EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 9/29/2012 1:00:00 AM

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Men News

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  ADRIATIC LEAGUE   



MZT Skopje lands Boris Bakic - by Eurobasket News (T)

Boris Bakic (193-G-86, agency: Beo Basket) will continue his career in FYROM. The Montenegrin guard penned a 1-year deal with Adriatic league newcomer MZT Skopje. He will not play against Cibona tomorrow, but will be registered for Round 2. Bakic spent last season with Radnicki Kragujevac. He appeared 17 times in Serbian league averaging 9.6 points and 3.8 rebounds. Bakic also added 4.5 ppg and 1.8 rpg for 21 Adriatic league games. Before Radnicki, Boris Bakic spent four years with Crvena Zvezda. In 2011, he was named to Eurobasket.com Serbian League All-Bosmans Team -11. Bakic also played for Partizan and Buducnost Podgorica in the past. He played for the Montenegrin NT at 2011 EuroBasket in Lithuania. Bakic got a chance in 4 games.


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  AUSTRALIA   


Bogut's status is Warriors' big question - by Eurobasket News

Bob Myers completely understood the line of questioning. He just wasn't ready to present complete answers.

The Warriors' general manager spent more than half of about an hour with local media Thursday addressing the team's barometer - the center position - but Myers is taking a wait-and-see approach.

Andrew Bogut's (7'0''-C-84, college: Utah) health is uncertain after offseason ankle surgery, rookie Festus Ezeli is an unproven commodity, and Andris Biedrins is the only player who has yet to report to the team's downtown Oakland training facility. Myers says the team's three centers might have more impact on the success or failure of the Warriors this season than anyone.

"Ask me at the end of the season, and I'll tell you" about the centers, Myers said five days before training camp opens. "I understand that there's a very intense focus on our centers, and it's magnified because of who (Andrew Bogut) is."

Bogut is widely regarded as an elite defensive player and is a consensus top-five center in the league. The Warriors traded for him right before last season's trade deadline, but a broken ankle has kept him from playing in a Golden State uniform. It sounds like it might be a while before he does.

Myers said Bogut is making daily strides, progressing to lateral movement and jumping, but hasn't been cleared for five-on-five play. The Warriors hope to see Bogut play in a couple of the team's eight preseason games, but Myers said they're playing it "overly cautious."

If Bogut, who has missed 150 games in his seven-season career, isn't ready for the Oct. 31 regular-season opener in Phoenix or has to play limited minutes, the Warriors will give it a go with Ezeli and Biedrins.

Myers said Ezeli, who has played organized basketball for only six years, improved noticeably since the summer league in July, but there are no guarantees with rookies. The Warriors don't know how Biedrins has fared this offseason, because there has been little to no contact with the beleaguered Latvian.

"Because it's a result-driven business, Andris will be allowed to come in and compete for his position," Myers said. "He's a professional, and I'll leave it to the coach to decide what (Biedrins') role will be. I'm going to try to be neutral on him not (being here), and I'm going to be positive on the guys who did come."

Courtesy of www.sfgate.com


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  BAHAMAS   


Dynile Forbes agreed terms with Aurteneche Maquinaria Euskadi - by Eurobasket News (T)

Aurteneche Maquinaria Euskadi (LEB Silver) strengthened their roster with addition of 26-year old Bahamas guard Dynile Forbes (188-86, college: La-Monroe). Forbes played most recently at Leyma Basquet Coruna in LEB Silver. He helped his team get promotion to LEB Gold. In 24 LEB Silver games he recorded 10.7ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.2apg and 1.4spg last season.
Forbes was voted to All-Louisiana Honorable Mention in 2010 in his college time.
He attended University of Louisiana at Monroe until 2010 and it will be his third season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center


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  BALTIC LEAGUE   


BBL Cup: Liepajas Lauvas and Rakvere Tarvas to meet in the Final - by Eurobasket News

Semifinals
Rakvere Tarvas - Tartu Ulikool 90:84
Rakvere Tarvas became the first BBL Cup finalists. They knocked down their Estonian rivals Tartu Ulikool in the opening semifinal tonight. The hosts were paced by Reimo Tamm (185-PG-84) with 18 points.
Tartu Ulikool posted a 23:20 lead after ten minutes. However Tarvas bounced right back to take a 39:34 lead midway through the second frame. The hosts ensured a 43:41 halftime lead. Tarvas cleared off in the third term. They won it by as many as 16 points to take a comfortable 18-point lead into the fourth frame. The home side never looked back en route to the victory. Maris Laksa (202-F-81, agency: Court Side, college: Providence) finished with 16 points, while Kaido Saks (207-F-86) added 11 points for Tarvas. Justin Ingram (185-PG-85, agency: Two Points, college: Toledo) answered with 20 points for Tartu Ulikool. Egidijus Dimsa (205-C-85) netted 18 points and grabbed 14 boards in the loss.

Rakvere Tarvas: Reimo Tamm 18, Maris Laksa 16, Kaido Saks 11
Tartu Ulikool: Justin Ingram 20, Egidijus Dimsa 18+14 boards

Liepajas Lauvas - Siauliai 83:76
Liepajas Lauvas entered BBL Cup Final. They knocked down Siauliai in Rakvere to set up the clash versus hosting Tarvas in the title game tomorrow. Ivars Timermanis (203-F-82, agency: Alti Sport) scored 21 points and grabbed 6 rebounds to lead the winners.
Siauliai jumped to an early 8:3 lead but Liepajas Lauvas quickly erased the deficit. The Latvian team surged ahead to accumulate a 24:10 lead late in the opening quarter. They entered the second frame up by 11 points 24:13. Liepajas Lauvas maintained the lead throughout the second frame. They enjoyed a 38:32 halftime advantage. The margin grew at double digits in the third period. Liepaja headed into the fourth period up by 12 points 57:45. Siauliai got within four points midway through the final frame but Liepajas Lauvas wisely stayed in charge and rolled to a well-deserved victory. Ernestas Ezerskis (192-PG-87) provided 14 points, while Kristaps Miglinieks (199-G-90) added 12 points for the winners. Vitali Liutych (197-SG-92) answered with 19 points for Siauliai. Aurimas Kieza (202-PF-82, college: Hofstra) had 14 points and 11 rebounds in the loss.

Liepajas Lauvas: Ivars Timermanis 21, Ernestas Ezerskis 14, Kristaps Miglinieks 12
Siauliai: Vitali Liutych 19, Aurimas Kieza 14+11 boards


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  BRAZIL   


Pinheiros/Sky, Liga Sorocaba and Vivo/Franca earn wins - by Eurobasket News

Pinheiros/Sky thumped Metodista 90:65 at home court to improve at 8-3 record in Group A of Paulista League. Marcio Dornelles (194-F-75) delivered 20 points to lead the winners. Pinheiros/Sky ensured a 48:31 halftime lead. They stretched the margin to 25 points in the third quarter and never looked back en route to the victory. Andre Bambu (205-C-79) and Joe Smith (193-G-77, college: Al.-Huntsville) finished with 15 points each for the hosts. Rafael Castellon (85) answered with game-high 33 points for Metodista.
Vivo/Franca handed Bauru the second loss in Group B beating those 84:74 at home court. Juan Pablo Figueroa (184-PG-86, agency: Interperformances) delivered 19 points and 10 assists for the home side. Lucas Mariano (207-C-93) added 15 points and 10 rebounds in the victory. DeAndre Coleman (201-F-86, college: S.Alabama) answered with 21 points for Bauru.
Liga Sorocaba edged Winner/Limeira 78:76 at home court. Desmond Holloway (190-G-88, college: Co.Carolina) stepped up with 26 points to pace the hosts. Kenny Dawkins (175-G-87, college: Lamar) added 14 points in the winning effort. Helio Vitor Lima (184-PG-81) responded with 24 points for Winner/Limeira.


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  BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS   


BVI to host College Basketball for first time - by David Edole

ROAD TOWN, Tortola, VI --Ray Victor (186-G, college: Warner) and Halstead Chiverton (193-G-82, college: Clinton CC (NY)) could well be playing for their college team in front of Virgin Islands basketball fans if the Tropical Shoot Out College Classic comes to fruition.

The plans for a college tournament to be held at the Multi Purpose Sports Complex in Road Town were announced by Steve Parillon, President of the Hoop It Up Foundation on Thursday night September 27, 2012 during a local TV Sports Show. The show was hosted by Karl Scatliffe, who is also a Vice President of the Foundation.

Victor and JR are members of the Warner University Royals team which is one of four Colleges to have confirmed participation. The others are Northwood University also from Florida, the University of Puerto Rico Cayey and the University of the Virgin Islands.

According to Parillon, there are still many issues to sort out before the Shoot Out can become a reality- not least of which is finance. Letters have been sent to various Government departments including the Department of Youth Affairs and Sports, but up to last night no sponsors or funds had been committed to the Tournament.

Its not just about us, stated both Parillon and Scatliffe. This is a benefit to the whole country, hotels, taxi drivers, restaurants and fans of the sport.

The event, which is planned for the weekend of November 23rd and 24th, 2012, would be the first of its kind to be held in the VI and the organizers hope it is just a stepping stone to being able to bring bigger and higher profile colleges to the Territory in the future.

Currently Puerto Rico, the Bahamas and the USVI host College pre season tournaments and each has proven a huge success, not just in exposure to the sport for younger players, but also in attracting visitors to each region.

Seeing the likes of JR and Ray can only benefit our youths, claimed Parillon. The chance to have played in front of my home fans and family would have been something I would have died for such an opportunity.

Warner plays in the NAIA Division 2 and last season saw their 2011-12 campaign come to an end at the hands of Oregon Tech in the second round of the NAIA Division II Men's Basketball National Championship. Oregon Tech went onto beat Northwood, who are known as the Seahawks, in the Championship game 63-46.

In concluding the announcement, Scatliffe and Parillon stated that the proceeds from the Tropical Shoot Out would go to the Hoop It Up Foundation so it can continue its efforts towards improving the quality of local basketball. They also hoped that potential sponsors would look on the bright side and put aside any differences they may have with the Foundation.


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  BULGARIA   


Yambol acquired a new American forward - by Maria Mitzova

American forward Brian Ormon (201-F-84) signed a one-year deal with bronze medalist Tundja Yambol. Ormon was on trials in the club, but performed very well in the preseason games, and head coach Ivan Cholakov offered him a contract.
In the three friendlies so far played by Ormon, he scored an average of 13.3 points and got 12.0 rebounds, per 29 mins.
Coach Cholakov is still insisting more of the other American addition - DaQuan Cook, who was forced to play on a little unspecific for him position - center.
Tundja Yambol will continue preseason with 2-3 more friendly games.


Source: http://yambolbasketball.com/


Asen Velikov returns to Varna - by Maria Mitzova

Asen Velikov (185-PG-86) chose to return in his youth team - Cherno More Port Varna - to continue his career. Bulgarian NT point guard signed his contract and already started playing games for the team in the preseason.
Asen is a product of the Bulgaria most famous basketball academy - the one in Varna and spent his junior years in that club, until 2006.
Velikov has also played for Lukoil Academic, Levski, and Rilski sportist.

"The fact that I grew up here, played a main part in my decision making. I know the situation in the club, and my connections with the management are good. I am glad to be invited here. I had other offers too, but now I am just happy to play for Cherno more," shared Velikov for GONG.BG.


Dimitar Marincheshki joins Spartak Pleven - by Maria Mitzova

BC Spartak Pleven reinforced with two new players. Ex-U20 NT player Dimitar Marintchechki (201-F/C-90, agency: Dynamics Global Management) signed a contract with the team, and also a Bulgarian, coming from Canada - Teddy Tochev (188-G) - will try and help Spartak.
Dimitar Marintchechki spent his career in CSKA, Overgas and Balkan.
Teddy Tochev is a small forward, and he is unknown to Bulgarian basketball public, as he spent most of his life in Canada. He has last played for Waterloo.
BC Spartak Pleven is still looking for a center forward, to replace Todor Todorov, who left for Balkan.


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  CANADA   


Oshawa Power still up and running, for now - by Eurobasket News

It's time for those running the show of the Oshawa Power and the basketball community of Durham Region to come together and decide if pro hoops is really going to happen here.

Both sides have been neglectful, it would seem, but after speaking to a source close to the team, who wished not to be identified, there is some optimism that the National Basketball League of Canada could still fly in these parts.

Very guarded optimism, mind you, and the type that could easily die if certain things don't happen.

First, the Power need to communicate better with their fans, or more importantly, their potential fans.

They need to explain who will be replacing Gary Durrant, last year's president of basketball operations, who will be coaching the team and, of course, who will be making the layups, slam dunks and three-pointers.

Much of that has yet to be decided, the source tells me, but the best news is that head coach Robert Brickey will be back, he confirmed.

In fact, Brickey will be overseeing a player showcase event Sunday at the Campus Recreation and Wellness Centre, where he hopes to identify some of the new talent for the upcoming season, which is scheduled to start for the Power on Nov. 3 in Windsor, the league's newest entry.

The Power are expected to formally announce Brickey as the coach this weekend, removing an interim tag that went with the title last season, when he came onboard midway through and led the team to seven wins in their last 10 games.

The Power did an excellent job in finding talent a year ago, but most of the recognizable names (Brandon Robinson, Morgan Lewis, Omari Johnson, Tut Ruach) will be gone this season, either because of new opportunities overseas or within the league, where some teams have more resources to afford them, shall we say.

It's safe to assume they will find talent again this season, and Brickey seems a good choice to develop it, but it's hard to imagine the team being better given the loss of star power.

The one thing that seemed unanimous last season, however, was that the product on the floor was a good one, and quite entertaining.

Which brings us to the onus on the community.

Although strong local sponsorship, or even ownership, is crucial to the long-term success of the team, so too is fan support, and not just within Oshawa, but from throughout the region.

This is a region that obviously loves its basketball, and produces its fair share of talent through a vibrant high school and club scene.

A viable professional club to aspire towards would be an ideal addition to the landscape.

Those who agree need to buy in now, or risk losing it altogether.

Courtesy of www.durhamregion.com


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  CHINA   


Fujian tabs Justin Dentmon - by Eurobasket News (T)

Fujian Quanzhou Bank (CBA) inked 27-year old USA ex-international guard Justin Dentmon (182-85kg-85, college: Washington). Dentmon played most recently at EA7 Armani in Italian SerieA. He managed to play in five leagues last year (!!!). In 3 SerieA games he recorded 4.3ppg, 1.3rpg and 1.3apg. Dentmon also played at Austin Toros in D-League earlier that season. In 47 D-League games he averaged impressive 22.2ppg, 3.6rpg, 5.3apg and 1.5spg. He helped them to win the title despite they ended the regular season at the second place. A very good season in his career as he was awarded USBasket.com All-D-League Player of the Year, Guard of the Year and voted to 1st Team. The other team Dentmon played that season for was Toronto Raptors in NBA. In 4 NBA games he averaged 5.5ppg, 1.8rpg and 2.3apg. Another team he played that season for was San Antonio Spurs in NBA. In 2 NBA games he averaged just 2.0ppg. Another team Dentmon played that season for was New Orleans Hornets in NBA. Two years ago Texas Legends selected him as fourth overall pick in NBA draft.
Dentmon attended The University of Washington until 2009 and it will be his fourth season in pro basketball.
He was a member of USA Senior National Team last year. Dentmon also represented USA at the Panamerican Games in Guadalajara (Mexico) last year. His team won Bronze and his stats at that event were 5 games: 9.2ppg, Assists-5 (3.2apg), FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 85.7%.
Dentmon is a very experienced player. He has played also professionally in Israel (Hapoel Afula), Venezuela (Toros), NBA (New Orleans Hornets and San Antonio Spurs), Dominican Republic (Cocolos) and D-League (Frisco Texas Legends).

By Eurobasket Data Center


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  CROATIA   


Tomislav Drazovic is a newcomer at BC Mess - by Eurobasket News (T)

BC Mess (N2) strengthened their roster with addition of 25-year old Croatian guard Tomislav Drazovic (189-87). Drazovic played last season at Borik in Croatian A1 league. In 21 A1 games he recorded 4.9ppg, 1.2rpg and 1.1spg. He also played at Policnik in Croatian A2 earlier that season.
Drazovic was a member of Croatian U18 National Team back in 2005.

By Eurobasket Data Center


Cedevita confirms signing of Vlado Ilievski, parts ways with Curtis Stinson - by Eurobasket News (T)

Cedevita Zagreb announced signing of Vlado Ilievski (190-PG-80, agency: Beo Basket) for the upcoming season. At the same time, the Euroleague newcomer parted ways with Curtis Stinson (191-G-83, college: Iowa St.).
Vlado Ilievski joined Head Coach Bozidar Maljkovic, with whom he worked last season at Lokomotiv Kuban. The player moved to Kuban from Anadolu Efers in February. He had 6.4 ppg and 2.1 apg for 11 games in VTB United League. Ilievski also added 6.6 ppg and 2.4 apg for 8 games in Russia, plus 4.4 ppg and 2.2 apg for 5 EuroCup appearances. As mentioned above, he started last season with Anadolu Efes averaging 2.7 points and 2.6 assists for 10 Euroleague games. Before Efes, Vlado Ilievski played for Union Olimpija, Tau Ceramica, Montepaschi, Lottomatica Roma and Barcelona. Last summer he paced FYROM National Team to Semifinals of the EuroBasket in Lithuania.
Curtis Stinson penned a deal two weeks ago. He finished last season with NBA D-League team Iowa Energy. Stinson started 2011/12 with Slovenian Krka. Recently he also played in Venezuela and Dominican Republic.


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  CYPRUS   


Omonoia lands Diggs, Alen and ingram - by Chris Mammides (T)

Head Coach Michalis Tsangarides and Omonoia decided to do their first transfer move, and what a move in no time five players became Green! The following players have signed already their contract and agree financial terms with the team from Nicosia:
Jamar Diggs (187-G-88, agency: Pro Partner Sports Management, college: Wofford), the American guard had a solid rookie season in the German league and is expected to help his team with his scoring, his assisting and his accurate organising abilities as he can play both point and shooting guard.
Jeremy Allen (193-G-88, college: FIU) , the American swingman in his rookie season decided to start his career in the Nicosia team. He ended his season as a started in the FIU where he had 14 points, 3.4 rebounds, 1.2 assists where he was the fourth "stealer" of the league with his nearly 3 steals per game.
Anthony Lee-Ingram (198-F-88, agency: SDJ Sports, college: Brescia, KY), the American forward was the third top scorer in the Norwegian league last season where with the jersey of Asker Aliens was scoring 21 points per game while he was the top rebounder as his 12.1 rebounds gave him the top place in the league.
The Greek power forward Konstantinos Siapkas, ex player of Makabi in the third Division of the Greek league, is a strong player with a 2.04cm height and is expected to assist his team as the second power forward of the team
The Cypriot guard Kyriakos Kilaras (188-G-87) he was among the stand outs of the second division league as he played a number of seasons in at least 2-3 teams, after leaving the team of U21 of APOEL.


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  CZECH REPUBLIC   


Jaromir Fohler signs at Lan Mobel Iraurgi Saski Baloia - by Eurobasket News (T)

Lan Mobel Iraurgi Saski Baloia (LEB Silver) landed 27-year old Czech center Jaromir Fohler (211-114kg-85). Fohler has played for the last three years at Usti n/Labem in NBL league in Czech Republic. In 46 NBL games last season he averaged 5.6ppg and 3.5rpg.
His team made it to Czech Rep. 1.Liga Semifinals in 2011. Fohler represented Czech Republic at the European Championships U20 in Moscow seven years ago. His stats at that event were 7 games: 3.3ppg, 1.4rpg.
Fohler has played also professionally in Czech Republic (Olomouc, BK Decin, Levharti Chomutov and BK Prostejov) and Spain (Gran Canaria and Vecindario).

By Eurobasket Data Center


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  DENMARK   


Ligaen: Round 2 review - by Eurobasket News

There were only 2 rounds played so far and it's still very beginning of the Regular Season in Ligaen.

Horsens IC - Randers 100-90
Visitors were defeated by Horsens IC 100-90. Randers was ahead by 1 point at the halftime before a 55-44 second half run of Horsens IC. They dominated down low during the game scoring 66 of its points in the paint compared to Randers' 46. Horsens IC forced 24 Randers turnovers. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 21 assists. American guard Skyler Bowlin (190-G-89, agency: Warren Sports International, college: Missouri So.) (190-89, college: Missouri So., agency: Warren Sports International) orchestrated the victory with a triple-double by scoring 23 points, 6 rebounds, 12 assists and 11 steals. International guard Darko Jukic (198-90) contributed with 18 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. Forward Damian Ocana (198-86) replied with 22 points and 9 rebounds and Spanish point guard Miguel Ortega (188-91) added 16 points and 8 rebounds in the effort for Randers. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures. Horsens IC will play against Naestved at home in the next round. Randers will play against Svendborg to get more than just one victory in their record.
Top scorers:
Randers: D.Ocana 22+9reb+1ast, M.Ortega 16+8reb+3ast, M.Nielsen 12+2reb+3ast, P.Nielsen 10+2reb+1ast, C.Jorgensen 10+2reb, K.Schweiger 8+2reb+1ast
Horsens IC: S.Bowlin 23+6reb+12ast, K.Thomann 20+4reb, D.Friedrich 20+2reb+1ast, D.Jukic 18+5reb+4ast, L.Varga 10+3reb+2ast, F.Rungby 8+4reb
gschID: 195225


Bakken - Aalborg 108-87
Bakken smashed Aalborg in Aarhus 108-87. The hosts trailed by 4 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 9-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 108-87. Bakken shot the lights out from three sinking 12 long-distance shots on high 63.2 percentage. The best player for the winners was American point guard Chad Tomko (180-89, college: NC-Wilmington) who scored 23 points, 5 rebounds and 7 assists. Jamaican forward Orane Chin (200-88, college: CS Fullerton) chipped in 14 points and 8 rebounds. Tomko is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. Bakken's coach Philip Dejworek felt very confident that he used 11 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. American power forward Ryan Willen (204-89, college: Lafayette) produced 22 points and 6 rebounds and forward Mads Rasmussen (195-88) added 22 points respectively for the guests. Five Bakken and four Aalborg players scored in double figures. Bakken will try to continue on its current victory against SISU in Copenhagen.
Top scorers:
Aalborg: R.Willen 22+6reb+2ast, M.Rasmussen 22+4reb+2ast, R.Delaney 19+5reb+2ast, R.Lauridsen 14+1reb+1ast, S.Sorensen 9+7reb+2ast, A.Jorgensen 1+1reb
Bakken: C.Tomko 23+5reb+7ast, N.Iversen 16+3reb+3ast, O.Chin 14+8reb+2ast, J.Jensen 14+2reb, C.Christoffersen 12+4reb+1ast, C.Nielsen 12+3reb+2ast
gschID: 195226


Naestved - Horsholm 66-52
The game was mostly controlled by Naestved. Horsholm was better in fourth quarter 16-12. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. American guard Caleb Walker (193-89, college: Nebraska) notched a double-double by scoring 17 points and 10 rebounds to lead the effort and the former international power forward Mads Frandsen (203-90) supported him with 7 points and 7 rebounds. Even 21 points by Hungarian forward Attila Kovacs (203-85) did not help to save the game for Horsholm. Anders Hansen (190-94) added 6 points and 6 rebounds for the guests.
Top scorers:
Horsholm: A.Kovacs 21+4reb+1ast, B.Marinkovic 8+3reb, R.Hansen 6+4reb, A.Hansen 6+6reb+2ast, Z.Jukic 5+2reb+1ast, K.Arvedsen 2
Naestved: C.Walker 17+10reb, A.Murphy 10+1reb+4ast, S.Mjos 10, M.Frandsen 7+7reb+2ast, D.Crowell 5+8reb+2ast, M.Nielsen 4+2reb
gschID: 195227


Aarhus BC - Svendborg 65-78
AnThe guests trailed by 2 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 6-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 78-65. American power forward Donald Rutherford (199-87, college: Catawba) had a double-double by scoring 22 points, 12 rebounds and 6 assists to lead the charge for the winners and U.S. Virgin Islands power forward Gregory Washington (208-84, college: Hofstra) chipped in 24 points and 9 rebounds during the contest. Four Svendborg players scored in double figures. American power forward Kevin McShane (207-88, college: Oregon St.) responded with 21 points and 6 rebounds and international guard Rasmus Soby Dalboge (191-89) scored 15 points and 5 rebounds. Svendborg will meet Randers on the road in the next round. Aarhus BC will play against Horsholm.
Top scorers:
Aarhus BC: K.McShane 21+6reb+2ast, R.Soby Dalboge 15+5reb+2ast, R.Dezouvre 11+9reb+2ast, H.Petkov 6+5reb, J.Wang 6+5reb+3ast, R.Laier 6+2reb
Svendborg: G.Washington 24+9reb+1ast, D.Rutherford 22+12reb+6ast, A.Darboe 13+2reb+5ast, M.Plannthin 10+3reb, K.Gertz 5+1reb+2ast, C.Magaard 3+5reb+2ast
gschID: 195223


Vaerlose - SISU 54-76
SISU smashed Vaerlose 76-54 on Wednesday. The game was mostly controlled by SISU. Vaerlose was better in third quarter 16-12. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They dominated down low during the game scoring 54 of its points in the paint compared to Vaerlose's 32 and made 16-of-19 free shots (84.2 percent) during the game. The best player for the winners was American swingman Mickey Dennis (190-78, college: JMU) who scored 17 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. The other American import center Zack Moritz (210-88, college: Boise St.) chipped in a double-double by scoring 14 points and 12 rebounds. Four SISU players scored in double figures. American guard Richard Delk (193-86, college: Troy) produced 20 points and 5 rebounds and guard Peter Moller (190-94) added 8 points and 5 rebounds respectively for the hosts. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. SISU will face Bakken in Aarhus in the next round and it could be the game of the week.
Top scorers:
Vaerlose: R.Delk 20+5reb+2ast, P.Moller 8+5reb+3ast, J.Jensen 6+9reb+1ast, N.Christensen 6+3reb+2ast, T.Christensen 5+2reb+1ast, A.Karason 4+5reb
SISU: D.Smith 19+5reb+1ast, M.Dennis 17+6reb+5ast, Z.Moritz 14+12reb+2ast, M.Flowers 12+4reb+1ast, M.Nielsen 8, J.Visaq 3+1reb+1ast


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  ESTONIA   


BBL CUP: Tarvas upsets TU/Rock - by Janar

BC Rakvere Tarvas made a huge upset by beating Tartu University/Rock 90:84 (43:41) in the first semifinal of BBL Cup. The hosts were outscored 2:10 in the opening minutes but regained the consciousness and took the lead 15:14 with 8 minutes played. TU/Rock on the first quarter 23:20, though. Justin Ingram (185-PG-85, agency: Two Points, college: Toledo) had 11 points, already. But during the next 23 minutes he made only 2 points. Tarvas made a 9:0 run in the 2nd quarter to go ahead 39:34 and they won the first half by 2 points.
Third quarter became the decisive one: the hosts started it with a 5:0 run and ende it with another 13:3 run to win the quarter 28:12!
In 4th, the blowout continued as the hosts went ahead 77:53. With 8 minutes to play, it was 80:62 but it wasn't over, yet. TU/Rock made a 10:0 run to cut the deficit to only 8 points with 5 minutes left. Baskets by Egidijus Dimsa (205-C-85) and Kristo Saage (185-PG-85) held the guests in competition (87:81 with 2 minutes to play) but the hosts held on to take the important victory and step into the final of BBL Cup.

Reimo Tamm (185-PG-84) led the winners with 18 points, 5 rbs and 6 assists. Maris Laksa (202-F-81, agency: Court Side, college: Providence) added 16, Kaido Saks (207-F-86) 11 and Clarence Jackson (193-G-89, college: Siena) 10 points. For TU/Rock, Ingram contributed 20 points, 6 rbs and assists. Dimsa added 18 and Saage 14 points.



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  EUROCUP   


Orhun Ene : Izzet is important for us but - About Galatasaray rumour - by Ugur Turker

Galatasaray Medical Park Istanbul is looking for signing with Izzet Turkyilmaz (214-F/C-90) who is one of the most promising player of Turkey. After losing Ilkan Karaman, coach Ergin Ataman wants to strengthen his backcourt. About these rumours Banvit Basketbol Kulubu head coach Orhun Ene talked Eurobasket.com.

Coach said " I want Izzet to stay with us since he has important role in the team but if the club managemet asks me that club will be statisfied economicallya and i think this movement will be better for Izzet, there is no reason not to allow him to go "

Galatasaray Medical Park Istanbul Basketball Coordinator Murat Ozyer also commented to Eurobasket.com about Izzet transfer "Of course, all teams in Turkey want to see Izzet in their squad but untill now, we have not made official offer to Banvit Basketbol Kulubu. If we decide to move for Izzet and we are able to agree with Banvit Basketbol Kulubu about clauses, we want to sign with Izzet. "

Time will show us what will happen in next days. Turkish Edition for this news http://www.iddaalihaber.com/haberdetay.asp?id=23813


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  EUROLEAGUE   


Cantu advances to Euroleague regular season - by Eurobasket News

Mapooro Cantu - Le Mans 80-66
Mapooro Cantu is back in the Turkish Airlines Euroleague after dominating Le Mans Sarthe Basket 80-66 for 40 minutes to win the Qualifying Rounds tourney in Desio, Italy. Maarten Leunen (206-F-85, college: Oregon) scored 7 in a 15-0 run that bridged the third and fourth quarters to put Le Mans away early. The hosts took charge early and led by double figures in the first quarter. It was 44-38 at halftime. Le Mans rallied to within 8 in the third, however Cantu went on its run right after that and never looked back. Cantu was aided greatly by its sixth men, the local fans known as The Eagles, who packed PalaDesio and kept the arena rocking throughout the game. Le Mans suffered from a poor shooting night in which the team did not make its first three-pointer until the fourth quarter. Le Mans finished the evening 1 of 12 from behind the arc (8.3%) and 17 for 29 from the free throw line (58.6%). Cantu, on the other hand, played great team offense with twice as many assists as Le Mans (16-8). Leunen paced the Cantu attack with 15 points with just 1 missed shot. Pietro Aradori (195-SG-88) added 12 points and 4 assists, Marco Cusin (210-C-85, agency: Interperformances) scored 11 and Manuchar Markoishvili (196-SF-86) 10. Joao Paulo Batista (207-F/C-81, college: Gonzaga) led Le Mans with 15 points and Cuthbert Victor (197-F-83, college: Murray St.) scored 12. Cantu will be back at PalaDesio in just under two weeks to host Union Olimpija Ljubljana in the opening week of the Turkish Airlines Euroleague Regular Season. Cantu will battle it out with Panathinaikos Athens, Real Madrid, Fenerbahce Ulker Istanbul and BC Khimki Moscow Region to try to reach the Top 16 for the second season in a row. Le Mans will continue its European campaign in the Eurocup. *Courtesy of Euroleague


Cedevita confirms signing of Vlado Ilievski, parts ways with Curtis Stinson - by Eurobasket News (T)

Cedevita Zagreb announced signing of Vlado Ilievski (190-PG-80, agency: Beo Basket) for the upcoming season. At the same time, the Euroleague newcomer parted ways with Curtis Stinson (191-G-83, college: Iowa St.).
Vlado Ilievski joined Head Coach Bozidar Maljkovic, with whom he worked last season at Lokomotiv Kuban. The player moved to Kuban from Anadolu Efers in February. He had 6.4 ppg and 2.1 apg for 11 games in VTB United League. Ilievski also added 6.6 ppg and 2.4 apg for 8 games in Russia, plus 4.4 ppg and 2.2 apg for 5 EuroCup appearances. As mentioned above, he started last season with Anadolu Efes averaging 2.7 points and 2.6 assists for 10 Euroleague games. Before Efes, Vlado Ilievski played for Union Olimpija, Tau Ceramica, Montepaschi, Lottomatica Roma and Barcelona. Last summer he paced FYROM National Team to Semifinals of the EuroBasket in Lithuania.
Curtis Stinson penned a deal two weeks ago. He finished last season with NBA D-League team Iowa Energy. Stinson started 2011/12 with Slovenian Krka. Recently he also played in Venezuela and Dominican Republic.

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Terrell LYDAY
  Unics
  (190-G-79)
  Avg: 19.5
 1. Lyday, Unics19.5 
 2. Abrams, CEZ N.15.5 
 3. Vougioukas, Unics15.0 
 4. Taylor, CEZ N.14.5 
 5. Kaimakoglou, Unics14.5 
 6. Aradori, Pall. Can.14.3 
 7. Batista, Le Mans14.0 
 8. Chatman, Unics14.0 
 9. Smith, Pall. Cantu12.0 
 10. Long, Le Mans11.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Kostas KAIMAKOGLOU
  Unics
  (206-C/F-83)
  Avg: 6.5
 1. Kaimakoglou, Unics6.5 
 2. Houska, CEZ N.6.5 
 3. Batista, Le Mans6.0 
 4. Eidson, Unics6.0 
 5. Leunen, Pall. Cantu5.7 
 6. Tapoutos, CEZ N.5.0 
 7. Tyus, Pall. Cantu4.7 
 8. Veremeenko, Unics4.5 
 9. Sy, Le Mans4.3 
 10. Victor, Le Mans4.3 
Assists Per Game
 Petr SAMOYLENKO
  Unics
  (185-PG-77)
  Avg: 5
 1. Samoylenko, Unics5.0 
 2. Smith, Pall. Cantu4.0 
 3. Taylor, CEZ N.4.0 
 4. El-Amin, Le Mans3.7 
 5. Eidson, Unics3.5 
 6. Aradori, Pall. Can.2.7 
 7. Abrams, CEZ N.2.5 
 8. Markoishvili, Pall.2.3 
 9. Long, Le Mans2.0 
 10. Chatman, Unics2.0 
Steals Per Game
 Kostas KAIMAKOGLOU
  Unics
  (206-C/F-83)
  Avg: 2
 1. Kaimakoglou, Unics2.0 
 2. Eidson, Unics2.0 
 3. Long, Le Mans1.7 
 4. Kahudi, Le Mans1.3 
 5. Pavkovic, CEZ N.1.0 
 6. Hruban, CEZ N.1.0 
 7. Taylor, CEZ N.1.0 
 8. Aradori, Pall. Can.1.0 
 9. Samoylenko, Unics1.0 
 10. Smith, Pall. Cantu1.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Marco CUSIN
  Pall. Cantu
  (210-C-85)
  Avg: 2
 1. Cusin, Pall. Cantu2.0 
 2. Naymick, CEZ N.1.5 
 3. Benda, CEZ Nymburk1.5 
 4. Tyus, Pall. Cantu0.7 
 5. Houska, CEZ N.0.5 
 6. Vougioukas, Unics0.5 
 7. Tapoutos, CEZ N.0.5 
 8. Zamanskiy, Unics0.5 
 9. Hruban, CEZ N.0.5 
 10. Kahudi, Le Mans0.3 


Maccabi Electra reportedly signs Malcolm Thomas - by Eurobasket News (T)

Malcolm Thomas (206-C-88, college: San Diego St.) will continue his career in Israeli. The American power forward penned a multi-year deal with Maccabi Electra Tel-Aviv, source told Eurobasket's David Pick. The player had 14.9 ppg, 10.1 rpg and 1.8 bpg for 26 games with the NBA D-League team Los Angeles D-Fenders. He was named USBasket.com All-D-League Forward of the Year -12 and Gatorade D-League All-Defensive 1st Team -12. He also appeared three times with San Antonio Spurs in the NBA (0.3 ppg, 1 rpg). Malcolm Thomas started the season with South Korean team Mobis Phoebus. There he shined with 20.8 ppg, 10.6 rpg and 3.1 apg and 2.8 bpg for 17 games. Thomas graduated at San Diego University something more than a year ago. He had 11.4 ppg, 8.1 rpg, 2.3 apg and 2 bpg for his school in 37 games as a senior. San Diego was MWC Tournament winner and reached NCAA Sweet 16. Thomas was named to All-MWC 2nd Team -11.


Euroleague QR : LeMans and Cantu at the final battle (live on twitter) - by Giovanni Bargna

It's been a long week of basketball at the Paladesio. Eight teams, six games so far. Everyone putting a great effort in order to enter the main european basketball competition.
It seems we have two survivors now that will face each other tonight at 8:30 for the very final game. A win will mean getting a ticket to join Panathinaikos, Real Madrid, Khimki, Fenerbahce and Union Olimpija in the next euroleague regular season group A.
The tournament started last Tuesday with the quartefinals and with Cez Nymburk downing Telenet Oostende 83-65 after challenging head-to-head for the first 20 minutes. Czech side was led by Mike Taylor (13), Adrian Abrams (15) and Petr Benda (14 and 6reb). The loosers had 16 from Lojeski.
Cantu managed a win over Lukoil Sofia 87-79. Alex Tyus (18) and Jerry Smith (13 + 7rb + 5ast) gave a great contribution to Cantu, while Sofia had 21 from Brandon Heath.

On Wednesday Unics Kazan took an easy win against german team of Ratiopharm Ulm, 91-73. Terrell Lyday scored 21 and Vougioukas 18 for Kazan. Allan Ray and John Bryant sank 17 each for Ulm.
Second game of the day was really balanced when LeMans Sarthe defeated BC Donetsk after a 40 minute long hard battle. If Doron Perkins and D'Or Fischer were expected to easily push Donetsk to the semifinal the game proved LeMans is a very good team, well coached and with a good chemistry in spite of having a short roster made up of only ten players. Perkins did great but didn't find a good help from his teammates while Fischer seemed quite lost. LeMans had a good contribution from Cameron Long and Khalid El-Amin.

The semifinal games were played on Thursday night. In the first one MapoOro Cantu led by Jerry Smith again (16) and by Pietro Aradori (19) defeated Cez Nymburk and qualified for the final. The result of the second semifinal is to be considered a very unexpectable verdict asd LeMans Sarthe won again and downed Unics Kazan after the most balanced game of the entire tournament. If the russians didn't played good as they were expected to, the french team played another great game improving again after the quarterfinal. Russians are shocked after this result. The eurocup is a very honorable competition but Unics was built with a different goal. A roster that includes Eidson, Vuogioukas, Kaimakoglou, Liday, Vereemenko and Chatman should be ready to compete at a very high euroleague level.

THE FINAL : MapoOro Cantu hasn't proved they can beat anyone here yet. A two god wins and some improvements shown quarter by quarter, but an almost brand new roster still needs time to get at its best level. The home supporters will help the team and this could count at the end of the battle.
LeMans Sarthe is the real nice surprise of the Qualifying Rounds. They downed BC Donetsk and Unics Kazan when they were not expected to. They can count on veteran point guard Khalid El-Amin who's doing very good in these days. They got a very complete roster and the good performance of yesterday when El-Amin spent lots of minutes on the bench due to foul troubles prove this. Brazilian center Joao Paulo Batista is off a great performance against Khimki and could be a main actor also tonight.

Follow the final game LIVE on twitter on my account!


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  FINLAND   


KORISLIIGA: Tremaine Ford coming to Finland - by Rauno Hurmalainen (T)

Karhu (Kauhajoki) is replacing Team's big man Yamene Coleman (206-C-86, agency: Court Side, college: Troy), who has left the team for personal reasons. Coleman will not play in Finland 2012-13. Instead Karhu has signed with PF/C Tremaine Ford (206-F/C-86, college: CS Northridge 2007-09), who will replace Coleman. Ford will arrive in Finland tomorrow, Saturday, and will then be on Karhu's roster, when the new season starts on Wednesday, October 3. Ford has played earlier in Czech Republic, then had a try out to Bundesliga in Germany, then followed ProA and ProB in France and last season Ford played in three teams and countries; in Macedonia, Cyprus and Turkey (TB2L).


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  FRANCE   


Nancy complete roster with addition of Herve Toure - by Eurobasket News (T)

Nancy bolstered their frontcourt. They agreed on terms of contract with Herve Toure (202-F-82). The forward started the previous season in Spain. He played for Blancos de Rueda Valladolid. Herve Toure tallied 9.9 points, 4.0 rebounds and 1.4 blocks per game in ACB. Later the Ivorian player moved to Pau-Lacq-Orthez. His stats read 1.0 point and 3.5 rebounds per 2 appearances in ProA. Previously Herve Toure had stints in Italy, Belgium and France. Herve Toure was ProA champion back in 2002. He participated at 2003 French All-Star Game. Herve Toure was the member of Cote dIvoire National Team.


Cantu downs Le Mans, heads to Euroleague regular season - by Eurobasket News

Mapooro Cantu - Le Mans 80-66
Mapooro Cantu is back in the Turkish Airlines Euroleague after dominating Le Mans Sarthe Basket 80-66 for 40 minutes to win the Qualifying Rounds tourney in Desio, Italy. Maarten Leunen (206-F-85, college: Oregon) scored 7 in a 15-0 run that bridged the third and fourth quarters to put Le Mans away early. The hosts took charge early and led by double figures in the first quarter. It was 44-38 at halftime. Le Mans rallied to within 8 in the third, however Cantu went on its run right after that and never looked back. Cantu was aided greatly by its sixth men, the local fans known as The Eagles, who packed PalaDesio and kept the arena rocking throughout the game. Le Mans suffered from a poor shooting night in which the team did not make its first three-pointer until the fourth quarter. Le Mans finished the evening 1 of 12 from behind the arc (8.3%) and 17 for 29 from the free throw line (58.6%). Cantu, on the other hand, played great team offense with twice as many assists as Le Mans (16-8). Leunen paced the Cantu attack with 15 points with just 1 missed shot. Pietro Aradori (195-SG-88) added 12 points and 4 assists, Marco Cusin (210-C-85, agency: Interperformances) scored 11 and Manuchar Markoishvili (196-SF-86) 10. Joao Paulo Batista (207-F/C-81, college: Gonzaga) led Le Mans with 15 points and Cuthbert Victor (197-F-83, college: Murray St.) scored 12. Cantu will be back at PalaDesio in just under two weeks to host Union Olimpija Ljubljana in the opening week of the Turkish Airlines Euroleague Regular Season. Cantu will battle it out with Panathinaikos Athens, Real Madrid, Fenerbahce Ulker Istanbul and BC Khimki Moscow Region to try to reach the Top 16 for the second season in a row. Le Mans will continue its European campaign in the Eurocup. *Courtesy of Euroleague


*****************************************************
  FYR MACEDONIA   


MZT Skopje lands Boris Bakic - by Eurobasket News (T)

Boris Bakic (193-G-86, agency: Beo Basket) will continue his career in FYROM. The Montenegrin guard penned a 1-year deal with Adriatic league newcomer MZT Skopje. He will not play against Cibona tomorrow, but will be registered for Round 2. Bakic spent last season with Radnicki Kragujevac. He appeared 17 times in Serbian league averaging 9.6 points and 3.8 rebounds. Bakic also added 4.5 ppg and 1.8 rpg for 21 Adriatic league games. Before Radnicki, Boris Bakic spent four years with Crvena Zvezda. In 2011, he was named to Eurobasket.com Serbian League All-Bosmans Team -11. Bakic also played for Partizan and Buducnost Podgorica in the past. He played for the Montenegrin NT at 2011 EuroBasket in Lithuania. Bakic got a chance in 4 games.


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  GERMANY   


Fraport Skyliners edge s.Oliver Baskets in friendly - by Eurobasket News

Fraport Skyliners - s.Oliver Baskets 69:56

Fraport Skyliners and s.Oliver Baskets played a friendly encounter. Larry Wright (187-G-87, college: Oakland) scored 27 points to lead Skyliners to the victory.
The teams stayed neck and neck throughout the opening quarter. Skyliners and Wuerzburg were tied at 16 after ten minutes. Skyliners pulled in front in the second quarter. They accumulated a 39:30 halftime lead. Skyliners limited s.Oliver Baskets to just 8 points in the third frame to gain a 10-point advantage 48:38. Skyliners kept their opponents at bay throughout the fourth frame and sealed the victory at the end. Quantez Robertson (189-G-84, college: Auburn) posted 13 points, while Dion Dowell (200-F/G-85, college: Houston) contributed 11 points and 10 rebounds in the victory. Dwayne Anderson (198-F-86, college: Villanova) answered with 14 points for s.Oliver Baskets. John Little (180-PG-84, college: N.Iowa) netted 11 points in the loss.

Fraport Skyliners: Larry Wright 27, Quantez Robertson 13, Dion Dowell 11+10 boards
s.Oliver Baskets: Dwayne Anderson 14, John Little 11


Ahmad Smith New Captain For The BiG Oettinger Rockets Gotha - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber


Since 2007, Ahmad Smith (194-G-84, college: St.Bonaventure) has been a main stay in Germany. After playing a strong season in Kirchheim last year, he moved to the BiG Oettinger Rockets Gotha this season. He quickly found his way into the hearts of the fans and soon they gave him the nick name Schmidti. He was further rewarded with the position as captain and will take over for Dmitrij Kreis. He has helped the team win all six games in pre season and says I am a winner and hate to lose. Last season for Kirchheim, he averaged 35 games: 9.9ppg, 6.1rpg, Assists-1 (6.7apg), 1.4spg, FGP: 52.3%, 3PT: 35.9%, FT: 62.0%. He was often close to registering double doubles. He once had 18 assists and 12 assists against MBC. Coach Marko Simic is more than convinced that the American from Alexandra, Virgina can be the perfect captain. "Ahmad showed quickly that he is a leader and team player and that success is most important".




The Jermaine Bucknor Smile Remains in the Beko BBL - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber (T)

The smiles of guys like Michael Jordan (183-PG-77, agency: Interperformances, college: Pennsylvania), Immanuel McElroy (193-G-80, college: Cincinnati) or Titus Ivory (193-G-79, college: Penn St.) were something that one couldnt help but notice in beko BBL arenas in the last years and one guy who can competite with the shiny whites on the court is Jermaine Bucknor (199-F-83, college: Richmond) . Bucknor is a 28 year old 199cm forward that was born in Edmonton, Alberta in Canada and got the Jamacian citzenship in 2007. Since 2010 he has displayed his basketball talent in the Beko BBL for the Frankfurt sklyiners and s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg and now has found a third team in Germany with TBB Trier. Bucknor gets a try-out contract until teh end of October. Jermaine is a versatile player, is athletic and has a good shot. We saw that last season when he played us with Wurzburg. We wnat to react to the injury of Dragan Dojcin as we dont know when he will return. I think that Jermaine fits well into our profil", stated TBB Trier head coach Henrik Roedl . Last season, Bucknor played for Libertad Sunchales (Argentina-LigaA, starting five): 19 games: 9.0ppg, 5.5rpg, 1.2apg, FGP: 60.8%, 3PT: 40.3%, FT: 75.9%, in Jan.'12 moved to s.Oliver Baskets Wuerzburg (Germany-BBL): 13 games: 5.4ppg, 2.5rpg, FGP: 56.3%, 3PT: 36.1%, FT: 81.3%. This past summer, he played for the Edmonton Energy (IBL): 6 games: 11.3ppg, 6.3rpg, 2.5apg, FGP: 53.8%, 3PT: 23.8%, FT: 58.3%.

Bucknor started his basketball career in 2001 where he played for Richmond (NCAA) until 2006. In his first four seasons as a professional, he played in France. In 2006-2007, he played for Limoges CSP Elite (France-ProB): 12 games: 11.2ppg, 5.7rpg, 1.7apg, FGP: 44.7%, 3PT: 40.4%, FT: 79.3%; left in Dec.'06, in Jan.'07 tested by Polpak Swiecie (Poland-DBL): 16 games: 7.1ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.0apg, 1.2spg, 2FGP: 40.6%, 3PT: 31.9%, FT: 57.6%. In 2007-2008, he played for ESSM Le Portel Cote d'Opale (France-ProB): French League: 24 games: 12.3ppg, 5.4rpg, 1.9apg, 1.4spg, 2FGP: 46.8%, 3PT: 29.5%, FT: 76.1%; 24 games: 12.2ppg, 5.4rpg, 2.1apg, 2FGP: 56.0%, 3PT: 29.0%, FT: 75.0%; in May '08 agreed terms with Edmonton Chill (Canada-IBL). In 2008-2009, he played for Stade Clermontois Basket Auvergne (France-ProB): 10 games: 11.5ppg, 2.9rpg, 2.1apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 53.5%, 3PT: 43.6%, FT: 81.8%, in Feb.'09 moved to Aix-Maurienne Savoie Basket (France-ProB): 12 games: 14.8ppg, 4.3rpg, 2.1apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 63.0%, 3PT: 41.3%, FT: 93.2%. He played a second season in 2009-2010 for Stade Clermontois Basket Auvergne (France-ProB): 31 games: 13.4ppg, 3.2rpg, 2.5apg, 1.5spg, FGP: 50.8%, 3PT: 45.8%, FT: 82.4%. Awards/Achievements in his basketball career have been NIT Quarterfinals -02, Atlantic 10 Tournament Finalist -02, Atlantic 10 Tournament Semifinals -04, Canadian National Team-04, 05, Tournament of the Americas (Copa America) in Santo Domingo -05, All-Atlantic 10 2nd Team -06, Canadian National Team -06-07, 09-10, Panamerican Games in Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) -07, Marchand Cup -09: 1 game: 0pts, 1reb, 1block, FIBA Americas in San Juan (Puerto Rico) -09 (Semifinals): 9 games: 4.4ppg, 2.6rpg, World Championships in Turkey -10: 5 games: 4.2ppg, 1.6rpgGerman Bundesliga Semifinals -12, and IBL International Division Regular Season Runner-Up -12

Source: TBB Trier


Dijuan Harris (LTi Giessen 46ers) My Defense Doesnt Always Get Noticed - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Dijuan Harris (175-G-86, college: Charlotte) is a 175cm guard from Charlotte, North Carolina that is starting his third professional basketball season and first with the Lti Giessen 46ers. He is a guard that is super fast and strong point guard. Pushes the ball quick in transition and scores in a variety of ways. Uses ball screens well, and finishes in the lane with his strength. Creates open looks for all his teammates and puts a lot of pressure on the defense when on the fast break. He is a great defender because of his quickness, and beats the offense to the spot because of his great anticipation.Last season, he played for Usak Universitesi Belediyespor (Turkey-TB2L, starting five): 36 games: 14.1ppg, 2.5rpg, 3.4apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 50.9%, 3PT: 23.4%, FT: 72.9%. He played at Charlotte in the NCAA breaking various school records. In his rookies eason in 2010, he played for Salon Vilpas Vikings (Finland-Korisliiga, starting five), left in Nov.'10: 11 games: 19.0ppg, 3.0rpg, 4.4apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 55.8%, 3PT: 37.5%, FT: 75.0%. He spoke to eurobasket about basketball.

Welcome to the LTi Giessen 46ers. You will be starting your third professional season and first in Germany afte rplaying in Finland and Turkey. What were the main reasons for coming to Germany Beko BBL league?

There were several reasons in deciding to come to Germany BBL, but the top 2 reasons were because of the competition I would see on a day in and day out basis, and The League is very well respected in Europe.

You arrived in Germany recently landing in Frankfurt which is overwhelming with its big skyline. You are from a city Charlotte, but were you disappointed when you saw the small university town of Giessen for the first time?

No, not at all, I am actually accustomed to seeing the smaller cities in Europe, my first 2 years in Europe I have been in very small towns, so this is actually bigger than the first 2, so another step in the right direction.

What is your first general impression of Germany? What are you really looking forward to on and off the court?

I am looking forward to the competition and the atmosphere on the floor, and off the floor I have become a huge football fan so hopefully I can get to a game to watch Munich play before season is out.

The Beko BBL is a step up from lower leagues in Finland and TB2L Turkey. How ready are you for this challenge and how sure are you that you can step it up at this level?

Its nothing new to me, everybody everywhere put on their shirt and shoes just like I do, and I have been playing against the best since high school, and this is nothing different. Yes, it is a step up in competition, but I feel Like I can compete with the best of them, and I was just looking for an opportunity, and now I have it and I know ill make the best of it. I feel I will have a productive year, individually, and as a team. I am confident in my abilities, and when you work at your craft and you put the time and hard work in you know you ready for the big stage. I work with vets who been there and done what im trying to do such as TERELL MCINTYRE, VINCENT GRIER, ANTHONY MORROW, JUNIOR HARRINGTON, these are top level guards, and a NBA Player who I have either played against or worked out with.


You are a 175cm point guard. You will be teaming up with another diminutive guard Achmadschah Zazai. Have you ever been on a team where both point guards were under 180cm? What is advantage of having two very small guards?

Last time I played with another small guard was in college, It has its advantages but also has its disadvantages, but nonetheless I feel we will be fine, and will hold our own against bigger guards no matter what. I am accustomed to seeing big guards, either guarding me, or I have to guard them. Its just what comes with the territory.

You push the ball quick in transition and scores in a variety of ways. Uses ball screens well, and finishes in the lane with his strength. Creates open looks for all his teammates and puts a lot of pressure on the defense when on the fast break. What is a strength in your game that doesnt always get noticed right away?

My defense doesnt always get noticed, but I play very good on the ball, and passing lane defense.

What is your first impression of head coach Mathias Fischer? What has been your experience with past coaches? What is always the most important thing that you have with your coach?

He is a very open guy, and a proven winner. My experience with past coaches have been great actually, but I feel this will be best yet because he speaks English fluently. It will be a lot easier as the PG to communicate with him and speak with him about on the floor situations that may occur in the game. Its actually 2 things, one being communication and the other being trust. To be able to speak with my coach about everything, and my coach trusting me in tight and close situations, and knowing ill get us in the right set, formation, and put us in position to win.

Last season you played for Usak Universitesi Belediyespor. You were averaging 30 plus minutes in the first half of the season, but in the second half your playing time drastically got reduced. What were the reasons for this?

My minutes dropped because the rule for TB2L WAS ONLY 1 AMERICAN ON COURT AT A TIME, so when other transfer came, THEY PLAYED HIM MORE, CAUSING MY MINUTES TO DECLINE

Doneal Mack has about 20 centimeters on you. What was the most important thing that you learned from him last season?

Well he guarded me a lot during the season in practice and he helped me to get my shot off still against bigger defenders, in 1 on 1 situations where I had to create for myself. He helped me because his length and athleticisim will bother anybody who he guards.

As a rookie, you played in Finland. What was your wake up call as a rookie in that league?

My wake up call in Europe was when I was in Finland and I played my second game there I believe, and we won I had 31 pts, 6ass but only took 14 shots total, thats when a light came on and I knew I belonged and no matter what nobody said I felt like I could play with anybody giving the right opportunity.

You played at Charlotte (NCAA) breaking many records. Who was the most difficult opponent on the court that might be in the NBA now?

There were a few guys that was a tough cover in college actually, as far as size goes, I feel Greivis Vasquez was tough. He had a pretty good game, he knew how to use his size and when to use it. Played within himself and with a lot of confidence, and the other guy would be Stephen Curry because his range on his shot was not like nobody else, and he would raise up from anywhere. He used the ball screen at Davidson very well.

Who would win in their prime if they played against each other. The Dream Team or Team USA 2012?

I would love to see that game, but it would never happen so as a guess I would say Dream Team

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Friday.

Thanks Dijuan for the chat.


BG Goettingen Lose Nick Livas - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

BG Goettingen suffered much misfortune last season in the Beko BBL and seem to have had some bad luck a few days before the start of the PRO A season losing Nicholas Livas (198-G-87, college: Ill.-Springfield). Only a few days ago Livas recieved a contract form BG Goettingen until the end of December. The German-Greek guard who played in Slovakia last season suffered a double rupture of the ligament. The team has announced that he will miss four weeks. Livas will be assisted by Rainer Junge who will help make him fit again as soon as possible.

Source: BG Goettingen




Panathinaikos Athens Too Much For BBC Bayreuth Winning 91-78 In Munich - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

BBC Bayreuth may not be a Brose Baskets Bamberg, but they scared 36 time Greek champion and 6 time Euroleague champion Panathinaikos Athens in the first half, but couldnt keep up with the Greek side losing 91-78 in an exhibition game in Munich that wasnt open to the public. BBC Bayreuth had the slim 20-18 lead after one quarter and kept up the pressure in the second quarter leading 43-38 at halftime. However the Greek side turned it up in the second half and outscored BBC Bayreuth 35-21 in the third quarter. In the fourth quarter, BBC Bayreuth couldnt regain the lead as they were outscored 28-14. All in all BBC Bayreuth presented themselves well and now will prepare for their first game of the regular season against the s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg. Panathinaikos Athens was led by baby Shaq Sofoklis Schortsanitis (206-C-85) with 18 points. Outlits had 17 points and Dimitris Diamantidis had 15 points. BBC Bayreuth was led by Joe Trapani with 20 points. German point guard Simon Schmitz contributed 12 points and Gary Mcghee 11 points.


Larry Wright Ruins The Return Of Jimmy Mckinney Powering The Fraport Skyliners Past the s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg 69-56 - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

There are quite a lot of reasons why one would adore seeing the s.Oliver baskets Wurzubrug play this season. Seeing the return of 2010 Eurochallenge winner Dwayne Anderson, witnessing the possible complete breakthrough of German Chris Mcnaughton, asking Derrick Allen friend Lamont Mcintosh if he also gets around with a bike in Wurzburg as he did at Artland, seeing the continued development of the three pointer of Alex King or just observing the three amigos Jason Boone, Ben Jacobson and John Little who might as well settle down in the same town once their playing days are over. However if you are a Fraport Skyliners fan than the number one reason for seeing the squad of Marcel Schroder play is ex Skyliner Jimmy Mckinney. After missing the opportunity to see the St Louis native play his ex team 11 days ago in Wurzburg at the Rexoth tournament, fans finally had the chance to see him play again in his ex practice living room stomping ground of the BCM. One had many memories of Mckinney from his countless injuries to his numerous short term contracts and it was difficult knowing which he saw more of. The American reached the playoffs in Frankfurt in four out of six seasons and it took until his last season where he became the sole leader. It was difficult seeing Mckinney in red as he returned back home in good spirits, but his home coming was ruined by the sharp shooting of Larry Wright (187-G-87, college: Oakland) who led the Fraport Skyliners past the s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg 69-56 with a 27 point effort. Despite the loss, Mckinney had a smile on his face when seeing old friends. I think this game was a set up. This was our worst game this pre season. However it was great coming back and seeing the fans and club again. It was a great atmosphere and it was great to be back in the old gym, stressed Wurzburg guard Jimmy Mckinney. His ex teammates enjoyed seeing him again, but the color of the jersey took time getting used to. It was weird seeing Jimmy in red. My nicest two memories last season was when he taught me to drive a stick and the game where I passed him the ball and he hit a game winning shot. He said good job Devin. That was really nice to hear from him, added Devin Gibson. I didnt want to steal the show from Jimmy. I just wanted to help my team win. It was weird playing against an ex teammate. Last week in Italy I played against my ex teammate Reggie Hamilton at Oakland. Jimmy is a very good player on offense and defense, commented Larry Wright. Teammate Lamont Mcintosh is glad to have Mckinney on his team. One could see that when Jimmy doesnt have his shooting touch that we struggle. His play will be a difference maker in our offense. He is a great teammate, said ex Artland Dragon Lamont Mcintosh.

After finishing in third place in basketball tournaments in Wurzburg and Italy, the Fraport Skyliners returned from their week long training camp in Trevisio fresh and ready to take on a potential Beko BBL playoff team. After a pretty even first quarter, the Fraport Skyliners broke away in the second quarter, allowed Wurzburg too only eight points in the third quarter and stayed consistent in the fourth quarter slamming the door on the Bavarian team. After the 40 minute game the question was did the s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg stink up the house or did the Fraport Skyliners annoying defense have a part in this win? Our defense was very strong, but I would say that it wasnt just us. Wurzburg seemed to have quite a few mental lapses. We were very consistent and Larry Wright hit big shots, commented Fraport Skyliner guard Devin Gibson. For the s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg, they can only forget this performance and concentrate on their first game against BBC Bayreuth. The Skyliners prepared very well and there defense was good. We were just bad. We were flat and it was just one of those days where nothing went right. I hope that we dont have one of these days during the regular season, warned Jimmy Mckinney.

Before the game started, Fraport Skyliner manager Gunnar Wobke awarded Jimmy Mckinney with a tuxedo. Last season, the whole team wore tuexedos to a team function and the American kept saying how much he wanted to own one. It was a nice gesture of the Fraport Skyliners and Mckinney seemed more than overjoyed about accepting the gracious gift from his ex team. The Fraport Skyliners had 11 players on the stat sheet with six being PRO B players. Frankfurt is still seeking after a shooting guard and a big man. The Fraport Skyliners started with Johnathon Jones, Konstantin Klein, Dion Dowell, Quantez Robertson and captain Marius Nolte while the s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg countered with John Little, Jimmy Mckinney, Lamont Mcintosh, Dwayne Anderson and Jason Boone. The s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg got the board first with a Jason Boone stuff, but the Fraport Skyliners countered with a typical give and go from Konstantin Klein to Marius Nolte. Klein also likes the target Johannes Vogtman. Wurzburg had their shooting touch early as Dwayne Anderson and Lamont Mcintosh scored from down town. Quantez Robertson had a spectacular penetration drive that had him sliding on the BCM floor as if a secret coating of ice had been layed down. Wurzburg was able to extend their lead to 13-7 with a pretty ally-op pass from Mcintosh to Anderson. However the Fraport Skyliners didnt seem startled as they regrouped and finished the first quarter with a 9-3 run to have the game deadlocked at 16-16. PRO B player Larry Wright scored seven of the nine points. He started the run with three free throws. Dion Dowell then made a hammering dunk after getting a quick feed from Danilo Barthel who had secured an offensive rebound. Wright then hit two more free throws and made a steal and scored on a routine lay up. Mckinney then ended the first quarter in typical Jay roc manner putting some fakes on his opponent and drilling home a three pointer.

In the second quarter, the game started to turn as the Fraport Sklyiners took control and were more efficient with their shooting consistency. The Fraport Sklyiners went on a 8-2 run to lead 24-18. After ex Bamberg guard Maurice Stuckey hit a runner, it was Larry Wright who continued to show that he learned his trade shooting at St Johns and Oakland as he nailed a three pointer. Quantez Robertson connected for a mid distance shot and Danilo Barthel made a three pointer. Wurzburg had lost some intensity on defense coupled with mental lapses while the Fraport Skyliners continued to show a lot of confidence in their shots. Wurzburg tried to come back and did going on a 9-5 run to cut the Skyliners lead to 29-27. Ex BG Goettingen center Jason Boone scored twice in the paint while pit bull John Little scored on a pretty finger tip role. However this quarter remained a up and down run for both teams. The Fraport Skyliners finished the quarter strong going on a 10-3 run to lead comfortably at halftime 39-30. In the Skyliner run, Nolte scored with a baby hook, Wright with a mid distance shot, Robertson with a lay up after being fed by Jones with a no look pass and Klein finished the second quarter with a contested three pointer after beautiful ball movement by the team. We were working too fats in the first quarter. In the second quarter we calmed down and executed well on offense, stated Larry Wright. The Skyliners had more desire and energy. We were unable to match their intensity, commented Lamont Mcintosh.The Fraport Skyliners were shooting 48% from the field and 36% from outside while the s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg were shooting 38% from the field and 45% from outside. Frankfurt had the 20-14 rebound edge and both teams suffered seven turnovers.

The third quarter showcased the lowest scoring quarter of the game as the Fraport Skyliners outscored the s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg 9-8. Wurzburg could of cut the lead down even more had Jason Boone not missed four free throws in a row, but he had hurt his shooting arm in the pre season game against Hapoel Jerusalem and was fighting to find his shooting motion. The s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg had some hope after starting off on a 5-0 run as John Little hit from the parking garage at the Northwest center and Mcintosh also scored with a jumper as the Fraport Sklyiners only led 40-36. However the Fraport Skyliners continued to stay calm and kept their defensive pressure up and annoyed Wurzburg in their offensive sets. Klein nailed a wicked shot off the dribble and Dowell and Robertson made free throws as the Fraport Skyliners led 48-38 after three quarters. We overplayed our options. Frankfurt defense forced us out of our sets and we were unable to execute our sets, added Lamont Mcintosh. We turned up our ball pressure. Our help side was excellent and each guard was excellent, commented Larry Wright.

Larry Wright saved his best for last as he didnt even let the s.Oliver Baskets get closer as he nailed the door shut gunning 17 points in the fourth quarter. Mckinney did start of the fourth quarter with what he does best and that is being parked in the corner and dropping shots as Wurzburg trailed only 48-40. However the Fraport Skyliners kept up the offensive pressure as it was Wright who was on fire. After a Jones steal, Wright got fed for the dunk. After a Robertson off balance shot it was Wright who hit back to back with a lay up and Three pointer as Frankfurt led 58-45. Whenever Wurzburg was trying to come back, it was Wright who had a return answer. Mckinney drilled a three pointer for the 61-49 Frankfurt lead, but Wright hit a three pointer as Frankfurt led 63-49. Anderson agve Wurzburg hope again with a three pointer as they trailed 63-52, but Barthel scored inside for the 65-52 lead. After Boone made a jumper, it was Wright again who hit a three pointer from the corner sealing the win as Frankfurt led 68-54. Mckinney hit the last shot of the game leaving his Skyliner fans with something to remember him by. We locked down in the fourth quarter. We showed that defense wins games more than offense does, stressed Larry Wright. That was not Wurzburg tonight. We had mental lapses and we missed Ben Jacobson. We will have to make adjustments during games when things arent working, added Lamont Mcintosh.

The Fraport Skyliners were led by Larry Wright with 27 points, seven rebounds and three steals. Wright was modest after his performance, but one could feel that he was overjoyed as well as relived about his play. I just was aggressive looking for my shot. I was open and my teammates found me. I know that I can play in the BBL, but that is up to management. I can play basketball all day long, stressed Larry Wright. Devin Gibson had a bright twinkle in his eyes after describing the play of teammate Wright. Larry was amazing. That was one of the best performances that I have seen in Frankfurt, stressed Devin Gibson. Lamont Mcintosh had not heard of Larry Wright before the game, but knew who he was now. He can flat out shoot. I got burned a few times over helping. He played division one and was given a chance to play at the PRO B level. He has proven that with hard work and consistency he can make the jump to the BBL. The best example that it is possible is Julius Jenkins. He played at Nurnberg and made the jump to the BBL. He may be the best player in BBL history, warned Lamont Mcintosh. Quantez Robertson added 13 point, five rebounds and three assists. Dion Dowell had a double double with 11 points and 10 rebounds. The s.Oliver Baskets Wurzburg were led by Dwayne Anderson with 14 points and five rebounds. John little produced 11 points and Lamont Mcintosh 10 points and four assists. Frankfurt shot 43% from the field and 28% from the three point line while the s.Oliver baskets Wurzburg shot 37% from the field and 44% from the three point line. Frankfurt won the rebounding battle 37-33 and had 12 turnovers while Wurzburg had 15 turnovers. With less than a week to go, the club knows what it can work on. We can always work on defense and make our offense more smooth. We are rebounding well. We are small and our guards are always fighting and doing the dirty work, stressed Devin Gibson. Despite the thin rotation of the Fraport Skyliners, ex teammate Jimmy Mckinney is optimistic about the chances of his ex team this season. Marius Nolte will keep the team focused and in line. They are a good group of young guys experience isnt always most important, but just that they like playing with each other and that showed, warned Jimmy Mckinney. The Fraport Skyliners open the season on the road in Ludwigsburg October 3rd at 17:00.



Giannis Christopoulos To Coach Bayern Munich - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber (T)

The announcement of the removal of Dirk Bauermann (agency: Pro One Sports ) late yesterday afternoon is still the number one topic in German basketball this morning and probably will be for the next days. In the short press release yesterday, it was mentioned that Giannis Christopoulos would take over as head coach. In a press conference at 11am this morning, FC Bayern Munich made it very clear that this was not an interim postion for Giannis Christopoulos , but that he was taking over for Dirk Bauermann (agency: Pro One Sports ) for an extended time. "There was never another option than Giannis Christopoulos . He has the qualities as coach and person to lead the team in this difficult period. We await from him that he has a straight path and support him. He gets a contract until the end of the season", stressed FC Bayern Munich sport director Marko Pesic.

Giannis Christopoulos is a 38 year old Greek coach. He was an assistant coach at Apollon Patras from 1997-2000. In 2000-2001, he was an assistant at Brandt Hagen. In 2003-2004, he was head coach at APOEL Limassol (Cyprus). In 2004-2005, he coached APOEL Nicosia (Cyprus). In 2005-2006, he coached Apollon Patras . In 2006-2007, he coached AEL Larissa . In 2007-2008, he coached AEP Olimpias Patron. In 2008-2009, he coached AS Trikalla 2000. In 2009-2010, he coached Madisons Apoel Nicosia . In 2010-2011, he led Cytavision APOEL. He had been an assistant coach for FC Bayern Munich since 2011. Awards/Achievements in his basketball career have been Cyprus League Semifinals -04, 05, 11, Cyprus Cup Finalist -05, Cyprus League Regular Season Runner-Up -05, 10, EuroChallenge Quarterfinals -10, Cyprus League Champion -10, Cyprus Super Cup Winner -11, and Cyprus League Regular Season Champion -11



Ronnie Burell Can Pratice Again Today - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Injury problems that creep up every so often give teams head aches especially so early before the start of the Beko BBL season, but the EWE Baskets Oldenburg were able to breathe a sigh of relief today about Ronald Burrell (204-F-83, agency: Pro One Sports, college: NC-Greensboro). A few nights ago, the EWE Baskets Oldenburg had a exhibition game against the Artland Dragons and lost 81-68. In this game, the American who is starting his second season with Oldenburg suffered a slight injury to his knee, but wont miss any further action. Head coach Sebastian Machowski announced that Burrell can practice with the team today again.

Source: EWE Baskets Oldenburg




Bodfeld Baskets snap up Estonian playmaker - by Moritz Korff (T)

The Bodfeld Baskets will kick off their first season in the 1. Regionalliga North on Saturday against Bernau with Mart Tralla (177-PG-87) setting up the offense the Elberingerode team. The 25-year-old Estonian point guard has joined the RLN newcomer, the Bodfeld Baskets unveiled today. Tralla played for Tamsalu Los Toros/Simuna IVAX in Estonia's second division last season. He will be the second Estonian on the roster: During the summer the Bodfeld Baskets already had signed Sven Kaldre (197-G/F-91).


Taylor replaces Steward in Herten - by Moritz Korff (T)

Only a couple of days prior to the start of the 2012-13 season Pro B team Hertener Loewen has waived Arthur Steward (193-F-88, college: Montana) and signed Will Taylor (200-F-89) instead.
"Physically Arthur Steward was not able to solve the problems that we have in rebounding. Therefore we decided to sign a true power forward. We feel sorry that we had to release Arthur. He fit in very well as a person, but he could not help us on the court", Coach Dirk Altenbeck stated.
Taylor is a product of NCAA Division One school Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. He averaged 9.8 points and 6.6 rebounds last season.


Coocoon Baskets go international - by Moritz Korff (T)

The Coocoon Baskets Weiden (1. Regionalliga South-East) have strengthened their roster by the addition of Jan Selinger (197-F-85), Jan Suchy (199-F-91) and Justin Hegg (190-G).
Suchy is a 20-year-old forward from the Czech Republic and will join his fellow countrymen Selinger and Michail Rolinek (194-F-80) in the Weiden frontline. He averaged 3.5 points per contest in 40 games played for NBL side BK Plzen last season. Selinger scored 2.1 points a game for the Spanish EBA team Recinor Ferrol CB during the second half of the 2011-12 campaign. He has played in Weiden from 2006 to 2008 and in the first half of this past season.
Hegg played at the collegiate level at Lakeland (NCAA Division 3) and is currently serving a stint at the US military base in Grafenwoehr close to Weiden.


Magdeburg sets roster for 2012-13 season - by Moritz Korff (T)

After appointing Dimitris Polychroniadis as head coach recently the Eagles Magdeburg completed their coaching staff by naming Irvin Canty a coach assistant for the 2012-13 season. The father of Anthony Canty (183-PG-91) and Michael Canty (178-G-89) will also be responsible for the Magdeburg youth program.
Meanwhile, the roster for the up and coming season has been completed. Bulgarian forward Pavel Dimov (190-F-92) will bring in some international flair to the team. Several young German players will get the chance to develop their skills under the watchful eye of Coach Polychroniadis, including Jeramie Woods (195-F-91), Robert Wendt (183-G-95), Dennis Williams (187-G-92), Frederik Kramp (195-F-91) and Dominic Zydorek (193-G/F-92).


Deisenhofen Tropics add Mr. Assist - by Moritz Korff (T)

In the 2009-10 and 2010-11 season D.J. Ferguson (185-G-89, college: Flagler) led the NCAA Division Two in assists per contest (9.4apg, 9.2apg respectively) and will now bring the art of assist to the German Regionalliga, as he joined RLSO team TSV Oberhaching Deisenhofen. Since leaving the Saints following graduation in 2011, Ferguson played in the IBL and in the Eurobasket Summer League, being named Co-MVP at the ESL in Orlando this year.
The Tropics also announced Fabian Kirchhoff (193-G-82) and David Bergfeld as newcomers for the 2012-13 season, while Claus Weiss (192-G-85) returns to the team. He had to sit out this past year due to injury.


Ehingen Steeples bring in Brett Royster - by Moritz Korff (T)

The Ehingen Steeples (2. Bundesliga Pro A) have announced today their final signing for the 2012-13 season. Brett Royster (203-F-89, agency: Interperformances, college: Florida Atlantic) will strengthen the frontcourt of the team. The 23-year-old two time Sun Belt Defensive Player of the Year graduated from Florida Atlantic University (NCAA D1) in 2011 and then started his pro career in England. He appeared in 28 BBL games for the Leicester City Riders last season, averaging 5.4 points, 5.6 rebounds and 1.1 block per contest.


Violets bring in Sullivan Phillips - by Moritz Korff (T)

Sullivan Phillips (198-G/F-79, college: Wash.Adventist) has joined Pro A team BG Goettingen to make up for the loss of Roderick Flemings (203-F/G-87, agency: Interperformances, college: Hawaii).
Phillips is a 33-year-old forward with nine years of experience as a professional basketball player in Europe. He won the Slovakian championship with BC Prievidza last season and was named the Eurobasket.com All-Slovakian League Bosman Player of the Year and also made the Eurobasket.com All-Slovakian League 1st Team. Phillips is a native of the Bermudas and holds a British passport. Throughout his European career he also played in England, Hungary, Czech Republic and Cyprus.


New setbacks for injury plagued RSV Eintracht - by Moritz Korff (T)

Pro B team RSV Eintracht Kleinmachnow/Teltow/Stahnsdorf is hit by a series of injuries these days. The Brandenburg team will start the season on October 3rd against Schwelm without its import player Blair Wheadon (187-G, college: W.Oregon). The Junction City, Oregon, native will be sidelined for at least four weeks with a broken hand. He recently had to undergo surgery.
Young prospect Lennard Boekstegers (199-F-94) might even miss the entire season. The 18-year-old suffered a torn ACL. Colin Craven (182-G-94) sits out due to problems with his knee, while Cameron Neubauer (200-F-94) is being slowed down by infectious mononucleosis.


Kirchheim Knights: Chennoufi missing since Monday - by Moritz Korff (T)

Ziyed Chennoufi (202-F-88), who was supposed to play for the Kirchheim Knights in this up and coming season, is missing since Monday, the Pro A club announced. Reportedly the 23-year-old might have travelled to Tunisia, because his former team Etoil du Sahel Sousse insists that Chennoufi still has a valid contract with the team. The Knights had been unable to receive a letter of clearance for Chennoufi from his former team. According to the Knights' website however, the German-Tunesian forward had stated on Monday that in his opinion the agreement with Etoil du Sahel was null and void because of outstanding salary. As teckbote.de reports, Chennoufi's contract with the Tunesian club therefore had been cancelled.
"This might have been an intricate situation for Ziyed, but to leave without notifying anyone, is totally unacceptable", Kirchheim coach Branislav Ignjatovic said on the Knights' website.


Joey Fuca joins Baskets Vilsbiburg - by Moritz Korff (T)

Joey Fuca is the latest new member of the Baskets Vilsbiburg (1. Regionalliga South-East). The American, who also holds an Italian passport, replaces Ryan Barbeau, who left Vilsbiburg during pre-season due to an injury. Fuca spent a four year career at NAIA school Master's. As a senior he scored 12.3 points per contest and dished out 3.4 assists a game.
"We did not want to sign a pure scorer, but a team player, who has an eye for the open man and who fits in well", Vilsbiburg Coach Holger Prote said.


Konstanz: New name - Louisme returns - by Moritz Korff (T)

The new season brought a new name for the Baskets Konstanz. The Pro B club agreed to a deal with a sponsor and have changed its name to ifm Baskets Konstanz. Following this deal the team announced that Robinson Louisme (201-F/C-84, college: Tulane) will return to Konstanz for a third year. The 27-year-old center was the team's main man on the way to the 2012 RLSW championship. Louisme received Eurobasket.com All-Regionalliga South-West Player of the Year honors and averaged 17.5 points, 9.7 rebounds a game in 2011-12.


Joey Fuca joins Baskets Vilsbiburg - by Moritz Korff (T)

Joey Fuca (182-G-89, college: Master's) is the latest new member of the Baskets Vilsbiburg (1. Regionalliga South-East). The American, who also holds an Italian passport, replaces Ryan Barbeau (178-G), who left Vilsbiburg during pre-season due to an injury. Fuca spent a four year career at NAIA school Master's. As a senior he scored 12.3 points per contest and dished out 3.4 assists a game.
"We did not want to sign a pure scorer, but a team player, who has an eye for the open man and who fits in well", Vilsbiburg Coach Holger Prote said.


Martinis Woody has landed in Langen - by Moritz Korff (T)

Martinis Woody (201-F/C-82, college: Benedict) is the new big man for TV Langen. The 30-year-old has recently joined the 2. Bundesliga Pro B team and knows what to expect in the league. Last season the Greeneville, South Carolina, native was a double-double threat at SSV Lokomotive Bernau, averaging 16.3 points as well as 10.6 boards a contest. Earlier in his career Woody has played for Regionalliga teams Iserlohn and Itzehoe, making the Eurobasket.com All-Regionalliga North Second Team in 2011.


Former Swiss international to Treis-Karden - by Moritz Korff (T)

According to rhein-zeitung.de former Swiss international Xavier Paredes (203-C-83) has joined TuS Treis-Karden (1. Regionalliga South-West). The 26-year-old post player has spent the past nine seasons in Switzerland's top tier league LNA. Last season he saw action in 23 games, averaging seven points and of four rebounds per outing. Paredes was a member of the Swiss Men's National Team from 2003 to 2004 and in 2010.


Jermaine Bucknor moves to Trier - by Moritz Korff (T)

Jermaine Bucknor (199-F-83, college: Richmond) will continue his basketball career at TBB Trier, the BBL team unveiled today. The 28-year-old forward already played for Frankfurt and Wuerzburg in Germany. At TBB he received a try-out contract until the end of october.
Most recently the Richmond graduate had a short stint in the IBL. He had six appearances for his hometown team Edmonton Energy, averaging 11.3 points, 6.3 boards and 2.5 assists per contest. Midway through this past season the former Canadian international joined the s.oliver Baskets Wuerzburg and had an average of 5.4 points in 13 BBL games played.


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  HOLLAND   


PromotieDivisie Scores Round 1: Newcomers start off strong - by Terry Cooper

Week 1 started the league in a big way as new teams in the league made an early impression to show how passionate they are in the PromotieDivisie. UBALL edged Z&Z2 59-56 while Orca's won 76-72 over newcomers MSV/Zeemacht. Punch got the early edge over Rotterdam2 winning 72-65 at home while De Groene Uilen won on the road over Cangeroes 68-62. BC Apollo cruised over the Red Giants 72-46 (most of their team went to Orca's) while Almonte won over runner-up Binnenland 64-51. Finally the Hoppers and new Head Coach Cees Amana won over the Almere Pioneers 75-61 to finish week one in the league. It's a good feeling to see the new teams come out strong but can they keep it up over the season as well as not to get too deep into a slump trying to stay loyal to players that are really not ready for this level. Time will tell so stay tuned... Teams do not forget to submit your rosters to me at solthought@msn.com for Eurobasket.

Round 1 Scores:

UBALL 59-56 Z&Z2
BC APOLLO2 72-46 Red Giants
Martho Flexwerk Orca's 76-62 MSV/Zeemacht
Punch 72-65 Rotterdam2
Cangeroes 62-68 De Groene Uilen
Almonte 64-51 Binnenland
Almere 61-75 De Hoppers


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  ICELAND   


Skallagrimur sign Carlos Medlock - by Siggi Hjorleifsson

Skallagrimur has sign their second import for upcoming season in Dominos League
Carlos Medlock (183-G-87, college: E.Michigan) 6'0" guard who played College ball at Eastern Michigan and graduated 2010 average 16,9 points, 3,5 rebounds and 3,8 assist.
After College played 3 games for Utah Flash in D-League 4,3 points & 1,3 rebounds
Last season Medlock played for Guildford Heat in BBL England, average 14,7 points, 3,8 rebounds & 4,6 assist


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  IRAN   


Anthony Grundy agreed terms with Mahram to play in Asia Cup - by Greg (T)

Mahram Tehran (Superleague) strengthened their roster for the Asia Cup in Lebanon with addition of 33-year old American guard Anthony Grundy (189-79, college: North Carolina State, agency: Strategic Sports). Grundy played most recently at Mersin in Turkish TBL league. In 29 TBL games he recorded very impressive stats: 16.9ppg, 3.4rpg, 3.7apg and 1.7spg last season.
He is a very experienced player. Grundy has played also professionally in Germany, Greece (AEK Athens and Panellinios), Israel, Italy (Naturhouse Ferrara and BancaTercas), Philippines (Petron Blaze), Sweden, Venezuela (Marinos and Bucaneros), NBA (Atlanta Hawks) and D-League (Roanoke Dazzle).
He graduated from North Carolina State in 2002 and it will be his eleventh (!!!) season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center


Mahram signs Ratko Varda for Asia Cup in Lebanon - by Eurobasket News (T)

Mahram Tehran (Superleague) signed 33-year old Bosnian/Serbian power forward Ratko Varda (216-120kg-79, agency: Beo Basket). Varda played last season at Azovmash in Ukrainian Superleague. In 10 Eurocup games he had 9.0ppg and 2.7rpg. He also played 15 games in Superleague where he recorded 6.8ppg and 3.1rpg. Varda also played at Union Olimpija in Slovenian league earlier that season. In 17 Euroleague games he recorded 10.8ppg and 2.9rpg. He represented Bosnia at the Qualifications to European Championships 2011 two years ago. His stats at that event were 8 games: 13.5ppg, 5.3rpg, FGP: 53.4%, 3PT: 7.7%, FT: 65.9%.
Varda is quite experienced player. He has played also professionally in Lithuania (Zalgiris), Poland (Asseco Prokom), Russia (Khimky), Spain (Real Madrid and Menorca Basquet), Turkey (Besiktas).

By Eurobasket Data Center


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  IRELAND   


New Season,s Opening Games / Player Changes. - by Patrick Maher


NIVEA FOR MENS SUPERLEAGUE RETURNS


The 2012-13 National League season gets underway this weekend
when Nivea For Mens SuperLeague newcomers, Dublin Inter, open their campaign against last seasons beaten finalists DCU Saints at the National Basketball Arena.
Some of the other highlights include reigning champions UL Eagles trip to Cork to take on Bord Gais Neptune, while Killester and Moycullen face tough tests against UCD Marian and UCC Demons respectively.
This season the Nivea For Mens SuperLeague welcomes a new team, Dublin Inter, formerly Ballon Basketball Club. Dublin Inter will boost a variety of international players as their squad hails from countries such as Estonia, Poland, Lithuania and Latvia.
Speaking about their promotion into the Nivea For Mens SuperLeague and the opportunity to compete with the countrys finest teams, Head Coach, Audrius Jonusas said, It is a dream to have Dublin Inter entering into the highest level of competition in Ireland and playing at the top level. Both our players and coaching staff are excited for our first game this weekend. Our aim this season is to at least finish in the top four. We do not want other teams to see us as an easy target this year as we will be seen as the newcomers so we will search for a win this weekend to prove that.
DCU Saints Head Coach, Dave Donnelly is also very excited to get the season started after a mixed pre-season journey. Over the course of the last few weeks our pre-season has been slightly varied, we picked up one or two injuries and lost Kevin Lacey. We will also only have Martins Provizors for some part of the season due to injury. We are however delighted to see Mark Nagle return from his injury and to see Keith Anderson, who we thought was staying in Australia, come back for the season! Having the guys back is a great boost for the squad. DCU Saints will add more experience to their side this year as Joey McGuirk comes back up to play SuperLeague.
Donnelly continued to enthuse, We are all really looking forward to playing Dublin Inter this weekend. We know they get a great crowd in. Im confident our bench can run 9/10 players deep so we are hoping to be a competitive force once again this year.
Reigning League and Cup Champions, UL Eagles look set to start their season strong after they edged out the EFBL Lithuanian XL All Star team in an international friendly game last Sunday. They will travel to Cork this weekend to take on Bord Gais Neptune.
Coach Mark Keenan will return to the Limerick side after an extremely successful opening season with the Eagles. There is a great positive attitude here in UL coming off our win in the Arena last weekend to the Lithuanian All Star team. It was an intense game which put us in the right frame of mind for this weekends season opening game. said Keenan. He continued, However, you can never rule out Neptune at home, we both will want to start the season with a win and as we enter the game as double champions from last years success Im sure we are the team to beat.
Killester will welcome Dublin rivals UCD Marian to Greendale. Not only will the game host a Dublin derby but it will also see UCD Marians new head coach, Sasa Punosevac return to face a team he once coached to success.
Sasa is already well known in Irish basketball circles having coached Super League teams in Killester, Limerick and Neptune and at many basketball camps throughout the country. Most recently he has worked with Al Hala in Bahrain, he guided the team to Bahrain SuperCup Final and also celebrated the Premier League title with the team. Sasa has also worked with the Reading Rockets and was at helm of Irish Women's National Team in 2007.
Speaking about his new appointment, Sasa stated. I look forward to building on the progress of the past few years in UCD Marian by further developing each of the players. UCD have some of the best young players in the country and I am excited to work with them this season.

Moycullen will face UCC Demons in their first game of the season as the Galway side welcomes their new signing, Patrick Sullivan (22), from New Jersey.
The 6-foot, 7-inch forward was ranked third in the NESCAC in scoring with 17.4 points per game last season. Sullivan was also the 2010-11 Liberty League offensive player of the year and he finished his college career ranked ninth on the program's all-time scoring list with 1,439 points.

Basketball Ireland SuperLeague National Cup Draw 2012/13


Nivea For Mens SuperLeague Cup Quarter Final - 8th/9th Dec


UL Eagles v Killester
Moycullen v UCD Marian
DCU Saints v UCC Demons
Bord Gais Neptune v Dublin Inter
Courtesy .... BasketballIreland.

With 8 teams competing in this years Superleague possibly the biggest news is that earlier plans to have teams have 2 import players per team (http://www.irishexaminer.com/archives/2012/0602/sport/plans-afoot-for-return-of-two-americans-on-court-196111.html) as opposed to 1 of last season do not appear to have materialised.This weekends opening round of games will too see the introduction of a new team Ballon who I expect given their recent pre season performances have a 50/50 chance to defeat last seasons second placed team Dcu Saints (playing at the National Arena Ballon will effectively be at home there for the season,s campaign).Moycullen are at home to Demons who have recruited Delwan Graham on whom the team will have traditional high expectations of at both ends of the floor.Moycullen have replaced Luke Enos with Patrick Sullvan out of Hamilton College and will go also with player /coach Salva Camps.Demons will not have the services of top point guard Kyle hosford of last season though should still have enough strength and depth from last season to defeat Moycullen.Killester have signed Puff Summers to partner Jermaine Turner with Neptune signing Darren Townes (Hosfra) who played last season in Portugal with Galitos F.C.

The Division 1 Competitition tips off this weekend with the following fixtures :
Donegal town V Dublin Thunder
Fr Matthews V Maree
Team Left Bank Kilkenny V Blue Demons
Templeogue v Ulster Elks
Team Garvey,s St Marys V Titans.

Brian Clernon will coach Garvey,s this season who continue to play out of the Castleisland Community Centre with Kieran O Doherty pulling the strings at Fr Matthews.who have signed Spanish guard Ruben Patino formerly of Compania de Maria. Fr Matthews are new this season to National Competition and with a solid core of youth teams competing successfully the past few years at Cork County Basketball board,s competitions and national youth competitions can expect to make steady progress this season.

Jermaine Turner (195-F-74, college: Dowling)


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  ISRAEL   


Kenyon Martin turns down offer by Maccabi Electra, agent says - by Eurobasket News

Kenyon Martin (206-F-77, college: Cincinnati) wants to play in the NBA next season. According to his agent Andy Miller (via Yahoo! Sports), the player would accept minimum NBA deal only in a comfortable team role. Miller also said that Martin turned down offer by Maccabi Electra Tel-Aviv.
Kenyon Martin finished last season with Los Angeles Clippers. He joined them in February averaging 5 points and 4.1 rebounds for 53 NBA games. The player started 2011/12 in China. He appeared 12 times with Xinjiang Gyang Hui Flying Tigers registering 13.9 ppg and 9.7 rpg in CBA. Martin signed in China because of the NBA lockout. From 2004 until the last summer Kenyon Martin played for the Denver Nuggets. Before that, he spent four years with the New Jersey Nets. Martin graduated at the University of Cincinnati in 2000.


Maccabi Electra reportedly signs Malcolm Thomas - by Eurobasket News (T)

Malcolm Thomas (206-C-88, college: San Diego St.) will continue his career in Israeli. The American power forward penned a multi-year deal with Maccabi Electra Tel-Aviv, source told Eurobasket's David Pick. The player had 14.9 ppg, 10.1 rpg and 1.8 bpg for 26 games with the NBA D-League team Los Angeles D-Fenders. He was named USBasket.com All-D-League Forward of the Year -12 and Gatorade D-League All-Defensive 1st Team -12. He also appeared three times with San Antonio Spurs in the NBA (0.3 ppg, 1 rpg). Malcolm Thomas started the season with South Korean team Mobis Phoebus. There he shined with 20.8 ppg, 10.6 rpg and 3.1 apg and 2.8 bpg for 17 games. Thomas graduated at San Diego University something more than a year ago. He had 11.4 ppg, 8.1 rpg, 2.3 apg and 2 bpg for his school in 37 games as a senior. San Diego was MWC Tournament winner and reached NCAA Sweet 16. Thomas was named to All-MWC 2nd Team -11.


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  ITALY   


Consum.IT Siena adds Martignago to their roster - by Eurobasket News (T)

Consum.IT Siena (Nazionale A) added to their roster 19-year old center Luca Martignago (204-93). Martignago played most recently at the junior team of SAIE3 Bologna (SerieA).
Martignago was a member of Italian U18 National Team two years ago.
By Eurobasket Data Center (via @DailyBasket_It)


Trieste and Sigma Barcellona account for wins in first leg of LegaDue Cup - by Eurobasket News

Trieste celebrated a confident road win over Verona 74:62 in the first leg of LegaDue Cup Eighth-Finals first leg. Brandon Brown (202-C/F-81, college: Tulane) stepped up with 19 points to lead Trieste. Verona were up by 9 points after the opening quarter. But Trieste denied the deficit and surged ahead for a 52:40 lead at the final break. They maintained the advantage throughout the fourth quarter and sealed the victory at the end. Michele Ruzzier (180-PG-93) netted 12 points, while Ariel Filloy (189-PG-87, agency: Interperformances) added 11 points for the winners. Richard McConnell (182-G-89, agency: Priority Sports, college: St.Mary's, CA) answered with 13 points, while Mario Jose Ghersetti (201-F-81) had 12 points and 9 rebounds for Verona.
Sigma Barcellona toppled Capo dOrlando 96:92 away from home. Troy Bell (186-PG-80, college: Boston Coll.) delivered 21 points to pace the charge. Taurean Green (185-G-85, college: Florida) added 20 points for Barcellona. Capo d'Orlando enjoyed a 57:47 halftime lead but Sigma Barcellona turned things upside down in the second half. They shot down the hosts and eked out a narrow win at the end. Melvin Sanders (196-F/G-81, college: Oklahoma St.) provided 15 points in the victory. Alex Young (198-G/F-89, college: IUPUI) replied with 31 points for Capo d'Orlando. Talor Battle (183-G-88, college: Penn St.) netted 25 points in the loss.


Massimo Bulleri leaves Scafati - by Eurobasket News (T)

Massimo Bulleri (188-PG-77) is no longer a member of Scafati. Two sides terminated their deal today. Bulleri signed a contract earlier this summer. Last two seasons he spent with Benetton Treviso. In the latest one the player averaged 10.9 points, 2.1 rebounds and 2.1 assists for 8 EuroCup games. He also added 6.7 ppg and 2.3 rpg fro 28 games in SerieA. Before Benetton, Massimo Bulleri spent one year with Armani Jeans Milano. He split 2008/09 between Milano and Benetton. From 2005 to 2007 he played for Milano as well. In the past, Massimo Bulleri also played more than 8 years for Benetton. He played for Italian National Team from 2001 to 2008. Last time he played for Italy in EuroBasket 2009 Qualifications.


Forli gets young prospect Amedeo Tessitori on loan - by Eurobasket News (T)

Amedeo Tessitori (204-PF-94) will play next season in Forli. The player is sent to 1-year loan by Dinamo Sassari. He signed long-term deal with Sassari 10 days ago. The player spent last few seasons with Consum.IT Siena. In the latest one Tessitori shined with 14.1 ppg and 7.5 rpg for 35 games in Nazionale A. Amedeo Tessitori played for Italian U18 National Team this summer. He exploded with 15.3 ppg, 5.4 rpg and 2.3 bpg for 9 games at U18 EuroBasket in Lithuania. The player was named to Eurobasket.com All-European Championships U18 2nd Team -12. Tessitori also played for U20 Italy this summer at U20 EuroBasket in Slovenia. There he had 9.5 ppg and 4.5 rpg for 6 games. We reported earlier that Forli is very interested to get young player on loan and they managed to agree deal with Tessitori and Dinamo Sassari.


Cantu downs Le Mans, heads to Euroleague regular season - by Eurobasket News

Mapooro Cantu - Le Mans 80-66
Mapooro Cantu is back in the Turkish Airlines Euroleague after dominating Le Mans Sarthe Basket 80-66 for 40 minutes to win the Qualifying Rounds tourney in Desio, Italy. Maarten Leunen (206-F-85, college: Oregon) scored 7 in a 15-0 run that bridged the third and fourth quarters to put Le Mans away early. The hosts took charge early and led by double figures in the first quarter. It was 44-38 at halftime. Le Mans rallied to within 8 in the third, however Cantu went on its run right after that and never looked back. Cantu was aided greatly by its sixth men, the local fans known as The Eagles, who packed PalaDesio and kept the arena rocking throughout the game. Le Mans suffered from a poor shooting night in which the team did not make its first three-pointer until the fourth quarter. Le Mans finished the evening 1 of 12 from behind the arc (8.3%) and 17 for 29 from the free throw line (58.6%). Cantu, on the other hand, played great team offense with twice as many assists as Le Mans (16-8). Leunen paced the Cantu attack with 15 points with just 1 missed shot. Pietro Aradori (195-SG-88) added 12 points and 4 assists, Marco Cusin (210-C-85, agency: Interperformances) scored 11 and Manuchar Markoishvili (196-SF-86) 10. Joao Paulo Batista (207-F/C-81, college: Gonzaga) led Le Mans with 15 points and Cuthbert Victor (197-F-83, college: Murray St.) scored 12. Cantu will be back at PalaDesio in just under two weeks to host Union Olimpija Ljubljana in the opening week of the Turkish Airlines Euroleague Regular Season. Cantu will battle it out with Panathinaikos Athens, Real Madrid, Fenerbahce Ulker Istanbul and BC Khimki Moscow Region to try to reach the Top 16 for the second season in a row. Le Mans will continue its European campaign in the Eurocup. *Courtesy of Euroleague


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  KOSOVO   


Back to Bashkimi on loan - by Dren Shporta

Artin Gashi (202-F-93), the talented player who was transferred to Peja during the summer from Bashkimi, is back to his old club. After a lot of players transferred in yellow team Peja this season, their coach Rudolf Jugo decided that the best for Artin is going to somewhere where he could have chance to spend more time in the court.

And it was his old team interested, so Artin Gashi (202-F-93), will again this season wear Bashkimi's shirt.

Bashkimi will play the opening match of the season against Vellaznimi from Gjakova on Saturday starting at 19:00 in Sezai Surroi court.


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  LATVIA   


BBL Cup: Liepajas Lauvas edge Siauliai to enter Final - by Eurobasket News

Liepajas Lauvas - Siauliai 83:76

Liepajas Lauvas entered BBL Cup Final. They knocked down Siauliai in Rakvere to set up the clash versus hosting Tarvas in the title game tomorrow. Ivars Timermanis (203-F-82, agency: Alti Sport) scored 21 points and grabbed 6 rebounds to lead the winners.
Siauliai jumped to an early 8:3 lead but Liepajas Lauvas quickly erased the deficit. The Latvian team surged ahead to accumulate a 24:10 lead late in the opening quarter. They entered the second frame up by 11 points 24:13. Liepajas Lauvas maintained the lead throughout the second frame. They enjoyed a 38:32 halftime advantage. The margin grew at double digits in the third period. Liepaja headed into the fourth period up by 12 points 57:45. Siauliai got within four points midway through the final frame but Liepajas Lauvas wisely stayed in charge and rolled to a well-deserved victory. Ernestas Ezerskis (192-PG-87) provided 14 points, while Kristaps Miglinieks (199-G-90) added 12 points for the winners. Vitali Liutych (197-SG-92) answered with 19 points for Siauliai. Aurimas Kieza (202-PF-82, college: Hofstra) had 14 points and 11 rebounds in the loss.

Liepajas Lauvas: Ivars Timermanis 21, Ernestas Ezerskis 14, Kristaps Miglinieks 12
Siauliai: Vitali Liutych 19, Aurimas Kieza 14+11 boards


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  LITHUANIA   


BBL Cup: Liepajas Lauvas edge Siauliai to enter Final - by Eurobasket News

Liepajas Lauvas - Siauliai 83:76

Liepajas Lauvas entered BBL Cup Final. They knocked down Siauliai in Rakvere to set up the clash versus hosting Tarvas in the title game tomorrow. Ivars Timermanis (203-F-82, agency: Alti Sport) scored 21 points and grabbed 6 rebounds to lead the winners.
Siauliai jumped to an early 8:3 lead but Liepajas Lauvas quickly erased the deficit. The Latvian team surged ahead to accumulate a 24:10 lead late in the opening quarter. They entered the second frame up by 11 points 24:13. Liepajas Lauvas maintained the lead throughout the second frame. They enjoyed a 38:32 halftime advantage. The margin grew at double digits in the third period. Liepaja headed into the fourth period up by 12 points 57:45. Siauliai got within four points midway through the final frame but Liepajas Lauvas wisely stayed in charge and rolled to a well-deserved victory. Ernestas Ezerskis (192-PG-87) provided 14 points, while Kristaps Miglinieks (199-G-90) added 12 points for the winners. Vitali Liutych (197-SG-92) answered with 19 points for Siauliai. Aurimas Kieza (202-PF-82, college: Hofstra) had 14 points and 11 rebounds in the loss.

Liepajas Lauvas: Ivars Timermanis 21, Ernestas Ezerskis 14, Kristaps Miglinieks 12
Siauliai: Vitali Liutych 19, Aurimas Kieza 14+11 boards


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  LUXEMBOURG   


Tomislav Drazovic is a newcomer at BC Mess - by Eurobasket News (T)

BC Mess (N2) strengthened their roster with addition of 25-year old Croatian guard Tomislav Drazovic (189-87). Drazovic played last season at Borik in Croatian A1 league. In 21 A1 games he recorded 4.9ppg, 1.2rpg and 1.1spg. He also played at Policnik in Croatian A2 earlier that season.
Drazovic was a member of Croatian U18 National Team back in 2005.

By Eurobasket Data Center


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  MEXICO   


Enrico Tucker joins Lan Mobel Iraurgi Saski Baloia - by Eurobasket News (T)

Lan Mobel Iraurgi Saski Baloia (LEB Silver) agreed terms with 26-year old Mexican point guard Enrico Tucker (183-86, college: San Diego). Tucker has played for the last two seasons at Miercurea Ciuc in Romanian Division A. In 27 Division A games last year he had very impressive stats: 16.0ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.4apg and 2.1spg.
His team made it to Big Ten Tournament Semifinals in 2005.
He attended University of San Diego until 2009 and it will be his fourth season as a professional player.
Enrico Tucker replaces David Nurse.

By Eurobasket Data Center


LNBP Round 8: Toros beat Correcaminos in the most crucial game of the week - by Eurobasket News

It's still too early stage of the Regular Season in LNBP, but even now we can clearly see the differece between stronger teams and outsiders.

An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Ciudad Victoria. First ranked Toros faced 3rd ranked Correcaminos. Guests from Nuevo Laredo (7-1) defeated host Correcaminos (5-3) 78-62. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Correcaminos. The game was mostly controlled by Toros. Correcaminos managed to win third quarter 18-10. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded Correcaminos 45-33 including 39 on the defensive glass. The best player for the winners was naturalized American forward Quentin Gonzalez (200-84, college: McNeese St.) who had a double-double by scoring 13 points and 11 rebounds. American swingman Rene Rougeau (198-86, college: UNLV, agency: ProSportsCareers) chipped in 12 points and 11 rebounds. Toros' coach Jose Martinez used an eleven-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. American forward Rodney Alexander (201-87, college: Oklahoma City) produced 24 points and 6 rebounds for the hosts. Toros have a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 7-1 record, which they share with Halc.Xalapa. Correcaminos at the other side dropped to the sixth place with three games lost. They share the position with Abejas and Pioneros. Toros will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Correcaminos will play at home against Fuerza Regia (#11) in Monterrey and are hoping to prove to their fans that the loss was just an accident.
Second ranked Halcones UV Xalapa blasted bottom-ranked Gansos (0-8) in Xalapa 126-70. Gansos is still unable to win any game. International guard Orlando Mendez-Valdez (185-86, college: W.Kentucky) orchestrated the victory by scoring 25 points and 6 rebounds (on 10-of-12 shooting from the field). Gregory Vargas contributed with 14 points and 7 assists for the winners. Ivan Silva replied with 12 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists for Gansos. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Halcones UV Xalapa (7-1) keeps a position of league leader, which they share with Toros. Newly promoted Gansos still closes the standings with eight games lost. They share the position with Gigantes. Halcones UV Xalapa will play against Guerreros (#13) in the next round which should be another easy win for them. Gansos will play against Halcones Rojos in Veracruz and hope to get finally their first victory.
Bottom-ranked Gigantes (0-8) tried to put together a comeback for its first victory of the season, but they fell short in the 96-89 loss to sixth ranked Panteras (6-2) in Aguascalientes on Thursday evening. Worth to mention a great performance of Antonio Garcia who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 22 points, 18 rebounds and 8 assists. Panteras' coach Juan Cardona used entire bench and allowed the starting five to rest. Adam Morris responded with 23 points and 8 assists. Panteras moved-up to third place, which they share with Halc.Rojos. Newly promoted Gigantes still closes the standings with eight games lost. They share the position with Gansos. Panteras will meet at home Osos (#14) in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Gigantes will play against Barreteros in Zacatecas and look forward to get finally their first victory.
We should mention about the upset which took place in Guanajuato, where higher ranked Abejas (5-3) lost at home to tenth ranked Soles (4-4) 81-89. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Abejas. The winners were led by Kentrell Gransberry who had that evening a double-double by scoring 17 points and 15 rebounds. Abejas' coach Daniel Jaule rotated twelve players in this game, but that didn't help. Soles have a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to ninth place, which they share with Barreteros. Abejas at the other side dropped to the sixth position with three games lost. Soles' next round opponent will be Lechugueros (#12) in Leon.

Rest of the games of round 8 were quite predictable and ended without any surprises. Here they are:
Guerreros were defeated by Halc.Rojos in Veracruz 92-86. Lechugueros were beaten by Pioneros at home 63-80. Osos lost to Barreteros on the opponent's court 81-99.

Halc.Rojos - Guerreros 92-86

There was no surprise in Veracruz where 13th ranked Guerreros (2-6) were defeated by fifth ranked Halcones Rojos (6-2) 92-86. However just six-point win is not that big difference and the fans of host team counted on more convincing victory. Guerreros were ahead by 7 points at the halftime before a 52-39 second half run of Halcones Rojos. They outrebounded Guerreros 37-24 including 24 on the defensive glass. The winners were led by Puerto Rican point guard Carlos Rivera (187-83, college: Hofstra, agency: Paris Global Sports) who scored that evening 15 points and 4 assists (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field) and Venezuelan power forward Luis Bethelmy (200-86) supported him with 13 points. Five Halcones Rojos players scored in double figures. Halcones Rojos' coach Eddie Casiano let to play all 12 players and allowed the starting five to get some rest. Even 27 points (on 10-of-12 shooting from the field) by American forward Travis Gabbidon (201, college: UTSA) did not help to save the game for Guerreros. His fellow American import point guard Michael Hunter (178, college: Cal-Irvine) added 19 points and 5 assists for the guests. Halcones Rojos moved-up to third place, which they share with Panteras. Newly promoted Guerreros keep the thirteenth position with six games lost. Halcones Rojos' next round opponent will be Gansos (#15) which should be an easy win for them. Guerreros will play against the league's second-placed Halcones UV Xalapa.
Top scorers:
Halc.Rojos: C.Rivera 15+2reb+4ast, L.Bethelmy 13+4reb, L.Davis 11+2reb, M.Mitchell 11+5ast, J.Aubry 10+6reb, N.Alonzo 10+7reb
Guerreros: T.Gabbidon 27+4reb+3ast, A.Alamo 22+4reb+2ast, M.Hunter 19+4reb+5ast, W.LEE 12+8reb+2ast, J.Calvo 3, F.Calixto 2
gschID: 188484


Halc.Xalapa - Gansos 126-70

Second ranked Halcones UV Xalapa blasted bottom-ranked Gansos (0-8) in Xalapa 126-70. Gansos is still unable to win any game. The game without a history. Halcones UV Xalapa led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 56 of its points in the paint compared to Gansos' 34 and made 19-of-25 charity shots (76.0 percent) during the game. Halcones UV Xalapa players were unselfish on offense dishing 29 assists. Gansos were plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. International guard Orlando Mendez-Valdez (185-86, college: W.Kentucky) orchestrated the victory by scoring 25 points and 6 rebounds (on 10-of-12 shooting from the field). Venezuelan point guard Gregory Vargas (180-86) contributed with 14 points and 7 assists for the winners. Ivan Silva replied with 12 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists and Jorge Perez (-85) added 16 points in the effort for Gansos. Five Halcones UV Xalapa and four Gansos players scored in double figures. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Halcones UV Xalapa (7-1) keeps a position of league leader, which they share with Toros. Newly promoted Gansos still closes the standings with eight games lost. They share the position with Gigantes. Halcones UV Xalapa will play against Guerreros (#13) in the next round which should be another easy win for them. Gansos will play against Halcones Rojos in Veracruz and hope to get finally their first victory.
Top scorers:
Halc.Xalapa: O.Mendez-Valdez 25+6reb+3ast, S.Monroe 16+3reb+5ast, F.Harris 15+3reb+5ast, G.Vargas 14+3reb+7ast, A.Parada 13+5reb+3ast, O.Leon 11+2reb+3ast
Gansos: J.Perez 16+3reb+1ast, I.Silva 12+6reb+4ast, C.Duran 12+3reb+5ast, D.Pineda 12+7reb, I.BRACHO 5, G.Edson 4+3reb+2ast
gschID: 188485


Lechugueros - Pioneros 63-80

No shocking result in a game in Leon where eighth ranked Pioneros (5-3) defeated 11th ranked Lechugueros (3-5) 80-63. Lechugueros were ahead by 1 point at the halftime before a 43-25 second half run of Pioneros. They outrebounded Lechugueros 33-21 including 23 on the defensive glass. They shot the lights out from three nailing 13 long-distance shots on high 52.0 percentage. The winners were led by American forward Jeremis Smith (203-86, college: Georgia Tech) who scored that evening 8 points and 12 rebounds and Jamaican-American point guard Akeem Scott (186-83, college: High Point) supported him with 9 points and 8 assists. Scott is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top summer league for players who want to play basketball overseas. Pioneros' coach Josep Claros allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Even a double-double of 13 points and 11 rebounds by Senegalese center Babacar Camara (211-81, college: CS Fullerton) did not help to save the game for Lechugueros. American forward Jermaine Walker (198-77, college: Miami, FL) added 15 points for the hosts. Pioneros moved-up to sixth place, which they share with Abejas and Corr.Victoria. Lechugueros at the other side dropped to the twelfth position with five games lost. Pioneros' next round opponent will be Abejas (#7) in Guanajuato. Lechugueros will play at home against Soles (#9) in Mexicali.
Top scorers:
Pioneros: J.Harris 15+2ast, F.Fisher 14+1reb+1ast, H.Llamas 9+8reb+1ast, A.Scott 9+2reb+8ast, J.Smith 8+12reb+1ast, S.Soriano 7+2reb+1ast
Lechugueros: J.Walker 15+2reb+3ast, B.Camara 13+11reb+1ast, E.Cuen 12+6reb, A.Sanchez 8+1ast, R.Johns 7+1reb+4ast, E.Martin 4
gschID: 188482


Abejas - Soles 81-89

We should mention about the upset which took place in Guanajuato, where higher ranked Abejas (5-3) lost at home to tenth ranked Soles (4-4) 81-89. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Abejas. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Abejas won third quarter 25-20. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Soles dominated down low during the game scoring 70 of its points in the paint compared to Abejas' 50. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 22 assists. The winners were led by American center Kentrell Gransberry (206-85, college: S.Florida) who had that evening a double-double by scoring 17 points and 15 rebounds and the other American import guard Carl Elliott (193-83, college: G.Washington, agency: SportsTalent) supported him with 20 points and 10 assists. Even 25 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists by American forward Eugene Phelps (198, college: Long Beach St.) did not help to save the game for Abejas. American-Jamaican forward McHugh Mattis (198-84, college: S.Florida) added 18 points and 8 rebounds for the hosts. Five Soles and four Abejas players scored in double figures. Abejas' coach Daniel Jaule rotated twelve players in this game, but that didn't help. Soles have a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to ninth place, which they share with Barreteros. Abejas at the other side dropped to the sixth position with three games lost. Soles' next round opponent will be Lechugueros (#12) in Leon.
Top scorers:
Soles: C.Elliott 20+4reb+10ast, R.Martinez 18+6reb+2ast, K.Gransberry 17+15reb+3ast, A.Franklin 15+1reb+4ast, J.Griffin 10+2ast, J.Flores 7+2reb+1ast
Abejas: E.Phelps 25+9reb+4ast, M.Mattis 18+8reb+3ast, V.Buelna 10+3reb+4ast, S.Pettigrew 10+3reb+2ast, R.Andrade 9+2reb, L.Ramirez 5+2reb+1ast
gschID: 188483


Panteras - Gigantes 96-89

Bottom-ranked Gigantes (0-8) tried to put together a comeback for its first victory of the season, but they fell short in the 96-89 loss to sixth ranked Panteras (6-2) in Aguascalientes on Thursday evening. The hosts trailed by 2 points after three quarters before their 33-24 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Panteras outrebounded Gigantes 42-27 including 20 on the offensive glass. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. Worth to mention a great performance of Panamanian power forward Antonio Garcia (203-76, college: Ky Wesleyan) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 22 points, 18 rebounds and 8 assists (on 10-of-12 shooting from the field) and Puerto Rican point guard Ricardo Melendez (179-83) who added 38 points (!!!) during the contest. Panteras' coach Juan Cardona used entire bench and allowed the starting five to rest. American guard Adam Morris (185, college: Tex.A&M-Kingsv.) responded with 23 points and 8 assists and his fellow American import guard Sam Liggins (178, college: Alders.-Broad.) scored 28 points. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Panteras moved-up to third place, which they share with Halc.Rojos. Newly promoted Gigantes still closes the standings with eight games lost. They share the position with Gansos. Panteras will meet at home Osos (#14) in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Gigantes will play against Barreteros in Zacatecas and look forward to get finally their first victory.
Top scorers:
Panteras: R.Melendez 38+2reb+3ast, A.Garcia 22+18reb+8ast, L.Nailon 21+4reb+4ast, K.Malpica 12+6reb+4ast, L.Miguel Rangel 2+2reb+1ast, J.Alfredo Casillas 1+3reb+1ast
Gigantes: S.Liggins 28+1reb+2ast, A.Morris 23+3reb+8ast, J.Gardiner 13+11reb+3ast, M.Briggs 12+8reb, Z.Alvidrez 8+1reb+1ast, J.Inzunza 5
gschID: 188480


Barreteros - Osos 99-81

Rather expected game in Zacatecas where 14th ranked Osos (1-7) were defeated by twelfth ranked Barreteros (4-4) 99-81. The game was mostly controlled by Barreteros. Osos was better in fourth quarter 21-17. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Barreteros players were unselfish on offense dishing 33 assists comparing to just 12 passes made by Osos' players. The game was dominated by American players. The winners were led by guard Jason Horton (188-86, college: Missouri) who had that evening a double-double by scoring 28 points and 14 assists and forward Jerome Habel (208-85, college: San Diego St.) supported him with 23 points and 5 rebounds (on 10-of-13 shooting from the field). Worth to mention Horton played also at Eurobasket Summer League, which helped get the job in pro basketball. Even 19 points and 7 rebounds by forward Keith Gayden (202-83, college: Duquesne) did not help to save the game for Osos. Swingman Samuel Bowie (198-75, college: SE Louisiana) added 19 points and 5 assists for the guests. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players and allowed the starting five to get some rest. Barreteros moved-up to ninth place, which they share with Soles. Osos lost seventh consecutive game. Newly promoted team keep the fourteenth position with seven games lost. Barreteros' next round opponent will be bottom-ranked Gigantes (#16) and are hoping to win another game. Osos will play against Panteras in Aguascalientes.
Top scorers:
Barreteros: J.Horton 28+1reb+14ast, J.Habel 23+5reb+1ast, L.SUMPTER 21+1reb+6ast, R.Loera Almanza 11+2reb+4ast, A.Chacon 10+5reb+2ast, S.Escobar 4+2reb+3ast
Osos: S.Bowie 19+2reb+5ast, K.Gayden 19+7reb+1ast, M.Helton 12+4reb+2ast, M.Bryant 12+5reb+2ast, L.Morinia 8+2reb+1ast, G.Moron 5+4reb
gschID: 188481


Corr.Victoria - Toros 62-78

An exciting game between Top Four teams was played in Ciudad Victoria. First ranked Toros faced 3rd ranked Correcaminos. Guests from Nuevo Laredo (7-1) defeated host Correcaminos (5-3) 78-62. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Correcaminos. The game was mostly controlled by Toros. Correcaminos managed to win third quarter 18-10. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded Correcaminos 45-33 including 39 on the defensive glass. The best player for the winners was naturalized American forward Quentin Gonzalez (200-84, college: McNeese St.) who had a double-double by scoring 13 points and 11 rebounds. American swingman Rene Rougeau (198-86, college: UNLV, agency: ProSportsCareers) chipped in a double-double by scoring 12 points and 11 rebounds. Four Toros players scored in double figures. Toros' coach Jose Martinez used an eleven-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. American forward Rodney Alexander (201-87, college: Oklahoma City) produced 24 points and 6 rebounds and his fellow American import power forward DeAngelo Riley (206-88, college: Azusa Pacific) added 15 points and 7 rebounds respectively for the hosts. Toros have a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 7-1 record, which they share with Halc.Xalapa. Correcaminos at the other side dropped to the sixth place with three games lost. They share the position with Abejas and Pioneros. Toros will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Correcaminos will play at home against Fuerza Regia (#11) in Monterrey and are hoping to prove to their fans that the loss was just an accident.
Top scorers:
Toros: A.Henning 14+3reb, Q.Gonzalez 13+11reb, R.Rougeau 12+11reb, I.Ofoegbu 11+2reb, L.Ellis Vasquez 9+3reb+1ast, M.Darren 8+2reb+1ast
Corr.Victoria: R.Alexander 24+6reb, D.Riley 15+7reb, J.Sanchez 11+2reb, J.Sanchez 5+5reb+1ast, O.McCullough 4+11reb, E.Hare 3+1reb
gschID: 188479



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


White Eagles Stockholm hire Milan Rondovic as Assistant Coach - by Eurobasket News (T)

Milan Rondovic will continue his coaching career in Sweden. The Montenegrin specialist is hired by Basketligan newcomers White Eagles Stockholm. He will serve as Assistant Coach. Rondovic worked last two years with Teodo Tivat as Head Coach. In the past, he coached Ulcinj, Primorka Bar and Rudar Pljevlja.
White Eagles Stockholm were Basketettan champions last season. They were undefeated. Few days ago White Eagles announced two very important signings. They landed Omar Krayem (185-G-86, agency: Three Eye Sports, college: Cal.Baptist) and Rudy Mbemba (184-G-87) for the upcoming season. Mbemba appeared 29 times for LF Basket last season averaging 14.6 points, 6.3 assists, 3.6 rebounds and 2.2 steals. Krayem was named Eurobasket.com All-Swedish Basketligan Guard of the Year -12. He played for Boras Basket registering 18.6 ppg, 6.1 apg, 4.4 rpg and 2 spg in 45 games.


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


Kenyon Martin turns down offer by Maccabi Electra, agent says - by Eurobasket News

Kenyon Martin (206-F-77, college: Cincinnati) wants to play in the NBA next season. According to his agent Andy Miller (via Yahoo! Sports), the player would accept minimum NBA deal only in a comfortable team role. Miller also said that Martin turned down offer by Maccabi Electra Tel-Aviv.
Kenyon Martin finished last season with Los Angeles Clippers. He joined them in February averaging 5 points and 4.1 rebounds for 53 NBA games. The player started 2011/12 in China. He appeared 12 times with Xinjiang Gyang Hui Flying Tigers registering 13.9 ppg and 9.7 rpg in CBA. Martin signed in China because of the NBA lockout. From 2004 until the last summer Kenyon Martin played for the Denver Nuggets. Before that, he spent four years with the New Jersey Nets. Martin graduated at the University of Cincinnati in 2000.


LeBron James: Champion Heat can be better - by Eurobasket News

LeBron James (6'8''-SF-84) was back in the Miami Heat locker room on Friday morning, took a look around at his teammates and quickly came to a realization.

The reigning NBA champions might even be better this time around.

With 12 players back from last season's championship roster foremost among them himself, after a season where he won the NBA's MVP award, the NBA Finals MVP, his first league title and then an Olympic gold medal over the summer for good measure the Heat clearly have tons of talent. Adding Ray Allen and Rashard Lewis to the mix figures to make them that much better.

Naturally, James isn't complaining.

"It's scary to see, to look in our locker room today and say that we can be better than we were this past season," James said. "Are we better right now than we were just a couple months ago? Of course not.

"But we have the potential to be better. We have the potential to be a lot better. That is scary."

Friday was the annual media day for the Heat, who open their training camp officially with practice on Saturday morning the Heat can open camp earlier than most other teams because they have a trip to China in early October.

Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh talked about how they're continuing to heal after injuries dogged them in last season's playoffs, and Udonis Haslem was followed around by a camera crew there to, as he said, document "The Little 12," his descrption for everyone not in the "Big Three" club of Wade, Bosh and James.

Haslem's cameras might have been the only ones not on James, who hasn't spoken publicly much since the Olympics ended.

"He's not on cruise control, no," Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said when asked about James. "He's as driven a professional as I've been around. He understands not only his legacy, but team legacy and the opportunity that this team and organization has. And he savors that. He's the ultimate competitor."

It took James nine years to win that long-coveted first title, after leading the Heat past the Oklahoma City Thunder in five games. His clinching performance was a classic a triple-double, 26 points, 13 assists and 11 rebounds. James came out with 3:01 remaining and the celebrating started, waving his arms and jumping on the sideline, then wrapping anyone and everyone he could reach in massive embraces.

So began his summer vacation. It lasted about a week.

Not long after the champagne dried and the Heat parade ended, James went to play for the U.S. Olympic Team, helping the Americans win gold. After that, some business dealings including a trip to China and a switch of agents, from Leon Rose to Rich Paul took up more of his offseason.

And now, training camp has already arrived.

Not much down time, but neither James nor the Heat seems all that concerned.

"I've worked on a few things," James said.

Courtesy of www.usnews.com


Jordan Hill avoids jail time for assault charge - by Eurobasket News

Lakers backup power forward Jordan Hill (6'10''-F/C-87, college: Arizona) avoided jail time and was sentenced to one year of probation Thursday after pleading no contest to assaulting his former girlfriend in February.

Hill, 25, agreed to pay a $500 fine, undergo domestic-violence counseling, make a $100 donation to the Harris County Violence Fund and avoid any contact with the alleged victim, Darlene Luna. The assault charge was reduced from a felony to a misdemeanor before 339th District Criminal Judge Maria Jackson, according to a report by the Associated Press in Houston.

On Twitter on Thursday, Hill wrote: Man I cant wait for training camp to startneed to get dis show rolling boy!!!!

Hill is charged with assaulting Luna on Feb. 29 at his apartment in Houston while the former first-round draft pick was playing for the Rockets. Hill re-signed with the Lakers in the offseason for two years and $7.1 million after a strong late-season run and is projected to be the primary backup to center Dwight Howard and power forward Pau Gasol, with help from Antawn Jamison.

Luna sobbed on the witness stand and said Hill hit her legs with his fists, then pulled her off a couch and put her in a choke hold from behind. The two had been dating for about a year and a half, Luna said, and the assault came as a shock because Hill had never previously abused her.

The moment in court Thursday featured Hills lawyer Rusty Hardin, who represented baseball player Roger Clemens in his perjury case, and Lunas lawyer Gloria Allred, who represented Nicole Brown Simpsons family during the O.J. Simpson murder trial. Allred handed Hardin a letter stating Lunas intention to file a civil suit against Hill.

Jordan simply wanted to put this behind him to play basketball, Hardin said. The alternative is to have this be pending until the season is over and have a trial sometime next year.

Said Allred: We hope that Mr. Hill will learn that an assault on a woman is always wrong and can result in criminal prosecution of him and serious consequences for his victim. We think that the time is long overdue for him to be fully accountable for his misconduct and we are glad that he has taken the first step by entering a plea today.

Courtesy of http://lakers.ocregister.com


John Wall out eight weeks because of stress injury in right knee - by Eurobasket News

The Wizards' enthusiasm for the upcoming season experienced a major setback on Friday when the team announced that point guard John Wall (6'4''-PG-90, college: Kentucky) would miss about eight weeks after being diagnosed with the early stages of a stress injury in his knee. Surgery isnt required, according to a statement released by the team, but Wall will have to begin rehabilitation immediately.

After experiencing discomfort in his left knee, which Coach Randy Wittman initially thought was bursitis, Wall visited orthopedic specialist David Altchek in New York on Thursday and underwent an MRI that revealed the early stages of a non-traumatic stress injury.

My teammates and I are all excited to build on the improvement we made at the end of last season, and I know they will continue to make great progress while I get through this setback, Wall said in a statement. I will work extremely hard to make sure I get back as soon as possible so I can re-join them and help our team continue to improve.

Training camp is set to begin on Tuesday at George Mason but the Wizards will also be without Nene as he recovers from plantar fasciitis in his left foot for the start of two-a-day practices. Walls injury leaves the Wizards with A.J. Price and Shelvin Mack as the only other point guards on the roster. The Wizards will open the season on Oct. 30 in Cleveland, but Wall isnt expected to return until close to December.

Were all disappointed for John after how hard he worked this summer and how excited he was to begin training camp, but we feel fortunate that we caught the injury early and that he will be able to return with the vast majority of the season still in front of us, team President Ernie Grunfeld said in a statement. In the meantime, were confident that the versatility and depth of our team will help us move forward and continue the positive momentum that weve seen over the past several months.

Wall played all 66 games during the lockout-shortened campaign last season, but he missed 13 games as a rookie, dealing with problems in his left foot and a bone bruise under his right knee cap. He would miss about 14 games by sitting the first month of the regular season.

The doctor visit also kept Wall from attending a dinner in Washington on Thursday for the inaugural Nell and John Wooden Coach of the Year Leadership Award. John Calipari, Walls former coach at Kentucky, received the honor. Wall also had a community relations event at Simon Elementary in Southeast pushed back another day until Friday, when he led a program on being active with young kids.

Wall did not participate in the activities, watching closely as kids chased each other around in flags and did jump jacks. When asked why he wasnt running around with the kids in the field, Wall explained, Because its slippery, because I dont want to fall out here.

A few hours later, it was revealed that his concern was rooted in something more serious.

Wall has averaged 16.3 points, 8.2 assists and 4.6 rebounds since the Wizards selected him No. 1 overall in 2010. Before news of his injury was revealed on Friday, Wall discussed the work he put in this offseason, working with famed trainer Rob McClanaghan, and explained how he wants to make the playoffs this season.

I think the pieces we have is great, but I think for us to take that next step, its going to be keyed on me, Wall said. Your third year is a key year. It makes or breaks you, what youre going to be in the this league. This is a big year for me.

Courtesy of www.washingtonpost.com


Keyon Dooling retires despite rumors of interest in Heat - by Eurobasket News (T)

Keyon Dooling (6'3''-G-80, college: Missouri) confirmed that he will never play NBA ball again after being waived by the Boston Celtics on Sept. 21, and dismissed reports that he is interested in playing with the Miami Heat next season, saying there is no truth! to the rumor and that its family time, according to Chris Tomasson of Fox Sports.

Doolings agent confirmed his retirement, saying the Ft. Lauderdale native wants to move on to other interests and spend more time with family:

Keyon has decided that he has given the NBA 12 good years and that its time to pursue other interests and spend more time with his family, the statement read. He will never forget his time with the Boston Celtics.

Tomasson points out that its unlikely the Celtics, who traded for Dooling in December, would have waived him if there was any chance he would then follow in the footsteps of former Celtics guard Ray Allen and sign with the Heat. He had played with the Heat in 2004-05.

Dooling, 32, re-signed with the Celtics in July, so its unclear why he made the decision to retire less than two months later. He leaves behind a 12-year NBA career, during which he averaged 7.0 points and 2.2 assists per game. He was also Vice President of the NBA Players Association.

Courtesy of http://tracking.si.com


Kevin Anderson signs at Cavaliers for the training camp - by Eurobasket News (T)

Cleveland Cavaliers landed 24-year old point guard Kevin Anderson (182-79kg-88, college: Richmond) for the training camp. Anderson played most recently at Strasbourg IG in French ProA. In 30 ProA games he averaged 12.5ppg, 3.0rpg and 3.5apg last season.
He has never been drafted by the NBA.
Anderson graduated from University of Richmond in 2011 and it will be his second season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center


Bogut's status is Warriors' big question - by Eurobasket News

Bob Myers completely understood the line of questioning. He just wasn't ready to present complete answers.

The Warriors' general manager spent more than half of about an hour with local media Thursday addressing the team's barometer - the center position - but Myers is taking a wait-and-see approach.

Andrew Bogut's (7'0''-C-84, college: Utah) health is uncertain after offseason ankle surgery, rookie Festus Ezeli is an unproven commodity, and Andris Biedrins is the only player who has yet to report to the team's downtown Oakland training facility. Myers says the team's three centers might have more impact on the success or failure of the Warriors this season than anyone.

"Ask me at the end of the season, and I'll tell you" about the centers, Myers said five days before training camp opens. "I understand that there's a very intense focus on our centers, and it's magnified because of who (Andrew Bogut) is."

Bogut is widely regarded as an elite defensive player and is a consensus top-five center in the league. The Warriors traded for him right before last season's trade deadline, but a broken ankle has kept him from playing in a Golden State uniform. It sounds like it might be a while before he does.

Myers said Bogut is making daily strides, progressing to lateral movement and jumping, but hasn't been cleared for five-on-five play. The Warriors hope to see Bogut play in a couple of the team's eight preseason games, but Myers said they're playing it "overly cautious."

If Bogut, who has missed 150 games in his seven-season career, isn't ready for the Oct. 31 regular-season opener in Phoenix or has to play limited minutes, the Warriors will give it a go with Ezeli and Biedrins.

Myers said Ezeli, who has played organized basketball for only six years, improved noticeably since the summer league in July, but there are no guarantees with rookies. The Warriors don't know how Biedrins has fared this offseason, because there has been little to no contact with the beleaguered Latvian.

"Because it's a result-driven business, Andris will be allowed to come in and compete for his position," Myers said. "He's a professional, and I'll leave it to the coach to decide what (Biedrins') role will be. I'm going to try to be neutral on him not (being here), and I'm going to be positive on the guys who did come."

Courtesy of www.sfgate.com


Timberwolves' Ricky Rubio hoping to return by 'December or early January' - by Eurobasket News

Timberwolves point guard Ricky Rubio (6'4''-G-90) was smiling and upbeat Thursday, Sept. 27, as he talked with reporters, but he had no definitive news on when he would play this season with his revamped team.

Rubio, still recovering from a major knee injury, expressed hope of playing in "December or early January." Even then, the Spanish star preferred to be cautious about his return to the court.

"I don't want to say a time because I don't want to rush it," Rubio said outside the Wolves' practice facility at Target Center. "I want to be ready whenever it is. It depends on how my knee goes."

Rubio tore his anterior cruciate and medial collateral ligaments in his left knee when he collided with Los Angeles Lakers star Kobe Bryant in the final seconds of a March 9 game at Target Center. Rubio had surgery on March 21 at the Steadman Clinic in Vail, Colo., setting up a six- to nine-month rehabilitation.

Doctors cleared him three weeks ago to do light running on a treadmill, but he will not participate in the Wolves' four-day training camp, which begins Tuesday at Minnesota State Mankato. Rubio also is prohibited from jumping and lateral movement. He has been cleared only to shoot set shots and free throws.

Rubio is hoping to start agility work in "three to four weeks" if there is no swelling in his knee. So far, he said, he has not had any.

"It's a great feeling to be able to run and the knee not swell," he said. "If the knee swells, I will have to stop. If not, I
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will keep pushing it. I'm trying to do as much as I can do. They have to stop me sometimes because I want to do more."

Rubio was a major factor in the Wolves' early success last season. Before the injury, he averaged 10.6 points, 8.2 assists and 2.2 steals and helped the Wolves build a 21-19 record. Rubio admitted he has concerns about whether he can return to the level of play that established him as one of the NBA's top rookies last season.

"I always have doubts and think about how I'm going to come back," he said. "I just have to trust. I'm doing my best to get ready and be as strong as I can. I want to be back soon."

Rubio said he has one more scheduled visit to Vail to be examined by Richard Steadman, who performed the surgery. In the meantime, Rubio will continue his rehab under the supervision of the Wolves' training and medical staff. Luke Ridnour and J.J. Barea are expected to handle point guard duties while Rubio is out.

The inability to practice prompted Rubio to label himself as an "assistant coach" for now. He plans to attend all practices and film sessions to keep abreast of potential changes in Wolves coach Rick Adelman's system. Adelman's assistants have been conducting informal workouts with players for the past four weeks.

Rubio's upbeat mood could be challenged while he is sidelined. "Watching my teammates play and I can't has been hard," he said. "It's hard on me physically because it hurts, but it's also hard on the mind."

Courtesy of www.twincities.com


Spurs add Derrick Brown, Josh Powell, Tyler Wilkerson and Wesley Witherspoon to training camp - by Eurobasket News (T)

The San Antonio Spurs today announced the addition of four players to their 2012-13 training camp roster.

The Spurs current roster stands at 18 players, and includes the additions of forwards Derrick Brown (6'8''-F-87, college: Xavier), Josh Powell (6'9''-F-83, college: N.Carolina St.), Tyler Wilkerson (6'8''-F-88, college: Marshall) and Wesley Witherspoon (6'9''-G/F-90).

Brown (6-8, 233) spent the 2011-12 season playing for the Charlotte Bobcats. He appeared in 65 games, averaging 8.1 points and 3.6 rebounds in 22.2 minutes while shooting .518 (212-409) from the field. A three-year NBA veteran, Brown was selected by the Bobcats with 40th overall pick in the 2009 NBA Draft. Midway through the 2010-11 season he was traded to the New York Knicks. For his career, Brown has appeared in 171 games, averaging 5.2 points and 2.4 rebounds in 14.9 minutes.

Powell (6-9, 240) spent the past season playing in China, Switzerland and most recently in Puerto Rico with the Guayama Wizards. In 14 games with the Wizards, he averaged 16.1 points, 9.2 rebounds and 1.3 blocks. A six-year NBA veteran, Powell last played in the NBA with the Atlanta Hawks during the 2010-11 season, averaging 4.1 points and 2.5 rebounds in 12.1 minutes. Powell won two NBA Championships with the L.A. Lakers in 2009 and 2010. Hes also seen action with the Dallas Mavericks (2005-06), Indiana Pacers (2006-07), Golden State Warriors (2006-07) and L.A. Clippers (2007-08). For his career, Powells appeared in 315 NBA games, averaging 3.9 points and 2.9 rebounds in 12.5 minutes.

Wilkerson was on the Spurs 2012 Vegas Summer League team. He appeared in four games, averaging 9.3 points and 5.0 rebounds in 20.8 minutes while shooting .750 (15-20) from the field. A 6-8, 240 pound forward out of Marshall University, Wilkerson spent the past two seasons playing for Maccabi Haifa in Israel. Last season he appeared in 20 games, averaging 16.6 points, 6.7 rebounds and 1.0 assist in 28 minutes. Wilkerson was also a member of the Spurs 2010 Summer League team, where he averaged 11.0 points, 6.6 rebounds and 1.9 steals in 24.1 minutes in five games.

Witherspoon (6-9, 212) is coming off his senior year at the University of Memphis where he helped lead the Tigers to the second round of the NCAA Tournament. In four seasons with the Tigers, Witherspoon appeared in 121 games, averaging 8.2 points and 3.7 rebounds in 21.0 minutes. As a junior he was named to the All-Conference USA third team and was the Conference USA Sixth Man of the Year in 2008-09.

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com


Lakers sign Ronnie Aguilar - by Eurobasket News (T)

Los Angeles Lakers signed a deal with Ronnie Aguilar (7'1''-C-87, college: Colorado St.). The 25-year-old big guy played six games for the Bakersfield Jam last season in NBA D-League. He had 2.2 ppg and 4.2 rpg. Aguilar left Bakersfield in December and skipped rest of the season. It was first pro deal for the player. Ronnie Aguilar is a product of Colorado State University. He played for the school from 2005 to 2008. In their last season together he had 3.7 ppg and 5.9 rpg. Aguilar had very limited playing time in 2006/07. That year Colorado State reached MWC Tournament Semifinals.


Hawks add James Anderson, Keith Benson, Damion James, Carldell Johnson, Anthony Tolliver to training camp - by Eurobasket News (T)

The Atlanta Hawks today announced their 2012 training camp roster, which tips off Monday with Media Day activities at 2:45 p.m. on the Philips Arena practice court. With the additions of James Anderson (6'6''-G-89, college: Oklahoma St.), Keith Benson (6'11''-C-88, college: Oakland), Damion James (6'7''-F-87, agency: Priority Sports, college: Texas), Carldell Johnson (5'10''-G-83, agency: Top Notch Sports, college: UAB) and Anthony Tolliver (6'9''-C-85, college: Creighton), the team currently has an 18-man camp roster.

A former first round draft pick by San Antonio (20th overall in 2010), Anderson played in 77 games (four starts) over two seasons with the Spurs, averaging 3.7 points and 1.3 rebounds in 11.6 minutes per game (.380 FG%, .757 FT%). Benson and James are both former Hawks draft picks, with Benson being taken in the second round (48th overall) of the 2011 NBA Draft prior to being waived on Dec. 23, 2011, and James in the first round (24th overall) in 2010 before his rights were traded to New Jersey on draft night. Benson saw action in three games with Golden State last season, while James has played in 32 career games (16 starts) with the Nets, averaging 4.5 points and 3.7 rebounds in 17.9 minutes per game (.428 FG%, .650 FT%).

In 15 games for New Orleans last year, Johnson put up 1.8 points and 1.5 assists in 7.9 minutes per game (.314 FG%, .333 FT%). A four-year NBA veteran, Tolliver played the last two seasons with Minnesota after previously seeing action with San Antonio, Portland and Golden State. He owns career averages of 6.8 points, 4.5 rebounds and 1.1 assists in 21.5 minutes per game (.420 FG%, .320 3FG%, .770 FT%) in 181 career contests (33 starts).

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com


Dwyane Wade will be limited early in training camp - by Eurobasket News

Heat guard Dwyane Wade's (6'4''-G-82, college: Marquette) participation will be limited at least during the first week of training camp because of his offseason knee surgery.

Camp begins Saturday at AmericanAirlines Arena, and the teams preseason media day will be held Friday.

Heat coach Erik Spoelstra met with reporters Thursday to discuss a wide range of topics, including the statuses of Wade and Mike Miller, who each finished the teams championship run with injuries.

Wade, who played with pain and swelling in his knee throughout the playoffs, underwent surgery on his left knee July 9 forcing him to miss the London Olympics. Miller, who was limited by a sore back for most of the postseason, has undergone rehabilitation throughout the offseason.

Well be very big-picture oriented with both of them and make sure theyre progressing at a healthy rate and getting stronger and getting conditioned, Spoelstra said. They know the system and what to expect, so I believe well all be on the same page with that.

Wade resumed his conditioning a month ago, and Spoelstra said he hopes Wade wont miss any regular-season time.

Hes not 100 percent, Spoelstra said. So were going to be very vigilant on how we progress him.

Other than Wade and Miller, Spoelstra said he expects everyone to be ready for full workouts Saturday. Forward Chris Bosh, who missed several playoff games with an abdominal injury, has been conditioning for the past six weeks and working out at AmericanAirlines Arena in preparation for the preseason, Spoelstra said.

Relatively speaking, were as healthy as you could hope for coming into this time of year, Spoelstra said. At some point, well have hopefully everybody.

Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com


Holiday says he hopes to be a Sixer for life - by Eurobasket News

With the advent of social media, NBA offseasons have become a never-ending stream of tweets and blog postings, some noteworthy, others not so much.

Fans of the 76ers were surprised by an early July tweet by Marc J. Spears of Yahoo Sports, reporting that Sixers guard Jrue Holiday (6'3''-PG-90, college: UCLA) was seeking a maximum-salary contract. It came with very little context, but suffice to say it resonated cryptically for followers of the Sixers.

Entering the fourth year of his rookie contract, Holiday addressed the issue for the first time Wednesday after a workout at Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. He did not speak in the tone of a player who was trying to get out of town. Actually, Holiday said his goal is to be a Sixer for the rest of his career.

"For sure, as a player you want to set that standard, and obviously for me that's the standard for myself that I want to set," said Holiday, 22. "That's the type of player that I want to be. I want to be seen as that type [of max-contract] player. But I'm not really worried about it; that's not the type of player that I am, honestly. I'm not really a money man. I'd rather get the wins."

The Sixers can offer Holiday a contract extension this season, when he is slated to make more than $2.6 million. They also have the option of waiting until next summer, when Holiday can become an unrestricted free agent. A maximum contract for Holiday would start at about $13 million in the first year and escalate each season.

After Holiday posted career-best numbers across the board in the 2010-11 season (14.0 points, 6.5 assists and 4.0 rebounds per game, 44.6 field goal shooting), he saw those numbers decline (13.5, 4.5, 3.3, 43.2) in 2011-12.

But Holiday sounds more like a guy who is excited about the season as opposed to a player who will let contract matters be an issue.

He enjoyed playing into the second round of the playoffs last season. And even though just five players are returning from that Sixers team, Holiday cannot hide his exuberance about this season.

"They did big things," Holiday said of the front office's moves, the biggest being the acquisition of center Andrew Bynum. "Half the team is gone, so that was definitely a power move. However it happened, we did what we had to do to get the top big [man] in the league, which is awesome for us."

Holiday acknowledged that departed players such as Andre Iguodala, Elton Brand, and Lou Williams will not be easy to replace. But bringing in Bynum, a two-time all-star who last season averaged 18.7 points, 11.8 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks, adds elements to the team's arsenal that simply were not there last season.

"We are going to be a better rebounding team right away with the changes we made," Holiday said. "Last year we had to battle to win the rebound battle. It's comforting to know that it will be easier this year. And I'm not taking anything away from the bigs last season, but there was no defensive presence down there like Bynum last year."

Holiday said that the changes made by the front office should help him to improve statistically.

"For me, the type of style that our team will play, they are helping me do what I do best," he said.

Holiday knows the Sixers' history. And he clearly wants to continue to be a part of it for a long time.

"The city is great," Holiday said. "You can go back to A.I. [Allen Iverson], Charles Barkley and Dr. J.; the city gives you a boost. When basketball is on point here I don't know of any place that is better."

Courtesy of http://articles.philly.com


Rasheed Wallace may be added to Knicks roster - by Eurobasket (T)

New York Knicks is close to ink 37-year old power forward Rasheed Wallace (208-104kg-75, college: N.Carolina). He should join them for pre-season camp. Wallace played most recently at Boston Celtics. He missed last two seasons. In 1995 Washington Bullets selected him as fourth overall pick in NBA draft.
He attended University of North Carolina and actually missed last season. It will be his 18th (!!!) season in pro basketball.
Wallace has played previously for three other NBA teams: Atlanta Hawks, Detroit Pistons and Portland Trail Blazers.
It may be one of last seasons in his extensive career, which he may end at Knicks.

By Eurobasket Data Center (via @HoopsHype)


Heat sign Carney and Dozier - by Eurobasket News (T)

The Miami Heat announced on Thursday that they have signed forwards Carney Rodney (6'7''-F-84, college: Memphis) and Robert Dozier (6'9''-F-85, college: Memphis).

Carney split time with the Golden State Warriors and Memphis Grizzlies in 2011-12, logging a total of 27 games. Originally selected 16th overall by the Philadelphia 76ers in the 2006 NBA Draft, Carney has appeared in 299 career games, averaging 5.9 points and two rebounds per contest.

Dozier was originally drafted by Miami in 2009, but has never appeared in an NBA game. He spent last season in France playing for Cholet Basket and averaged 9.5 points and 5.4 rebounds in 22 games.

Courtesy of www.sacbee.com


*****************************************************
  NBLCANADA   


Oshawa Power still up and running, for now - by Eurobasket News

It's time for those running the show of the Oshawa Power and the basketball community of Durham Region to come together and decide if pro hoops is really going to happen here.

Both sides have been neglectful, it would seem, but after speaking to a source close to the team, who wished not to be identified, there is some optimism that the National Basketball League of Canada could still fly in these parts.

Very guarded optimism, mind you, and the type that could easily die if certain things don't happen.

First, the Power need to communicate better with their fans, or more importantly, their potential fans.

They need to explain who will be replacing Gary Durrant, last year's president of basketball operations, who will be coaching the team and, of course, who will be making the layups, slam dunks and three-pointers.

Much of that has yet to be decided, the source tells me, but the best news is that head coach Robert Brickey will be back, he confirmed.

In fact, Brickey will be overseeing a player showcase event Sunday at the Campus Recreation and Wellness Centre, where he hopes to identify some of the new talent for the upcoming season, which is scheduled to start for the Power on Nov. 3 in Windsor, the league's newest entry.

The Power are expected to formally announce Brickey as the coach this weekend, removing an interim tag that went with the title last season, when he came onboard midway through and led the team to seven wins in their last 10 games.

The Power did an excellent job in finding talent a year ago, but most of the recognizable names (Brandon Robinson, Morgan Lewis, Omari Johnson, Tut Ruach) will be gone this season, either because of new opportunities overseas or within the league, where some teams have more resources to afford them, shall we say.

It's safe to assume they will find talent again this season, and Brickey seems a good choice to develop it, but it's hard to imagine the team being better given the loss of star power.

The one thing that seemed unanimous last season, however, was that the product on the floor was a good one, and quite entertaining.

Which brings us to the onus on the community.

Although strong local sponsorship, or even ownership, is crucial to the long-term success of the team, so too is fan support, and not just within Oshawa, but from throughout the region.

This is a region that obviously loves its basketball, and produces its fair share of talent through a vibrant high school and club scene.

A viable professional club to aspire towards would be an ideal addition to the landscape.

Those who agree need to buy in now, or risk losing it altogether.

Courtesy of www.durhamregion.com


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


Shonn Miller 2012 Ivy League Freshman Of The Year, 2013 1st Team All Ivy League? 2015 NBA Draftee? - by Vance Marbury

Shonn Miller the pride of St. Ignatius High School via Euclid, Ohio is a freak athlete, with broad shoulders, and great cerebral index.

Shonn Miller who attended the prestigious St. Ignatius High School in Cleveland, Ohio is becoming one heck of a basketball player. Last year at Cornell University Mr. Miller became the the seventh Cornell University basketball player to receive Ivy League Rookie of the Year Honors. Mr. Miller established new Cornell freshman records for rebounds (170) and blocked shots (46) while taking home the conference's Rookie of the Week honor five times. Shonn also ranked among the top 10 freshman scorers in school history with 250 points. The 6-7 freshman ranked eighth in the Ivy League in rebounding and steals and was second in blocks.

Shonn as a freshman averaged 8.9 points, 6.1 rebounds, 1.7 blocks and 1.3 steals per game. Mr. Miller shot 44 percent from the floor, including 51 percent from inside the 3-point arc. Miller had three double-doubles, five double digit rebounding games and nine contests in double figure scoring.

Miller has groan exponentially even past my expectations. As a junior in high school Shonn was a thin, decently athletic 3 guard who was still perfecting his craft. As a senior in high school Shonn grew into his body a little more, but faced some injuries that held him back from truly exploding. This summer Shonn walked in to the 2012 JT Focus Mgt, Cleveland Am Pro Men's Basketball Summer League with a very more mature body. Shonn has also become tougher, more athletic, while still maintaining his great attitude. The thing that may separate Shonn from other players at his position, is his ability to excel in Basketball Systems.

Shonn has the potential to be a 1st Team all Ivy League Performer this season, and a NBA Draftee in 3 seasons. That will depend on Shonn desire to continue to get better, but from the looks of the improvement from his Senior Season in High School, to his Freshman season in College, its a No-Brainer we will see Shonn Miller wearing an NBA uniform in 2015!!


Ex-Lady Vols media director sues university, Dave Hart - by Eurobasket News

Former Lady Vols media director Debby Jennings is suing the University of Tennessee and athletic director Dave Hart over allegations that age and sex discrimination led to her forced retirement from the school.

Hart and other athletic officials wanted to remodel the athletic department as a "good ol' boys" club while replacing her with a younger man, Jennings charges in the lawsuit filed Thursday with the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Tennessee. Jennings was 57 when she left her job in May as the university consolidated the men's and women's athletic departments.

Tennessee officials didn't respond immediately to messages left by The Associated Press. Hart had issued a statement in May saying Jennings was "insubordinate, disrespectful and fostered an atmosphere of negativity and division."

Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com


NCAA grants ex-BYU guard Harrison waiver to play at Clemson - by Eurobasket News (T)

Former BYU guard Damarcus Harrison (6'5''-G) was granted an NCAA waiver to play basketball at Clemson this fall.

The school said it was told of the NCAA's decision Wednesday night. Without the waiver, Harrison would've had to sit out this year before playing for Clemson.

Harrison is from Greenwood and played one season at BYU. He chose to transfer after learning his planned Mormon mission had been delayed and the Cougars didn't have a scholarship for him to play there this season.

The 6-foot-4 Harrison averaged 3.2 points as a freshman for BYU. Clemson coach Brad Brownell said he was happy with the NCAA's decision and Harrison will provide depth in the Tigers backcourt.

Courtesy of www.cbssports.com


*****************************************************
  NCAA3   


Baldwin Wallace Mens Hoops Team Has Some Great Talent On Its Roster!! - by Vance Marbury

Brandon Schmidt - Played in 47 games in two seasons at Baldwin Wallace University
2012 JT Focus Mgt Cleveland Am Pro Summer League Assessment: Brandon is a good combo guard, who is solid defensively and makes smart plays offensively. Brandon displayed a true passion for the game of basketball. Brandon made jump shots and plays off the dribble drive that should carry over into the 2012-13 Baldwin Wallace Mens Basketball Season.

Sean Rothermel - Played in 38 games with three starts in two seasons at Baldwin Wallace University
2012 JT Focus Mgt Cleveland Am Pro Summer League Assessment: Sean is a team leader, bruiser, and good rebounder. Sean did all the little things to help his team win games this summer. Sean guarded bigger players, quicker players, and smaller players which showed a ton of versatility defensively. Offensively Sean was a good glue guy that did all the little things, set screens, grab offensive rebounds, and make the open jump shot when needed.

Grant Fairhurst - Last Season Grant was Fifth in OAC as a freshman in three point field goals made with 32 and 10th in OAC as a freshman in three point percentage (.443) for Baldwin Wallace University
2012 JT Focus Mgt Cleveland Am Pro Summer League Assessment: Grant is a lights out shooter, that had a memorable one on one battle with Cleveland State Guard Charles Lee. Grant and Charles scored 15 pts consecutively against each other during that contest, which shows Grant has a lot of ability. Grant is quick, can handle the ball well, and is good defensively. Look for Mr. Fairhurst to be one of the Leading Scorers in the OAC this season.

Chris Ameen - in three seasons has played in 73 games, including 41 starts, and is averaging 8.8 ppg. and 5.2 rpg. He has totaled 645 points, 381 rebounds, 22 assists, 32 steals and 37 blocks.
Mr. Ameen also earned his first Academic All-OAC honors in his third season for the Yellow Jackets. Chris is a psychology major who maintains a 3.59 grade point average.
2012 JT Focus Mgt Cleveland Am Pro Summer League Assesment: Chris is a rebounding machine, with a very physical approach towards the game of basketball. I believe if Chris can get himself into superior condition, he has the potential to possibly play overseas at the conclusion of his collegiate career.

Kyle Payne was 2010-11 OAC Freshman-of-the-Year. As a sophomore in 2011-12, Kyle lead the Yellow Jackets in scoring and rebounding averaging 14.2 pts and 5.3 rebs per game. Kyle shot 49% from the field. in 2 seasons Kyle has tallied 737 points, 255 rebounds, 37 assists, 33 three-pointers, 27 steals and 13 blocks.
2012 JT Focus Mgt Cleveland Am Pro Summer League Assessment: Kyle for the 1st half of the summer league was one of the best players in the league, scoring in a variety of ways. Kyle has the ability to attack the basket off the dribble drive, make jump shots, grab offensive rebounds and score on the interior. Kyle can defend against players from the point guard position to the small forward position. The biggest question with Kyle is consistency. Kyle could be really good, and make some good money overseas, if he continues to improve and become a more consistent player.



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


Krasnie Krilya thump Rjazan in friendly - by Eurobasket News

Krasnie Krilya - Rjazan 82:58

Krasnie Krylia played the final pre-season game. They hosted Rjazan in Samara. The hosts proved the strength claiming a comfortable win at the end. Evgeniy Kolesnikov (195-G-85) and Chester Simmons (198-G-82, college: Washington) posted 15 points each to lead the winners.
The hosts dominated right from the start. They accounted for a 23:13 lead after ten minutes. Krasnie Krilya erupted for 29 points in the second period to take a 52:26 halftime lead. Rjazan stopped the rot in the third term. The Superleague team cut the deficit by four points. However it was too little to threaten the margin. Krasnie Krilya remained in charge throughout the fourth period and sealed the victory at the end. Andre Smith (203-F-85, college: N.Dakota St.) and Nikita Balashov (206-F-91) accounted for 11 points apiece in the winning effort.


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


Mahram signs Ratko Varda for Asia Cup in Lebanon - by Eurobasket News (T)

Mahram Tehran (Superleague) signed 33-year old Bosnian/Serbian power forward Ratko Varda (216-120kg-79, agency: Beo Basket). Varda played last season at Azovmash in Ukrainian Superleague. In 10 Eurocup games he had 9.0ppg and 2.7rpg. He also played 15 games in Superleague where he recorded 6.8ppg and 3.1rpg. Varda also played at Union Olimpija in Slovenian league earlier that season. In 17 Euroleague games he recorded 10.8ppg and 2.9rpg. He represented Bosnia at the Qualifications to European Championships 2011 two years ago. His stats at that event were 8 games: 13.5ppg, 5.3rpg, FGP: 53.4%, 3PT: 7.7%, FT: 65.9%.
Varda is quite experienced player. He has played also professionally in Lithuania (Zalgiris), Poland (Asseco Prokom), Russia (Khimky), Spain (Real Madrid and Menorca Basquet), Turkey (Besiktas).

By Eurobasket Data Center


*****************************************************
  SPAIN   


Jaromir Fohler signs at Lan Mobel Iraurgi Saski Baloia - by Eurobasket News (T)

Lan Mobel Iraurgi Saski Baloia (LEB Silver) landed 27-year old Czech center Jaromir Fohler (211-114kg-85). Fohler has played for the last three years at Usti n/Labem in NBL league in Czech Republic. In 46 NBL games last season he averaged 5.6ppg and 3.5rpg.
His team made it to Czech Rep. 1.Liga Semifinals in 2011. Fohler represented Czech Republic at the European Championships U20 in Moscow seven years ago. His stats at that event were 7 games: 3.3ppg, 1.4rpg.
Fohler has played also professionally in Czech Republic (Olomouc, BK Decin, Levharti Chomutov and BK Prostejov) and Spain (Gran Canaria and Vecindario).

By Eurobasket Data Center


Asefa Estudiantes signs Josh Fisher, completes roster for 2012/13 - by Eurobasket News (T)

Josh Fisher (189-G-80, college: St.Louis) is a new member of Asefa Estudiantes. The American guard, with Spanish passport, signed a deal for the upcoming season. He spent last two with Bilbao. In the latest one Fisher appeared 29 times in Liga Endesa averaging 3.1 points and 1.1 rebounds. He also played 17 Eurolegaue games registering 1.2 ppg. Josh Fisher arrived to Bilbao two years ago from Gran Canaria. He played for Granca from 2008 to 2010. Fisher also has experience from Alicante, Murcia, Real Madrid and Pamesa. Josh Fisher was a member of Real Madrid in 2005/06. He had 3.6 ppg and 1.1 apg in 17 ACB league games that season. His numbers in Euroleague were lower. Fisher is a product of Saint Louis University, where he graduated in 2004.


Enrico Tucker joins Lan Mobel Iraurgi Saski Baloia - by Eurobasket News (T)

Lan Mobel Iraurgi Saski Baloia (LEB Silver) agreed terms with 26-year old Mexican point guard Enrico Tucker (183-86, college: San Diego). Tucker has played for the last two seasons at Miercurea Ciuc in Romanian Division A. In 27 Division A games last year he had very impressive stats: 16.0ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.4apg and 2.1spg.
His team made it to Big Ten Tournament Semifinals in 2005.
He attended University of San Diego until 2009 and it will be his fourth season as a professional player.
Enrico Tucker replaces David Nurse.

By Eurobasket Data Center


Timberwolves' Ricky Rubio hoping to return by 'December or early January' - by Eurobasket News

Timberwolves point guard Ricky Rubio (6'4''-G-90) was smiling and upbeat Thursday, Sept. 27, as he talked with reporters, but he had no definitive news on when he would play this season with his revamped team.

Rubio, still recovering from a major knee injury, expressed hope of playing in "December or early January." Even then, the Spanish star preferred to be cautious about his return to the court.

"I don't want to say a time because I don't want to rush it," Rubio said outside the Wolves' practice facility at Target Center. "I want to be ready whenever it is. It depends on how my knee goes."

Rubio tore his anterior cruciate and medial collateral ligaments in his left knee when he collided with Los Angeles Lakers star Kobe Bryant in the final seconds of a March 9 game at Target Center. Rubio had surgery on March 21 at the Steadman Clinic in Vail, Colo., setting up a six- to nine-month rehabilitation.

Doctors cleared him three weeks ago to do light running on a treadmill, but he will not participate in the Wolves' four-day training camp, which begins Tuesday at Minnesota State Mankato. Rubio also is prohibited from jumping and lateral movement. He has been cleared only to shoot set shots and free throws.

Rubio is hoping to start agility work in "three to four weeks" if there is no swelling in his knee. So far, he said, he has not had any.

"It's a great feeling to be able to run and the knee not swell," he said. "If the knee swells, I will have to stop. If not, I
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will keep pushing it. I'm trying to do as much as I can do. They have to stop me sometimes because I want to do more."

Rubio was a major factor in the Wolves' early success last season. Before the injury, he averaged 10.6 points, 8.2 assists and 2.2 steals and helped the Wolves build a 21-19 record. Rubio admitted he has concerns about whether he can return to the level of play that established him as one of the NBA's top rookies last season.

"I always have doubts and think about how I'm going to come back," he said. "I just have to trust. I'm doing my best to get ready and be as strong as I can. I want to be back soon."

Rubio said he has one more scheduled visit to Vail to be examined by Richard Steadman, who performed the surgery. In the meantime, Rubio will continue his rehab under the supervision of the Wolves' training and medical staff. Luke Ridnour and J.J. Barea are expected to handle point guard duties while Rubio is out.

The inability to practice prompted Rubio to label himself as an "assistant coach" for now. He plans to attend all practices and film sessions to keep abreast of potential changes in Wolves coach Rick Adelman's system. Adelman's assistants have been conducting informal workouts with players for the past four weeks.

Rubio's upbeat mood could be challenged while he is sidelined. "Watching my teammates play and I can't has been hard," he said. "It's hard on me physically because it hurts, but it's also hard on the mind."

Courtesy of www.twincities.com


Dynile Forbes agreed terms with Aurteneche Maquinaria Euskadi - by Eurobasket News (T)

Aurteneche Maquinaria Euskadi (LEB Silver) strengthened their roster with addition of 26-year old Bahamas guard Dynile Forbes (188-86, college: La-Monroe). Forbes played most recently at Leyma Basquet Coruna in LEB Silver. He helped his team get promotion to LEB Gold. In 24 LEB Silver games he recorded 10.7ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.2apg and 1.4spg last season.
Forbes was voted to All-Louisiana Honorable Mention in 2010 in his college time.
He attended University of Louisiana at Monroe until 2010 and it will be his third season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center


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  SWEDEN   


White Eagles Stockholm hire Milan Rondovic as Assistant Coach - by Eurobasket News (T)

Milan Rondovic will continue his coaching career in Sweden. The Montenegrin specialist is hired by Basketligan newcomers White Eagles Stockholm. He will serve as Assistant Coach. Rondovic worked last two years with Teodo Tivat as Head Coach. In the past, he coached Ulcinj, Primorka Bar and Rudar Pljevlja.
White Eagles Stockholm were Basketettan champions last season. They were undefeated. Few days ago White Eagles announced two very important signings. They landed Omar Krayem (185-G-86, agency: Three Eye Sports, college: Cal.Baptist) and Rudy Mbemba (184-G-87) for the upcoming season. Mbemba appeared 29 times for LF Basket last season averaging 14.6 points, 6.3 assists, 3.6 rebounds and 2.2 steals. Krayem was named Eurobasket.com All-Swedish Basketligan Guard of the Year -12. He played for Boras Basket registering 18.6 ppg, 6.1 apg, 4.4 rpg and 2 spg in 45 games.


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  SWITZERLAND   


BBC Lausanne signs four players - by Eurobasket News (T)

BBC Lausanne announced signing of four new players for the upcoming season. The Swiss squad brought in Jerome Stucheli (185-G-89), Arnaud Barapila (196-F/C-87), Brunel Tutonda (197-F-90) and Achito Teca (192-F-90).
Jerome Stucheli arrives to Lausanne from Boncourt, where he had 3.1 ppg and 1.8 apg last season.
Arnaud Barapila spent last season with Colas Bernex Geneve Basket. He had 4.4 ppg and 2.8 rpg.
Brunel Tutonda also arrives from Colas Bernex Geneve Basket. His stats last season read 4.4 ppg and 2.8 rpg.
Achito Teca most recently played for Villars Basket. He collected 3.9 ppg and 3.9 rpg.


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  TURKEY   


Orhun Ene : Izzet is important for us but - About Galatasaray rumour - by Ugur Turker

Galatasaray Medical Park Istanbul is looking for signing with Izzet Turkyilmaz (214-F/C-90) who is one of the most promising player of Turkey. After losing Ilkan Karaman, coach Ergin Ataman wants to strengthen his backcourt. About these rumours Banvit Basketbol Kulubu head coach Orhun Ene talked Eurobasket.com.

Coach said " I want Izzet to stay with us since he has important role in the team but if the club managemet asks me that club will be statisfied economicallya and i think this movement will be better for Izzet, there is no reason not to allow him to go "

Galatasaray Medical Park Istanbul Basketball Coordinator Murat Ozyer also commented to Eurobasket.com about Izzet transfer "Of course, all teams in Turkey want to see Izzet in their squad but untill now, we have not made official offer to Banvit Basketbol Kulubu. If we decide to move for Izzet and we are able to agree with Banvit Basketbol Kulubu about clauses, we want to sign with Izzet. "

Time will show us what will happen in next days. Turkish Edition for this news http://www.iddaalihaber.com/haberdetay.asp?id=23813


Galatasaray MP Interested in Izzet Turkyilmaz - by Orhun Ozdemir

According to NTVspor, Galatasaray Medical Park Istanbul interested in buying Banvit Basketbol Kulubu's hot prospect Izzet Turkyilmaz (214-F/C-90). After surprisingly losing Ilkan Karaman (205-F-90) to their rivals Fenerbahce Ulker Istanbul, coach Ergin Ataman (agency: Beo Basket ) wants to add depth to his squad with Turkylmaz who is regarded as a future starter for Turkish National Team.
22 years old player was selected with 50th pick by Denver Nuggets in 2012 NBA Draft. Last season he averaged 2.12 pts, 1.96 rebs in 9.16 mins per game with Banvit. Izzet Turkyilmaz also played 3 games with Turkish National Team in Eurobasket 2013 qualification round this summer, averaging 3.7 pts, 2 rebs in 13.7 mins per game.

Standings - TB2L

TB2L Standings
 1. Akhisar Bld 0-0 
 2. Balikesir 0-0 
 3. Bandirma Kir. 0-0 
 4. Baskent Genclik 0-0 
 5. Darussafaka 0-0 
 6. Final Genclik 0-0 
 7. Gelisim 0-0 
 8. Istanbul B.B. 0-0 
 9. Istanbulspor 0-0 
 10. Izmir BSB 0-0 
 11. Maliye Milli 0-0 
 12. Pertevniyal 0-0 
 13. Pi Okullari 0-0 
 14. Selcuk Univ. 0-0 
 15. Trabzonspor 0-0 
 16. Usak 0-0 
 17. Vestel 0-0 
 18. Yesilgiresun 0-0 

Regular Season: Round 1

Oct. 5: Gelisim - Baskent Genclik
Oct. 5: Pi Okullari - Izmir BSB
Oct. 6: Istanbul B.B. - Darussafaka
Oct. 6: Balikesir - Trabzonspor
Oct. 6: Maliye Milli - Akhisar Bld
Oct. 6: Selcuk Univ. - Bandirma Kir.
Oct. 6: Istanbulspor - Pertevniyal
Oct. 6: Vestel - Final Genclik
Oct. 7: Usak - Yesilgiresun



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  U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS   


Cuffy and Le Mans in the finals tonight! live on the net - by David Edole

Cameron Long - Le Mans Sarthe Basket - Qualifying Round Desio 2012Le Mans Sarthe Basket advanced to the Turkish Airlines Euroleague Qualifying Rounds finale with a come-from-behind 78-86 victory over Unics Kazan in the second semifinal on Thursday in Desio, Italy. Le Mans will face the events host, Mapooro Cantu, on Friday for a ticket to the Turkish Airlines Euroleague regular season. Unics led by 6 early in the fourth quarter and by 3 with three minutes to go, but Khalid El-Amin tied it with a three-pointer and Le Mans held Kazan scoreless until there was just 14 seconds left, by which point El-Amin and co. had wrapped up the win. Le Mans won despite getting outrebounded 36-28 because of the outstanding play of J.P. Batista, who starred with 20 points and 10 rebounds. Cuthbert Victor (197-F-83, college: Murray St.) added 15 points, Charles Kahudi scored 13, Cam Long 12 and El-Amin finished with 12 points and 4 assists. Kostas Kaimakoglou paced Unics with 20 points and 8 rebounds, Terrell Lyday scored 18, Mire Chatman 13 and Ian Vougioukas 12. Kazan, which reached the Euroleague playoffs last season, will continue its European campaign this time in the Eurocup.
VIDEO: http://www.euroleague.tv/video/id/2066785/name/Qualifying_round_Le_Mans_beats_Unics_advances_to_the_final
TO VIEW THE FINAL GAME TONIGHT: http://www.euroleague.net/events/qualifying-rounds-2012


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  UGANDA   


Power face high-octane Falcons - by Joel Nature

Falcons Vs DMark Power, 8:30pm

On the regular season schedule, all interesting games that are yet to be played involve league leaders, Falcons. One of those match-ups is todays 8:30pm tip-off against defending champions, Dmark Power.

The two teams face off in what could be a play-off

second round match up if the teams finish the regular season in second and third places. Falcons (18-2) beat Power (15-5) 78-66 back in June on route to their now 13 games winning streak.

Falcons beat Warriors 69-58 in the last game off big performances from Steven Omony and Geoffrey Omondi who will without doubt have a lot of say on todays game while Power blew out Rez Life 80-53 in their last game.

No team in the league has players that have shared offensive responsibility much as Falcons have done. The former champions have got a plethora of scorers on both the front and back court and sharing of the scoring responsibility among the high-octane group has made it difficult for opponents to win games by picking up on a stand out player to stop them. At least three Falcons have scored in double figures in every game.

Unlike Falcons, Power has players that they look up to and when they are not playing well the team struggle to score. If Ben Komakech and Isaac Afidra are not playing well the team struggles much as Richard Balemwa always shows up and will be an important player offensively off the bench if he gets a lot of open corner 3-point field goals attempts.

With Joseph Ikong and Isaac Luggudde also not playing like the true self, Power may struggle offensively. Power is probably the best offensive team down the stretch in the final periods but were beaten to it by KIU a couple of weeks back as well as in the second round match up with Warriors and the first leg against Falcons, so late spurts are not something to rely on against fellow giants.

After making his first appearance for Falcons this season, guard, Abdulahi Ramanthan may have more minutes in todays game. Falcons could go with Geoffrey Omondi, Julius Lutwama, Peter Elungat, Steven Omony and Philp Ameny as the starters while Power could start with Ben Komakech, Jimmy Enabu, Joseph Ikong, Isaac Afidra and David Kiberu.

In the womens division, KIU Rangers play KCCA Leopards. KCCA saw off KIU 54-42 in the first round. Leopards (16-2) have not lost a game since losing to Stormers before the Zone 5 while Rangers (13-6) have won the last two including a big one against A1 Challenge which could buoy them up for another big performance this evening.


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  UKRAINE   


Superleague 2012/2013 Round 1 results and stats - by Eurobasket News

Kryvbasbasket - Cherkasy 62-72

Kryvbasbasket (0-1) lost in Krivoy Rog on Friday night. Hosts were defeated by Cherkasy (1-0) 72-62. American forward Charles Thomas (203-86, college: Arkansas) fired 16 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. Serbian guard Marko Ljubicic (195-87, agency: Beo Basket) chipped in 9 points and 6 rebounds. Four Cherkasy players scored in double figures. American guard James Florence (185-88, college: Mercer, agency: Pro One Sports) produced 21 points and 5 assists and forward Vitali Malchevskiy (204-87) added 20 points respectively for lost side. Kryvbasbasket's coach Karlis Muiznieks rotated eleven players in this game, but that didn't help. It was the only win of guest team this round and in all other games host teams recorded victories. Cherkasy is looking forward to face DniproAzot in Dniprodzerzhynsk in the next round. Kryvbasbasket will play at home against Dnipro in Dnepropetrovsk and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Cherkasy: C.Thomas 16+7reb+4ast, I.Koljevic 13+2reb+1ast, D.Ikovlev 11+4reb+1ast, A.Nerush 10+2reb, M.Ljubicic 9+6reb+3ast, V.Hunter 7+3reb+1ast
Kryvbasbasket: J.Florence 21+4reb+5ast, V.Malchevskiy 20+2reb+1ast, W.Frazier 7+4reb, D.Korablev 6+3reb, Z.Krstanovic 5+4reb+1ast, P.Caldwell 3+5reb
gschID: 196863


Budivelnyk - BC Kyiv 77-61

Another exciting game was a derby match between two teams from Kyiv: Budivelnyk and BC Kyiv. Budivelnyk (1-0) crushed visiting BC Kyiv (0-1) by 16 points 77-61. It was a very close game until the last quarter, when Budivelnyk's pressure prevailed and they won that period 23-11 extending their advantage to 16 points. Budivelnyk shot 24 for 33 from the free-throw line, while BC Kyiv only scored eight points from the stripe. BC Kyiv was plagued by 26 personal fouls down the stretch. Worth to mention a great performance of American guard Malcolm Delaney (191-89, college: Virginia Tech) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 25 points and 11 rebounds. Naturalized Lithuanian center Michailis Anisimovas (214-84) contributed with 15 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. American guard Anthony Goods (191-87, college: Stanford) answered with 18 points and British point guard Justin Robinson (187-87, college: Rider, agency: Two Points) added 10 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists in the effort for BC Kyiv. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Budivelnyk: M.Delaney 25+11reb+2ast, M.Anisimovas 15+6reb+3ast, L.Lyons 14+7reb+1ast, D.Salenga 9+2reb, A.Drozdov 8+6reb+5ast, S.Gorbenko 3+1reb
BC Kyiv: A.Goods 18+3ast, J.Robinson 10+6reb+5ast, V.Bobrov 9+6reb, M.Sandul 8+5reb, J.Jones 6+9reb+1ast, R.Otverchenko 5+4reb
gschID: 196859


Azovmash - BC Odessa 80-61

Azovmash faced BC Odessa. Host Azovmash (1-0) smashed guests from Odessa (0-1) 80-61. The game was mostly controlled by Azovmash. BC Odessa managed to win second period 18-17. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Bosnian point guard Nemanja Gordic (193-88) stepped up and scored 14 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists for the winners and Serbian power forward Tadija Dragicevic (206-86, agency: Beo Basket) chipped in 12 points and 9 rebounds. Azovmash's coach Aleksandar Kesar used an eleven-player rotation and allowed the starting five to rest. At the losing side the former international center Stanislav Balashov (210-79, agency: New Trend Agency) responded with 16 points and 5 rebounds and the former international Andriy Agafonov (208-86, agency: Interperformances) scored 13 points and 6 rebounds. Azovmash will meet at home Khimik in the next round and are hoping to win another game. BC Odessa will play against BC Donetsk.
Top scorers:
Azovmash: O.Pecherov 14+3reb+1ast, N.Gordic 14+5reb+6ast, O.Kolchenko 12+3reb, T.Dragicevic 12+9reb+2ast, K.Natyazhko 9+5reb+1ast, L.Greer 8+4reb+6ast
BC Odessa: S.Balashov 16+5reb+2ast, A.Agafonov 13+6reb, J.Love 12+4reb+2ast, H.Laroche 4+2reb+5ast, D.Hunt 4+5reb+1ast, S.Koval 4+1reb
gschID: 196860


Hoverla - Halychyna 79-76

A very interesting game took place in Frankivsk. It ended with only three-point defeat on the road of Halychyna (0-1) to Hoverla (1-0) 79-76 on Friday evening. Halychyna was ahead by 6 points at the halftime before a 44-35 second half run of Hoverla. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 22 assists. American guard Eugene Lawrence (184-86, college: St.John's, agency: Two Points) nailed 21 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assists for the winning side and his fellow American import Kyndall Dykes (190-87, college: New Orleans, agency: Edge Sports) accounted for 19 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists. Dykes is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. American point guard Darrel Mitchell (181-84, college: LSU, agency: Beo Basket) came up with 18 points and 8 assists and point guard Oleksandr Dolenko (191-90, agency: New Trend Agency) added 15 points and 12 rebounds respectively for Halychyna in the defeat. Four Halychyna players scored in double figures. Halychyna's coach Zeljko Lukajic tested ten players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Hoverla: E.Lawrence 21+8reb+7ast, K.Dykes 19+8reb+4ast, T.Peterson 12+1ast, R.Pearson 11+7reb+2ast, Y.Lemyk 8+8reb+3ast, Y.Frasenyuk 4+3reb
Halychyna: D.Mitchell 18+4reb+8ast, V.Vukosavljevic 15+9reb+1ast, O.Dolenko 15+12reb+2ast, M.Lee 10+5reb+2ast, G.Ikonic 9+2reb, O.Saltovets 6+3reb
gschID: 196861


Ferro-ZNTU - Dnipro 95-81

Ferro-ZNTU used a home court advantage and beat the opponent from Dnepropetrovsk 95-81. The game was mostly controlled by Ferro-ZNTU. Dnipro was better in third quarter 26-25. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They made 21-of-23 charity shots (91.3 percent) during the game. Ferro-ZNTU players were unselfish on offense dishing 27 assists. 25 personal fouls committed by Dnipro helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American guard Jeremy Chappell (191-87, college: Robert Morris) nailed 24 points and 7 rebounds (made all of his nine free throws !!!) for the winning side and his fellow American import guard Randy Culpepper (182-89, college: UTEP) accounted for 19 points and 8 assists. American point guard Derrick Low (188-86, college: Washington St.) came up with 33 points (!!!) and 8 assists and international power forward Maxym Korniyenko (204-87) added 18 points and 12 rebounds respectively for Dnipro in the defeat. Ferro-ZNTU will have a break next round. Dnipro will play on the road against Kryvbasbasket (#14) in Krivoy Rog.
Top scorers:
Ferro-ZNTU: J.Chappell 24+7reb+3ast, D.Werner 20+2reb, R.Culpepper 19+3reb+8ast, R.Guinn 9+5reb+1ast, C.Moore 9+2reb+1ast, A.Rybalko 8+2reb+6ast
Dnipro: D.Low 33+2reb+8ast, M.Korniyenko 18+12reb+1ast, O.Misyats 13+3reb+2ast, S.Tymofeyenko 9+2reb, O.Mishula 6+1ast, M.Vilkhovetskyi 2+6reb+4ast
gschID: 196862



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  URUGUAY   


De Bem scored 31 points for Olimpia - by Hector Lopez

Ricardo de Bem (210-F/C-84, college: Oklahoma City) netted 31 points and took 15 rebounds, leading Olimpia to defeat Sayago 80-73 during the only game played last nigth for the Uruguayan League. Also for Olimpia Kevin Nelson (192-G-84, college: Park) scored 19 poiints with 3 assists, Omar Galeano (199-F-81) 15 points and 7 rebounds. For Sayago Terence Shellman (198-F-78) scored 24 points with 12 rebounds and 7 assists, Stanley Jones (208-C-86, agency: Gamble Sports Management, college: Francis Marion) scored 8 points with 5 rebounds 2 blocks and 3 assists, Demian Alvarez (192-F-84) scored 16 points with 6 rebounds. Olimpia has now a 2-1 record while Sayago is 1-2.



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Women News


Dakar 2012: Senegal, Egypt, Mali, Tunisia set for the semis - by Olusegun Ikuesan

The 2012 edition of Africa foremost youth competition for young women across the continent enter the semi-finals stage Friday at the Marius Ndiaye gymnasium Dakar Senegal with the four semi-finalists, host Senegal defending champion Egypt, Mali and Tunisia gearing to go.

Separating the four from the six countries on parade was no mean feat as Senegal, Egypt and Mali already through before the closing day of the preliminary round two games played (Senegal Vs Egypt and Tunisia Vs Angola) were very crucial to the players and their handlers as Senegal and Egypt searches for who lead the preliminary pool which Senegal eventual won by 19 points margin of 73-54 points while the pairing between Tunisia and Angola was more daisy as the eventual winner Tunisia picked the last semi-finals spot with a 46-38 points victory.

Senegal Vs Tunisia 17H00
The semi-finals pairing will see Senegal taking on Tunisia in the first semis at 17H00 a game pundit had predicted to stretch to the buzzer as Tunisia who earlier in the competition lost to Senegal by 47-54 points getting better with every game it has played so far.

Senegal will be playing under some kind of pressure as it will be playing before a vociferous fans who will demand nothing less than victory from the team couple with injuries to some of it players against a Tunisian side who are not court shy.

Senegal will be banking on the duo of Yacine Diop and Ndeye Dieng to rally the young lioness as it look forward to make it to the grand finale billed for Saturday while Tunisia will bank on the scoring and rebounding prowess of forward Hamrouni Houda and Wafa Lobiri to rescue them from the claw of the lioness.

Diop who feature in three of the five preliminary games played by her side has an average total of 27.40 minutes; 17.33 points; 5.33 rebound; 3 assist; 4 steal; 3 turn over and .33 block shot must be able to repeat her form which saw led her team against Egypt where she poured in 22 points, 6 steal, 5 rebound and 4 assist while fast pace guard Dieng with cumulative average of 24.05 minutes; 8.2 points; 3.4 rebound; 2.4 assist; .6 steal; one turn-over and .4 block shot from five games being able to repeat her run down the base-line and execute jump-ball and provide her team with the kind of court leadership which has seen her become a dominant player so far.

For Tunisia Houda and Lobiri must carry their teammates along in the execution of their play if they must go past Senegal Friday evening. Houda who has had wonderful performance since the competition began over a week ago rank among the championship top scorer having feature in all her team preliminary games.

With an average of 32.09 minutes; 19.8 points; 8 rebound; 1.4 assist; 2.6 steal; 3.6 turn-over and .2 blocks the ES CAP BON basketball club of Tunis forward surely knows what is at stake at this stage of the competition just as Lobiri also boast of an impressive record of 27.06 minutes per game; 12.4 points; 3.6 rebound; 1.6 assist; 2 steal and 4 turn-over the stage is set for the semi-final cracker against Senegal. Wafa Lobiri (F-95)


Dakar 2012: Egypt, Mali set for the semi final show down - by Olusegun Ikuesan

Semi-final - Egypt Vs Mali 19H00
The Egypt Mali pairing is one match-up that appear the most difficult to predict as both sides boast of players who decide a game with the forty minutes of play, having meet once during the preliminary with Egypt running away with a 53-43 points victory Mali will be looking forward to getting it pound of flesh as both sides will file out at 19H00 for the epic battle.

Egypt who are eyeing to retain the title it won two years ago on home court must do everything possible to stop Mali who parade some of the best post players of the competition.

Egypt will rely on its inspirational guard Soraia Deghady with good court vision, passing and shooting skill her other teammates must be prepared to play at her pace if they want to get past the difficult task ahead of them, Deghady is expected to combine with Ola EL Temsahi.

Mali on the other hand have always dominated it opponent in the paint and will rely on the fierceness of Aminata Traore and Madjan Camara to pick rebounds and make second shots for them

Egypt Deghady who has enjoyed an average of 31.01 minutes per game almost the highest minute played by any player from the six countries couple with her impressive scoring ability with 15.25 points; 1.25 in rebound; one assist; 1.5 steal and 2 turn-over her combination with Temsahi who has 19.04 minutes; 11.8 points; 3.6 rebound; .4 assist; 1.6 steal; 1.8 turn-over and .2 block shot should be enough to scare the Mali whose two forwards. Traore and Camara lead other players in rebound. Traore has recorded a cumulative average of 28.03 minutes; 12.4 points; 8.2 rebound; 2 assist; 1.5 steal; 2.8 turn-over and .6 blocks with Camara being more effective in the paint with a record of 21.04 minutes; 7.6 points; 9.8 rebound; .8 assist; .4 steal and 2.4 turn-over from five preliminary games but both players (Traore and Camara) must avoid early foul which saw them fouling out in the game against Senegal during the preliminary round. Madjan Camara (95)


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  GERMANY   


Rhein Main Baskets sign rookie Anya Covington in her first year in pro basketball - by Eurobasket (T)

Rhein Main Baskets (DBBL) strengthened their roster with addition of American forward Anya Covington (187). Covington just graduated from Wisconsin (NCAA). In 27 games last season she recorded 10.3ppg, 6.4rpg and 1.6apg. She was selected to All-Big Ten Honorable Mention at the end of 11-12 season, previously helping Wisconsing to make it to Big Ten Tournament Semifinals back in 2009 and 2010.
Of course it will be her first season in professional basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center


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  HUNGARY   


Atomeromu inks Olexandra Chek - by Nagy Szilveszter (T)

Atomeromu KSC Szekszard (A Division) signed 19-year old Ukrainian center Oleksandra Chek (191-C-93, agency: New Trend Agency). Chek played last season at Regina-Basket Bar in Ukrainian Higher League. In 28 Higher League games she had 9.5ppg and 5.8rpg. She helped them to win the regular season and make it to the final. A very impressive season as she was named to Eurobasket.com All-Ukrainian Higher League 2nd Team.
Chek was a member of Ukrainian U20 National Team between 2010 and 2012, and played also for U18 National Team between 2010 and 2011. She represented Ukraine at the European Championships U20 in Debrecen (Hungary) this year. Her stats at that event were 9 games: 10.9ppg, 6.6rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 38.5%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 76.2%.

By Eurobasket Data Center (via @lovewomensbball)


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  ITALY   


Taranto fire past Chieti in friendly - by Eurobasket News

Taranto - Chieti 98:36

Taranto celebrated a confident win over Chieti in the test clash. Gintare Petronyte (196-C-89) stepped up with 26 points to lead the winners.
Taranto gained full speed in the opening quarter. They recorded a 28:10 lead after ten minutes. Taranto increased the tempo and posted a 57:19 lead at the interval. Things were just getting worse for Chieti in the second half. Taranto accumulated 76:29 advantage going into the fourth period and never looked back en route to the victory. Megan Mahoney (183-F-83, agency: LBM Management, college: Kansas St.) recorded 20 points for Taranto. Nicole Antibe (187-C/F-74) added 16 points in the winning case. Pamela Rosanio (178-G/F-86, college: Massachusetts) answered with 12 points for Chieti. Natasha David (190-F/C-91, agency: Players Group) had 6 points in the loss.

Taranto: Gintare Petronyte 26, Megan Mahoney 20, Nicole Antibe 16
Chieti: Pamela Rosanio 12, Natasha David 6


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  JAPAN   


Welcome to WJBL 2012/2013 season - by Eurobasket News

The Regular Season in WJBL just started.

Mitsubishi K. - Aishin AW 83-57

Mitsubishi K. led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists comparing to just 7 passes made by Aishin Wings' players. International forward Chika Sakuragi (179-91) stepped up and scored 16 points and 8 rebounds for the winners and swingman Mitiko Miyamoto (175-86) chipped in 9 points, 10 rebounds and 6 assists. At the losing side power forward Shiyu Sato (178-87) responded with 13 points and forward Yuka Maeda (173-84) scored 6 points and 7 rebounds.
Top scorers:
Aishin AW: S.Sato 13+3reb+1ast, S.Ootaka 9+3reb+2ast, H.Takasaki 7+3reb, M.Yoshida 7+3reb+1ast, Y.Maeda 6+7reb+2ast, K.Hamaguti 6+5reb
Mitsubishi K.: C.Sakuragi 16+8reb+2ast, Y.Hashimoto 11+2reb+9ast, E.Wantsu 11+8reb, M.Kazama 10, M.Miyamoto 9+10reb+6ast, T.Matsushima 8+3ast
gschID: 182535


Toyota A. - JX Sunflowers 66-75

JX Sunflowers led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 60 of its points in the paint compared to Toyota A.'s 28. International point guard Asami Yoshida (165-87) nailed a double-double by scoring 26 points, 11 rebounds and 7 assists for the winning side and the former international power forward Ramu Tokashiki (191-91) accounted for 16 points and 6 rebounds. Four JX Sunflowers players scored in double figures. The former international forward Ryoko Yano (178-78) came up with 15 points and 5 assists and international guard Maya Kawahara (167-87) added 16 points respectively for Toyota A. in the defeat.
Top scorers:
Toyota A.: M.Kawahara 16+3reb+2ast, R.Yano 15+4reb+5ast, M.Binge 11+3reb, M.Kurihara 9+4reb+3ast, M.Ikeda 7+5reb+1ast, E.Kudeken 3+4reb+6ast
JX Sunflowers: A.Yoshida 26+11reb+7ast, R.Tokashiki 16+6reb, Y.Mamiya 13+4reb+3ast, A.Okamoto 10+3reb+2ast, C.Kibayashi 6+3reb+3ast, R.Takahashi 2+3reb+2ast
gschID: 182534



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  LITHUANIA   


Kibirkstis-VICI post win and draw against Belarusian teams - by Eurobasket News

Kibirkstis-VICI played two test games recently. They faced Belarusian Gorizont and Minsk-2006.
First Kibirkstis-VICI overcame Gorizont 58:54. The Belarusian team led by a single point after ten minutes of action 15:14. But the hosts surged ahead for a 25:24 halftime lead but Horizont returned the lead in the third quarter. However the hosts retained the lead in the final period and sealed the victory at the end. Celeste Trahan-Davis (184-C-85, agency: LBM Management, college: Elizabeth City) accounted for 16 points to lead the charge. Greta Sniokaite (180-G-91) added 11 points, while Mante Kvederaviciute (180-G-90) posted 10 points in the victory. Tatsiana Likhtarovich (179-G/F-88, agency: LBM Management) answered with 10 points for Gorizont.
Next Kibirkstis-VICI took on Minsk-2006. Tough game ended in a 66:66 draw. Kibirkstis-VICI surged ahead for a 26:14 lead after ten minutes. They maintained the advantage throughout the second quarter. Kibirkstis-VICI gained a 48:38 halftime lead. The teams entered the fourth frame with the Lithuanian side up by 9 points 59:50. However Minsk-2006 turned things around in the fourth frame and managed to level things up at 66 at the end of regulation. Celeste Trahan-Davis chipped in 13 points for Kibirkstis-VICI. Kristina Alminaite (204-C-90) contributed 12 points for the Lithuanian side.


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  NCAA1   


Shalonda Winton Cleveland State Senior, Potential Horizon League MVP and WNBA Draftee - by Vance Marbury

Shalonda Winton Cleveland State Senior, Potential Horizon League MVP and WNBA Draftee

Lets state the facts. Ms. Winton as a freshman averaged 6.1ppg, 4.8rpg, 1.0apg, while shooting 38.0% from the floor , 19.4% from the 3 point line, and , 65.8% from the free throw line. As a sophomore Shalonda averaged 12.5ppg, 9.1rpg, 3.2apg, 1.4spg, while shooting 46.2% from the field, 22.2% from the 3 point line, and 69.2% from the free throw line. As a junior Ms. Winton averaged 18.3ppg, 9.8rpg, 2.7apg, 1.8spg, 1.1bpg, while shooting 41.4% from the field, 32.8% from the 3 point line, 77.2 % from the free throw line.. During Shalonda Junior Year she was 1st Team All Horizon and Shalonda was on the All Horizon League Defensive 1st Team. Shalonda recorded her 1000th point of her career at Loyola last season. Shalonda Winton was the MVP of the 2011 and 2012 JT Focus Mgt. Cleveland Am Pro Women's Summer League.

Shalonda is a young lady with Superior Conditioning. Ms. Winton has a motor that is un-comparable to most ladies in the Horizon League and other Division I players around the country. Ms. Winton was the focal point of Cleveland St. offense last season, commanding double sometimes triple teams. Ms. Winton can also shoot with range, rebound exceptionally well, handle the rock, and be a hawk on defense. Lastly Shalonda works extremely hard to keep her craft sharp.

Is Shalonda ready for the WNBA? At Cleveland St. Shalonda is playing the 3 sometimes 4 position. Ms. Winton is definitely a natural 2 guard. Ms. Winton superior conditioning at times is a henderance at times because she has to learn how to change speeds against players who are superior athletes such as herself.

Off the court, Shalonda is a very down to earth, supporting young lady. She is very respectable, communicates in a positive manner, and is a leader in the local community.

In conclusion I believe without a doubt, Shalonda will be the best player in the Horizon League this season, Ms. Winton will be a great shooting guard in the WNBA, and maybe in a few years a WNBA All-Star. But for right now the WNBA has to wait, so Horizon League get your Box in 1's ready!!


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  TURKEY   


Mersin Cumhuriyet Cup tips off in Turkey - by Eurobasket News

Mersin Cumhuriyet Cup started in Turkey. Canik Belediye, TED Ankara and Homend Antakya celebrated victories in the openers.
Canik Belediye overcame Mersin 67:58 for the opening win. Tanja Cirov (181-G/F-81) stepped up with 24 points and 18 rebounds to lead the winners. Doneeka Hodges-Lewis (175-PG-82, agency: LBM Management, college: LSU) added 15 points for Canik Belediye. Mersin answered with 22 points, 6 boards and 4 assists from Bahar Ozturk (183-G/F-84, college: Connecticut). Oksana Zakalyuzhnaya (198-C-77) delivered 16 points and 11 rebounds in the loss.
TED Ankara shot down Edremit Bld. 72:65 in another battle. TED Ankara gained a 22:7 lead after ten minutes and never looked back en route to the victory. Ana Dabovic (183-G/F-89) accounted for 21 points to lead the winners. Mactabene Amachree (190-G-78, college: Abil.Christian) finished with 17 points for TED Ankara. Marina Solopova (180-G/F-90) responded with 15 points for Edremit Bld.
Homend Antakya cruised past Samsun 81:43. Jolene Anderson (175-SG-86, college: Wisconsin) stepped up with 17 points, while Lucie Bouthors (174-PG-88) added 13 points for the winning side. Rana Derin (175-G/F-92) responded with 11 points for Samsun.


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  WNBA   


Sun beat Liberty 65-60 In Playoff opener - by Eurobasket News

A double-digit lead had slowly whittled away and the Connecticut Sun, finding themselves tied with the New York Liberty late in the third quarter, used much of their roster to finally find some lasting separation Thursday night in their WNBA playoff opener.

Winning a championship isn't about being top-heavy. It's about having depth. And the Sun showed how many options they have while regrouping and cruising to a relatively easy 65-60 victory before 5,520 at Mohegan Sun Arena.

"We had a good run," coach Mike Thibault said of a 12-point burst to break a 45-all tie. "We were terrible in the third quarter. We missed layups. We missed jump shots. We gave them second shots. We made three or four stops and we had an advantage again. I'm happy with the effort but we need to play better."

Tan White created a turnover and fed Kara Lawson for a basket that gave the Sun a 47-45 lead, and later made another steal for an uncontested basket. The reserve guard gave a stale offense needed boosts. In between, there were key baskets by the ailing Asjha Jones (6'2''-PF-80, college: Connecticut), the veteran forward still recuperating from an Achilles injury, and Kara Lawson, the veteran guard.

"I'm getting stronger every day," Jones said.

Tina Charles (6'4''-C-88, agency: LBM Management, college: Connecticut), named the WNBA MVP in a pre-game press conference, led the Sun with 17 points, but the Sun didn't have to lean on her for every key play. In fact, she was on the bench for the 12-0 run. Jones, who had played just 17 combined minutes in her first two games back from injury, had 10 points and nine rebounds in 29 minutes.

Sitting next to Jones in a post-game press conference, Thibault said, "We've got a warrior here."

Allison Hightower (5'10''-G-88, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: LSU) had nine points, Lawson eight and Montgomery seven for the Sun, who led 27-13 in the first quarter but allowed the Liberty, now winless in four tries at Mohegan, to hang around.

Game 2 of the best-of-three semifinal series is Saturday in Newark, N.J. Game 3, if necessary, would be back at Mohegan Monday night. The Sun have not lost back-to-back games all season and have won four of five against the Liberty.

"They've got more scoring options than most teams, and they're hard to defend," Liberty coach John Whisenant said. "We gave ourselves a chance to win on their court, and they're the Eastern Conference champions. We did that shooting 26 percent and 21 percent from the three-point line So we're optimistic. We just didn't hit shots. Now, you've got to give them credit. They mixed defense and changed things up. But we haven't thrown in the towel yet."

The Liberty were 20-for-77 from the field and 5-for-23 on three-pointers. New York had a 44-39 rebounding edge and had 16 offensive rebounds. Cappie Pondexter (5'9''-G-83, college: Rutgers) had 14 points but was just 3-for-16 from the field. Plenette Pierson (6'2''-PF-81, college: Texas Tech) had 13 points and was 5-for-13. Still, the Liberty gave the Sun fits.

"As long as we keep building on this, we'll be fine," Charles said. "The way we came back, the way we were able to fight back and get that win [is a positive]. They kept us off the boards for a long time, but as long as we're able to correct that we'll be good."

This was a nice night for the Sun franchise. Before the game, Charles was named MVP the first Sun player to win the award. At the same press conference, Montgomery was named Sixth Woman of the Year and Lawson was honored with the league's sportsmanship award. Also, Mohegan Sun Arena was announced as the site for the 2013 All-Star Game the third time of the Sun have hosted (2005, 2009).

But the most important thing for the Sun was to take a small step toward an elusive first WNBA title, which looked like it would be easy when it was 27-13 in the first quarter. But Charles struggled to rebound she had none at halftime and three in the game and the Sun couldn't shake their rivals until it was absolutely necessary.

This was the Sun's first playoff win since 2008.

"It's the first playoff win for this group," Thibault said. "We'll take the win. We'll have to play better Saturday."

Courtesy of www.courant.com


Sparks beat Silver Stars 93-86 in playoff opener - by Eurobasket News

Kristi Toliver (5'7''-PG-87, college: Maryland) is one of the WNBA's best players. She also knows how to keep a secret.

Toliver tied her career high with 29 points, including the go-ahead free throws with 45 seconds remaining, and the Los Angeles Sparks beat the San Antonio Silver Stars 93-86 in the opening game of the Western Conference semifinals on Thursday night.

Toliver accepted the league's Most Improved Player award before the game a presentation that surprised teammate Candace Parker (6'4''-C-86, college: Tennessee).

"I want to put out there how upset I am that Kristi didn't tell me and I found out with the crowd," Parker quipped before adding, "It was a no-brainer. She put herself this season as one of the top players in the league."

Toliver defended herself, saying: "I found out in a call from the team president. She said, 'You can only tell your mommy and your daddy.' I follow directions."

"I want to be a great player and I know what it takes," she said. "I'm happy I'm on my way to becoming one of the top players in the league."

Parker, runner-up for the league's MVP award, added 25 points and Alana Beard had 18 for the second-seeded Sparks, who improved to 17-1 at home this season. The game was played at Galen Center, Southern California's home arena, because of a scheduling conflict at Staples Center.

Becky Hammon's (5'9''-PG-77, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Colorado St.) led the third-seeded Silver Stars with 19 points. Danielle Adams had 17 and Danielle Robinson finished with 16.

Game 2 is Saturday in San Antonio at Freeman Coliseum. The Silver Stars are being forced out of AT&T Center by a Red Hot Chili Peppers concert.

San Antonio won three of the teams' four regular-season meetings, with the Sparks winning the last one 101-77.

"We know we can beat this team," Adams said. "Our motivation is high. Our drive is high. The next two games are going to be very good."

The Sparks were helped by a 32-11 edge at the free throw line. Toliver made all 10 of her attempts, while Parker hit 7 of 8.

"It was kind of foul central at the end," Hammons said. "When you look at the free throw line, that's the game. We gave that one away. That's definitely a missed opportunity for us."

The Sparks dominated the final quarter after trailing through the first three periods. Jenna O'Hea's (6'1''-SF-87) basket gave them the lead early in the fourth as part of an 11-0 run that put the Sparks ahead 78-69.

The Silver Stars answered with a 9-2 run to tie it at 80.

From there, the Sparks closed on a 13-6 run, including 10 consecutive free throws. Toliver made two, Parker hit six in a row, and O'Hea had two to end the game.

"I've got to look at the tape and see why we fouled so much," San Antonio coach Dan Hughes said. "We fouled least in the WNBA this season.

"It's the first game I've ever coached Becky and Sophia (Young) where they didn't shoot a free throw."

The Silver Stars led by 10 points late in the third before the Sparks rallied to cut their deficit to 67-65 going into the fourth.

"We got a little undisciplined defensively," Hammons said. "They hit some tough shots. We didn't get to the free throw line much. We just didn't get awarded for the aggressiveness."

Parker sat out for a stretch in the third, and it wasn't to catch her breath.

"Coach was upset with me for my lack of rebounding and she should have been," she said. "I just wasn't boxing out."

The Silver Stars led 44-40 at the break behind 13 points by Adams, who helped them dominate the paint 26-14 in the half. Neither team led by more than five points, with the lead changing hands 15 times in the early going.

"We need to come out with more aggression and energy," Parker said. "We were kind of dead the first couple of quarters."

Clippers teammates Blake Griffin and DeAndre Jordan, along with Olympic 200-meter champion Allyson Felix, sat courtside for the Sparks' first playoff game since 2010. Former Sparks coach Michael Cooper was with his current USC women's players.

Courtesy of www.timesunion.com


Sun C Tina Charles wins WNBA MVP award - by Eurobasket News

Connecticut Sun center Tina Charles (6'4''-C-88, agency: LBM Management, college: Connecticut) is the WNBA's Most Valuable Player, easily topping Los Angeles forward Candace Parker (6'4''-C-86, college: Tennessee) in voting for the honor.

Charles received 25 first-place votes and 345 points overall from a panel of 41 sports writers and broadcasters, the league said Thursday. Parker had seven first-place votes and 253 points, and Indiana Fever forward Tamika Catchings - last season's winner - was third with 210.

In her third season, all with the Sun, Charles won her first MVP award after finishing second last year. She was the WNBA Rookie of the Year in 2010.

Charles won her third straight rebounding title at 10.5 per game. She also set the Sun's single-season scoring record with an average of 18 points and helped guide Connecticut (25-9) to the top playoff seed in the Eastern Conference.

Two Sun guards also were recognized by the league before Connecticut hosted a playoff game against New York on Thursday. Renee Montgomery is the WNBA's Sixth Woman Of the Year after averaging 11.6 points and Kara Lawson received the Kim Perrot Sportsmanship Award.

Courtesy of www.greenwichtime.com