSTAN   


Cherkasy knock down Kaspiy - by Eurobasket News

Cherkasy - Kaspiy 84:65

Cherkasy played another pre-season encounter. They hosted Kaspiy from Kazakhstan. The hosts celebrated a comfortable victory. Charles Thomas (203-F-86, college: Arkansas) posted 21 points to lead the hosts.
Cherkasy snatched an 18:15 lead after ten minutes of action. The hosts boosted the gap in the second frame. They registered a 40:35 halftime advantage. Cherkasy fired 30 points in the third term to clear off. They arrived at the final break up by 20 points and never looked back en route to the victory. Vincent Hunter (208-F-84, college: Arkansas) provided 17 points, while Marko Ljubicic (195-G-87, agency: Beo Basket) netted 14 points, issued 7 assists and grabbed 6 boards for the winners. Strukovic responded with 14 points for Kaspiy. Gytis Andrijauskas (188-PG-86) netted 13 points in the loss.

Cherkasy: Charles Thomas 21, Vincent Hunter 17, Marko Ljubicic 14
Kaspiy: Strukovic 14, Gytis Andrijauskas 13


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  LATVIA   


Ventspils signs 2-year deal with Sandis Valters - by Eurobasket News

Sandis Valters (193-G-78) is a new member of Ventspils. The Latvian guard penned a 2-year deal with his new club. He was practicing with the team already for few weeks and now he officially became their new player. Valters had 10.3 ppg and 2.6 apg for 20 LBL games last season with VEF Riga. His numbers in VTB league were almost the same for 16 games. In EuroCup, the player collected 9.3 ppg, 2.8 apg and 2.6 rpg for 12 appearances. Sandis Valters won the LBL title with VEF Riga last season and in 2011 as well. In 2011 he was named Eurobasket.com All-Latvian League Player of the Year -11. Before VEF Riga, Sandis Valters played for Imola, ASK Riga, Azovmash and Anwil.
Kristaps Valters (190-G-81), who also was practicing with Ventspils recently, signed a deal with Artland Dragons.


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  LEBANON   

Standings - Division A

Div.A Second stage Standings
 1. Champville 27-3 
 2. Al Riyadi 25-4 
 3. Anibal 18-11 
 4. Sagesse 16-14 
 5. Moutahed 13-17 
 6. Byblos 10-19 
 7. Bejjeh 8-18 
 8. Hoops 6-23 



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  LITHUANIA   


Lietuvos rytas and Sakalai play friendlies - by Eurobasket News

Lietuvos rytas lost to Spirou 69:74. The Belgian team started the game with 22-19 and added 21-18 int he second frame. Moreover tehy won the thrid period 16-11 and did not mind 15-21 in the last stanza. Derrick Allen poured in 15 points and Matthew Walsh netted 14. Sacha Massot (205-F/C-83, agency: LBM Management) followed them with 10 points in the winning effort. Dejan Ivanov answered with 13 points in defeat and Nemanja Nedovic (191-PG-91, agency: Beo Basket) poured in 12. Leon Radosevic (206-C-90) scored 10 and Steponas Babrauskas ended up with 9.
Sakalai overcame Statyba 71:62. Paulius Dambrauskas top-scored for the winners with 18 points and Petras Balocka nailed 15. Jokubas Gintvainis netted 13, while Ignas Ramasauskas had 9. Tadas Rinkunas (195-G/F-91) replied with 15 points in the losing effort and Darius Tarvydas (200-F-91) notched 13. Alvydas Zarskus brought 12 and Ovidijus Varanauskas had 9.


Pieno Zvaigzdes sign Gediminas Maceina - by Eurobasket News

Pieno Zvaigzdes finalized the deal with Gediminas Maceina (188-PG-84). The point guard will spend the next season with the team. Gediminas Maceina spent the previous season with Juventus Utenos. The guard notched 7.9 points, 3.6 assists, 3.5 rebounds per game in LKL. In Baltic League Gediminas Maceina posted 6.8 points, 4.3 assists, 4.0 rebounds per appearance. Eurobasket.com gave the guard All-Baltic League Honourable Mention. Previously Gediminas Maceina had stints with Panevezys, Rudupis, Siauliai, Barons/LMT Riga, Nevezis and Zalgiris. He made it into All-Lithuanian LKL 2nd Team in 2006. The season before Gediminas Maceina was named into LKL All-Newcomers Team. He was the member of U18 Lithuanian National Team. The guard also played for Lithuanian National Team in 2006.


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  NBA   


Metta World Peace wants the Lakers to be like Michael Jordan's Bulls - by Diamadis Farmakis

When Metta World Peace (6'7''-G/F-79, college: St.John's) (aka Ron Artest) gives an interview, it's sure that something very interestring will come up. This time he spoke to the ESPN radio and told that he want's his team to break Bulls record 72-10 wins in the regular season in 1995-96 and that they can actually do it.

Metta's strong confident is for sure inspired by the all-star players he'll have alongside, next season, in the Los Angeles Lakers. Read what he told.

What he thinks about the team possibly not having Dwight Howard at the start of Training Camp:

"We definitely want to beat the Bulls record and go 73-9, that's definitely something that I want to do. Whoever is out there at the beginning of the season then we gotta get it. It's as simple as that. We just have to go get it. [Host: So that Bulls record is something you're thinking about?] No question. You try to snatch records before you leave this earth. You gotta try to do a lot of great things so it's definitely a goal. With Dwight Howard, [Steve] Nash, Kobe [Bryant], myself, Pau [Gasol] and then [Antawn] Jamison and a lot of great additions, it's something that's possible."

** If a team with Kobe Bryant, Pau Gasol, Steve Nash, Dwight Howard, Antawn Jamison, Metta World Peace can't break Bulls famous 72-10 record,...... WHO CAN??


Jazz to invite Gilder to preseason camp - by Eurobasket News

Veteran forward Trey Gilder (6'9''-F-85, college: Northwestern St.) is expected to compete for a roster spot during the Jazz's upcoming training camp, The Salt Lake Tribune learned on Wednesday.

Utah's regular-season roster is currently set at 15 players entering camp, which is the maximum allowed by the NBA once the regular season begins.

Veteran guard Raja Bell isn't expected play for the team or participate during camp, though, and his long-delayed buyout with the Jazz has yet to be resolved.

The 6-foot-9, 185-pound Gilder averaged 19.2 points and 7.7 rebounds in 34 games (31 starts) last season for Sioux Falls, an NBA Development League team.

Gilder, 27, was on the Jazz's 2011-12 training-camp roster. He was cut from the club before the regular season started, though.

Gilder began the 2009-10 NBA season with the Memphis Grizzlies, appearing in two games before being waived.

He spent portions of the 2008-09 and 2009-10 seasons in the D-League with Colorado, Maine and Albuquerque, and was a 2010 D-League All-Star selection.

The Dallas native spent the 2010-11 season with the Sydney Kings in the Australian National Basketball League, averaging 13.2 points and 5.5 rebounds.

The Jazz are expected to hold their annual media day Oct. 1, with camp starting Oct. 2.

Courtesy of www.sltrib.com


Magic expect to sign 2 free agents - by Eurobasket News

The Magic expect to sign guard Dequan Jones (6'7''-G/F-90) and guard-forward Armon Johnson (6'3''-G-89, college: Nevada), completing their training-camp roster at 19 players.

Jones, 6-8, 221 pounds, was undrafted in the 2012 NBA draft after playing four seasons with the Miami Hurricanes.

Johnson, 6-3, 195 pounds, was drafted in the second round by the Portland Trail Blazers in 2010. He has had three briefs stints in the league since then. He played for the Trail Blazers and the Brooklyn Nets.

Courtesy of http://articles.orlandosentinel.com


Chris Paul liked Clippers over Lakers - by Eurobasket News

Los Angeles Clippers point guard Chris Paul (6'0''-PG-85, college: Wake Forest), who is featured on the covers of October's GQ, told the magazine he actually preferred being traded to the Clippers rather than the Los Angeles Lakers last year.

"They had the better pieces," Paul said. "And winning with the Clippers would be legendary."

Last year NBA commissioner David Stern nixed a trade that would have sent Paul from the then league-owned New Orleans Hornets to the Lakers in a package that would have included Pau Gasol and Lamar Odom. A week later he was traded to the Clippers instead.

Paul also said he was still irritated about being patted on the head by Gasol when the Lakers played the Clippers last season, causing the two to be separated in the waning seconds of the game.

"We call that sonnin'," Paul said. "Like when I take Li'l Chris to the bathroom, I'll walk with my hand on his head. That's my son. You know what I mean? I understand that Gasol is that tall, but don't do to me what I do to my son."

The Clippers' training camp begins Oct. 1. The Clippers will play the Lakers in a preseason game Oct. 24 and their first regular-season game will be Nov. 2.

Courtesy of ESPN


Ownership group of LA arena for sale - by Eurobasket News

Anschutz Entertainment Group, the owner of the Staples Center arena and the NHL's Los Angeles Kings, and the top contender to build a stadium and bring the NFL back to Los Angeles, is up for sale, its parent company said Tuesday.

The Denver-based Anschutz Co. said in a statement that it is ''commencing a process'' to sell the subsidiary known as AEG and had hired Blackstone Advisory Partners as an adviser.

It wasn't immediately clear how far along the company is in the sale process, or whether it has entertained any offers, but the price for AEG could be well into the billions.

The sale would mean a major ground shift in sports and entertainment in Los Angeles and around the world.

AEG's holdings also include pro soccer's Los Angeles Galaxy, part-ownership of the NBA's Los Angeles Lakers, and major entertainment and real estate holdings in downtown Los Angeles. Outside of L.A., AEG owns Major League Soccer's Houston Dynamo and New York's Barclay's Center, the new home of the NBA's Brooklyn Nets. It also owns arenas in Sweden, China and Australia.

The sale would also throw uncertainty into LA's nearly two-decade attempt to bring the NFL back to the city. The City Council is considering the approval of plans for Farmers Field, a downtown stadium proposed by AEG.

Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa said he has long known of the possibility of a sale, and both Denver billionaire Phillip Anschutz and AEG President Tim Leiweke have assured him the city's NFL hopes will remain the same.

''I have worked with both Phil Anschutz and Tim Leiweke for years to bring a football team to Los Angeles. I speak to both of them on a regular basis and I have known about this potential sale for some time,'' the mayor said in a statement Tuesday night. ''I have the commitment from both of them that this won't affect plans for an NFL team to return to Los Angeles in the near future and so will not affect my support for moving ahead with Farmers Field.''

Councilwoman Jan Perry, whose district includes the proposed stadium site, said she did not know about a pending sale but agreed that it wouldn't have adverse effects on courting an NFL team.

''The city has done a good job of protecting the taxpayer's interest in negotiating an agreement,'' Perry told The Associated Press, ''so whoever steps into the shoes of Mr. Anschutz will have the same obligations.''
Perry said the move ''arguably is very positive'' because she suspected it could lead to an enthusiastic new partner anxious to get in on the city's NFL prospects.

The potential sale was first reported by the Wall Street Journal.

AEG transformed the Los Angeles landscape with the building of Staples Center and the later addition of the LA Live entertainment complex, helping to revitalize the city's long-neglected downtown and bring new energy and several championships to its sports teams.

Opening in 1999, the Staples Center is among the world's busiest arenas. It hosted six playoff games in four days for its main tenants - the NBA's Lakers and Clippers, and the NHL's Kings, who won their first Stanley Cup in June.

Courtesy of http://msn.foxsports.com


Source: Shawne Williams wants to return to Knicks - by Eurobasket News

Unrestricted free agent Shawne Williams (6'9''-F-86, college: Memphis), who had his best season in New York in 2010-11, wants to return to the Knicks but the team isn't interested, according to a source close to the versatile forward.

The source told ESPNNewYork.com that the Knicks are "a good fit," and that he's open to taking the veteran's minimum, which is all they can offer. The Hawks and Bobcats are also looking at Williams, who is represented by Happy Walters, the same agent as Amare Stoudemire and Iman Shumpert.

Several sources have told ESPNNewYork.com that the Knicks want to add a seasoned power forward, possibly to back up Stoudemire. The top candidates are Kenyon Martin and Louis Amundson, but both players want at least the mini mid-level exception of $3 million or higher. Martin played with the Clippers last season, but he will not be back because the team has 15 guys on contract, and they would have to dip into the luxury tax to sign him.

Other fours likely on the Knicks' radar include D.J. White, Chris Andersen, who played with Carmelo Anthony and J.R. Smith in Denver, and Jordan Williams, who played for the Nets last season. Williams was recently waived by the Hawks.

While Shawne Williams isn't as skilled inside as Martin and Amundson, he can rebound and guard power forwards with his strength and length. He can also stretch the floor and knock down the three, a skill for which he became a fan favorite in New York. In 2010-11, in only 20 minutes of action, he averaged 7.1 points, 3.7 rebounds and nearly one block, while shooting 40.1 percent from downtown.

Courtesy of ESPN


Rubio has been cleared to start light running. - by Bryan Floyd

Ricky Rubio (6'4''-G-90) has been cleared to begin light running. Rubio was hopeful that he would stay on track with his rehab and this was the exact week they aimed for him to begin running. Everything we've heard on Rubio's status is in line with the belief that he won't see game action before December, and an exact date for his return is still uncertain. Rubio is coming off of a very strong campaign and will look to have an even better season this year. His jump shot is still not where it needs to be, but everything else about his game has really evolved. He is a great passer with a tremendous basketball IQ.


Brian Cook returns to Washington Wizards - by Eurobasket News

Brian Cook (6'10''-C/F-80, agency: Priority Sports, college: Illinois) wasnt excited about the prospect of joining the Wizards when the Los Angeles Clippers traded him last March. He sought a buyout before deciding to stick around for the rest of the season.

The experience in Washington must not have been too bad, because now, Cook is headed back. Cook, a 6-foot-9 veteran big man, signed a non-guaranteed, training camp deal on Tuesday with the Wizards, his agent, Mark Bartelstein said.

Cook received interest from three or four other teams, Bartlestein said, but he really felt good about the way things finished up with the Wizards. He really enjoyed playing for [Coach Randy Wittman] and with the guys on the team and they kind of expressed the same thing to him. And as we were looking at different things, he wanted to go back. He had a comfort level. Hes back and hopefully, it will work out great.

The Wizards will enter training camp with 18 players and one roster spot up for grabs if the team elects to enter the season with the maximum 15 players. Cook, big men Shavlik Randolph and Earl Barron, and point guard Steven Gray all signed training camp deals and Shelvin Mack has a partially guaranteed-contract but the remaining players are all signed to guaranteed deals.

Cook averaged 3.1 points and 2.5 rebounds in 16 games with the Wizards. Though used sparingly, he had a season-high 10 points and nine rebounds in a loss to Indiana on April 4. After the season, Cook explained his initial apprehension about the deal and how his opinion changed shortly after arriving.

I think when I got here, all the guys, I could see that they wanted to win, Cook said in April. If you want to have a good team, everybody has to do their part. I dont care if its the first guy coming in, the starters down to the 15th guy. Youve got to be professional. Youve got to play together, and I think thats what we started doing.

Cook, 31, has established a reputation as stretch four in his nine-year career and he has a career three-point percentage of 38.2 percent. He shot just 20 percent (10-50) from long distance last season with the Clippers and Wizards. He has also played for the Los Angeles Lakers, Orlando and Houston.

Cook had hoped to return to the playoffs last season after not making an appearance since 2009, but he described his six-week run with the Wizards as gratifying in spite of its shortcomings.

I dont think well ever forget it. We had a lot of guys that came in, 10-day guys that came in and we all knew our strengths and weaknesses, and we just tried to play hard and play the right way. Thats by sharing the ball and being a great team, Cook said after the season. I had a great month and a half here. These guys, theyre all really good guys. Theyre all competitors. They all competed, and hopefully Ill see them again sometime soon.

Courtesy of www.washingtonpost.com


Boston Celtics hire Jay Larranaga as assistant coach - by Eurobasket News

The Boston Celtics announced today that they have added James Larranaga to their coaching staff as an Assistant Coach. Larranaga comes to the Celtics from the Erie BayHawks of the NBA Development League where he was their head coach for the past two seasons. As coach with the BayHawks, Larranaga led the team to playoff appearances in both seasons and accumulated a record of 60-40. He also had eight players receive promotions to the NBA during his tenure. Larranaga has also served as an assistant coach at Cornell University and as head coach of the Irish National Team for two seasons. Larranaga played collegiately at Bowling Green University and played professionally in Italy, Spain, France and Greece for 12 years.

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com


Solomon Jones to join Suns training camp - by Eurobasket News

Add another happy camper to the Suns training camp that begins in two weeks.

Veteran big man Solomon Jones (6'10''-F/C-84, college: S.Florida) will sign a non-guaranteed contract to become the first make-good player on this year's Suns training camp roster, which already has 13 guaranteed contacts (the NBA roster minimum).

Jones, 28, is a 6-foot-10, 245-pound power forward/center who has played 268 NBA games for four teams over six seasons. He joined the Los Angeles Clippers early last season but was waived, setting up a stint of two 10-day contracts with New Orleans.

The former South Florida standout, drafted 33rd in 2006 by Atlanta, has career averages of 3.3 points, 2.4 rebounds, 0.6 blocks in 11.1 minutes per appearance. He is an athletic shot blocker who provides the Suns some front-line insurance behind Channing Frye, whose summer has been dedicated to shoulder rehabilitation. He played for Atlanta (2006-09) and Indiana (2009-2011) before playing 21 games last season with the Clippers and Hornets.

"I think there's going to be an opportunity there for him," Jones' agent, Mark Bartelstein, said of Phoenix. "He's worked out hard this summer and he's in great shape."

Jones has been participating over the past week in the Suns' voluntary workouts at US Airways Center, where Ricky Davis has been joining the pickup games. There is no indication of interest in Davis, who turns 33 next week and has not played in the NBA since being waived by the Clippers during the 2009-10 season.

Courtesy of www.azcentral.com


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  NBLCANADA   


Smith and Upshaw sign with the Miracles - by Eurobasket News

The Miracles have brought in another player that has been said to be a NBA prospect.

Antonio Smith (6'5''-G), a 6-foot-5 guard, had pre-draft workouts this year with the Detroit Pistons as well as the Orlando Magic. Smith played NCAA Division II with the Shaw University Bears in his home state of North Carolina. Although this will be his first year playing professional basketball he is expected to fit right in.

It was between the NBA Development League and the NBL Canada, said Bo Dukes, who is Smiths agent. I didnt want to send him to Europe. I want him to be somewhere that he can really be well coached so that he can make that next step in his career. I think Moncton is a good place for him to develop.

Im sending him to the NBL Canada to get acclimated to playing professional basketball. Its not that often an NCAA Division II player gets invited by NBA teams to their pre draft workouts. Hes a legitimate point guard. The things he does well such as court vision and passing the ball come naturally to him.

Moncton has eight players under contract to attend training camp, including Christian Upshaw (5'10''-G-86) a Halifax native. Upshaw was acquired after a trade for the Miracles second overall pick to Halifax as well as Tyrone Levett.

Christian Upshaw has experience in the league, said Benitez. He was a point guard for Halifax last season and they went to the league final.

Courtesy of NBL Canada


Lightning match offer to Eddie Smith but that doesnt mean hell play in London - by Eurobasket News

In an effort to keep forward Eddie Smith (6'2''-G-83, agency: Veracity Sports, LLC, college: Ill.-Springfield), the London Lightning have matched the Laval Kebs offer for the National Basketball League of Canadas winner of its sixth man award.

Smith signed with the Kebs but as a player protected by the Lightning, London had a chance to match the offer.

But matchings not a guarantee that Smith will play in London this year.

You dont want a player who doesnt want to play here, Lightning general manager Taylor Brown said. We matched the offer but we havent been able to find out what he needs. Were going to talk to him and see where his head is at.

Smith was a key part of the Lightning team that won the inaugural NBL championship. He was voted the best sixth man and could well have been the playoffs most valuable player.

Brown said he wasnt aware of any major issues Smith had with the Lightning organization other than wanting to be a starter instead of coming off the bench.

Well talk to him about that and see what he wants and what hes thinking, Brown said. Hes too good a player to just let walk away.

Brown did say that by matching the offer, Smith would be near the top of the Lightning payroll.

If the Lightning cant convince Smith to play here, then a trade could be worked out with the Kebs.

The Lightning signed forward Tim Ellis and guard DeAnthony Bowden, both returning players from last year. Brown still expects Shamari Spears to return his signed contract within the next few days.

Shamari says hes been working hard and has lost some weight, Brown said. He said hes ready to play.

The Lightning have also signed first-round draft pick Adrian Terre Moss.

The five-foot-nine guard has been tearing up the summer leagues and will give the Lightning a fast penetrating guard.

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

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

Courtesy of www.lfpress.com


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  NCAA1   


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


NCAA adds Northeastern AD Roby to selection committee - by Eurobasket News

Northeastern athletic director Peter Roby has been added to the NCAA's Division I men's basketball selection committee, filling a spot vacated when former Delaware AD Bernard Muir left for Stanford..

The Dartmouth grad has spent the past five years running Northeastern's athletic department. He also has been an assistant basketball coach at Stanford and Harvard and was the Crimson's head coach for six seasons.

The other committee members are: LSU athletic director Joe Alleva, Utah State AD Scott Barnes, Xavier AD Mike Bobinski, Oklahoma AD Joe Castiglione, Big Sky Conference commissioner Doug Fullerton, Michigan State AD Mark Hollis, Conference USA executive associate commissioner Judy MacLeod, Wake Forest AD Ron Wellman and West Coast Conference commissioner Jamie Zaninovich.

Bobinski is the committee chairman.

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com


UNC's Williams has surgery for kidney tumor - by Eurobasket News

North Carolina Coach Roy Williams had surgery to remove a tumor from his right kidney and might have another procedure to remove a tumor from his left kidney.

The school said the Hall of Fame coach underwent a 3-hour procedure yesterday morning to remove the tumor. The tumor's severity is unknown. Team spokesman Matt Bowers said test results could be back in about a week.

The school said doctors discovered the tumor during a physical earlier this month. In a statement, one of the surgeons said Williams should be able to coach when the team opens practice next month.

Dr. Eric Wallen says Williams might miss some practices if there's another surgery, but he expects Williams to be ready for the regular season and coach "for years to come."

Courtesy of www.concordmonitor.com


UConn faces Michigan State in inaugural game at Ramstein air base this November - by Eurobasket News

Heres a press release from ESPN officially announcing the Armed Forces Classic featuring the UConn Huskies mens basketball team taking on the Michigan State Spartans at Ramstein Air Base in Germany:

ESPN announced the creation of the Armed Forces Classic, a series of Division I college mens basketball games to be played on military bases overseas. Ramstein Air Base in Germany is the inaugural location, with the University of Connecticut and Michigan State University playing in a C-5 transport airplane hangar on the base.

The game will be televised Friday, Nov. 9, with coverage beginning at 5:30 p.m. ET on ESPN. The event is part of ESPNs Veterans Week initiative honoring the men and women who are serving and who have served in the United States military, both at home and abroad.

While in Germany, Connecticut and Michigan State players and coaches will be visiting servicemen and women at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center. They will also conduct a basketball clinic for children at Ramstein Air Base.

In the first regular-season college game ever played in Europe, three-time NCAA champion Connecticut will feature three German players on its roster. Freshman Leon Tolksdorf (Berlin) joins fellow Germans Niels Giffey (Berlin) and Enosch Wolf (Goettingen).

We at the University of Connecticut are honored and humbled to be asked to participate in such a terrific event as the first Armed Forces Classic, said Connecticut head coach Kevin Ollie . Being able to travel overseas and play for the brave men and women in our military to whom we owe so much is an unbelievable opportunity for our basketball program and we are extremely thankful to ESPN for including us. The fact that the game will be played at Ramstein Air Base in Germany makes it more exciting for our team, since our roster includes three young men who are German citizens, but all our student-athletes are looking forward to this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Michigan State is coming off its 14th consecutive NCAA Championship appearance, including winning the 2000 national title. Head coach Tom Izzo participated in Operation Hardwood in 2005 and 2006, traveling to Kuwait to coach teams of American service members.

This is another amazing opportunity for Spartan basketball and Michigan State University, said Izzo. Im thankful that ESPN reached out to us to be a part of this great event. Being a part in the first college basketball game to be played on a military base overseas is truly an honor. Playing in the Carrier Classic on the USS Carl Vinson last season provided memories that will last a lifetime, as the historic event was so much more than just a basketball game. The opportunity to honor the great men and women of the US Armed Forces was a humbling experience, as we felt that we got so much more in return than we gave. To now have the opportunity to take our game overseas to servicemen and women serving to protect us is an awesome experience. Im reminded of my trips to the US bases in Kuwait, and what a life-changing experience that was for me. Everyone associated with the Michigan State basketball program is excited for this unique opportunity.

We are excited to host the inaugural Armed Forces Classic at Ramstein Air Base and its an honor to have these championship athletes compete here overseas, said Brig. Gen. C.K. Hyde, 86th Airlift Wing Commander. Like a champion sports team, maintaining peak capability allows our Airmen to build and keep our competitive edge sharp.

Future teams and game sites will be announced at a later date.

Courtesy of http://beforeitsnews.com


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  NCAA2   


Eric Worthey and Alex Davis -- 1 Year to Lead Lourdes University to Division II NAIA Tournament - by Vance Marbury

Eric Worthey and Alex Davis -- 1 Year to Lead Lourdes University to Division II NAIA Tournament

Lourdes University a Division II NAIA University has added to quality Wing Players in Eric Worthey and Alex Davis, both formerly of Lake Erie University.

Eric Worthey is a 6'5" Guard/Forward from Northfield Ohio, that averaged 10 pts 7 rebs and 4 asts in 25 minutes of per game at Lake Erie College last season, In high school at Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy Eric was selected 3rd team All-State.

Eric is a quiet assasin, that is most effective when he is attacking the basket. Worthey has enough height to score over bigs and enough skill to give guards fits. Eric can rebound and gets to the free throw line very frequently. If Eric continues to develop his catch and shoot jump shot, he has a chance to play Overseas after his collegiate career is done.

Alex Davis is a 6'4" guard that can play several positions. Alex average 12 minutes per game and scored a season high 13 points against Salem International last season at Lake Erie College.. At Nordonia High School Alex was 1st team All Ohio while earning team MVP honors.

Alex has great athleticism and excels in up-tempo style basketball. Quite honestly I dont understand why Alex did not get more minutes last season at Lake Erie.

Alex and Eric both have faced a lot of adversity in their first 3 years of collegiate basketball, but they have a chance at Lourdes University to put that behind them, have great senior seasons, and prepare themselves possibly to play basketball in Europe next season.


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  NEW ZEALAND   


Nelson Giants sign Liam Flynn as head coach for 2013 - by Hugh McAuliffe

Liam Flynn is the new head coach for the Fico Finance Nelson Giants for the 2013 NZ NBL season.

Flynns appointment was confirmed after he tied off some loose ends with the Townsville Crocodiles, where he is the senior assistant coach.

The 33-year-old will join Nelson as soon as the Crocs' Australian league season ends, with the New Zealand NBL season running from April to June next year.

Flynn said he had kept an eye on the New Zealand league for the past five or six seasons and felt the time was right to seek a head coaching role here.

"New Zealand's [NBL is] a well-respected league," he said. "There are quality players there and some strong programmes."

"Jacob [Holmes] had a lot of positive things to say about his time in Nelson, in particular, so it seemed like the right time to throw the hat in the ring."


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  PHILIPPINES   


2012 Fiba Asia Cup: Philippines hold off Taiwan to reach semis - by Eurobasket News

Philippines - Taiwan 75:68

Philippines made it into the semifinal stage of Fiba Asia Cup. They toppled Taiwan in the quarterfinal today. Marcus Douthit (210-C/F-80, agency: Edge Sports, college: Providence) stepped up with 19 points and 18 rebounds to pace the Smart Gilas.
Taiwan started the game with a near perfect defence. They limited their opponents to 10 points in the opening quarter and posted a 3-point lead. But Philippines adjusted their offence in the second quarter. They unloaded 28 points to surge ahead for a 38:32 halftime lead. Taiwan refused to give up and increased the pressure in the third quarter. They cut the deficit to a single point with one period remaining 53:54. But Philippines opened the fourth frame on a 12:2 run to clear off and never looked back en route to the win. Gary David (188-G/F-78) posted 14 points, while Ranidel deOcampo (195-F-81) contributed 10 points in the victory. Creighton Douglas (196-F-85) answered with 21 points for Taiwan. Lin Chih-Chieh (192-G-82) answered with 12 points in the loss.

Philippines: Marcus Douthit 19+18 boards, Gary David 14, Ranidel deOcampo 10
Taiwan: Creighton Douglas 21, Lin Chih-Chieh 12


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  PORTUGAL   


LaceDarius Dunn joins Benfica - by Eurobasket News

Benfica added another import player to the roster. They agreed on terms of contract with LaceDarius Dunn (193-G-87, agency: Three Eye Sports, college: Baylor). The guard arrives from Israel. Last season he played for Bnei Hasharon. LaceDarius Dunn notched 18.2 points, 5.6 rebounds, 1.7 assists and 1.5 steals per game in Premier League. It was the first pro season for LaceDarius Dunn. The guard graduated from the Baylor University in 2011. He tallied 19.5 points, 3.6 rebounds and 2.1 assists in his senior season. LaceDarius Dunn was named into All-Big 12 1st Team. He also made it into NABC Division I All-District 8 1st Team.


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  RUSSIA   


Triumph rally past Hoverla - by Eurobasket News

Triumph another pre-season game at their training camp in Lithuania. They took on Ukrainian Hoverla. The Russian team dominated throughout the encounter posting a 93:68 victory.
Triumph surged ahead early in the game. They recorded a 26:11 lead after ten minutes. Triumph boosted the gap in the second frame. They secured a 20-point halftime advantage. Hoverla struggled to set up their defence and they faced a 26-point deficit heading into the fourth frame. Triumph finally slowed down in the fourth term allowing Hoverla to outscore them however it did not influence the overall result. Tasmin Mitchell (201-F-86, agency: Ryzhov Stanislav, college: LSU) and Sergey Karasev (202-SG-93) chipped in 19 points each to lead Triumph. Yuval Naimy (185-G-85) added 14 points for the winners.


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  SERBIA   


Youth Partizan team on 2. International basketball tournament Cup of friendship Radivoj Korac - by Zoran Popovic

Partizan cadet team will represent Serbian basketball on 2. International Basketball tournament Cup of friendship - Radivoj Korac. Except Partizan on tournament will play Regal Barcelona, Cibona Zagreb and CSKA Moscow. That will be a chance to see on one place top Serbian and European prospects, like young Serbian prospects from Partizan, Milos Glisic (200-PF-98), Filip Anicic, from Regal Barcelona Stefan Peno (193-SG-97) and Bosnian prospect Nedim Djedovic (198-SF-97) , Macedonian prospect who play for Partizan Andrej Magdevski (190-G-96) and from Cibona Lovro Mazalin (198-SF-97).

The schedule of the games:

September 28
Partizan Vs Cibona
Regal Barcelona Vs CSKA

September 29
Cibona Vs CSKA
Partizan Vs Regal Barcelona

September 30
Barcelona Vs Cibona
CSKA Vs Partizan


Aco Mandic officialy signs with BK 04 AC LB Spisska Nova Ves - by Nenad Ilijev

Useful PF/C Aco Mandic (204-C/F-84) will spend next season in Slovakia as he signed one year contract with Slovakian Extraliga side Spisska Nova Ves. Mandic had a solid year with Napredak Rubin Krusevac averaging 13.9ppg and 5.1rpg in Balkan League also being awarded with All-Balkan League Honorable Mention last season. He also helped the team to make 8th spot in Serbian A1 league. BK 04 AC LB Spisska Nova Ves expects from Mandic to largely help the team in attempt to make a step forward this season. They finished 6th in Extraliga last year also making Slovakian Cup semifinals.
Aco Mandic spent whole his career in Serbia and Montenegro. He was top scorer (19pts) in preparation game with Hungarian team Debrecen few days ago that Spisska Nova Ves won 72-56.


Radnicki Kragujevac stays unbeaten this preseason, downs TBB Trier for 8th win - by Eurobasket News

Radnicki Kragujevac - TBB Trier 92-65

Radnicki Kragujevac registered eighth straight win this preseason. The Serbian squad blasted BTT Trier 92-65 to stay unbeaten. Radnicki took control on its rival from the beginning and never looked back. They made plus 6 in the first ten minutes and jumped to 45-21 until the halftime. All after that was just the formality. It is important to mention that Radnicki limited Germans to just 5 points for the entire Q2. The game was played in Belgrade. Matthew Bryan-Amaning (205-F-88, agency: Interperformances, college: Washington) led the winners with 22 points (valuation 26). Stefan Sinovec (195-G-88) followed him with 17 points and Mark Worthington (202-PF-83, college: Metro St.) added 14 pts, plus 7 boards. Terrico White (196-G-90, college: Mississippi) and Bojan Krstovic (194-G-80, agency: Interperformances) posted 14 and 12 points respectively. In TBB Trier, Brian Harper (206-F/G-85, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Paine) was better than the others with 18 points and Nate Linhart (201-F-86, college: Akron) had 13. Radnicki will meet Konstantin Nis tomorrow.

Radnicki Kragujevac: Matthew Bryan-Amaning 22, Stefan Sinovec 17, Mark Worthington 14+7 boards, Terrico White 14, Bojan Krstovic 12
TBB Trier: Brian Harper 18, Nate Linhart 13


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  SLOVAKIA   


Radoslav Rancik joins Inter Bratislava on 'open deal' - by Eurobasket News

Radoslav Rancik (207-F/C-79, agency: Beo Basket, college: St.Cloud St.) will start the season with Inter Bratislava. The Slovakian star signed an 'open deal' and he can leave Inter anytime. Rancik spent last season with Azovmash Mariupol. He had 8.4 ppg and 4.2 rpg in 42 Ukrainian league games. He helped Azovmash to reach the Playoff Finals, but they failed to Donetsk. In EuroCup, Radoslav Rancik shined with 14 ppg and 6.8 rpg for 6 games. He also added 10.7 ppg and 4.8 rpg for 16 appearances in VTB United League. Before Azovmash, Rancik spent two years with Galatasaray Cafecrown Istanbul. In their first season together he exploded with 16.9 ppg and 6.2 rpg for 30 TBL games. Rancik also was third scorer and second rebounder of the EuroCup with 18.8 ppg and 6.9 rpg for 12 games. He was named Eurobasket.com All-Turkish League Center of the Year -10 and also Eurobasket.com All-Turkish League Bosman Player of the Year -10. The player was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-EuroCup 2nd Team -10. In 2010/11, Rancik had much lower numbers. In the past, he played for Benetton Treviso and CEZ Basketball Nymburk.


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  SPAIN   


Blusens Monbus too strong for CAI Zaragoza in preseason game - by Eurobasket News

CAI Zaragoza - Blusens Monbus Obradoiro 68-78

CAI Zaragoza and Blusens Monbus Obradoiro met in a friendly game last night. Blusens Monbus was better team celebrating 78-68 victory in this meeting. The game was played in Utebo. CAI Zaragoza had better start making 20-13 lead in the first ten minutes of play. However, Blusens Monbus took control on its rival in the next two periods to secure the victory. They made 19-11 in Q2 and continued with impressive 33-19 after the breather. Zaragoza responded with 18-13 in Q4, but it was not enough for them to avoid double digit loss. Levon Kendall (209-F-84, college: Pittsburgh) stepped up for the winners with 21 points and William Buford (198-G-90, agency: Interperformances, college: Ohio St.) followed him with four less. Alberto Corbacho (201-F-84) secured a great help adding 16 points and Salah Mejri (217-C-86) posted 9. At the other side, Michael Roll (196-G-87, college: UCLA) and Aguilar delivered 14 and 13 points respectively. Joseph Jones (204-C/F-86, college: Texas A&M) was the last one in double digits with 11 points.


CAI Zaragoza: Van Rossom (7), Michael Roll (14), Rudez (6), Aguilar (13), Norel, Joseph Jones (11), Stefansson (8), Llompart (5), Marin (-), Fontet (2), Toppert (2).
Blusens Monbus: Rodriguez (2), Pumprla (4), Levon Kendall (21), Junyent (5), William Buford (17), Sanz (2), Garcia, Alberto Corbacho (16), Salah Mejri (9), Freire (2).


Lagun Aro GBC releases Chris Lofton due to back injury - by Eurobasket News

Chris Lofton (188-G-86, college: Tennessee) is no longer a member of Lagun Aro GBC. The 26-year-old American suffered serious back injury and he will undergo surgery soon. The player will be out for longer period and Lagun Aro GBC decided to release him. Earlier this summer medical tests revealed the injury, but Lofton was feeling fine and the team decided to keep him. However, during the preparations Lofton started to feel pain in his left leg and treatments didn't help him. After further examinations, evaluations and tests, the Medical Service of the club, with Dr. Agustin Alvarez at the helm, recommended surgery.
Chris Lofton penned a deal with Lagun Aro GBC few weeks ago. He finished last season with Estudiantes averaging 12.9 points, 1.9 rebounds and 1.5 assists. The player split 2010/11 season between Iowa Energy (NBA D-League) and Lokomotiv Kuban. Lofton played for Estudiantes also in the second half of 2009/10 season and before that he spent two months with Caja Laboral. In his rookie year (2008/09) Chris Lofton exploded with 20.2 ppg (No.4), 2.6 rpg and 2 apg for 29 games with Turkish Mersin.


'LEB Gold Center of the Year' Taylor Coppenrath returns to Alicante - by Eurobasket News

Lucentum Alicante continues with signings for the upcoming season. Their latest addition is American big guy Taylor Coppenrath (205-F-81, college: Vermont). He already played for the club from 2007 to 2009. They won the LEB Gold Playoffs together in 2009 and at the same time earned promotion for ACB. Alicante also was the LEB Gold Cup winner (Cope Principe de Asturias). Taylor Coppenrath spent last season with Menorca. He had 8.4 ppg and 4.3 rpg for 30 games helping the team to win the LEB Gold Playoffs and promotion for Liga Endesa. However, Menorca ceased to exist earlier this summer due to huge financial problems. Taylor Coppenrath was named Eurobasket.com All-Spanish LEB Gold Center of the Year -12. A year ago he won the LEB Gold title with Murcia. That season the American had 11 ppg and 4.5 rpg for 32 games. In 2009/10, Coppenrath played for Melilla and they reached LEB Gold Semis. It means that in the last four years Taylor Coppenrath won one LEB Gold title, two LEB Gold Playoffs and reached LEB Gold Semis once. He won the promotion to ACB with Alicante, Murcia and Menorca.


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  SWEDEN   


Sodertalje and Boras show interest in Martin Pahlmblad, LF wants to keep him - by Eurobasket News

This week Martin Pahlmblad (183-G-86) will make a decision where he will play next season. According to local media, Sodertalje Kings and Boras Basket showed interest for the player and his team LF Basket also wants to keep him. Pahlmblad played 45 games for LF Basket last season averaging 11.3 points, 1.9 assists and 1.6 rebounds. They reached Basketligan Semifinals. LF Basket reached Semis in 2010/11 as well. That season Martin Pahlmblad registered 9.8 ppg, 2.2 rpg and 1.5 apg in 45 appearances. Before LF Basket, the player spent thee years with Solna Vikings. They won Basketligan title in their first year together. Pahlmblad helped the team with 12 ppg and 2.7 rpg for 32 games. In the past, he played for IK Eos. Martin Pahlmblad played for the Swedish National Team in 2013 EuroBasket Qualifications. He had 4 ppg and 1.1 rpg for 7 games. Pahlmblad is active member of the senior NT since 2008.


Sundsvall Dragons sign Andreas Schreiber to short term deal - by Eurobasket News

National Team center Andreas Schreiber (205-C-87, agency: Two Points, college: Pennsylvania) is back to Sweden. The player signed 2-month deal with Sundsvall Dragons to replace injured Tom Liden (202-F-87), who is expected to recover until that time. Schreiber spent last season with Spanish Tarragona. He appeared 33 times in LEB Gold collecting 7.1 ppg and 4.1 rpg. It was his first pro deal. Andreas Schreiber graduated at the University of Pennsylvania something more than a year ago. He had 2.8 ppg and 1.2 rpg for his school in 16 games as a senior. He received one extra year of eligibility, so Schreiber spent five years in total with Pennsylvania. Before that, he played for KFUM and 08 Stockholm. Andreas Schreiber played for the Swedish NT this summer in 2013 EuroBasket Qualifications. He got a chance in one game.


Boras Basket reportedly signs PG James J.J. Miller - by Eurobasket News

James J.J. Miller (180-PG-79, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: N.Carolina A&T) is back to Sweden. The American point guard joined Boras Basket for the upcoming season, according to Catch-and-shoot.com. The player spent 2011/12 with French Poitiers. He appeared 26 times in ProA averaging 10.3 points and 2.4 assists. Before Poitiers, James J.J. Miller played one year in Belgium. There he had 14.7 ppg, 2.5 apg and 2.2 rpg for 32 games with Stella Artois Leuven Bears. He was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-Belgian League Honorable Mention -11. James J.J. Miller played for Leuven also in 2008/09. Meanwhile he spent one year with Le Havre. In the past, Miller was a member of Gent, Levallois and Amsterdam. He is not a new face in Sweden as he played for the Sundsvall Dragons collecting 23.5 ppg, 4.7 apg and 4.5 rpg for 28 games in 2004/05. He was second scorer of the league, participated at the All Star Game and was named to Eurobasket.com All-Swedish Basketligan 1st Team -05. Miller also spent some time with Sundsvall in 2003/04 and before that he played for Brest and Zwolle.


*****************************************************
  TAIWAN   


2012 Fiba Asia Cup: Philippines hold off Taiwan to reach semis - by Eurobasket News

Philippines - Taiwan 75:68

Philippines made it into the semifinal stage of Fiba Asia Cup. They toppled Taiwan in the quarterfinal today. Marcus Douthit (210-C/F-80, agency: Edge Sports, college: Providence) stepped up with 19 points and 18 rebounds to pace the Smart Gilas.
Taiwan started the game with a near perfect defence. They limited their opponents to 10 points in the opening quarter and posted a 3-point lead. But Philippines adjusted their offence in the second quarter. They unloaded 28 points to surge ahead for a 38:32 halftime lead. Taiwan refused to give up and increased the pressure in the third quarter. They cut the deficit to a single point with one period remaining 53:54. But Philippines opened the fourth frame on a 12:2 run to clear off and never looked back en route to the win. Gary David (188-G/F-78) posted 14 points, while Ranidel deOcampo (195-F-81) contributed 10 points in the victory. Creighton Douglas (196-F-85) answered with 21 points for Taiwan. Lin Chih-Chieh (192-G-82) answered with 12 points in the loss.

Philippines: Marcus Douthit 19+18 boards, Gary David 14, Ranidel deOcampo 10
Taiwan: Creighton Douglas 21, Lin Chih-Chieh 12


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


Gaziantep beats Antalya in preseason game 87-83 - by Eurobasket News

Antalya BSB - Royal Hali Gaziantep BSB 83-87

Royal Hali Gaziantep celebrated yesterday in preseason game. They handed 87-83 loss to Antalya. The game was a part of Antalya Cup. Andre Collins (183-PG-82, college: Loyola, MD) was the leading player in victory with 18 points, 9 assists and 5 rebounds. Isaiah Swann (188-G-85, college: Florida St.) followed him with two points less and 6 assists. Vernon Macklin (208-F/C-86, college: Florida) and Murat Goktas (201-G-87) helped their team with 14 and 12 points respectively, while Yunus Cankaya (199-F-85) was the last one in double digits with 10 pts. In defeat, Jordan Theodore (182-PG-89, college: Seton Hall) was better than the others with 21 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists. Ronald Lewis (183-G-81, college: Mars Hill) (9 rebs) scored 19 and Xavier Gibson (210-F/C-88, college: Florida St.) posted 16 pts. Mersin Also celebrated at Antalya Cup yesterday. They cruised past Erdemir 74-63.

Antalya BSB: Jordan Theodore 21+9 boards+5 as, Ronald Lewis 19+9 boards, Xavier Gibson 16
Royal Hali Gaziantep BSB: Andre Collins 18+9 as+5 boards, Isaiah Swann 16+6 as, Vernon Macklin 14, Murat Goktas 12, Yunus Cankaya 10


Gokper Gen moves from Antalya to Yesilgiresun Belediye - by Eurobasket News

Gokper Gen (189-PG-89) will play next season for Yesilgiresun Belediye. The Turkish point guard heads to his new club from Antalya. He is expected to be one of their key players. Last season with Antalya Gen had limited playing time. He appeared in 30 TBL games averaging 4.6 points and 2.5 assists for 30 games. He played for Antalya also in 2010/11. From 2005 to 2010 Gokper Gen was a member of Karsiyaka. Actually he left the club in December of 2009 and finished 2009/10 season with Kepez. For 12 games with Kepez Gen had 2.9 ppg and 1.7 apg. In the past, he played for Tuborg Izmir youth teams. Gokper Gen played for Turkish U20 National Team in 2008 and 2009. Four years ago they reached Semifinals at U20 EuroBasket in Riga. Gen had 10.1 ppg, 3.5 rpg and 2.3 apg for 8 games at this event.


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


Cherkasy knock down Kaspiy - by Eurobasket News

Cherkasy - Kaspiy 84:65

Cherkasy played another pre-season encounter. They hosted Kaspiy from Kazakhstan. The hosts celebrated a comfortable victory. Charles Thomas (203-F-86, college: Arkansas) posted 21 points to lead the hosts.
Cherkasy snatched an 18:15 lead after ten minutes of action. The hosts boosted the gap in the second frame. They registered a 40:35 halftime advantage. Cherkasy fired 30 points in the third term to clear off. They arrived at the final break up by 20 points and never looked back en route to the victory. Vincent Hunter (208-F-84, college: Arkansas) provided 17 points, while Marko Ljubicic (195-G-87, agency: Beo Basket) netted 14 points, issued 7 assists and grabbed 6 boards for the winners. Strukovic responded with 14 points for Kaspiy. Gytis Andrijauskas (188-PG-86) netted 13 points in the loss.

Cherkasy: Charles Thomas 21, Vincent Hunter 17, Marko Ljubicic 14
Kaspiy: Strukovic 14, Gytis Andrijauskas 13


Ivan Koljevic rejoins Cherkasy - by Eurobasket News

Cherkasy have bolstered their backcourt. They agreed on terms of short-term contract with Ivan Koljevic (187-PG-84, agency: New Trend Agency). The guard will spend at least two months with Cherkasy. Last season Ivan Koljevic started in Poland. He played for Polpharma. His stats read 6.0 points, 2.7 rebounds, 4.0 assists and 2.0 steals per game. The guard finished the season with Cherkasy. He posted 13.0 points, 6.8 assists, 3.5 rebounds and 1.2 steals per appearance. Ivan Koljevic also played for Cherkasy back in 2008/09 season. The guard also had stints in Poland, Greece, Turkey, Russia, Lithuania, Spain, Montenegro. Ivan Koljevic has been the member of Montenegrin National Team since 2008.


Budivelnyk rally past Quimper in friendly - by Eurobasket News

Budivelnyk played a friendly encounter in France. They took on NM1 team Quimper. The Kyiv outfit proved the strength claiming an 84:51 victory. Leo Lyons (206-F-87, college: Missouri) accounted for 17 points to lead the winners.
Igor Krivtsov (201-F-86) added 13 points, while Sergiy Gorbenko (202-F-85) delivered 11 points for Budivelnyk. The Ukrainain team stays in France and will participate in pre-season tournament starting tomorrow.


Azovmash keep Simonas Serapinas - by Eurobasket News

Azovmash decided to keep Simonas Serapinas (197-F-82). The Lithuanian forward joined the Mariupol team for a try-out period during the training camps. His performance satisfied the coaching staff and Azovmash signed a one-year deal with the player. Simonas Serapinas is not new to the team. He played for Azovmash back in 2008/10 seasons. The forward notched 11.0 points and 2.5 rebounds per game then. Last season Simonas Serapinas spent in Germany. He played for Telekom Baskets Bonn. The forward notched 12.0 points, 2.8 rebounds and 1.3 assists per game in EuroChallenge. In BBL his stats read 9.9 points, 3.0 rebounds and 1.0 assist per appearance.


*****************************************************
  URUGUAY   


Two games suspended for the Uruguayan League - by Hector Lopez

The two games to be played last nigth for the Uruguayan League 1st round were postponed due to humidity on the floor of the stadiums. The game Union Atletica-Defensor Sportings waas suspended before it starts, but the other game, Sayago-Olimpia was interrupted after 6.10 for the first quarter. Sayago was winning 15-13. The tournament will now continue on Friday with the second round (Malvin-Trouville, Tabare-Hebraica, Defensor Sporting-Bohemios, Cordon-Nacional and Aguada-Sayago. On Saturday will be playing Welcome-Bigua, Montevideo-Union Atletica, Olimpia-Larre Borges).


*****************************************************
  UZBEKISTAN   


2012 Fiba Asia Cup: Iran storm past Uzbekistan into semifinals - by Eurobasket News

Iran - Uzbekistan 79:37

Iran eased into Fiba Asia Cup semifinal stage. They thumped Uzbekistan in the first quarterfinal of the day in Tokyo. Asghar Kardoust (212-C-86) posted 12 points and 8 rebounds to lead the winners.
Uzbekistan tried to stay close throughout the first frame. They trailed by just four points after ten minutes 13:17. But Iran held their opponents to just 3 points in the second quarter and boosted the gap. They ensured a 32:16 halftime advantage. Iran increased the tempo in the third term. They unloaded 27 points and piled up a 34-point lead before the fourth quarter. Iran never looked back afterwards cruising to the victory. Aren Davoudichegani (185-PG-86) posted 11 points, while Mohammad Jamshidi (197-SF-91) added 10 point for Iran. Vyacheslav Denisov (195-G-83) responded with 9 points for Uzbekistan. Aleksandr Yahin (205-C-89) netted 8 points and 9 rebounds in the loss.

Iran: Asghar Kardoust 12, Aren Davoudichegani 11, Mohammad Jamshidi 10
Uzbekistan: Vyacheslav Denisov 9, Aleksandr Yahin 8


*****************************************************
  VENEZUELA   


Guaros de Lara hires Scott Fields as new Head Coach - by Eurobasket News

Guaros de Lara got a new Head Coach, according to Eurobasket's Francisco Vega. It is American specialist Scott Fields (agency: Interperformances). His official promotion is scheduled for today. Fields most recently worked with Chinese NBL team Changan Group Guangdong. That was in 2010. Before Guangdong he coached in NBA Summer League for few years. In 2008, Fields worked with Chinese CBA team Jilin Tigers. He also has experience from CBA, ABA, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Sweden, Germany, Luxembourg etc. Obviously the coach with great experience for Guaros de Lara.
A month ago Guaros de Lara agreed with Cocodrilos de Caracas to get Jack Michael Martinez for the 2013 LPB season. Guaros also agreed with Martinez and his agent.

Check full profile of Scott Fields.


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


Azovmash keep Simonas Serapinas - by Eurobasket News

Azovmash decided to keep Simonas Serapinas (197-F-82). The Lithuanian forward joined the Mariupol team for a try-out period during the training camps. His performance satisfied the coaching staff and Azovmash signed a one-year deal with the player. Simonas Serapinas is not new to the team. He played for Azovmash back in 2008/10 seasons. The forward notched 11.0 points and 2.5 rebounds per game then. Last season Simonas Serapinas spent in Germany. He played for Telekom Baskets Bonn. The forward notched 12.0 points, 2.8 rebounds and 1.3 assists per game in EuroChallenge. In BBL his stats read 9.9 points, 3.0 rebounds and 1.0 assist per appearance.



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Women News

ABA Standings - by Simas

State League Standings
Big V
 1. Bulleen 0-0 
 2. Diamond VE 0-0 
 3. Eltham 0-0 
 4. Hume City 0-0 
 5. McKinnon 0-0 
 6. Melbourne T. 0-0 
 7. Ringwood H. 0-0 
 8. Sherbrooke S. 0-0 
 9. Waverley 0-0 
Central ABL
 1. C.Districts L. 0-0 
 2. Eastern M. 0-0 
 3. Forestville E. 0-0 
 4. N.Adelaide R. 0-0 
 5. Norwood F. 0-0 
 6. S.Adelaide P. 0-0 
 7. Southern T. 0-0 
 8. Sturt S. 0-0 
 9. W.Adelaide B. 0-0 
 10. Woodville W. 0-0 
QBL
 1. Brisbane S. 0-0 
 2. Bundaberg B. 0-0 
 3. Cairns D. 0-0 
 4. Gladstone PCP 0-0 
 5. Gold Coast R. 0-0 
 6. Ipswich F. 0-0 
 7. Mackay M. 0-0 
 8. Maroochydore 0-0 
 9. Northside W. 0-0 
 10. Rockhampton 0-0 
 11. SW Metro P. 0-0 
 12. Toowoomba M. 0-0 
 13. Townsville F. 0-0 
SBL
 1. Cockburn C. 0-0 
 2. East Perth E. 0-0 
 3. Kalamunda E.S. 0-0 
 4. Lakeside L. 0-0 
 5. Mandurah M. 0-0 
 6. Perry Lakes H. 0-0 
 7. Perth R. 0-0 
 8. Rockingham 0-0 
 9. Stirling S. 0-0 
 10. SW Slammers 0-0 
 11. Wanneroo W. 0-0 
 12. Willetton T. 0-0 
SEABL-East
 1. Bendigo LB 0-0 
 2. Brisbane C. 0-0 
 3. Canberra N. 0-0 
 4. Dandenong 0-0 
 5. Frankston B. 0-0 
 6. Geelong S. 0-0 
 7. Sandringham S. 0-0 
SEABL-South
 1. Albury W. 0-0 
 2. Ballarat R. 0-0 
 3. Hobart C. 0-0 
 4. Kilsyth C. 0-0 
 5. Launceston T. 0-0 
 6. Nunawading S. 0-0 
WARATAH
 1. Bankstown B. 0-0 
 2. Hornsby S. 0-0 
 3. Illawarra H. 0-0 
 4. Manly Warr. 0-0 
 5. Newcastle H. 0-0 
 6. Norths Bears 0-0 
 7. Parramatta W. 0-0 
 8. Sutherland S. 0-0 
 9. Sydney C. 0-0 


Logan Thunder signs Laurie Koehn - by Eurobasket News

Laurie Koehn (173-G-82, college: Kansas St.) will continue her career in Australia. The American guard penned a 1-year deal with Logan Thunder. They will compete in WNBL. Koehn currently plays for the Atlanta Dream. She averages 2.2 points after 13 WNBA games. Last season Laurie Koehn spent with Polish team Matizol Lider Pruszkow. She had 13.3 ppg and 2.3 apg in 24 games. In 2010/11, Koehn played in Poland as well. That season she had 17.3 ppg and 3.4 rpg for 23 games with Utex Row Rybnik. She was top scorer of the competition. Koehn participated at the All-Star Game in both years. In the past, she played in France and Turkey. Also Koehn was a member of the Washington Mystics.


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  BELGIUM   


Kim Mestdagh moves to Caja Rural - by Eurobasket News

Tintos de Toro Caja Rural announced signing of Kim Mestdagh (177-SG-90, college: Colorado St.) for the next season. The player will be used at positions 2 and 3. Mestdagh is rookie, who graduated at Colorado State University few months ago. She had 14.8 ppg, 4.9 rpg, 4 apg and 2.6 spg for her school in 30 games as a senior. The player was named to All-MWC 1st Team -12. Kim Mestdagh registered event better numbers in her junior year. At that time she had 17.1 ppg, 5.5 rpg and 2.6 apg for 30 games. In 2010 and 2011, she was named to All-MWC 2nd Team. The player spent all four years with Colorado State. Two years ago Kim Mestdagh played for Belgian National Team in Qualifications to European Championships 2011. She averaged 4.3 points and 2.1 rebounds for 7 games. In the past, she very successfully played for Belgian youth National Teams.


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


Simona Ballardini signs short term deal with Bourges - by Eurobasket News

Simona Ballardini (181-F-81) is a new member of Bourges Basket, according to Leberry.fr. The Italian forward penned a short term deal with her new club and she will temporally replace injured Catherine Joens (180-G-82). Her recovery will take about six weeks. Ballardini parted ways with Taranto few days ago. Two sides reached agreement on terms of contract termination and Ballardini became a free agent. Simona Ballardini joined Taranto at the start of the previous season. She tallied 7.3 points, 2.4 rebounds, 2.2 assists and 1.1 steals per game in Euroleague. In Italian League the forward notched 10.3 points, 2.4 boards, 1.8 steals and 1.4 assists per appearance. Simona Ballardini led Taranto to the A1 title. Previously Simona Ballardini had stints with Liomatic Umbertide, Umana Reyer, Faenza, Schio. She was named Italian A1 Player of the Year in 2005. Simona Ballardini made it onto All-Italian A1 2nd Tema in 2006 and 2009. She was the member of Italian National Team in 2003/11.
Catherine Joens suffered stress fracture in her right foot and she will miss about six weeks. It means that Bourges will not be able to count on Joens for the beginning of the season, but there is Ballardini now.


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


Simona Ballardini signs short term deal with Bourges - by Eurobasket News

Simona Ballardini (181-F-81) is a new member of Bourges Basket, according to Leberry.fr. The Italian forward penned a short term deal with her new club and she will temporally replace injured Catherine Joens (180-G-82). Her recovery will take about six weeks. Ballardini parted ways with Taranto few days ago. Two sides reached agreement on terms of contract termination and Ballardini became a free agent. Simona Ballardini joined Taranto at the start of the previous season. She tallied 7.3 points, 2.4 rebounds, 2.2 assists and 1.1 steals per game in Euroleague. In Italian League the forward notched 10.3 points, 2.4 boards, 1.8 steals and 1.4 assists per appearance. Simona Ballardini led Taranto to the A1 title. Previously Simona Ballardini had stints with Liomatic Umbertide, Umana Reyer, Faenza, Schio. She was named Italian A1 Player of the Year in 2005. Simona Ballardini made it onto All-Italian A1 2nd Tema in 2006 and 2009. She was the member of Italian National Team in 2003/11.
Catherine Joens suffered stress fracture in her right foot and she will miss about six weeks. It means that Bourges will not be able to count on Joens for the beginning of the season, but there is Ballardini now.


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


DJK Brose Bamberg add American Janae Young and Brett Benzio - by Eurobasket News

DJK Brose Bamberg add American Janae Young (183-G-87, college: Pacific) and Brett Benzio (190-C-90, college: Tulane) for the upcoming season. The German team is 100% ready for the 2012/2013 season.
Janae Young appeared first for Pacific (NCAA, starting five) and in 30 games averaged 12.9ppg, 7.4rpg, 1.3apg, 2.2spg, FGP: 44.0%, 3Pts: 36.2%, FT: 63.5%. In 2008-2009 her stats read 11.5ppg, 7.7rpg, 1.2apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 41.2%, 3Pts: 28.9%, FT: 70.7%. In Jan.'12 signed at Lu-Town Highflyers Luzern (Switzerland-LNA, starting five) and after 8 games showed high 26.6ppg, 10.3rpg, 3.4apg, 3.4spg, 1.1bpg, FGP: 55.6%, 3PT: 26.2%, FT: 76.9%.
Brett Benzio is a product of Tulane (NCAA, starting five). In her first season there she averaged 8.6ppg, 9.2rpg, 1.4apg, 1.0spg, 1.5bpg, FGP: 46.8%, FT: 63.4%. In her last season there her stats read 9.4ppg, 9.1rpg, 1.3apg, 2.1bpg, FGP: 53.0%, FT: 51.4%.


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  GREECE   

Standings - Women

A1 Standings
 1. AO Ellinikou 0-0 
 2. Aris 0-0 
 3. Asteras 0-0 
 4. Athinaikos 0-0 
 5. GAC Eunikos 0-0 
 6. Ikaros Kalitheas 0-0 
 7. Kronos AD 0-0 
 8. Olympiakos 0-0 
 9. Panathinaikos 0-0 
 10. Panionios 0-0 
 11. PAOK 0-0 
 12. Terpsithea 0-0 

Regular Season: Round 1

Oct. 7: Aris - Panathinaikos
Oct. 6: AO Ellinikou - Asteras
Oct. 6: Terpsithea - Olympiakos
Oct. 6: Athinaikos - Panionios
Oct. 6: Kronos AD - Ikaros Kalitheas
Oct. 6: GAC Eunikos - PAOK



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


Islas Canarias keeps Elina Dillon for 2012/13 - by Eurobasket News

Elina Dillon (185-SF-85) stays in Spain for the upcoming season. The Latvian small forward signed a 1-year contract extension with her team Islas Canarias. It will be their second season together. Dillon averaged 4.6 points and 2.6 rebounds for 10 LFB games last season. She also added 5.3 ppg and 1.8 rpg for 8 appearances in EuroCup. The player got injured in February and missed rest of 2011/12. The team reached EuroCup Quarterfinals. Elina Dillon arrived to Canarias from Olesa Espanyol. She finished 2010/11 season with Olesa collecting 6.4 ppg and 4 rpg for 8 games. Before Olesa, Dillon played for TTT Riga and Cesis. In the past, she was a member of Avantis/Turiba Riga. They won Latvian LSBL title together in 2006.


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  NCAA2   


Jackie Murray Lake Erie College is a Leader + Sophomore Season We Expect More and Jackie will Deliver!! - by Vance Marbury

Jackie Murray Lake Erie College is a Leader + Sophomore Season We Expect More and Jackie will Deliver!!

Jackie Murray Lake Erie College a 5'7" Point Guard from Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio is a leader and should be ready to take on a bigger role during her Sophomore Campaign. As a High School senior at St. Vincent St. Marys the same high school Lebron James attended Jackie was a 4 year letter award winner. Jackie was team captain her senior season and earned 2nd team all district honors. Jackie was also a stellar track athlete.

Freshman season at Lake Erie College, Jackie averaged 2.3 pts 1.4 asts 1.4 rebs during 15.6 min/game. Sophomore season is now, and the expectation level is high from all of Jackie supporters. Jackie is a long athletic point guard that can handle the rock exceptionally well. Jackie length also allows her to apply great defensive pressure. Jackie can score when need be via the jump shot or driving to the basket. I believe what will separate Ms. Murray from the rest of the pack this season, is Jackie motivation and drive to get to be a great basketball player.

Jackie has very supportive parents. Mr. George Murray is well known in the basketball community as being a great person, dad, coach. Mr. Murray pushes Jackie athletically which is important during her basketball development in her Sophomore and Junior seasons.

Jackie was a stellar performer during the 2012 JT Focus Mgt Cleveland Am Pro Basketball Women's Summer League. An injury cut Ms. Murray summer league performance a little short, but with Jackie work ethic, she should recover quickly.



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  PORTUGAL   


Legendary Sky guard Ticha Penicheiro to retire - by Eurobasket News

Chicago Sky point guard Ticha Penicheiro (5'11''-G-74, college: ODU), who spent most of her 15-year career with former WNBA franchise Sacramento, has announced her retirement following the 2012 season.

The WNBAs all-time leader in assists, Penicheiros last regular-season game will be Saturday night when the Sky host the Washington Mystics. The Sky currently trail the New York Liberty by a game for the fourth and final playoff berth in the East with two games remaining.

Penicheiro, who has been slowed this season by a lower leg injury, will retire with the second-most career steals in WNBA history.

The native of Portugal led Old Dominion University to the 1997 NCAA Championship game. As a senior, she earned the Wade Trophy as the nations top player, and she was a two-time Kodak first-team All-American in 1997 and 1998.

As they say, all good things must come to an end, and unfortunately the time has come for me to walk away from this game I love, Penicheiro said in a statement. I would just like to thank, in a general way, the people involved in my career: from my coaches to my teammates to the WNBA and, of course, the fans. Basketball has given me more than I could ever imagine, and I will continue to give back and stay close to this amazing sport. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart for all the support throughout the years.

Penicheiro was the No. 2 overall pick of the Sacramento Monarchs in the 1998 draft. The Monarchs advanced twice to the WNBA championship and won it in 2005 in four games over the Connecticut Sun. She later signed with the Los Angeles Sparks, where she played for two seasons before signing with the Sky as a free agent last February.

"I could talk for days regarding the admiration and respect I have for Ticha's mastery of the point guard position and overall impact on the game, Sky coach Pokey Chatman said. It's more than the sheer numbers, although they're quite impressive. It's her knowledge, love and respect for the game, and the fact she's a great teammate that will distance her from the pack. She has meant so much to women's basketball, I simply want to say thank you.

The Sky will host Atlanta Thursday (7 p.m.) at Allstate Arena.

Courtesy of www.chicagotribune.com


*****************************************************
  PUERTO RICO   

Standings - Women

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

Regular Season: Round 9

Sep. 18: Morovis M. - Aguas B.T. 89-92
Sep. 16: Juncos V. - San German 70-66
Sep. 16: Ponce L. - Carolina G. 58-81
Sep. 19: San German - Ponce L.


Stats Leaders - Superleague 25

Points Per Game
 Yolanda MARTIN
  Aguas B.T.
  (180-G-83)
  Avg: 27.9
 1. Martin, Aguas B.T.27.9 
 2. Valentin, Carolina22.7 
 3. Werema, Juncos V.21.4 
 4. Bruszewski, Quebra.17.6 
 5. Seals, Aguas B.T.17.2 
 6. Fairweather, Ponce17.2 
 7. Jones, Carolina G.16.3 
 8. Rosado, Morovis M.15.4 
 9. Lewis, Ponce L.15.2 
 10. Williams, Morovis14.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Denise LEWIS
  Ponce L.
  (185-F-90)
  Avg: 12.8
 1. Lewis, Ponce L.12.8 
 2. Vargas-S., Juncos12.1 
 3. Rosario, Ponce L.11.6 
 4. Jones, Carolina G.11.4 
 5. Martin, Aguas B.T.10.3 
 6. Seals, Aguas B.T.9.3 
 7. Bruszewski, Quebra.8.7 
 8. Gonzalez, San G.8.6 
 9. Williams, Morovis8.3 
 10. Pineiro, Morovis8.3 
Assists Per Game
 Karla RUIZ
  Aguas B.T.
  (--)
  Avg: 3.7
 1. Ruiz, Aguas B.T.3.7 
 2. Escalera, Morov.3.5 
 3. Rosado, San German3.5 
 4. Jones, Carolina G.3.4 
 5. Bruszewski, Quebra.3.3 
 6. Colon, Ponce L.3.3 
 7. Figueroa, Morov.3.1 
 8. Concepcion, Junco.3.1 
 9. Johnson, Aguas B..3.1 
 10. Rodriguez, Caroli.3.0 
Steals Per Game
 Pamela ROSADO
  Morovis M.
  (165-PG-86)
  Avg: 3.3
 1. Rosado, Morovis M.3.3 
 2. Magee, Carolina G.3.0 
 3. Fairweather, Ponce2.8 
 4. Valentin, Carolina2.7 
 5. De La Paz, Juncos2.5 
 6. Martin, Aguas B.T.2.4 
 7. Matthews, Aguas B.2.3 
 8. Rodriguez, Carolin.2.1 
 9. Johnson, Aguas B..2.1 
 10. Lechlitner, Quebr.2.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Esmary VARGAS-SANCHEZ
  Juncos V.
  (191-C-81)
  Avg: 3.6
 1. Vargas-S., Juncos3.6 
 2. Williams, Morovis2.0 
 3. Rosario, Ponce L.2.0 
 4. Seals, Aguas B.T.1.2 
 5. Placido, Quebradil.1.2 
 6. Werema, Juncos V.1.1 
 7. Escalera, Morov.0.9 
 8. Rosado, San German0.8 
 9. Smith, San German0.8 
 10. Flores, Ponce L.0.8 


Harris starts her pro career at Aguas Buenas Tigresas - by Eurobasket Center

Aguas Buenas Tigresas agreed terms with 24-year old American guard Tasha Harris (175-G-88). In her first game she scored 24 points, grabbed 4 rebounds and 3 assists helping her new team beat Morovis M. 92-89. Harris played most recently at Syracuse University (NCAA) in the U.S. She just graduated Syracuse University and actually missed last season. It will be her first season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center


Morovis lost again, this time to Aguas Buenas: - by Luis Modestti

Aguas Buenas gave Morovis their second loss by beating them 92-89 on Tuesday night. Tigresas improve to 2-7 while Morovis is now 7-2.

Morovis lost their second game in a row after losing to Quebradillas last week.

Yolanda Martin (180-G-83, college: Brewton Parker) netted 28 points and sealed the game from the free throw line. Natasha Harris added 24 and Dominic Seals 20.

In the loss Angelina Williams had 23 points and Katiria Rodriguez 19.

BSNF action continues today as San German visits Ponce.


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  SERBIA   

B Liga Standings - by Greg

B League Standings
 1. Boka Beograd 0-0 
 2. Bor 0-0 
 3. Ljubovija 0-0 
 4. Loznica 0-0 
 5. Paracin 0-0 
 6. Play Off Uzice 0-0 
 7. Radivoj Korac 2 0-0 
 8. Ruma 92 0-0 
 9. Sivac 0-0 
 10. Spartak 0-0 
 11. Topolcanka 0-0 
 12. Zeleznicar 0-0 



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  SPAIN   


Islas Canarias keeps Elina Dillon for 2012/13 - by Eurobasket News

Elina Dillon (185-SF-85) stays in Spain for the upcoming season. The Latvian small forward signed a 1-year contract extension with her team Islas Canarias. It will be their second season together. Dillon averaged 4.6 points and 2.6 rebounds for 10 LFB games last season. She also added 5.3 ppg and 1.8 rpg for 8 appearances in EuroCup. The player got injured in February and missed rest of 2011/12. The team reached EuroCup Quarterfinals. Elina Dillon arrived to Canarias from Olesa Espanyol. She finished 2010/11 season with Olesa collecting 6.4 ppg and 4 rpg for 8 games. Before Olesa, Dillon played for TTT Riga and Cesis. In the past, she was a member of Avantis/Turiba Riga. They won Latvian LSBL title together in 2006.


Burgos keeps Rachel Allison, completes roster for 2012/13 - by Eurobasket News

Rachel Allison (185-F-87, college: Baylor) is back to Burgos for the upcoming season. The American forward penned a 1-year contract extension. It means that Burgos completed its roster for 2012/13. Allison joined the club in January this year. She appeared 13 times in LFB averaging 12.8 points and 6.5 rebounds. She started the season with LF2 team Arxil Pontevedra registering 17.8 ppg and 9.3 rpg for 9 games. It was clear she is more than ready for the LFB. In 2010/11 Rachel Allison played for the Australian team Townsville Fire. She had 10.1 ppg and 6.2 rpg for 20 games. It was the rookie year for Rachel Allison, who graduated at Baylor University in 2009. She averaged 8.5 points and 6.3 rebounds for his school in 34 games as a senior.


Kim Mestdagh moves to Caja Rural - by Eurobasket News

Tintos de Toro Caja Rural announced signing of Kim Mestdagh (177-SG-90, college: Colorado St.) for the next season. The player will be used at positions 2 and 3. Mestdagh is rookie, who graduated at Colorado State University few months ago. She had 14.8 ppg, 4.9 rpg, 4 apg and 2.6 spg for her school in 30 games as a senior. The player was named to All-MWC 1st Team -12. Kim Mestdagh registered event better numbers in her junior year. At that time she had 17.1 ppg, 5.5 rpg and 2.6 apg for 30 games. In 2010 and 2011, she was named to All-MWC 2nd Team. The player spent all four years with Colorado State. Two years ago Kim Mestdagh played for Belgian National Team in Qualifications to European Championships 2011. She averaged 4.3 points and 2.1 rebounds for 7 games. In the past, she very successfully played for Belgian youth National Teams.


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  SWEDEN   


Josefin Olheim comes back to Telge - by Eurobasket

Telge Basketball (Damligan) welcomes back 26-year old ex-international guard Josefin Olheim (176-86, agency: Regeneracom Sports). Olheim played last season at C.U.S. Chieti in Italian A2 league. In 30 A2 games she had 9.3ppg, 3.9rpg, 1.0apg and 1.3spg. She helped them to win the championship title (A2 South). A very impressive season as she was named to Eurobasket.com Italian A2 All-Bosmans Team.
Olheim was also a member of Swedish international program for some years. She played for Senior National Team between 2006 and 2011 and previously for U20 National Team between 2005 and 2006. Olheim also represented Sweden at the Qualifications to European Championships Division B 2011 two years ago. Her stats at that event were 2 games: 0pts, 1.0apg.
Olheim played also professionally st Solna Vikings (2008-2010) and of course at Telge Energi (2005-08).

By Eurobasket Data Center


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  WNBA   

Standings

WNBA Standings
Eastern
 1. Connecticut S. 24-9 
 2. Indiana F. 20-12 
 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. 19: Connecticut S. - Indiana F. 73-67
Sep. 18: L.Angeles S. - Phoenix M. 101-76
Sep. 20: Tulsa S. - New York L.
Sep. 20: Chicago S. - Atlanta D.
Sep. 20: L.Angeles S. - Minnesota L.


Legendary Sky guard Ticha Penicheiro to retire - by Eurobasket News

Chicago Sky point guard Ticha Penicheiro (5'11''-G-74, college: ODU), who spent most of her 15-year career with former WNBA franchise Sacramento, has announced her retirement following the 2012 season.

The WNBAs all-time leader in assists, Penicheiros last regular-season game will be Saturday night when the Sky host the Washington Mystics. The Sky currently trail the New York Liberty by a game for the fourth and final playoff berth in the East with two games remaining.

Penicheiro, who has been slowed this season by a lower leg injury, will retire with the second-most career steals in WNBA history.

The native of Portugal led Old Dominion University to the 1997 NCAA Championship game. As a senior, she earned the Wade Trophy as the nations top player, and she was a two-time Kodak first-team All-American in 1997 and 1998.

As they say, all good things must come to an end, and unfortunately the time has come for me to walk away from this game I love, Penicheiro said in a statement. I would just like to thank, in a general way, the people involved in my career: from my coaches to my teammates to the WNBA and, of course, the fans. Basketball has given me more than I could ever imagine, and I will continue to give back and stay close to this amazing sport. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart for all the support throughout the years.

Penicheiro was the No. 2 overall pick of the Sacramento Monarchs in the 1998 draft. The Monarchs advanced twice to the WNBA championship and won it in 2005 in four games over the Connecticut Sun. She later signed with the Los Angeles Sparks, where she played for two seasons before signing with the Sky as a free agent last February.

"I could talk for days regarding the admiration and respect I have for Ticha's mastery of the point guard position and overall impact on the game, Sky coach Pokey Chatman said. It's more than the sheer numbers, although they're quite impressive. It's her knowledge, love and respect for the game, and the fact she's a great teammate that will distance her from the pack. She has meant so much to women's basketball, I simply want to say thank you.

The Sky will host Atlanta Thursday (7 p.m.) at Allstate Arena.

Courtesy of www.chicagotribune.com


Lawson leads Sun in 73-67 win over Fever - by Eurobasket News

Although the Connecticut Sun had already secured the No. 1 seed in the Eastern Conference playoffs, they were still disappointed with their latest win.

Kara Lawson (5'8''-PG-81, college: Tennessee) scored nine of her 23 points in the final 4 minutes to lead the Sun to a 73-67 win over the Indiana Fever on Wednesday night. Tina Charles (6'4''-C-88, agency: LBM Management, college: Connecticut) had 17 points and 12 rebounds and Allison Hightower (5'10''-G-88, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: LSU) added 10 points for Connecticut (24-9).

Katie Douglas (6'1''-G/F-79, college: Purdue) scored 16 of her 19 points in the first half for the Fever (20-12). Tamika Catchings (6'1''-SF-79, college: Tennessee) added 15 points and five rebounds.

The Sun led 44-27 with more than eight minutes left in the third quarter.

However, Indiana which didnt play Catchings or Douglas in the fourth quarter got as close as 70-65 with less than 2 minutes left in the game.

I think were just a little disappointed, Lawson said. They got it down to a two possession game in the fourth, and we talked about at the start of the fourth about not letting up and putting the game away.

We won. Thats probably about all you can say good about the game.

The Fever announced before the game that they'll play without starting guards Briann January and Shavonte Zellous the rest of the regular season. Both sustained head injuries in Mondays loss at Minnesota and returned to Indianapolis.

One of the things we wanted to do was compete, Indiana coach Lin Dunn said. Were not going to come in here and lay down and die, and were going to give our backups some quality minutes.

Asjha Jones returned to Connecticuts lineup after missing the last 14 games due to a strained Achillies tendon. She played six minutes off the bench and made both of her shots for four points.

I just wanted to play, Jones said. No matter how many minutes I was going to play, I wanted to be somewhat of a factor. Just be part of the game and make sure I had positive minutes.

Hightower started the second half with a driving layup, followed by a putback by Charles. Hightower followed with a jumper as the Sun pulled ahead 44-27 their largest lead of the game less than two minutes into the third period..

Indiana pulled to 64-58 with more than 4 minutes left in the game. Lawson was fouled moments later while attempting a 3-pointer. She made all her free throws.

Karima Christmas had a 3-pointer on the other end for Indiana. Lawson answered with a 3 to push Connecticuts lead to 70-61 with less than 3 minutes left in the game.

I thought (the reserves) did really well, Catchings said. (Goodlett) did a good job our little rookie. Shes been battling all year.

Back-to-back putbacks by rookie Sasha Goodlett cut the Suns lead to 70-65 with 1:40 left, but Lawson made another 3 with 34.1 seconds to go to seal Connecticuts win.

Were trying to win a game to have the second-best record in the league (behind the Minnesota Lynx), Sun coach Mike Thibault said. I was just disappointed that I had to put those two (starters Charles and Hightower) back in (with over five minutes left in the game). I didnt want to.

Douglas recorded a few milestones during the game. She made four 3s to break Indianas franchise single-season record. She has 80 this season and joined Katie Smith and Diana Taurasi as the only players in WNBA history to make that many 3s in one season. Douglas also had an assist to become the 15th player in league history to record 1,000 for her career.

Connecticut unveiled its All-Decade team prior to the game as part of its season-long celebration of its 10th anniversary. Current players Renee Montgomery, Tan White, Charles, Jones and Lawson were among the 10. Former Sun players Taj McWilliams-Franklin, Nykesha Sales, Lindsay Whalen, the late Margo Dydek and Douglas rounded out the list.

It means an awful lot, Douglas said. I was here for five years and put in a tremendous amount of work and we had a lot of success. I know we fell short (in the WNBA Finals) two times and for the fans of Connecticut to recognize me and be part of such a quality group of ladies on that team it means a lot and I am honored and humbled.

Courtesy of www.boston.com


Logan Thunder signs Laurie Koehn - by Eurobasket News

Laurie Koehn (173-G-82, college: Kansas St.) will continue her career in Australia. The American guard penned a 1-year deal with Logan Thunder. They will compete in WNBL. Koehn currently plays for the Atlanta Dream. She averages 2.2 points after 13 WNBA games. Last season Laurie Koehn spent with Polish team Matizol Lider Pruszkow. She had 13.3 ppg and 2.3 apg in 24 games. In 2010/11, Koehn played in Poland as well. That season she had 17.3 ppg and 3.4 rpg for 23 games with Utex Row Rybnik. She was top scorer of the competition. Koehn participated at the All-Star Game in both years. In the past, she played in France and Turkey. Also Koehn was a member of the Washington Mystics.