Eurobasket Daily News Report: 1/23/2013 4:04:01 AM

EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 1/23/2013 4:04:01 AM

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Men News

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ABA

Gwizzlies roster moves - by Gianni Pascucci

Embry Malone , GM of the Georgia Gwizzlies, sent to Usbasket.com the last transactions made by his team: the Gwizzlies agreed to terms with few ballplayers. Nigerian Msoo Ikyaator (6'6''-F/C-85) will play starting February 15th week .Dejuan Flowers (6'7''-F-86, college: N.Dakota St.) and Rodney Williams (6'5''-G-88, college: W.Illinois) both NBA D-League draftees were added last week. Mercury Fiske (6'1''-G, college: Mitchell), a talented PG from Boston also was added. After starting the season 0-2 the team is now 4-4 with 16 more games to play before March playoffs start.

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AFRICAN CHAMPIONSHIPS

Somalia returns to the basketball scene with a huge win - by Kristian Santiago

As indicated in my previous post, Somalia's team which is currently making strides in Tanzania at the African Championship-qualifiers, has a lot of talent on the roster.
It became evident to fans, journalists and opponents after their "shocking" 81-79 winner over favorites Keny yesterday in Dar es Salaam.
Led by San Diego-based Abdi Faras (203) and Faisal Aden (193-G-89, college: Washington St.) who netted in 26 and 20 for the war-torn country, the Kenyans were simply suprised early on with a 19-9 run in the first quarter and even though they managed to bounce back a bit to win the second quarter 26-21 and the third with 28-20, Somalia returned back at the right moment to win the last quarter 21-16 and managed to clinch the "W" at the end of the day. Burundi is up next for Somalia, and with a possible win, the chances increase to clinch a spot in the African Championships in the Ivory Coast this year. The last time Somalia participated in the major continental event was back in 1983.

Somali Roster in Tanzania

1. Faisal Aden (Texas Legends)
2. Abdi Faras (Barstow Community College)
3. Mohammed Abukar (208-F-85, college: San Diego St.) (Lukoil Akademik Sofia)
4. Munye Sufi Haydar (Ohio State - Marion)
5. Osman Abdirahman
6. Osman Mohamed (Guelph College)
7. Hussein Mahdi
8. Liban Hassan (Centennial College)
9. Hoessein Addow (205-F-70, agency: R.H.Consultancy) (Rotterdam Challengers)
10. Yusuf Qaafow (190-G-87) (Melbourne Giants)
11. Abdi Mohamed (Yakima Valley Community College)
12. Mohmed Ali

Egypt routs Rwanda 95-57 in Zone V-opener - by Kristian Santiago

Zone V-powerhouse Egypt showed no mercy with Rwanda and beat them by almost 40 points. In other games on the first day in Dar es Salaam, Burundi bowed to Kenya 63-71 and Uganda outplayed the hosts Tanzania 80-66. Here are the first two available rosters from the qualifiers for the African Championships:

Rwanda

Aboubakar Barame (181-G-84)
Brad Cameron (193-G)
Kenny Wilson (193-G-84, college: Boise St.)
Jean Habineza (192-F-83)
Lionel Hakizimana (92)
Kami Kabangu (203-C-84)
Valery Kajeguhakwa (191-G-82)
Aristide Mugabe (183-PG-88)
Olivier Muhizi (198-F-88)
Daniel Rugamba (195-F-87, college: Seattle CC)
Olivier Shyaka
Thierry Sukusuku (194-F-89)

Uganda

Ben Komakech
Ivan Enabu (182-G)
Joseph Ikong (193)
Ronnie Kasewu (199-F)
Jimmy Enabu (183-G-88)
Steven Omony (198-G/F-79)
Norman Blick (201-F-83)
Peter Elugant
Henry Malinga (193-F)
Sam Gomboye (213-C)
Geoffrey Soro
Ivan Lumanyika

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APBL

Avengers Assemble! - by Justin Moore

In a move that has excited THE APBL and amped up The Southern Conference the legendary Alexandria Avengers have come on board to help bring balance to The South. With the departure of The West Virginia Monarchs, the Avengers have assumed The Monarchs place. The Avengers have put together an arsenal of talented players from the DMV led by Dominic Manuel the Alexandria Avengers were the first EBA franchise in the DMV area and in many ways gave new franchises a model to go by Stated " Manuel its great to be back and to give the young guys a chance to play" Dominic Manuel ,Justin Moore (5'9''-G-80, college: St.Augustine) and Daryl Owens (6'2''-G-76, college: Nova CC) were the guys who started The Avengers as young men looking to bring family fun to the City of Alexandria and were very successful in doing so.The Avengers will spring into action on January 27th 2013 vs The Metro All - Stars. For more info contact info@theapbl.com.

NYC Jaguars Making Moves! - by Justin Moore

With a slow start into their season, The New York City Jaguars of the American Professional Basketball League are glad to announce that they will be continuing there mission and will have there "APBL's 1st Annual Pro Basketball Tour" to the Dominican Republic in April Led by point guard Roman Perez (6'1''-G-86, college: City Tech) the Jaguars are looking to help players get looked at by Leagues and Clubs owners from different cities in this Country. This is a great oppurtunity for players to make connection, get experience/film and live the experience of playing Overseas. For more information on how to be part of this Tour, please Contact Mr. Dejesus Baez at nyc_jaguars@hotmail.com. Please have your Bio and Information ready for approval for this Tour.

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ARGENTINA

All-Star Game takes place in Mar del Plata - by Eurobasket News

The 25th edition of traditional All-Star Game took place in Mar del Plata. Import All-Stars claimed a 113:99 victory over the Argentinean selection. David Jackson (196-G-82, college: Penn St.) scored 30 points to be named the MVP.
It was an exciting close game. Imports selection led by two points after the starting quarter 28:26. They boosted the gap at 4-point mark at halftime 54:50. Argentinean selection got within a single point 80:81 at the third break. However the imports went on a decisive run in the fourth term to seal the victory. John DeGroat (198-F-85, college: Pittsburgh) scored 15 points, while Joshua Pittman (195-F-76, agency: Dream Team Management, college: NC-Asheville) added 14 points for the winners. Leonardo Gutierrez (201-F/C-78) answered with 20 points for Argentina. Juan Gutierrez (205-F/C-83) contributed 15 points in defeat.
The All-Star Game was preceded by the traditional contests. The duo of Bruno Labaque (180-PG-77, agency: Interperformances) and Juan Espil (194-G-68) celebrated the victory at the Three-Point Shootout Contest.
Tayavek Gallizi claimed the Slam Dunk Contest crown.

John A. Thomas joins San Lorenzo Chivilcoy, ex Bauru - by Eurobasket News

San Lorenzo Chivilcoy (TNA) agreed terms with American swingman John A. Thomas (198-102kg-82, college: Columbus State). He played last summer at Paschoalotto/Bauru in Brazilian NBB league. In 20 games he had 9.3ppg, 4.5rpg and 1.2apg. Thomas also played at Tomas de Rocamora that season.
Thomas is quite experienced player. He has played also professionally in Chile (Universidad Catolica and Prov.Llanquihue), Finland (Componenta), Germany, Holland, Luxembourg, Mexico (Panteras), Uruguay, Venezuela (Lanc.Cojedes), Peru (Regatas) and WBA (Marietta S.).
Thomas attended Columbus State until 2004 and it will be his ninth season as a professional player.
On Thomas: An atletic forward who runs the court well and plays with great energy... can create his shot and goes well 1-on-1 in the paint ....his outside - inside dimension make him a good import player for international level of competition.

By Eurobasket Data Center

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ASEAN LEAGUE

Standings

O Standings

1. KL Dragons			2-1
2. Saigon H.			2-1
3. Petron Blaze			1-0
4. Singapore S.			1-0
5. Satria Muda			1-2
6. Thailand S.			0-3

Regular Season: Round 3

Jan. 22: Satria Muda - KL Dragons 68-67
Jan. 25: Thailand S. - Singapore S.
Jan. 26: Saigon H. - Petron Blaze
Jan. 29: Singapore S. - Satria Muda

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BALKAN LEAGUE

Standings

Balkan League Standings

Group C
1. Levski Sofia			3-0
2. Kumanovo			3-0
3. Galil Gilboa			2-0
4. Kavala			2-0
5. Rilski Sportist			2-1
6. Teodo Tivat			2-1
Group D
1. Djuro Djakovic			1-0
2. Kozuv			1-0
3. Mornar Bar			0-1
4. OKK Beograd			0-1

Stage One Standings

Second Stage: Round 1

First Six

Jan. 22: Levski Sofia - Rilski Sportist 84-62
Jan. 22: Teodo Tivat - Kumanovo 79-95
Jan. 23: Galil Gilboa - Kavala

Last Four

Jan. 29: Kozuv - Mornar Bar
Jan. 30: OKK Beograd - Djuro Djakovic

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BALTIC LEAGUE

Standings - Men

Baltic League Standings

Group E
1. Barons kvartals			2-0
2. Ventspils			1-1
3. Lietkabelis			1-1
4. Parnu			0-2
Group F
1. Kalev/Cramo			1-0
2. Rudupis			1-0
3. Jelgava			0-1
4. Naglis Palangos			0-1
Group G
1. Tarvas			3-0
2. Juventus			1-0
3. Pieno Zvaigzdes			1-1
4. Barsy Atyrau			0-4
Group H
1. TU/Rock			2-0
2. Valmiera			2-0
3. Siauliai			1-2
4. Sakalai			0-3

Stage One Standings

Top 16: Round 3

Jan. 16: Tarvas - Barsy Atyrau 96-75
Jan. 22: Siauliai - Sakalai 90-73
Jan. 22: Parnu - Barons kvartals 52-61
Jan. 18: Tarvas - Barsy Atyrau 103-84
Jan. 23: Rudupis - Naglis Palangos
Jan. 23: Kalev/Cramo - Jelgava

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Rain RAADIK
  Parnu
  (208-C-89)
  Avg: 18.9

1. Raadik, Parnu	18.9
2. Gulbis, Barons k.	18.5
3. Tamm, Tarvas	17.9
4. Okoye, Tln Kalev	17.4
5. Orelikas, Rudupis	16.6
6. Akenparg, TTU	15.9
7. Berzins, Valmiera	14.9
8. Leonard, Juventus	14.6
9. Wilkinson, Kalev/C.	14.3
10. Fredrick, Barsy A.	13.9

Rebounds Per Game

Rain RAADIK
  Parnu
  (208-C-89)
  Avg: 12

1. Raadik, Parnu	12.0
2. Okoye, Tln Kalev	9.9
3. Berzins, Valmiera	8.0
4. Zelionis, Barsy A.	7.5
5. Matyukevych, Bars.	7.3
6. Cipruss, Lietkabel.	7.2
7. Fall, Kalev/Cramo	7.2
8. Keedus, TTU	7.1
9. Timma, Ventspils	6.9
10. Bishop, Nevezis	6.9

Assists Per Game

Zygimantas JANAVICIUS
  Rudupis
  (192-G-89)
  Avg: 5.7

1. Janavicius, Rudupis	5.7
2. Peciukeviciu., Par.	5.5
3. Campbell, Tln Kalev	5.0
4. Gintvainis, Sakalai	4.8
5. Maceina, Pieno Z.	4.8
6. Tamm, Tarvas	4.4
7. Cunda, Valga	4.2
8. Viskontas, Juvent.	4.2
9. Leonard, Juventus	4.0
10. Dambrauskas, Saka.	3.8

Steals Per Game

TreVon HUGHES
  Pieno Z.
  (183-PG-87)
  Avg: 2.6

1. Hughes, Pieno Z.	2.6
2. Brown, Naglis P.	2.2
3. Janavicius, Rudupis	2.1
4. Laane, Rapla	2.1
5. Kanbergs, Jelgava	2.1
6. Berzins, Valmiera	1.9
7. Tamm, Tarvas	1.9
8. Leppik, TU/Rock	1.8
9. Sims, Ventspils	1.8
10. Mockevicius, Nagl.	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Bamba FALL
  Kalev/Cramo
  (217-C-86)
  Avg: 2.3

1. Fall, Kalev/Cramo	2.3
2. Petrukonis, Juven.	1.7
3. Silinskis, Nevezis	1.6
4. Rozitis, Barons k.	1.6
5. Kupsas, Lietkabelis	1.4
6. Gates, Pieno Z.	0.9
7. Zyle, Nevezis	0.9
8. Valeika, Rudupis	0.9
9. Meiers, Ventspils	0.9
10. Cipruss, Lietkabe.	0.8

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BELARUS

Standings - Premier League

Premier Standings

1. Grodno-93		15-0
2. Sozh Gomel		12-4
3. Rubon		8-7
4. Tsmoki-Minsk II		7-9
5. Impuls BGUIR		6-9
6. Svisloch		4-11
7. Borisfen		2-14
Play in international cups:
1. Tsmoki-Minsk		-

Regular Season: Round 18

Jan. 22: Impuls BGUIR - Sozh Gomel 85-79
Jan. 22: Grodno-93 - Tsmoki-Minsk II 84-73
Jan. 22: Rubon - Borisfen 55-69

Regular Season: Round 19

Jan. 25: Impuls BGUIR - Rubon
Jan. 25: Grodno-93 - Svisloch
Jan. 25: Borisfen - Sozh Gomel

Stats Leaders - Premier League

Points Per Game

Kiril SITNIK
  Sozh Gomel
  (190-G-89)
  Avg: 22.1

1. Sitnik, Sozh Gomel	22.1
2. Rutkauskas, Tsmok.	21.5
3. Miakinin, Sozh Gom.	18.5
4. Zakhar, Impuls B.	16.9
5. Semianiuk, Tsmoki.	15.4
6. Shustau, Svisloch	15.0
7. Akulich, Rubon	14.1
8. Sugonyako, Tsmoki.	13.6
9. Mishukov, Grodn.	13.5
10. Sivalko, Rubon	13.3

Rebounds Per Game

Ronaldas RUTKAUSKAS
  Tsmoki.
  (203-F-92)
  Avg: 10.2

1. Rutkauskas, Tsmok.	10.2
2. Dadukin, Sozh G.	10.1
3. Semianiuk, Tsmoki.	9.1
4. Zakhar, Impuls B.	9.1
5. Ilyukevich, Rubon	6.8
6. Sharamet, Borisfen	6.4
7. Mishukov, Grodn.	6.1
8. Sharipov, Svisloch	6.0
9. Sugonyako, Tsmoki.	5.9
10. Kuzmin, Grodno-93	5.9

Assists Per Game

Siarhei CHARYKAU
  Sozh G.
  (185-PG-82)
  Avg: 7.1

1. Charykau, Sozh G.	7.1
2. Ignatchik, Tsmoki.	5.5
3. Shustau, Svisloch	5.3
4. Akulich, Rubon	5.1
5. Kuzmin, Grodno-93	4.7
6. Kamarunas, Svisl.	4.2
7. Sitnik, Sozh Gomel	3.4
8. Kryukov, Borisfen	3.2
9. Dadukin, Sozh G.	2.9
10. Sapegin, Rubon	2.9

Steals Per Game

Dmitri AKULICH
  Rubon
  (190-G-86)
  Avg: 3.4

1. Akulich, Rubon	3.4
2. Zakhar, Impuls B.	2.5
3. Malkov, Grodno-93	2.5
4. Charykau, Sozh G.	2.4
5. Sitnik, Sozh Gomel	2.3
6. Tatur, Borisfen	2.2
7. Shustau, Svisloch	2.2
8. Volodkin, Impuls B.	2.1
9. Charko, Grodno-93	2.0
10. Ignatchik, Tsmoki.	2.0

Blocks Per Game

Dzmitry KUZMIN
  Grodno-93
  (196-G-75)
  Avg: 0

1. Kuzmin, Grodno-93	0.0
2. Aheyenka, Borisfen	0.0
3. Kurapau, Tsmoki.	0.0
4. Yafremov, Grodn.	0.0
5. Kryukov, Borisfen	0.0
6. Viaroukin, Sozh Go.	0.0
7. Krisevich, Tsmoki.	0.0
8. Vashkevich, Tsmoki.	0.0
9. Korzh, Grodno-93	0.0
10. Tatur, Borisfen	0.0

Belarusian Premier League round 18 best performance: Artsiom Sharamet - by Eurobasket News

Center Artsiom Sharamet (207-C-93) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Borisfen, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 18.
The 19-year old player had a double-double of 21 points and 12 rebounds, while his team beat Rubon (#3, 8-7) 69-55. Borisfen maintains the 7th position in Belarusian Premier League. Too late to salvage the team, which is currently ranked such low. They already lost 14 games and recorded just two victories. It was one of impressive evenings for Sharamet as usually he does not deliver so high stats. Artsiom Sharamet has solid league stats. He is in league's top in rebounds (6th best: 6.4rpg).

The second best player in last round's games was young Henadziy Zakhar (198-SF-92) of Impuls BGUIR. Zakhar had a very good evening with 25 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists. It was enough for Impuls BGUIR to edge the higher-ranked Sozh Gomel (#2, 12-4) 85-79. Impuls BGUIR's 5th position in the standings has not changed. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 6-9 record. Zakhar is one of the most experienced players at Impuls BGUIR and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 16.9ppg (#4). He also registered 9.1 boards per game.

Third on the list of top players last round was Lithuanian guard Vytautas Kamarunas (179-PG-89) of Tsmoki-Minsk II (#4). Kamarunas scored 26 points and grabbed six rebounds. Despite Kamarunas' great performance Tsmoki-Minsk II lost 73-84 to #1 ranked Grodno-93. But his team cannot count on just a single shooter as he also needs help of the other teammates especially in such crucial game. The chances of Tsmoki-Minsk II ranking at the top of the league, however are very questionable as they have already lost 9 games, recording just seven victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Kamarunas could help Tsmoki-Minsk II to bring them higher in the standings. Kamarunas has a great season in Belarus. After only 2 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in assists with 6.5apg (6th best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Artem Malkov (185-PG-88) of Grodno-93 - 17 points and 7 rebounds
5. Kiril Volodkin (190-G-91) of Impuls BGUIR - 15 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists
6. Anton Indrikov (193-G-87) of Rubon - 23 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Yauheni Beliankou (197-SF-95) of Tsmoki-Minsk II - 12 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists
8. Uladzimir Charko (200-F/G-74) of Grodno-93 - 15 points, 2 rebounds and 5 assists
9. Yuriy Ignatiev (198-F-91) of Impuls BGUIR - 10 points and 9 rebounds
10. Aliaksandr Semianiuk (207-F-93) of Tsmoki-Minsk II - 12 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists

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

Premier League Round 18: Sozh Gomel is defeated by Impuls BGUIR - by Eurobasket News

The most important game in the last round took place in Minsk between second ranked Sozh Gomel (12-4) and fifth ranked Impuls BGUIR (6-9) on Tuesday night. Sozh Gomel was defeated by Impuls BGUIR in a tough game on the road 79-85. The hosts trailed by 9 points after first quarter, but they rallied back and won the game by 6 points. Impuls BGUIR forced 23 Sozh Gomel turnovers. 24 personal fouls committed by Sozh Gomel helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Henadziy Zakhar (198-92) scored 25 points and 7 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and guard Kiril Volodkin (190-91) chipped in 15 points and 6 rebounds during the contest. The best for the losing side was Ukrainian power forward Sergei Miakinin (206-86) with 19 points. Sozh Gomel's coach Andrey Chvankov rotated eleven players in this game, but that didn't help. Impuls BGUIR have a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain fifth position with 6-9 record. Sozh Gomel at the other side keeps the second place with four games lost. Impuls BGUIR are looking forward to face higher ranked Rubon (#3) in Vitebsk in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Sozh Gomel will play on the road against Borisfen in Mogilev and is hoping to win this game.
Very important is a home loss of third ranked Rubon (8-7) against seventh ranked Borisfen (2-14) on Tuesday night. Host Rubon was defeated by Borisfen in Vitebsk 69-55. Center Artsiom Sharamet (207-93) notched a double-double by scoring 21 points and 12 rebounds to lead the effort and Andrei Aheyenka supported him with 14 points. Borisfen's coach Rostislav Vergun allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Even 23 points and 6 rebounds by Russian guard Anton Indrikov (193-87) did not help to save the game for Rubon. Newly promoted Borisfen maintains seventh position with 2-14 record. Rubon lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the third place with seven games lost. Borisfen will play against league's second-placed Sozh Gomel at home in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Rubon will play against Impuls BGUIR in Minsk and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Very significant was Grodno-93's (#1, 15-0) victory against 4th ranked Tsmoki-Minsk II (7-9) 84-73. Undefeated Grodno-93 (15-0) have an impressive 15-game winning streak. They maintain first position with a perfect record of 15 victories in a row. Loser Tsmoki-Minsk II keeps the fourth place with nine games lost. Grodno-93 will meet at home Svisloch (#6) in the next round where they are favorite. Tsmoki-Minsk II will have a break next round.

Impuls BGUIR - Sozh Gomel 85-79

The most important game in the last round took place in Minsk between second ranked Sozh Gomel (12-4) and fifth ranked Impuls BGUIR (6-9) on Tuesday night. Sozh Gomel was defeated by Impuls BGUIR in a tough game on the road 79-85. The hosts trailed by 9 points after first quarter, but they rallied back and won the game by 6 points. Impuls BGUIR forced 23 Sozh Gomel turnovers. 24 personal fouls committed by Sozh Gomel helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Henadziy Zakhar (198-92) scored 25 points and 7 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and guard Kiril Volodkin (190-91) chipped in 15 points and 6 rebounds during the contest. The best for the losing side was Ukrainian power forward Sergei Miakinin (206-86) with 19 points and guard Kiril Sitnik (190-89) scored 14 points and 5 rebounds. Sozh Gomel's coach Andrey Chvankov rotated eleven players in this game, but that didn't help. Impuls BGUIR have a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain fifth position with 6-9 record. Sozh Gomel at the other side keeps the second place with four games lost. Impuls BGUIR are looking forward to face higher ranked Rubon (#3) in Vitebsk in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Sozh Gomel will play on the road against Borisfen in Mogilev and is hoping to win this game.
Top scorers:
Impuls BGUIR: H.Zakhar 25+7reb+3ast, K.Volodkin 15+6reb+2ast, Y.Ignatiev 10+9reb+1ast, D.Azaare 8+2reb, A.Papruha 7+6reb+3ast, A.Matveyeu 6+3reb
Sozh Gomel: S.Miakinin 19+4reb, K.Sitnik 14+5reb+2ast, D.Khodov 9+4reb, I.Kaliayev 9+6reb, S.Dadukin 9+8reb+1ast, M.Ozhegov 7+2reb+1ast

Rubon - Borisfen 55-69

Very important is a home loss of third ranked Rubon (8-7) against seventh ranked Borisfen (2-14) on Tuesday night. Host Rubon was defeated by Borisfen in Vitebsk 69-55. Rubon was tied at the half but could not keep up in last two quarters eventually losing the game. Borisfen forced 22 Rubon turnovers. Center Artsiom Sharamet (207-93) notched a double-double by scoring 21 points and 12 rebounds to lead the effort and Andrei Aheyenka (194-92) supported him with 14 points. Borisfen's coach Rostislav Vergun allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Even 23 points and 6 rebounds by Russian guard Anton Indrikov (193-87) did not help to save the game for Rubon. Latvian center Zintis Plivda (206-88) added 7 points and 9 rebounds. Newly promoted Borisfen maintains seventh position with 2-14 record. Rubon lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the third place with seven games lost. Borisfen will play against league's second-placed Sozh Gomel at home in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Rubon will play against Impuls BGUIR in Minsk and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Borisfen: A.Sharamet 21+12reb, V.Haidukevich 15+4reb, A.Aheyenka 14+4reb+3ast, S.Tatur 8+5reb+2ast, F.Kryukov 6+3reb+6ast, E.Kopylov 3+6reb+3ast
Rubon: A.Indrikov 23+6reb+2ast, Y.Patupchyk 8+2reb+1ast, Z.Plivda 7+9reb+1ast, A.Kachan 6+1reb+2ast, S.Sapegin 5+6reb+5ast, A.Dziarzhautsau 4+2reb

Grodno-93 - Tsmoki-Minsk II 84-73

Very significant was Grodno-93's (#1, 15-0) victory against 4th ranked Tsmoki-Minsk II (7-9) 84-73. The hosts trailed by 5 points after three quarters before their 36-20 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Grodno-93 (15-0) have an impressive 15-game winning streak. They maintain first position with a perfect record of 15 victories in a row. Loser Tsmoki-Minsk II keeps the fourth place with nine games lost. Grodno-93 will meet at home Svisloch (#6) in the next round where they are favorite. Tsmoki-Minsk II will have a break next round.

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BELGIUM

Division II - Round Nineteen - by Bert Larsimont

Three Division II games scheduled last Sunday have been postponed due to bad weather in Belgium.
Unplayed games will be rescheduled and new dates shall be fixed soon.

Essor Charleroi (Spirou B) vs. Excelsior Brussels (postpoend)

Gembo BBC vs. Cuva Houthalen (postponed)

Port of Antwerp Giants II vs. Gent Dragons (postponed)

BasKet Tongeren vs. Sint-Jan Antwerp: 84-88

Great game for Brett Hartshorne (199-C/F-92) and Naim El Khounchar (193-G-94) who hit crucial shots from long range for Sint-Jan. One player also had a fantastic game on the losing side: Karim Doukmani (178-G-83) who scored 22 points for BK Tongeren. The first half was well-balanced but Naim El Khounchar showed the way to his mates just after the break: 56-65 on the scoreboard after 30 minutes. Martijn Hendrix (183-G-86) and Dean Dillen (210-C-88) worked hard in the final minutes of the game but the Jantjes never seemed to panic and eventually won the game with a 4-point margin. The Jantjes now share second rank with Cuva Houthalen and BBC Gembo (but both teams have had their game postponed last weekend) in the 2012-13 Division II competition.
Score evolution: 21-19, 37-39, 56-65 and 84-88.
Boxscores:

BK Tongeren: J. Van Hoecke 9, M. Hendrix 16, K. Doukmani 22, J. Delva 9, P. Pipeleers 7, H. Baert 8, D. Dillen 12, J. Moonen 2, J. Eskens 2.
Sint-Jan: B. Hartshorne 21, V. Verbeeck 9, B. Raes 3, N. El Khounchar 18, A. Druwez 10, S. Geukens 16, L. Anthonis 2, V. Kesteloot 5, M. Brown 4.

CEP Fleurus vs. BBC Haantjes Oudenaarde: 94-84

It felt good for the CEP supporters to see their team win again. It was nevertheless far from being easy for the home team last Friday. The Haantjes, led by a very proactive Mikhail Linskens (213-C-87, agency: R.H.Consultancy, college: Wyoming) who was challenged several times in the paint by hardworking CEP center Sead Muric (205-C-81), remained very close during more than 30 minutes. Important three-pointers by Thomas Bauwens (192-F-86) (3 in a row) and a great presence in offense by Louis Hazard (199-F-94) and Christian Ilongo (194-F-85, agency: Promotex) allowed the men of coach Paul Vervaeck to take a decisive lead in the last quarter. CEP F stayed up front and last efforts by Guy Decleer's Haantjes were not enough for a comeback.
Score evolution: 22-23, 47-46, 67-68 and 94-84.
Boxscores:
CEP F: A. Marion 4, C. Manzanza 8, L. Pourtoit 9, T. Bauwens 13, L. Hazard 23, S. Muric 10, C. Ilongo 27.
Haantjes: G. Delepeleire 4, J. Bourdeaux 2, J. Salumu 14, G. Mestdag 9, M. Linskens 26, L. Lhote 13, M. Brysse 16.

Kangoeroes Boom vs. Point Chaud Sprimont: 90-73

After two losses in a row, the men of Kabo's coach Tom Poppe reacted well and left almost no chance to their opponents of Point Chaud Sprimont. Without being particularly brilliant, the Kangoeroes led by Dieter Souveryns (193-F/G-83) who scored 21 points digged a large gap especially in the third quarter. This was enough for the home team to win the game. Due to the several game postponements because of bad weather conditions last Sunday and thanks to the success against the Greens of Sprimont last Saturday, Kangoeroes Boom is Number One in the competition again.
Score evolution: 28-15, 50-36, 73-59 and 92-73.
Boxscores:

Kangoeroes: W. Van Schil 16, W. Dobbelaere 14, M. Gorremans 14, A. Mollekens 9, D. Dhaens 10, S. Bellin 9, D. Souveryns 21.
PC Sprimont: N/A

Belfius Mons Hainaut II vs. Bent Schoenen Waregem: 83-72

The great work done by Belfius coach Patrick Verdun pays off again. His young Foxes recorded again a nice win at the mons.arena. The names of Stan Naudts (195-F-86) and Lars Delepeleire (175-G-91) did not appear on the BS Waregem's roster last Friday. The team of coach Sven Declercq will host CEP Fleurus at the Sportcentrum De Treffer in Waregem next Sunday (17:00) and the young Foxes will face the Dragons at the Tolhuis in Ghent next Saturday evening.
Score evolution: 25-17, 53-38, 69-50 and 83-72.
Boxscores:

Mons Hainaut II: N/A
BS Waregem: A. Steinbach 12, B. Samaey 21, H. Loontiens 5, O. Foucart 10, T. Foucart 17, S. Dhondt 2, A. Gueye 5.

Eurocup Finals - by Peter Buyse

Despite not having any teams left in the Eurocup this season, Belgian fans will still be able to watch the finals of the 2012-2013 Eurocup season in their own.
Belgian team Belgacom Spirou Charleroi earned the right to the 2012-2013 and 2013-2014 Eurocup finals to be hosted in the RTL Spiroudome in Charleroi.
The 6000 seat arena has seen already 4 finals in the past when the competition was still called the ULEB Cup with champions such as Hapoel Migdal Jerusalem in 2004, Lietuvos Rytas in 2005, Dynamo Moscow in 2006 and Real Madrid in 2007.
Since its name change to Eurocup the second highest level of European basketball has also seen plenty of big name winners such as Khimki in 2012, Unics Kazan, Valencia, Lietuvos Rytas and Joventut. The final takes place on Saturday April 13th.

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BOSNIA

Popovic's double-double lands him Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News

31-year old center Novak Popovic (207-C-81) had a great game in the last round for second-ranked Capljina and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 14.
He had a double-double of 24 points and 10 rebounds, while his team crushed Zrinjski HT (#12, 5-9) with 23-point margin 83-60. Capljina is placed at 2nd position in Bosnia and Herzegovina league. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Capljina will need more victories to improve their 10-4 record. Popovic turned to be Capljina's top player in his first season with the team. Novak Popovic averages this season 15.8ppg and 5.1rpg.

Second best performed player last round was Nebojsa Pavlovic (200-SG-87) of Borac Nektar. He is a guard in his first season at Borac Nektar. In the last game Pavlovic recorded impressive double-double of 21 points and 16 rebounds. It was enough for Borac Nektar to edge the lower-ranked Servitium (#10, 5-9) by 6 points 70-64. Borac Nektar's 5th position in the standings has not changed. His team lost some distance to top teams. But 7-7 record is not bad and everything may still change. Pavlovic is a newcomer at Borac Nektar and quickly became one of team's most reliable players.

Third place about best performers goes to another Capljina's star - guard Krsto Bjelica (192-G-88). Bjelica showcased his all-around game by recording 17 points, five rebounds and eight assists in the last round. He was another key player of Capljina, helping his team with a 83-60 easy win against the lower-ranked Zrinjski HT (#12, 5-9). Capljina needs these victories very badly if they think about taking over top position in the standings. Their record at this point is 10 victories and 4 lost games. Bjelica has a great season in Bosnia. After 12 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 16.7ppg (9th best). He also has 2.3spg and FGP: 58.1%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Marko Josilo (201-G-92) of Varda HE - 15 points and 18 rebounds
5. Amin Hot (192-G-92) of Vogosca - 26 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists
6. Boris Lalovic (209-C-81) of Zrinjski HT - 21 points and 10 rebounds
7. Damjan Stojkanovic (203-C/F-91) of Servitium - 20 points and 7 rebounds
8. Ramo Rizvic (200-F-87) of Bosna - 20 points and 8 rebounds
9. Nermin Buza (206-F/C-91) of Bosna - 16 points and 4 rebounds
10. Vladimir Aleksic (198-F-87) of Leotar - 23 points and 7 rebounds

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

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BRAZIL

Standings - BNL

NBB Standings

1. Flamengo		15-0
2. Uberlandia		11-4
3. Franca		11-5
4. Brasilia		10-4
5. Pinheiros/Sky		10-5
6. S.Jose/Unimed		10-6
7. Bauru		9-5
8. Basquete Cearense		8-7
9. Paulistano		8-7
10. Liga Sorocaba		7-8
11. Minas		7-8
12. Joinville		6-9
13. Limeira		6-9
14. Vila Velha		5-10
15. Mogi das Cruzes		5-10
16. Suzano		3-12
17. Palmeiras		2-13
18. Tijuca TC		2-13

Regular Season: Round 17

Jan. 24: Tijuca TC - Pinheiros/Sky
Jan. 24: Brasilia - Mogi das Cruzes
Jan. 24: Uberlandia - Franca
Jan. 24: Basquete Cearense - S.Jose/Unimed
Jan. 24: Bauru - Vila Velha
Jan. 24: Liga Sorocaba - Minas
Jan. 24: Flamengo - Paulistano
Jan. 24: Limeira - Suzano
Jan. 24: Joinville - Palmeiras

Round 2

Jan. 21: Minas - Flamengo 90-105

Round 6

Jan. 21: Brasilia - Liga Sorocaba 86-75

Stats Leaders - BNL

Points Per Game

Marquinhos VIEIRA
  Flamengo
  (207-F-84)
  Avg: 22.5

1. Vieira, Flamengo	22.5
2. Boracini, Pinheiro.	20.2
3. Holloway, Liga S.	20.1
4. Antonio, S.Jose/U.	19.5
5. Giovannoni, Brasil.	19.3
6. Simmons, Vila Velha	19.3
7. Day, Uberlandia	18.9
8. Dos Santos, Brasil.	18.7
9. Brown, Palmeiras	17.9
10. Nardi Duarte, Min.	17.5

Rebounds Per Game

Olivinha RODRIGUEZ
  Flame.
  (202-F-83)
  Avg: 9.6

1. Rodriguez, Flame.	9.6
2. Giovannoni, Brasil.	8.8
3. Ribeiro, Basque.	8.8
4. Araujo, Mogi d.	8.7
5. Agba, Bauru	7.9
6. Castellar, Limeira	7.9
7. Antonio, S.Jose/U.	7.6
8. Teichmann, Franca	7.5
9. Costa, S.Jose/U.	7.5
10. Toyloy, Paulistano	7.0

Assists Per Game

Fulvio DE ASSIS
  S.Jose/U.
  (187-G-81)
  Avg: 8.8

1. de Assis, S.Jose/U.	8.8
2. Dos Santos, Brasil.	6.1
3. Garcia, Uberlandia	5.4
4. Dawkins, Liga S.	5.4
5. Boracini, Pinheiro.	5.3
6. Pinheiro, Vila Vel.	4.9
7. Smith, Pinheiro.	4.9
8. Collum, Uberlandia	4.7
9. Lima, Limeira	4.7
10. Campos, Suzano	4.6

Steals Per Game

Vitor BENITE
  Flamengo
  (190-F/G-90)
  Avg: 0.2

1. Benite, Flamengo	0.2
2. Ribeiro, Brasilia	0.2
3. Froehlich, Franca	0.2
4. Boracini, Pinheiro.	0.2
5. Stallworth, Pinhei.	0.2
6. Luz dos Sant., Fra.	0.2
7. Giovannoni, Brasil.	0.2
8. Collum, Uberlandia	0.1
9. Lima, Limeira	0.1
10. Machado, Flamengo	0.1

Blocks Per Game

Kenny DAWKINS
  Liga S.
  (175-G-87)
  Avg: 2.3

1. Dawkins, Liga S.	2.3
2. Neto, Liga Soroca.	2.3
3. Campos, Suzano	2.3
4. de Assis, S.Jose/U.	2.2
5. Figueroa, Franca	2.1
6. Nardi Duarte, Min.	2.0
7. Simmons, Vila Velha	1.9
8. Boracini, Pinheiro.	1.8
9. Vieira, Flamengo	1.7
10. Lima, Limeira	1.7

John A. Thomas joins San Lorenzo Chivilcoy, ex Bauru - by Eurobasket News

San Lorenzo Chivilcoy (TNA) agreed terms with American swingman John A. Thomas (198-102kg-82, college: Columbus State). He played last summer at Paschoalotto/Bauru in Brazilian NBB league. In 20 games he had 9.3ppg, 4.5rpg and 1.2apg. Thomas also played at Tomas de Rocamora that season.
Thomas is quite experienced player. He has played also professionally in Chile (Universidad Catolica and Prov.Llanquihue), Finland (Componenta), Germany, Holland, Luxembourg, Mexico (Panteras), Uruguay, Venezuela (Lanc.Cojedes), Peru (Regatas) and WBA (Marietta S.).
Thomas attended Columbus State until 2004 and it will be his ninth season as a professional player.
On Thomas: An atletic forward who runs the court well and plays with great energy... can create his shot and goes well 1-on-1 in the paint ....his outside - inside dimension make him a good import player for international level of competition.

By Eurobasket Data Center

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BULGARIA

Balkan League: Levski cruise past Rilski Sportist - by Eurobasket News

Levski Sofia - Rilski Sportist 84:62

Levski Sofia claimed the first win at the second stage of the Balkan League season. They knocked down Rilski Sportist in the Bulgarian derby. Chavdar Kostov (195-SG-88, agency: Interperformances) stepped up with 29 points to lead the winners.
Levski left their opponents behind in the opening quarter. The hosts went on a 24:10 run in the first ten minutes. Levski maintained the lead throughout the second term. They accumulated a 45:21 halftime advantage. Rilski tried to put together a comeback run in the third quarter. They exploded with 29 points to cut the margin at 15-point mark at the final intermission. But it was not enough as Levski held the visitors to 12 points in the fourth term and sealed the victory at the end. Hrisimir Dimitrov (197-G/F-74) and Nikolay Varbanov (210-C-85, agency: Interperformances) delivered 12 points each for the winning side. Terry Smith (185-PG-86, college: Mercyhurst) answered with 26 points for Rilski Sportist. Hristo Zahariev (197-SG-90) had 12 points in the losing effort.

Levski Sofia: Chavdar Kostov 29, Hrisimir Dimitrov 12, Nikolay Varbanov 12
Rilski Sportist: Terry Smith 26, Hristo Zahariev 12

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CAMEROON

Luc Mbah a Moute selected the top Cameroonian playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

We bring you last week's top performances from Cameroonians who are playing abroad and who all have had prior experience of national team duties at youth or senior level.

Luc Mbah a Moute

#1. This week's number one is former international swingman Luc Mbah a Moute (200-86, college: UCLA, currently plays in NBA). He contributed to a Milwaukee Bucks' victory against the Portland Trail Blazers (20-21) 110-104 in the NBA in Saturday night's game. Mbah a Moute scored 7 points and grabbed 7 rebounds in 37 minutes on the court. The Milwaukee Bucks have 21-18 record this season. It's Mbah a Moute's fifth year with the team. He has relatively good stats this year: 8.0ppg, 5.1rpg, 1.2apg, 2FGP: 42.4%, 3FGP: 23.5% and FT: 62.7% in the 25 games he played so far. Mbah a Moute played for the Cameroonian senior national team two years ago.

Kenny Kadji

#2. Second place goes to former international power forward Kenny Kadji (211-88, currently plays college basketball in the States). He led Miami, FL to a 1-point victory against the Boston College (1-3) 60-59 in the NCAA last Wednesday. Kadji recorded 14 points and grabbed 5 rebounds. The University of Miami, Florida has 4-0 conference record this season. So far his team won all four games in the conference. This season Kadji averages: 8.0ppg, 5.1rpg, 1.2apg, 2FGP: 42.4%, 3FGP: 23.5% and FT: 62.7%. He played for the Cameroonian national team in 2011.

Victor Samnick

#3. The Cameroonian player who performed third best last week abroad was an experienced former international power forward Victor Samnick (203-79, college: Georgetown, currently plays in France), who plays in the French ProA. Samnick could not help Chorale de Roanne (7-9) in their last game. Despite his good performance Chorale de Roanne lost 53-65 on the road to the much higher-ranked (#4) Chalon/Saor. Samnick was the second best scorer with 10 points. He also added 7 rebounds in 27 minutes. It's Samnick's first season with the team. This year Samnick's overall stats are: 7.2ppg, 5.8rpg, 1.2apg, 2FGP: 40.7%, 3FGP: 15.0% and FT: 69.0% in the 15 games. He has a dual citizenship: Cameroonian and French. Samnick played for the Cameroonian national team two years ago.

Joachim Ekanga-Ehawa

#4. Shooting guard Joachim Ekanga-Ehawa (187-77, currently plays in France) was the major contributor in Aix-Maurienne's victory against the 14th-ranked Saint Vallier (7-12) 98-81 in the French ProB (second division) on Saturday night. He recorded 15 points. Aix-Maurienne Savoie Basket (10-9) is placed seventh in the ProB. This season Ekanga-Ehawa has relatively solid stats: 11.4ppg, 3.2rpg, 1.5apg and 1.5spg. He is another player who holds two passports: Cameroonian and French. Ekanga-Ehawa used to play for the Cameroonian national team back in 2011.

Michel Ipouck

#5. Former international forward Michel Ipouck (199-86, currently plays in France) led Chartres to a victory over one of league's weakest teams Saint Chamond (4-11) 63-57 in the French NM1 (third division) last Saturday. He was MVP of the game. Ipouck recorded a double-double by scoring 16 points and getting 10 rebounds. He also added 2 blocks. Union Basket Chartres Metropole (6-9) is placed 11th in the NM1. Ipouck has reliable stats this season: 11.5ppg, 6.5rpg and 2.0bpg. Similarly like Ekanga-Ehawa and Samnick above he has both Cameroonian and French nationalities. Despite Ipouck played previously for the French U20 national team, he is currently in the Cameroonian national team roster.

Gaston Moliva

#6. Forward Gaston Moliva (202-85, college: Richmond, currently plays in Qatar) was not able to help Qatar Sports Club (3-10) in their game against Al Arabi (10-3) in the Qatari D1. Despite his very good performance last Friday Moliva recorded a double-double by scoring 22 points and getting 13 rebounds. He also added 2 blocks and 4 steals. The Regular Season already ended. Moliva is currently fifth on the list of best rebounders. He has individually a very good season with high stats. Moliva averages: 16.3ppg, 11.2rpg, 2.2apg and 2.2spg. He is a former international player as he played for the Cameroonian senior team two years ago.

Arsene Towa

#7. Former international forward Arsene Towa (191-81, currently plays in Finland) helped Kerava Energia Team win their game against the third-ranked TuNMKY (11-7) 81-74 in the Finnish 1st Division (second division) on Sunday night. Towa scored 11 points and grabbed 8 rebounds in 26 minutes. It was the game of the round between two top 3 ranked teams in Division B. Kerava Energia Team (13-5) is placed first. It was his team's fourth consecutive victory in a row. Towa is one of the most experienced players in a team as it's his fourth year in Kerava Energia Team's roster. He is currently fourth on the list of best rebounders with 12.9rpg. This year Towa's other stats are: 17.1ppg, 2.5apg and 1.8spg in the 17 games. He used to play for the Cameroonian national team two years ago.

William Arnaud Adala

#8. Forward William Arnaud Adala (198-93, currently studies in the States) was not able to secure a victory for the Wake Forest (2-2) in their game against the Clemson University (1-2) in the NCAA. Arnaud Adala cannot count Tuesday's game as one of the best ones. He scored only 2 points and grabbed 6 rebounds. The Wake Forest was badly defeated 60-44 in Clemson, SC by the Clemson University. This season Arnaud Adala has very high stats. He averages: 17.1ppg, 2.5apg and 1.8spg. Arnaud Adala used to play for the Cameroonian national team back in 2011.

Steve Tchiengang Noubissie

   #9. Former international forward Steve Tchiengang Noubissie (205-88, college: Vanderbilt, currently plays in Qatar) managed to help Al Jaysh Army SC Doha in a 2-point victoryagainst the league outsider Al Ahli (1-12) 75-73 in a derby game in the Qatari D1 on Wednesday night. He scored 5 points and grabbed 12 rebounds in 27 minutes. Al Jaysh Army SC Doha (11-3) is placed second in the D1. It was his team's third consecutive victory in a row. The Regular Season already ended. This year Tchiengang Noubissie's total stats are: 3.6ppg, 10.4rpg and 1.6apg in the five games. He used to play for the Cameroonian national team two years ago.

The list of other players, who all have Cameroonian passport but never been selected to any of Cameroonian national teams:

   #1. Sama Taku (185-G, currently plays college basketball in the States), who plays in the NCAA could not help the Pacific (4-2) in their last game on Thursday. Despite his very good performance the Pacific was defeated 60-52 on the road by the University of Hawaii. Taku scored 15 points, made 3 passes and 3 steals. Taku's total stats this season are: 7.2ppg, 5.8rpg and 1.2apg.

   #2. Michel Enanga (196-F, currently studies in the States) was not able to help the Co.Carolina (3-2) in their game against the Gardner-Webb University (2-3) in the NCAA. He recorded 8 points and grabbed 4 rebounds in only 7 minutes. The Co.Carolina was edged 66-65 in Boiling Springs, NC by the Gardner-Webb University. This year Enanga's total stats are: 7.2ppg, 5.8rpg and 1.2apg in the 15 games he played so far.

   #3. Experienced Rudolf Mua (201-F/C-80, currently plays in Finland) led Kerava Energia Team to a victory over the third-ranked TuNMKY (11-7) 81-74 in the Finnish 1st Division (second division) in Sunday night's game. He was MVP of the game. Mua scored 20 points, had 7 rebounds and made 3 blocks in 21 minutes. It was the game of the round between two top 3 ranked teams in Division B. Kerava Energia Team (13-5) is placed first. It was his team's fourth consecutive victory in a row. Mua is currently ninth on the list of top scorers and also on the list of best blockers (fourth place). He has individually a very good year with high stats. Mua averages: 19.7ppg, 9.3rpg, 1.3apg, 1.9bpg and 1.8spg in the 16 games.

   #4. Paul Biligha (200-C-90, agency: Players Group, currently plays in Italy) was not able to secure a victory for one of league's weakest teams Air Avellino (4-12) in their game against Sutor Montegranaro (5-11) in the Italian SerieA. Biligha recorded 6 points and grabbed 5 rebounds in 16 minutes. Air Avellino was crushed 95-71 in Montegranaro by the higher-ranked (#13) Sutor. This year Biligha's total stats are: 2.4ppg and 1.1rpg in the 15 games. He has a dual citizenship: Cameroonian and Italian. Despite Biligha's Cameroonian passport, he previously played for the Italian U20 national team and is probably not eligible to play for the Cameroonian team.

   #5. Gedeon Pitard (188-G-89, currently plays in France) managed to help STB Le Havre to win against the ninth-ranked Cholet (7-9) 87-68 in the French ProA in Monday night's game. Pitard recorded 5 points and added 4 passes. STB Le Havre (6-10) is placed 14th in the ProA. It was his team's first victory after three consecutive loses. Pitard has been at the team for six years. His total stats this season are: 4.1ppg, 2.4rpg and 1.4apg. Pitard is another player who holds two passports: Cameroonian and French.

   #6. William Yengue (193-F, currently plays in Canada) contributed to an easy victory against the Sea Hawks 84-67 in the Canadian university league CIS last Sunday. He scored 10 points, grabbed 7 rebounds and dished 4 assists in 24 minutes. This year Yengue's total stats are: 6.9ppg, 6.8rpg and 1.4apg in the 11 games.

   #7. Steve Moundou-Missi (201-F, is currently at the American university), who plays in the NCAA couldn't help the Harvard (1-0) in their last game on Saturday. Despite his good performance the Harvard was defeated 60-50 in Memphis, TN by the University of Memphis. Moundou-Missi recorded 10 points and grabbed 7 rebounds. His total stats this season are: 6.9ppg, 6.8rpg and 1.4apg.

   #8. Yannick Atanga (203-F-90, currently plays college basketball in the States) contributed to an easy victory against the University of San Francisco crushing them 85-54 in the NCAA in Thursday night's game. Atanga scored 6 points and grabbed 5 rebounds in 18 minutes. This year his total stats are: 6.9ppg, 6.8rpg and 1.4apg in the 11 games.

   #9. Theodore Boyomo (206-C, currently plays college basketball in the States) couldn't help the Howard in their game against the N.Carolina Central in the NCAA. He scored only 4 points in 14 minutes. His team was crushed by 35 points 71-36. Boyomo has very impressive stats this year: 17.1ppg, 2.5apg and 1.8spg in the 17 games.

   #10. Saidou Njoya (186-PG-89, currently plays in France) contributed to an easy victory against the league outsider Bordeaux 93-77 in the French ProB (second division) on Saturday night. He recorded only 2 points and added 5 assists. Njoya's total stats this season are: 2.2ppg, 1.6rpg and 2.4apg.

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CANADA

Tristan Thompson's double-double lands him Player of the Week award among Canadians playing currently abroad - by Eurobasket Center

We bring you last week's top performances from Canadians who are playing abroad and who all have had prior experience of national team duties at youth or senior level.

Tristan Thompson

#1. This week's number one is former U19 international forward Tristan Thompson (203-91, college: Texas, currently plays in NBA). Thompson was the major contributor in a Cleveland Cavaliers' victory against the Portland Trail Blazers (20-21) 93-88 in the NBA last Wednesday. He recorded a double-double by scoring 19 points and getting 14 rebounds; quite an impressive performance considering it's only Thompson's second season in pro basketball. The Cleveland Cavaliers have not so impressive 10-32 record this season. Thompson has relatively good stats this year: 10.3ppg, 9.3rpg, 1.2apg, 2FGP: 48.5% and FT: 61.5%. He played for the Canadian U19 national team four years ago.

Steve Nash

#2. Second place goes to an experienced former international point guard Steve Nash (190-74, college: Santa Clara, currently plays in NBA), who plays in the NBA. Nash could not help the Los Angeles Lakers (17-24) in their last game. Despite his very good performance the Los Angeles Lakers lost 83-95 on the road to the Chicago Bulls. Nash was the top scorer with 18 points. He also added 4 rebounds and 6 assists in 36 minutes. It was Lakers' third consecutive loss in a row. It's Nash's first season with the team. Nash has individually a very good year with high stats. He averages: 11.2ppg, 2.8rpg, 8.6apg, 2FGP: 56.9%(58-102), 3FGP: 39.0% in the 17 games he played so far. Nash played for the Canadian national team in 2003.

Ross Bekkering

#3. The Canadian player who performed third best last week abroad was former University international forward Ross Bekkering (203-87, currently plays in Holland). He led Leiden to a victory over the league outsider Rotterdam (1-19) 82-70 in the Dutch Eredivisie in Thursday night's game. Bekkering was MVP of the game. He recorded a double-double by scoring 24 points and getting 12 rebounds. Zorg and Zekerheid Leiden (17-4) is placed second in the Eredivisie. It was his team's third consecutive victory in a row. Bekkering is currently fifth on the league's list of best rebounders. He has very reliable stats this season: 13.7ppg, 8.1rpg, 1.3apg, 2FGP: 54.0%, 3FGP: 18.8% and FT: 64.7%. Bekkering played for the Canadian university national team four years ago.

Devoe Joseph

#4. Guard Devoe Joseph (193-90, agency: Interperformances, college: Oregon, currently plays in EuroChallenge), who plays in Ukraine was not able to help Khimik (0-1) in their last game on Tuesday. Despite his very good performance the third-placed Khimik was edged 93-90 in Bursa by the leading Tofas in the group K of EuroChallenge. Joseph recorded 17 points, 4 rebounds and 4 assists (made all of his six free throws). This season Joseph has relatively solid stats: 12.9ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.6apg and 1.6spg. He used to play for the Canadian U19 national team back in 2007.

Kyle Landry

#5. Former international power forward Kyle Landry (207-86, college: N.Arizona, currently plays in VTB United League) contributed to an easy victory against the closely-ranked CEZ Nymburk (4-8) crushing them 96-68 in the VTB United League last Sunday. Landry scored 14 points and grabbed 5 rebounds. Triumph Lyubertsy (5-6) is placed seventh in group B. Landry is ranked seventh on the list of the best rebounders in the league. This season he has very good stats: 11.5ppg, 6.7rpg, 1.1apg and 1.1spg. Landry used to play for the Canadian national team four years ago.

Nemanja Mitrovic

#6. Guard Nemanja Mitrovic (197-90, college: Portland, currently plays in Greece), who plays in the Greek A1 was not able to secure a victory for Kavala (3-10) in their last game. Despite his very good performance Kavala lost 79-88 in Rethymno to the much higher-ranked (#5) AGOR. Mitrovic was the top scorer with 24 points in 33 minutes; not bad, considering it's only his third season in pro basketball. This year Mitrovic's overall stats are: 7.7ppg, 2.6rpg and 1.1apg in the 13 games. He is a former international player as he played for the Canadian senior team two years ago.

Kelly Olynyk

#7. Former international forward Kelly Olynyk (213-91, currently plays college basketball in the States) contributed to an easy victory against the University of Portland (1-4) crushing them 71-49 in the NCAA last Thursday. He scored 21 points, grabbed 8 rebounds and made 2 blocks in a mere 19 minutes. The Gonzaga University has 4-0 conference record this season. So far his team won all four games in the conference. Olynyk is one of the most experienced players in a team as it's his fourth year in Gonzaga's roster. Olynyk has very impressive stats this season: 15.1ppg, 5.5rpg, 1.2apg, 1.6bpg and 1.6spg in the 24 games. He used to play for the Canadian national team two years ago.

Samuel Dalembert

#8. Center Samuel Dalembert (211-81, college: Seton Hall, currently plays in NBA) couldn't help the Milwaukee Bucks (21-18) in their game against the Los Angeles Lakers (17-24) in the NBA. Dalembert recorded 7 points and grabbed 6 rebounds. The Milwaukee Bucks were badly defeated 104-88 in Los Angeles by the Lakers. Dalembert's total stats this season are: 5.3ppg, 4.6rpg and 1.2bpg. He used to play for the Canadian national team back in 2008.

Brady Heslip

#9. Former international guard Brady Heslip (188-90, currently studies in the States) contributed to an easy victory against the Hardin-Simmons (2-4) crushing them 107-38 in the NCAA last Saturday. He recorded 15 points. The Baylor University has 4-1 conference record this season. Heslip's total stats this year are: 5.3ppg, 4.6rpg and 1.2bpg. He used to play for the Canadian national team two years ago.

Joel Anthony

   #10. Center Joel Anthony (206-82, college: UNLV, currently plays in NBA) couldn't help the Miami Heat (26-12) in their game against the Utah Jazz (22-19) in the NBA. Anthony cannot count Monday's game as one of the best ones. He scored only 3 points in 23 minutes. The Miami Heat lost 97-104 in Salt Lake City to the Utah Jazz. Anthony has been at the team for five years. This season Anthony's total stats are: 1.6ppg and 2.1rpg in the 34 games. He is a former international player as two years ago he still played for the Canadian senior national team.

   #11. Former U21 international forward Henry Bekkering (198-85, college: E.Washington, currently plays in Holland), who plays in the Dutch Eredivisie couldn't help one of league's weakest teams M.Magixx (12-9) in their last game on Saturday. Despite Bekkering's very good performance M.Magixx was defeated 81-68 at home by the higher-ranked Groningen (#3). He was the top scorer with 19 points. Bekkering has averaged so far 9.0ppg and 2.7rpg. He used to play for the Canadian U21 national team nine years ago.

   #12. Former U19 international guard Nik Stauskas (198-93, is currently at the American university) contributed to Michigan's victory against the University of Minnesota 83-75 in the NCAA last Thursday. Stauskas scored 11 points and added 3 passes in 37 minutes. He has averaged so far 9.0ppg and 2.7rpg in the 20 games. Stauskas used to play for the Canadian U19 national team back in 2011.

   #13. Former international forward Mangisto Arop (198-90, currently plays college basketball in the States) contributed to an Indiana St.'s victory against the University of Evansville 72-62 in the NCAA on Saturday night. He recorded 19 points. Arop has averaged so far 9.0ppg and 2.7rpg. He used to play for the Canadian national team two years ago.

   #14. Former U19 international forward Marc Trasolini (206-90, currently plays college basketball in the States) contributed to a Santa Clara's victory against the Pepperdine University 83-76 in the NCAA in Saturday night's game. Trasolini recorded 18 points, 8 rebounds and 2 blocks in 38 minutes. He has averaged so far 9.0ppg and 2.7rpg in the 20 games. Trasolini used to play for the Canadian U19 national team back in 2009.

   #15. Former international swingman Stephen Ross (201-80, agency: Court Side, college: Santa Clara, currently plays in Romania) was the main contributor in U-Mobitelco's victory against the 14th-ranked Miercurea Ciuc crushing them 87-56 in the Romanian Liga Nationala last Monday. He was the best player in that game. Ross scored 17 points and grabbed 5 rebounds. He has reliable stats this season: 11.9ppg, 7.3rpg and 1.4apg. Ross used to play for the Canadian national team eleven years ago.

The list of other players, who all have Canadian passport but never been selected to any of Canadian national teams:

   #1. Experienced Matt Bonner (206-F-80, college: Florida, currently plays in NBA) was the major contributor in a San Antonio Spurs' victory against the Atlanta Hawks (23-18) 98-93 in the NBA in Saturday night's game. He scored 17 points and grabbed 5 rebounds in 23 minutes. The San Antonio Spurs have a solid 33-11 record this season. It was his team's fifth consecutive victory in a row. It's Bonner's seventh year with the team. This season Bonner averages: 3.8ppg and 2.0rpg in the 37 games he played so far. He is a naturalized American.

   #2. Andrew Nicholson (205-PF-89, agency: Priority Sports, college: St.Bonaventure, currently plays in NBA), who plays in the NBA could not help the Orlando Magic (14-26) in their last game. Despite his good performance the Orlando Magic lost 100-106 on the road to the Charlotte Bobcats. Nicholson recorded 10 points and grabbed 6 rebounds in 18 minutes. This year Nicholson has relatively solid stats: 7.7ppg and 3.3rpg in the 38 games.

   #3. Dejan Kravic (211-F-90, currently plays college basketball in the States) was not able to help the Texas Tech (1-4) in their game against the The University of Oklahoma (5-1) in the NCAA, despite his very good performance in Wednesday night's game. Kravic recorded 20 points and grabbed 9 rebounds in 26 minutes. But the Texas Tech was badly defeated 81-63 in Norman, OK by the The University of Oklahoma. It was Texas Tech's fourth consecutive loss in a row. Kravic has reliable stats this year: 12.9ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.6apg and 1.6spg in the seven games. He has a dual citizenship: Serbian and Canadian.

   #4. Sefton Barrett (196-SF-83, agency: Limelight Hoops, college: Cent.Michigan, currently plays in Finland) led KTP-Basket to a victory over the closely-ranked Kouvot (12-12) 86-76 in the Finnish Korisliiga in Wednesday night's game. Barrett was the best player in that game. He scored 25 points and grabbed 6 rebounds. KTP Basket Kotka (18-6) is placed fourth in the Korisliiga. It was his team's fourth consecutive victory in a row. Barrett is currently first on the league's list of best blockers. He has individually a very good season with high stats. Barrett averages: 15.1ppg, 5.5rpg, 1.2apg, 1.6bpg and 1.6spg.

   #5. Jason Calliste (188-PG, currently studies in the States) contributed to an easy victory against the University of Illinois-Chicago (2-4) crushing them 98-47 in the NCAA in Saturday night's game. Calliste recorded 20 points in 30 minutes. The University of Detroit Mercy has 4-3 conference record this season. This year Calliste's total stats are: 5.3ppg, 4.6rpg and 1.2bpg in the 21 games.

   #6. Ben Millaud-Meunier (185-SG-91, is currently at the American university) was not able to secure a victory for the St.Francis, PA in their game against the Sacred Heart University in the NCAA. Despite his very good performance on Saturday night He recorded 20 points and grabbed 4 rebounds. Millaud-Meunier averaged so far 11.9ppg, 7.3rpg and 1.4apg.

   #7. Melvin Ejim (198-F-91, currently plays college basketball in the States) contributed to a 2-point Iowa St.'s victory against the West Virginia University 69-67 in the NCAA in Wednesday night's game. He had a double-double by scoring 16 points and getting 13 rebounds in 34 minutes. Ejim averaged so far 11.9ppg, 7.3rpg and 1.4apg in the nine games.

   #8. Alexander Murphy (183-G-88, currently plays in Denmark) contributed to Naestved's victory against the closely-ranked Bakken 67-63 in the Danish Ligaen in Monday night's game. He scored 21 points and added 6 assists (was perfect 5-for-5 from the free throw line). Murphy belongs to league's best passers and is ranked #5. He has very solid stats this season: 12.4ppg, 3.1rpg, 5.0apg and 1.3spg.

   #9. Justin Edwards (190-PG-92, currently plays college basketball in the States) couldn't help the Maine in their game against the Binghamton University in the NCAA, despite his good performance last Saturday. Edwards recorded 12 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists in 35 minutes. But his team was edged 57-56. He averaged so far 12.4ppg, 3.1rpg, 5.0apg and 1.3spg in the 20 games.

   #10. Juevol Myles (185-G-89, currently plays college basketball in the States) contributed to an easy victory against the Oakland University 97-78 in the NCAA on Saturday night. Myles recorded 17 points and grabbed 6 rebounds. He averaged so far 12.4ppg, 3.1rpg, 5.0apg and 1.3spg.

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CHINA

Standings - CBA

CBA Standings

1. Guangdong ST		21-3
2. Shandong FB		17-7
3. Beijing Ducks		16-7
4. Shanxi Zh.		14-10
5. Xinjiang FT		14-10
6. Guangsha L.		13-11
7. Liaoning H.		12-11
8. Zhejiang CB		12-11
9. DongGuan L.		12-11
10. Bayi R.		11-13
11. TianJin S.		10-13
12. Foshan LL		10-15
13. Jiangsu D.		9-14
14. Jilin NE T.		8-16
15. Shanghai S.		8-16
16. Fujian QB		8-16
17. Qingdao E.		7-18

Regular Season: Round 26

Jan. 22: Foshan LL - Guangdong ST 114-127
Jan. 22: Shandong FB - Qingdao E. 106-99
Jan. 23: Jilin NE T. - Jiangsu D.
Jan. 23: Liaoning H. - Guangsha L.
Jan. 23: Zhejiang CB - Shanghai S.
Jan. 23: Beijing Ducks - Shanxi Zh.
Jan. 23: Bayi R. - DongGuan L.
Jan. 23: TianJin S. - Xinjiang FT

Stats Leaders - CBA

Points Per Game

Quincy DOUBY
  Zhejiang CB
  (191-G-84)
  Avg: 32.4

1. Douby, Zhejiang CB	32.4
2. Randolph, Foshan	31.7
3. Gaines, Shanxi Zh.	31.5
4. Akognon, Liaoning.	31.1
5. Williams, Shanxi Z.	30.9
6. Daniels, Qingdao E.	29.5
7. Forbes, Guangsha	29.3
8. Haislip, DongGuan.	28.2
9. Spencer, Jilin N.	28.2
10. Harris, Jiangsu D.	27.7

Rebounds Per Game

Donnell HARVEY
  TianJin S.
  (203-F/C-80)
  Avg: 16.5

1. Harvey, TianJin S.	16.5
2. Gaines, Shanxi Zh.	14.5
3. Randolph, Foshan	14.0
4. Harris, Jiangsu D.	13.0
5. Li, Liaoning H.	12.6
6. Abbas, Shandong FB	12.3
7. Wang, Fujian QB	12.1
8. Ramos, Guangsha L.	11.7
9. Daniels, Qingdao E.	11.5
10. Siler, Jiangsu D.	11.2

Assists Per Game

Osama DAGHLES
  TianJin S.
  (198-G-79)
  Avg: 10.3

1. Daghles, TianJin S.	10.3
2. Jeter, Shandong FB	5.7
3. Lu, Shanxi Zh.	5.6
4. Marbury, Beijing	5.6
5. Williams, Shanxi Z.	5.2
6. Forbes, Guangsha	4.8
7. Qahwash, Jiang.	4.8
8. McGrady, Qingd.	4.7
9. Gaines, Fujian QB	4.4
10. Zeng, Foshan LL	4.4

Steals Per Game

Quincy DOUBY
  Zhejiang CB
  (191-G-84)
  Avg: 2.7

1. Douby, Zhejiang CB	2.7
2. Spencer, Jilin N.	2.5
3. Hu, Jiangsu D.	2.4
4. Jeter, Shandong FB	2.4
5. Han, Bayi R.	2.2
6. Marbury, Beijing	2.1
7. Zhong, Jilin NE T.	2.1
8. Co, Xinjiang FT	2.1
9. Akognon, Liaoning.	2.0
10. Abbas, Shandong	2.0

Blocks Per Game

Hamady N''DIAYE
  Ti.
  (213-C-87)
  Avg: 4.2

1. N''Diaye, Ti.	4.2
2. Zhang, Shanghai S.	2.6
3. Siler, Jiangsu D.	2.2
4. Yi, Guangdong ST	2.0
5. Daniels, Qingdao E.	1.8
6. Morris, Beijing Du.	1.7
7. Wang, Bayi R.	1.6
8. Haislip, DongGuan.	1.6
9. Han, Liaoning H.	1.5
10. White, Shanghai S.	1.5

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COLOMBIA

TEAMS FOR THE UPCOMING PROFESSIONAL BASKETBALL DIVISION - by Victor Garcia

There are not an official release yet, but according to sources close to the organization the eight teams to play in the first edition of the Colombian Professional Basketball Division are:
BUKAROS DE BUCARAMANGA
MANIZALES OC
PIRATAS DE BOGOTA
PATRIOTAS DE TUNJA
MEDELLIN ( the name of the team has not been disclosed yet, but could be the Arrieros team)
CUCUTA (the name of the team has not been disclosed yet but could be the Halcones Club)
NEIVA (the name of the team has not been disclosed yet)
CALI (the name of the team has not been disclosed yet, but could be the Azucareros)

Surprisingly the Islanders Sopesa were not included in the list of eight teams, not good news for the Islanders organization,

At this time there are not changes in the dates, the start of the tournament will be of February 22.

GUILLERMO MORENO CLOSE TO BE MANIZALES OC COACH - by Victor Garcia

According to the main Manizales newspaper, Guillermo Moreno the best Colombian coach , is close to agreed a contract with the Manizales OC to be its head coach for the upcoming 2013 season, that will have the first Professional Division Tournament.
Manizales has been like a second home for the coach Moreno, he coached for several years the Sabios de Manizales one of the most succesfull organizations of its time, and for the Manizales people the arrival of Moreno will have a great meaning and will be key for the future of the Manizales OC in the Colombian Pro-Basketball.
Moreno spent the last 4 years of his career coaching the Indervalle team and the teams of the Valle League.

THE CITY OF NEIVA SHOULD HAVE A TEAM IN THE PROFESSIONAL BASKETBALL DIVISION - by Victor Garcia

The city of Neiva in the south-central region of the country is close to have a team in the upcoming Professional Basketball Division to start on February 22 2013, the city was working for this project during many years and according to some sources now is close the get the aproval of the Colombian Federation.
Hernan Giraldo several times national coach is the main candidate to be the Head Coach in the 2013 season.
Neiva was host of Southamerican Champioships and FIBA Americas Championships.

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CROATIA

Standings - A2 League

A2 Standings

Group Center
1. Hermes Anal.		9-0
2. Gorica		6-2
3. Dubrava		6-3
4. Zrinjevac		5-4
5. Sanac Karl.		5-5
6. Maksimir		4-4
7. Samobor		4-4
8. Kaptol		2-6
9. Rudes		2-6
10. Bosco		2-6
11. Mladost Z.(C)		1-6
12. Sus.-Moslavina		0-0
Group East
1. Belisce		9-0
2. Vinkovci		9-1
3. Zupanja		5-4
4. Meteor D.		4-4
5. Vukovar		4-4
6. Vrijednosnice		3-4
7. Pozega		2-7
8. Olimp Inspekt		2-8
9. Virovitica		0-6
Group North
1. Mladost D.(N)		12-2
2. Graficar		11-3
3. Cakovec		10-4
4. Bjelovar		9-4
5. Medjimurje C.		9-5
6. Podravac Virje		9-5
7. Vindija V.		7-6
8. Petar Zrinski		5-8
9. Ivancica		3-10
10. Radnik		3-11
11. Rudar-Cimper		2-12
12. Koprivnica		0-14
Group South
1. GKK Sibenik		12-1
2. Puntamika		10-0
3. Kastela		10-3
4. Policnik		8-5
5. Solin		6-7
6. Sukosan		6-7
7. Metkovic		5-7
8. Omis Galeb		5-8
9. Jazine		5-8
10. Cetina		4-8
11. DOSK		3-10
12. Trogir		1-11
Group West
1. Skrljevo		8-1
2. Stoja Pula		6-3
3. Kastav		6-4
4. Crikvenica		6-4
5. Pula 1981		5-4
6. Zamet		4-5
7. Otocac		2-5
8. Ghia Staff		2-7
9. Rovinj		1-7
10. Ucka		0-1

Regular Season: Round 15

Center

Jan. 26: Rudes - Kaptol
Jan. 26: Bosco - Maksimir
Jan. 26: Sus.-Moslavina - Hermes Anal.
Jan. 26: Mladost Z.(C) - Dubrava
Jan. 26: Sanac Karl. - Samobor
Jan. 26: Zrinjevac - Gorica

East

Jan. 26: Meteor D. - Vinkovci
Jan. 26: Olimp Inspekt - Vukovar
Jan. 26: Virovitica - Belisce
Jan. 26: Pozega - Vrijednosnice

North

Jan. 26: Bjelovar - Cakovec
Jan. 26: Radnik - Rudar-Cimper
Jan. 26: Medjimurje C. - Petar Zrinski
Jan. 26: Vindija V. - Ivancica
Jan. 26: Graficar - Koprivnica
Jan. 26: Mladost D.(N) - Podravac Virje

Round 10

Jan. 22: Vrijednosnice - Belisce
Jan. 22: Olimp Inspekt - Zupanja
Jan. 22: Virovitica - Vinkovci
Jan. 22: Pozega - Vukovar

South

Jan. 26: Metkovic - Sukosan
Jan. 26: Jazine - GKK Sibenik
Jan. 26: Omis Galeb - Policnik
Jan. 26: DOSK - Puntamika
Jan. 26: Cetina - Trogir
Jan. 26: Solin - Kastela

West

Jan. 26: Ghia Staff - Skrljevo
Jan. 26: Zamet - Crikvenica
Jan. 26: Rovinj - Pula 1981
Jan. 26: Stoja Pula - Otocac
Jan. 26: Kastav - Ucka

Marko Popovic selected the top Croatian playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

Traditionally, every week we bring you a list of the top performances of Croatians who are currently playing abroad.

Marko Popovic

#1. This week's number one is former international guard Marko Popovic (185-82, college: S.Idaho JC, currently plays in VTB United League). He was the major contributor in Zalgiris' victory against the ninth-ranked Neptunas (1-11) crushing them 111-87 in the VTB United League in Sunday night's game. Popovic scored 16 points and added 5 passes in a mere 18 minutes on the court. B.C. Zalgiris Kaunas (10-1) is placed second in group B. It was his team's sixth consecutive victory in a row. This year Popovic averages: 9.5ppg, 1.4rpg, 3.3apg, 2FGP: 65.0%(13-20), 3FGP: 39.6% and FT: 85.7% in the 10 games he played so far. He played for the Croatian senior national team two years ago.

Ante Tomic

#2. Second place goes to former international center Ante Tomic (217-87, currently plays in Euroleague). Tomic led his Spanish team Regal FC Barcelona to a victory over the eighth-ranked Besiktas (0-4) 73-59 in the Euroleague last Thursday. He was MVP of the game. Tomic recorded 15 points, 5 rebounds and 2 blocks. Regal FC Barcelona (3-1) is placed fourth in group F. It's Tomic's first season with the team. Tomic is currently second on the league's list of best blockers. He has very reliable stats this season: 10.3ppg, 6.1rpg, 1.7apg, 1.6bpg, 2FGP: 62.4%(63-101) and FT: 52.9%. Tomic played for the Croatian national team in 2011.

Luka Zoric

#3. The Croatian player who performed third best last week abroad was an international center Luka Zoric (211-84, currently plays in Spain), who plays in the Spanish ACB. He could not help Unicaja Malaga (8-10) in their last game. Despite Zoric's very good performance Unicaja Malaga was crushed 91-67 on the road by the leading Real Madrid. He was the top scorer with 20 points in 31 minutes. It was Unicaja Malaga's fourth consecutive loss in a row. Zoric has relatively good stats this year: 11.2ppg, 4.3rpg, 1.1bpg, 2FGP: 57.1%(84-147) and FT: 70.2% in the 18 games. He is also a member of the Croatian senior national team.

Roko-Leni Ukic

#4. Point guard Roko-Leni Ukic (196-84, currently plays in Euroleague) contributed to Panathinaikos' victory against the eighth-ranked ALBA Berlin (0-4) 79-73 in the Euroleague in Wednesday night's game. Ukic recorded 14 points. Panathinaikos Athens (3-1) is placed fourth in group E. Ukic's overall stats this season are: 8.9ppg, 2.2rpg and 2.2apg. He is also Croatian national team player.

Sime Spralja

#5. Former international power forward Sime Spralja (206-83, agency: Court Side, currently plays in Poland), who plays in the Polish TBL was not able to help Trefl Sopot (11-6) in their last game. Despite Spralja's very good performance Trefl Sopot was edged 77-75 in Zgorzelec by the leading PGE Turow. He was the top scorer with 20 points. Spralja also added 8 rebounds in 26 minutes. This year Spralja has relatively solid stats: 10.1ppg and 2.8rpg in the 17 games. He used to play for the Croatian national team nine years ago.

Krunoslav Simon

#6. Swingman Krunoslav Simon (197-85, agency: Beo Basket, currently plays in Euroleague) is a teammate of previously mentioned Luka Zoric. But that was another game of his team in Euroleague which we would like to mention. Simon, who plays in Spain was not able to secure a victory for Unicaja Malaga (1-3) in their last game on Thursday. Despite his very good performance the sixth-placed Unicaja Malaga was defeated 72-64 in Madrid by the leading Real in the group E of Euroleague. Simon was the top scorer with 16 points. He also added 4 rebounds. Simon has reliable stats this season: 10.4ppg, 3.5rpg and 2.5apg. He is an international player who is currently on the senior Croatian National Team roster.

Mario Delas

#7. Former international power forward Mario Delas (207-90, currently plays in VTB United League) is a teammate of previously mentioned Marko Popovic and both played together in the last VTB United League game. Delas contributed to an easy victory against the ninth-ranked Neptunas (1-11) crushing them 111-87. He scored 9 points and grabbed 5 rebounds in 22 minutes. This year Delas' overall stats are: 6.7ppg and 3.8rpg in the 10 games. He used to play for the Croatian national team four years ago.

Jakov Vladovic

#8. Point guard Jakov Vladovic (187-83, currently plays in Adriatic League) contributed to a 3-point Krka's victory against one of league's weakest teams HKK Siroki WWin (6-12) 74-71 in the Adriatic League last Sunday. Vladovic scored 13 points, had 8 rebounds and dished 7 assists. Krka Novo Mesto (8-10) is placed ninth in the Adriatic League. It was his team's third consecutive victory in a row. Vladovic is currently third on the league's list of best passers. His total stats this season are: 8.7ppg, 4.0rpg, 4.5apg and 1.2spg. Vladovic used to play for the Croatian national team back in 2009.

Kresimir Loncar

#9. Former international forward Kresimir Loncar (210-83, agency: Alti Sport, currently plays in Euroleague) contributed to an easy victory against the sixth-ranked Maccabi T-A (1-3) crushing them 88-67 in the Euroleague on Friday night. He recorded 8 points and blocked 2 shots in 18 minutes. BC Khimky Moscow Region (3-1) is placed third in group F. This year Loncar's total stats are: 8.2ppg and 4.0rpg in the 14 games. He used to play for the Croatian national team three years ago.

Damjan Rudez

   #10. Forward Damjan Rudez (208-86, currently plays in Spain), who plays in the Spanish ACB couldn't help CAI Zaragoza (10-8) in their last game on Sunday. Despite Rudez's good performance CAI Zaragoza was edged 74-73 in Vitoria by the second-ranked Caja Laboral. He was the second best scorer with 14 points. Rudez averaged so far 11.1ppg, 1.9rpg and 1.1apg. He is an international player who is currently on the senior Croatian National Team roster.

   #11. An experienced former international swingman Mario Stojic (198-80, agency: Interperformances, currently plays in Belgium) was the main contributor in a Base Oostende's victory against the closely-ranked Belfius Mons-Hainaut 74-70 in the Belgian Ethias League last Saturday. Stojic was the best player in that game. He recorded 17 points in 27 minutes. Stojic's stats this year are: 13.8ppg, 3.1rpg and 1.8apg in the 12 games. He used to play for the Croatian national team four years ago.

   #12. Former international point guard Dontaye Draper (180-84, college: Charleston, currently plays in Euroleague) faced previously mentioned Krunoslav Simon in the Euroleague last game. Draper managed to help Real Madrid to win against the sixth-ranked Unicaja Malaga 72-64. He recorded only 3 points. Draper has averaged so far 2.8ppg, 1.3rpg, 1.6apg and 1.2spg. He is a naturalized American. Draper used to play for the Croatian national team back in 2011. He played also for Cedevita Zagreb in Croatian league.

   #13. Former U20 international forward Drazen Bubnic (206-86, currently plays in Adriatic League) couldn't help Un.Olimpija in their game against Cedevita in the Adriatic League. He scored 6 points and grabbed 5 rebounds in only 13 minutes. His team lost 67-73. Bubnic has averaged so far 3.7ppg and 2.0rpg in the 18 games. He used to play for the Croatian U20 national team seven years ago.

   #14. International center Darko Planinic (211-90, currently plays in Israel) contributed to an easy victory against the ninth-ranked Ironi Ashkelon crushing them 80-59 in the Israeli Winner League last Monday. He recorded only 4 points in 10 minutes. Planinic has averaged so far 6.8ppg and 2.8rpg in the four games. He plays currently for the Croatian national team.

   #15. Former U20 international center Ante Djugum (211-88, also represented by Court Side, currently plays in Slovenia) contributed to Zlatorog's victory against the closely-ranked Maribor Messer 83-76 in the Slovenian Telemach League on Saturday night. Djugum scored 10 points and grabbed 4 rebounds. Djugum averaged so far 10.3ppg and 6.0rpg. He used to play for the Croatian U20 national team five years ago.

The list of other players, who all have Croatian passport but never been selected to any of Croatian national teams:

   #1. Mladen Primorac (210-C-90, currently plays in Slovenia) was the major contributor in Tajfun's victory against the closely-ranked Elektra (6-6) 71-60 in the Slovenian Telemach League in Saturday night's game. Primorac had a double-double by scoring 12 points and getting 11 rebounds. He also added 3 assists in 30 minutes. KK Tajfun Sentjur (7-5) is placed fourth in the Telemach League. It was his team's fourth consecutive victory in a row. Primorac averaged so far 13.0ppg and 6.9rpg in the 12 games he played so far.

   #2. Pankracije Barac (196-G-81, agency: Court Side, currently plays in Romania) led Pitesti to a victory over the league outsider CS Dinamo Bucuresti (0-18) crushing them 90-59 in the Romanian Liga Nationala last Saturday. He was the top player that evening. Barac scored 24 points, had 4 boards, dished 4 assists and stole 5 balls. BCM U Pitesti (8-10) is placed 11th in the Liga Nationala. It was his team's first victory after three consecutive loses. The Regular Season already ended. Barac is ranked fourth on the list of the top scorers in the league. He has individually a very good season with high stats. Barac averages: 17.4ppg, 3.4rpg, 3.7apg and 1.8spg.

   #3. Vjeran Soldo (208-F/C-84, currently plays in Slovenia) contributed to a 3-point LTHcast Mercator's victory against the closely-ranked Geoplin Slovan (4-8) 80-77 in the Slovenian Telemach League in Saturday night's game. Soldo scored 21 points and grabbed 4 rebounds. TTHcast Mercator Skofja Loka (5-7) is placed seventh in the Telemach League. Soldo has averaged so far 8.8ppg and 2.8rpg.

   #4. Igor Maric (196-F-85, currently plays in Slovenia), who plays in the Slovenian Telemach League could not help Maribor Messer (9-3) to beat Zlatorog (10-2). Maric scored 9 points. But Maribor Messer was defeated 83-76 at home by the leading Zlatorog. It was Maribor Messer's first loss after four consecutive victories. Maric averaged so far 12.8ppg, 4.8rpg, 1.3apg and 1.1spg.

   #5. Ozren Pavlovic (203-F, currently plays college basketball in the States) contributed to Hawaii's surprising victory against the University of Pacific (4-2) 60-52 in the NCAA on Thursday night. He scored 13 points and added 4 passes. The University of Hawaii has 3-3 conference record this season. Pavlovic averaged so far 12.8ppg, 4.8rpg, 1.3apg and 1.1spg.

   #6. Anthony Drmic (198-G/F-92, currently studies in the States), who plays in the NCAA was not able to help the Boise St. (1-2) in their last game on Saturday. Despite his very good performance the Boise St. was defeated 91-80 on the road by the U.S. Air Force Academy. Drmic recorded 19 points and grabbed 5 rebounds. Drmic averaged so far 12.8ppg, 4.8rpg, 1.3apg and 1.1spg. He has a dual citizenship: Croatian and Australian.

   #7. Ljubisa Vrcelj (210-C-84, college: Jacksonville, currently plays in Bulgaria), who plays in the Bulgarian NBL was not able to secure a victory for Euroins Cherno More (5-1) in their last game. Despite Vrcelj's good performance the league leader Euroins Cherno More was crushed 87-65 in Sofia by the leading Lukoil Academik. He had a double-double by scoring 14 points and getting 11 rebounds in 35 minutes. Vrcelj averaged so far 13.3ppg and 9.5rpg in the four games. He is another player who holds two passports: Croatian and Canadian.

   #8. Kristijan Krajina (206-F-90, is currently at the American university) contributed to Mt.St.Mary's' victory against the Central Connecticut State University 80-75 in the NCAA in Saturday night's game. Krajina recorded 10 points and grabbed 6 rebounds in 21 minutes. Krajina averaged so far 13.3ppg and 9.5rpg in the four games.

   #9. Experienced Igor Milicic (194-G-76, agency: Alti Sport, currently plays in Poland) couldn't help AZS Koszalin in their game against Kotwica in the Polish TBL. He cannot count Saturday's game as one of the best ones. Milicic scored only 3 points. His team was defeated 88-76. Milicic has averaged so far 2.8ppg and 3.2apg. He has both Croatian and Polish nationalities.

   #10. Marin Petric (190-G-80, currently plays in Germany) contributed to a Duesseldorf Baskets' victory against the league outsider USC Leipzig 84-75 in the German ProA (second division) on Sunday night. Petric scored 10 points in 27 minutes. Petric averaged so far 10.3ppg, 2.8rpg and 2.1apg in the 18 games. He also holds two passports: Croatian and German.

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CUBA

Standings - LSB

LSB Standings

1. Ciego de Avila		13-3
2. Camaguey		13-5
3. Capitalinos		12-4
4. Matanzas		9-8
5. Guantanamo		7-11
6. Santiago		5-9
7. Villa Clara		3-15
8. Artemisa		1-8

Regular Season: Round 26

Jan. 23: Villa Clara - Capitalinos
Jan. 23: Artemisa - Camaguey
Jan. 23: Santiago - Ciego de Avila
Jan. 23: Guantanamo - Matanzas

LSB Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Eddy HECHEVARRIA
  Santi.
  (193-F/G-86)
  Avg: 25.7

1. Hechevarria, Santi.	25.7
2. Soria, Guantanamo	20.4
3. Ochoa, Santiago	19.0
4. Jaca, Camaguey	18.6
5. Granda, Ciego d.	18.2
6. Boffil, Villa Clara	17.9
7. Castillo, Matanzas	16.9
8. Ramos, Camaguey	14.9
9. Haiti, Ciego de Av.	14.7
10. Torres, Capitalin.	14.0

Rebounds Per Game

Jasiel MORALES
  Matanzas
  (196-F-84)
  Avg: 9.5

1. Morales, Matanzas	9.5
2. Jaca, Camaguey	7.5
3. Ochoa, Santiago	6.3
4. Castillo, Guantana.	6.1
5. Fundora, Villa Cla.	6.0
6. Sanchez, Santiago	5.7
7. Reyes, Ciego de Av.	5.5
8. Cairo, Capitalinos	5.4
9. Baldo, Camaguey	5.2
10. Haiti, Ciego de A.	5.1

Assists Per Game

Rafael FAVIER
  Guantanamo
  (179-PG-89)
  Avg: 5.3

1. Favier, Guantanamo	5.3
2. Villegas, Camaguey	4.0
3. Arcia, Villa Clara	3.8
4. Hernandez, Santia.	3.2
5. Deschapelles, Mata.	3.2
6. Ramos, Camaguey	2.4
7. Jaca, Camaguey	2.3
8. Haiti, Ciego de Av.	2.2
9. Castillo, Matanzas	2.0
10. Alvares, Guant.	1.9

Steals Per Game

Yasmanis DESCHAPELLES
  Matan.
  (179-PG-85)
  Avg: 5.4

1. Deschapelles, Mata.	5.4
2. Jaca, Camaguey	4.4
3. Haiti, Ciego de Av.	4.3
4. Favier, Guantanamo	3.9
5. Ramos, Camaguey	3.9
6. Hernandez, Santia.	3.9
7. Ochoa, Santiago	3.8
8. Reyes, Ciego de Av.	3.8
9. Arcia, Villa Clara	3.8
10. Villegas, Camaguey	3.8

Blocks Per Game

Jasiel MORALES
  Matanzas
  (196-F-84)
  Avg: 1.2

1. Morales, Matanzas	1.2
2. Rivera, Matanzas	1.0
3. Lima, Capitalinos	0.9
4. Sanchez, Santiago	0.9
5. Jaca, Camaguey	0.9
6. Cubillas, Villa Cl.	0.8
7. Castillo, Guantana.	0.8
8. Baldo, Camaguey	0.8
9. Valdez, Capitalinos	0.7
10. Ochoa, Santiago	0.7

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CYPRUS

Ewing for Apoel - by Dr. Nasios Orinos

Apoel announces signing of American Brandon Ewing (187-G-86, agency: Interperformances, college: Wyoming) in replacement of Tyler Lazer.

Ewing is 1.87 cm tall and plays the guard position. He is distinguished for his quickness, good defense and his shooting ability.

In 2010-2011 Ewing had played for Ael which he had led at the final. Eurobasket.com had awarded Ewing as the Guard of the Year.

His last stop was Lugano Tigers - Switzerland

Career:
Chicago, Ill. (Julian)
2005-2006: Wyoming (NCAA): 32 games: 13.2ppg, 3.5rpg, 2.8apg, 1.6spg, FG: 43.2%, 3PT: 30.1%, FT: 79.2% :8rrg
2006-2007: Wyoming (NCAA): 31 games: 19.9ppg, 3.2rpg, 3.1apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 44.0%, 3Pts: 29.9%, FT: 80.5%
2007-2008: Wyoming (NCAA): 30 games: 17.2ppg, 3.6rpg, 4.0apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 43.1%, 3Pts: 35.7%, FT: 82.6%
2008-2009: Wyoming (NCAA, starting five): 33 games: 18.5ppg, 3.3rpg, 5.0apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 44.2%, 3Pts: 33.6%, FT: 83.2%
2009: Portsmouth Invitational Tournament (Pre-NBA Draft)
2009-2010: Ironi Kfar Hamaccabia Ramat Gan (Israel-Premier League, starting five): 22 games: 13.0ppg, 2.1rpg, 3.3apg, FGP: 46.1%, 3PT: 34.7%, FT: 78.2%
2010-2011: in Nov.'10 signed at Proteas Danoi AEL (Cyprus-Division A, starting five): 10 games: 15.3ppg, 2.8rpg, 1.2spg, FGP: 62.0%, 3PT: 23.1%, FT: 80.0%
2011: drafted by Iowa Energy (D-League, 2rd (10))
2011-2012: Iowa Energy (D-League, starting five): 39 games: 7.4ppg, 3.4rpg, 4.8apg, FGP: 43.8%, 3PT: 24.1%, FT: 81.2%
2012-2013: Lugano Tigers (Switzerland-LNA), left in Jan.'13

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

CZECH REPUBLIC

Jan Vesely selected the top Czech playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

Here is the weekly review of the top performing Czech Republic players, who play currently abroad.

Jan Vesely

#1. This week's number one is former international forward Jan Vesely (211-90, currently plays in NBA). He contributed to an easy victory against the Orlando Magic (14-27) crushing them 120-91 in the NBA in Monday night's game. Vesely scored 10 points, had 7 rebounds and dished 4 assists in 25 minutes on the court. The Washington Wizards have not so impressive 9-30 record this season. This year Vesely averages: 2.7ppg, 2.6rpg, 2FGP: 48.6% and FT: 22.2% in the 29 games he played so far. He played for the Czech Republic senior national team three years ago.

Tomas Satoransky

#2. Second place goes to an international point guard Tomas Satoransky (201-91, currently plays in Spain). Satoransky was the major contributor in Cajasol's victory against the closely-ranked UCAM Murcia (7-11) 81-73 in the Spanish ACB last Sunday. He scored 16 points, had 7 rebounds and dished 5 assists. Cajasol Banca Civica Sevilla (7-11) is placed 12th in the ACB. It was his team's fourth consecutive victory in a row. It's Satoransky's first season with the team. Satoransky is ranked fifth on the list of the best passers in the league. He has very reliable stats this season: 12.1ppg, 3.6rpg, 4.0apg, 1.1spg, 2FGP: 49.3%, 3FGP: 29.7% and FT: 76.2%. Satoransky is in the roster of the Czech Republic senior national team.

Ondrej Starosta

#3. The Czech Republic player who performed third best last week abroad was an experienced former international center Ondrej Starosta (215-79, currently plays in Spain), who plays in the Spanish LEB Gold (second division). He could not help Planasa NV (7-8) in their last game. Despite Starosta's very good performance Planasa NV was crushed 90-61 on the road by the higher-ranked (#5) Lleida_Basquet. He had a double-double by scoring 18 points and getting 11 rebounds. Starosta also added 4 blocks in 35 minutes. Starosta is currently fifth on the league's list of top scorers and also on the list of best rebounders (first place). He has individually a very good year with high stats. Starosta averages: 15.7ppg, 9.5rpg, 1.1apg, 1.3bpg, 2FGP: 59.0%(102-173) and FT: 40.3% in the 15 games. He played for the Czech Republic national team five years ago.

Tomas Hampl

#4. Center Tomas Hampl (215-88, currently plays in Spain) led River Andorra to a victory over the sixth-ranked Leche Rio Breogan (7-8) 77-66 in the Spanish LEB Gold (second division) in Saturday night's game. Hampl was MVP of the game. He scored 18 points. B.C. River Andorra (3-0) is placed in the LEB Gold. So far his team won all three games in the Regular Season. Hampl's overall stats this season are: 7.6ppg and 3.9rpg. He is also Czech Republic national team player.

Pavel Pumprla

#5. International shooting guard Pavel Pumprla (198-86, currently plays in Spain) was not able to help Blusens Monbus (9-9) in their game against Assignia Manresa (3-15) in the Spanish ACB. Pumprla scored 7 points in 16 minutes. Blusens Monbus lost 69-83 in Manresa to the one of league's weakest teams (#17) Assignia. This year Pumprla's overall stats are: 6.4ppg and 2.7rpg in the 18 games. He plays currently for the Czech Republic national team.

Ondrej Balvin

#6. Center Ondrej Balvin (216-92, currently plays in Spain) is a teammate of previously mentioned Tomas Satoransky and both played together in the last Spanish ACB game. Balvin managed to help Cajasol Banca Civica Sevilla in a victory against the closely-ranked UCAM Murcia (7-11) 81-73. He scored only 2 points in 12 minutes. This year Balvin's total stats are: 2.4ppg and 1.8rpg in the 14 games. He is an international player who is currently on the senior Czech Republic National Team roster.

Ales Chan

#7. Former international center Ales Chan (216-80, agency: Edge Sports, college: Seton Hill, currently plays in Cyprus) was not able to secure a victory for Apoel (2-6) in their game against Etha (10-4) in the Cypriot Division A. Chan scored only 4 points and grabbed 4 rebounds in 18 minutes. Apoel was edged 71-70 in a derby game by the higher-ranked (#3) Etha. The Regular Season already ended. Chan has averaged so far 6.2ppg and 4.3rpg in the 11 games. He used to play for the Czech Republic national team three years ago.

Marek Soucek

   #8. Power forward Marek Soucek (213-90, currently plays college basketball in the States) contributed to an easy victory against the Texas Tech University (1-4) crushing them 79-45 in the NCAA on Saturday night. He recorded only 3 points. The Oklahoma State University has 2-3 conference record this season. Soucek has averaged so far 6.6ppg, 3.5rpg and 1.1apg. He used to play for the Czech Republic U20 national team back in 2010.

The list of other players, who all have Czech Republic passport but never been selected to any of Czech Republic national teams:

   #1. Robert Skibniewski (183-PG-83, currently plays in Poland), who plays in the Polish TBL could not help AZS Koszalin (9-8) to beat Kotwica (5-12). Skibniewski scored only 4 points and added 4 assists. AZS Koszalin was defeated 88-76 on the road by the lower-ranked Kotwica (#10). Skibniewski belongs to league's best passers and is ranked #7. His total stats this season are: 7.8ppg, 2.6rpg, 4.1apg and 1.2spg.

   #2. David Steffel (212-C/F-85, currently plays in Romania) was not able to help Rovinari (9-9) in their game against Timisoara (9-6) in the Romanian Liga Nationala. Steffel scored only 4 points. Rovinari was defeated 94-87 on the opponent's court by the higher-ranked Timisoara (#6). His team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And that game will be critical. Steffel is currently first on the league's list of best rebounders. This season he has very good stats: 14.1ppg, 9.0rpg and 1.5apg.

   #3. Michal Kremen (200-G/F-81, currently plays in Cyprus) was not able to secure a victory for Apoel (2-6) in their game against Etha (10-4) in the Cypriot Division A. Kremen cannot count Tuesday's game as one of the best ones. He scored only 2 points and grabbed 4 rebounds. Apoel was edged 71-70 in a derby game by the higher-ranked Etha (#3). The Regular Season already ended. Kremen has averaged so far 6.0ppg, 3.6rpg, 1.8apg and 1.6spg.

   #4. Jan Kratochvil (200-F-82, currently plays in Slovakia) managed to help MBK Rieker Komarno in a victory against the sixth-ranked Inter Bratislava (10-12) 85-76 in the Slovakian Extraliga last Saturday. He scored only 2 points in 12 minutes. MBK Rieker Komarno (16-5) is placed first in the Extraliga. Kratochvil has averaged so far 6.6ppg, 3.5rpg and 1.1apg in the 20 games he played so far.

   #5. Jaromir Fohler (211-C-85, currently plays in Spain) contributed to a Lan Mobel ISB's victory against the fifth-ranked Prat Juventud (7-6) 79-71 in the Spanish LEB Silver (third division) in Friday night's game. Fohler scored only 2 points in 8 minutes on the court. Lan Mobel Iraurgi Saski Baloia (1-0) is placed in the LEB Silver. Fohler has averaged so far 1.3ppg and 1.7rpg in the 12 games.

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DENMARK

Standings - Basketligaen

Ligaen Standings

1. Svendborg		18-2
2. Horsens IC		16-4
3. Bakken		15-5
4. SISU		12-8
5. Naestved		11-9
6. Randers		8-11
7. Vaerlose		6-14
8. Horsholm		5-13
9. Aarhus BC		5-15
10. Aalborg		1-16

Regular Season: Round 23

Jan. 19: Aarhus BC - Horsens IC 76-91
Jan. 19: Horsholm - SISU 73-79
Jan. 20: Vaerlose - Aalborg 73-58
Jan. 21: Naestved - Bakken 67-63
Jan. 19: Svendborg - Randers 105-75

Regular Season: Round 24

Jan. 24: Horsens IC - Horsholm
Jan. 24: Naestved - Svendborg
Jan. 26: Aarhus BC - Horsholm
Jan. 26: Randers - SISU
Jan. 27: Bakken - Vaerlose
Jan. 27: Horsens IC - Aalborg
Jan. 23: Randers - Aalborg

Stats Leaders - Basketligaen

Points Per Game

Donald RUTHERFORD
  Svend.
  (199-F/C-87)
  Avg: 24.2

1. Rutherford, Svend.	24.2
2. Colas, Randers	24.2
3. Jukic, Horsens IC	21.7
4. Bowlin, Horsens IC	20.3
5. Willen, Aalborg	20.2
6. Ocana, Randers	19.7
7. Walker, Naestved	19.5
8. Delk, Vaerlose	19.5
9. Darboe, Svendborg	18.9
10. Tomko, Bakken	18.5

Rebounds Per Game

Bonell COLAS
  Randers
  (205-F-82)
  Avg: 14.7

1. Colas, Randers	14.7
2. Rutherford, Svend.	10.3
3. Jukic, Horsens IC	9.6
4. Dezouvre, Aarhus	9.2
5. Washington, Svend.	8.3
6. Walker, Naestved	8.1
7. Baker, Vaerlose	8.0
8. Willen, Aalborg	7.7
9. Iversen, Bakken	7.5
10. Moritz, SISU	7.4

Assists Per Game

Skyler BOWLIN
  Horsens IC
  (190-G-89)
  Avg: 7.2

1. Bowlin, Horsens IC	7.2
2. Ortega, Randers	7.0
3. Darboe, Svendborg	5.8
4. Nielsen, SISU	5.0
5. Murphy, Naestved	5.0
6. Tomko, Bakken	4.5
7. Plannthin, Svend.	4.4
8. Jonsson, Aarhus BC	4.0
9. Jakobsen, Bakken	3.9
10. Dennis, SISU	3.7

Steals Per Game

Skyler BOWLIN
  Horsens IC
  (190-G-89)
  Avg: 2.9

1. Bowlin, Horsens IC	2.9
2. Tomko, Bakken	2.4
3. Nielsen, SISU	2.4
4. Delk, Vaerlose	2.3
5. Darboe, Svendborg	2.1
6. Jukic, Horsens IC	2.1
7. Ortega, Randers	2.0
8. Walker, Naestved	1.9
9. Dennis, SISU	1.7
10. Rungby, Horsens	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Gregory WASHINGTON
  Svend.
  (208-C/F-84)
  Avg: 2.7

1. Washington, Svend.	2.7
2. Colas, Randers	2.5
3. Marinkovic, Horsho.	1.4
4. Jukic, Horsens IC	1.4
5. Christoffers., Bak.	1.1
6. Jukic, Horsholm	1.1
7. Smith, SISU	1.0
8. Frandsen, Naestved	0.9
9. Delk, Vaerlose	0.9
10. Thomann, Horse.	0.9

Danish Ligaen round 23 best performance: Donald Rutherford - by Eurobasket News

American power forward Donald Rutherford (199-F/C-87) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for top-ranked Svendborg, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 23.
The 25-year old player had a double-double of 27 points and 12 rebounds, while his team outclassed Randers (#6, 8-11) with 30-point margin 105-75. It allowed Svendborg to consolidate first place in the Danish Ligaen. Svendborg has a very good season and are considered to have a run for the championship title. They improved their record to 18-2. Rutherford turned to be Svendborg's top player in his first season with the team. Former Catawba College star has very solid stats this year. Rutherford is in league's top in points (2nd best: 24.2ppg), rebounds (2nd best: 10.3rpg) and averages impressive 60.6% FGP.

The second best player in last round's games was 25-year old American Randy Dezouvre (195-F/G-87) of Aarhus BC. Dezouvre had a very good evening with a double-double of 31 points and 14 rebounds. Bad luck as Aarhus BC lost that game 76-91 to the higher-ranked Horsens IC (#2, 16-4). Aarhus BC managed to keep the same 9th spot in the standings. 15 lost games are too many comparing to just five victories Aarhus BC managed to get this year. Dezouvre is a newcomer at Aarhus BC, but is already one of team's top players.

Third on the list of top players last round was American forward Bonell Colas (205-F-82) of Randers (#6). Colas scored 23 points and grabbed fourteen rebounds (!!!). Despite Colas' great performance Randers lost 75-105 to the higher-ranked Svendborg (#1, 18-2). But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates. The chances of Randers ranking at the top of the league, however are very questionable as they have already lost 11 games, recording just eight victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Colas could help Randers to bring them higher in the standings. Colas has a great season in Denmark. After 15 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 24.2ppg (best scorer) and rebounds with 14.7rpg (#1 in league). He also has 2.5bpg and FGP: 66.7%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Keane Thomann (211-C-89) of Horsens IC - 26 points and 3 rebounds
5. Richard Delk (193-G-86) of Vaerlose - 25 points, 8 rebounds and 3 assists
6. Justin Baker (203-F-89) of Vaerlose - 15 points and 14 rebounds
7. Caleb Walker (193-G-89) of Naestved - 22 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists
8. Mickey Dennis (190-G/F-78) of SISU - 23 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists
9. Gregory Washington (208-C/F-84) of Svendborg - 19 points, 8 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Casper Hesseldal (198-F-85) of Horsholm - 17 points and 10 rebounds

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

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D-LEAGUE

Standings

D-League Standings

East Conference
1. Maine RC		16-8
2. Canton C.		15-10
3. Santa Cruz W.		14-8
4. Sioux Falls S.		13-10
5. Erie Bay H.		12-9
6. Ft.Wayne MA		11-13
7. Springfield A.		6-15
8. Iowa E.		6-16
West Conference
1. Bakersfield J.		15-7
2. Rio Grande VV		13-8
3. Austin T.		12-10
4. Texas L.		11-11
5. Tulsa 66ers		11-11
6. Reno B.		8-11
7. Los Angeles D.		7-13
8. Idaho S.		6-16

Regular Season: Round 32

Jan. 22: Iowa E. - Tulsa 66ers 106-111
Jan. 23: Rio Grande VV - Texas L.
Jan. 23: Los Angeles D. - Bakersfield J.
Jan. 24: Springfield A. - Maine RC

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Darius JOHNSON-ODOM
  Los A.
  (187-PG-89)
  Avg: 21

1. Johnson-Odom, Los	21.0
2. Joseph, Austin T.	20.7
3. Mack, Maine RC	20.5
4. Goudelock, Sioux F.	20.3
5. Almond, Iowa E.	20.1
6. Fortson, Los A.	19.1
7. Summers, Maine RC	19.0
8. Kennedy, Erie B.	18.3
9. Downs, Maine RC	18.2
10. Howard, Ft.Wayne.	18.2

Rebounds Per Game

Arinze ONUAKU
  Canton C.
  (206-F-87)
  Avg: 11.5

1. Onuaku, Canton C.	11.5
2. Mays, Springfield	10.5
3. Butch, Bakersfi.	10.3
4. Harris, Iowa E.	9.7
5. Evans, Idaho S.	9.4
6. Jackson, Austin T.	9.4
7. Wilkerson, Austin	9.3
8. Johnson, Ft.Wayne.	8.9
9. Kennedy, Erie B.	8.4
10. Summers, Maine RC	8.4

Assists Per Game

Shelvin MACK
  Maine RC
  (190-G-90)
  Avg: 8

1. Mack, Maine RC	8.0
2. Wright, Iowa E.	7.5
3. Singletary, Texas	6.4
4. Fortson, Los A.	6.3
5. Karl, Idaho S.	5.5
6. Kennedy, Erie B.	5.2
7. Johnson-Odom, Los	5.2
8. Uzoh, Springfield	5.2
9. McNeal, Bakersfi.	4.8
10. Howard, Ft.Wayne.	4.7

Steals Per Game

Jamario MOON
  Los A.
  (203-F-80)
  Avg: 2.3

1. Moon, Los A.	2.3
2. Downs, Maine RC	2.2
3. Wright, Maine RC	2.1
4. Sutton, Tulsa 66e.	2.0
5. McNeal, Bakersfi.	2.0
6. Gutierrez, Canton	2.0
7. Wright, Iowa E.	1.9
8. Hannah, Santa C.	1.9
9. Tyndale, Sioux F.	1.9
10. Scott, Springfiel.	1.8

Blocks Per Game

Fabricio MELO
  Maine RC
  (212-C-90)
  Avg: 3.8

1. Melo, Maine RC	3.8
2. Eyenga, Texas L.	2.5
3. Gladness, Santa C.	2.5
4. Johnson, Ft.Wayne.	2.2
5. Moon, Los A.	2.1
6. Johnson, Santa C.	2.1
7. Orton, Tulsa 66ers	2.0
8. Flowers, Los A.	1.9
9. Reed, Springfield	1.9
10. Eric, Canton C.	1.9

Kevin Jones claims D-League weekly honour - by Eurobasket News

Kevin Jones (203-F-89) had an amazing evening in the last round for league's second-best Canton C. and that's him to receive a USBasket.com Player of the Week award for round 31.
The 23-year old forward had a double-double of 25 points and eleven rebounds, while his team beat Ft.Wayne MA (#6, 11-13) 78-69. Canton C. is placed at 2nd position in D-League. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Canton C. will need more victories to improve their 15-10 record. Jones just recently signed at Canton C., being already a very valuable addition to the team. Kevin Jones averages this season 23.8ppg and 12.6rpg.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 27-year old point guard Sean Singletary (183-PG-85) of Texas L.. Singletary impressed basketball fans with 38 points, 7 rebounds and 9 assists. Bad luck as Texas L. was edged by slightly higher-ranked Rio Grande VV (#2, 13-8) 120-118. It was definitely game of the week between two contenders to the title. Texas L. still maintains its place in the top 4 of the standings, even despite this loss. His team's 11-11 record is not bad at all. Singletary is a newcomer at Texas L. and it seems he did not have too much trouble to become one of team's leaders.

The third best performed player last round was Zachary Andrews (203-F/C-85) of Los Angeles D. (#7). Andrews scored 17 points and grabbed thirteen rebounds (!!!). Despite Andrews' great performance Los Angeles D. lost 94-97 to slightly higher-ranked Erie Bay H. (#5, 12-9). But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates. The chances of Los Angeles D. not to end season at such low position in the league, however are less than slim as they have already lost 13 games, recording just seven victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Andrews could try to bring Los Angeles D.'s a little bit higher in the standings. Andrews has a very solid season. In 4 games in D-L he scored 12.0ppg.

Other top performing players last week:
4. DaJuan Summers (203-F-88) of Maine RC - 23 points, 10 rebounds and 2 assists
5. Vernon Macklin (208-F/C-86) of Rio Grande VV - 20 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists
6. Tirrell Baines (198-F-86) of Erie Bay H. - 20 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Darius Rice (208-F-82) of Texas L. - 31 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists
8. Andrew Goudelock (190-G-88) of Rio Grande VV - 28 points, 10 rebounds and 6 assists
9. Brian Butch (211-C/F-84) of Bakersfield J. - 13 points, 14 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Henry Sims (208-C-90) of Erie Bay H. - 20 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists

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

Review of five games on Monday - by Eurobasket News

Los Angeles D. - Erie Bay H. 94-97
Tirrell Baines (6'6''-F-86, college: Marshall) and Henry Sims (6'10''-C-90, college: Georgetown) scored 20 points apiece as the Erie BayHawks held on for a 97-94 victory over the Los Angeles D-Fenders in an NBA Development League game late Monday night. Erie (12-9) completed a four-game road trip with a 2-2 record. The BayHawks led by as many as 19 points in the third quarter, but the D-Fenders eventually trimmed the lead to one point in the final quarter. However, Baines scored 12 points in the fourth quarter to help Erie pull out the win. Baines shot 10-for-12 from the field in the game and finished with seven rebounds. Sims made 9-of-13 field-goal attempts. Demetri McCamey scored 18 points, D.J. Kennedy had 14 points and Mike Singletary added 10 for the BayHawks. Courtney Fortson (5'11''-PG-88, college: Arkansas) and Elijah Millsap (6'6''-G-87, agency: Interperformances, college: UAB) scored 23 and 22 points, respectively, for the D-Fenders (7-13). Zach Andrews finished with 17 points and 13 rebounds. The BayHawks play the first of three consecutive home games Friday against the Fort Wayne Mad Ants. Courtesy of: goerie.com

Santa Cruz W. - Bakersfield J. 89-99
The Santa Cruz Warriors' 99-89 loss to the Bakersfield Jam on Monday night was a tough one in more ways than one. Three, in fact. Not only did the Warriors lose to the team they were tied with for first place in the NBA D-League's Western Division, they also suffered their first defeat of the season at Kaiser Permanente Arena. And they did both these things right before hitting the road for two weeks. "It doesn't feel good, but we've got to regroup," Warriors coach Nate Bjorkgren said. The Warriors entered the contest having won all eight of their previous games in their new Santa Cruz arena. Point guard Stefhon Hannah (6'1''-PG-85, agency: N.E.T., college: Missouri) led Santa Cruz (14-8) with 24 points, including four 3-pointers, seven assists and 10 rebounds in front of a Martin Luther King Day crowd of 2,200. Santa Cruz's Taylor Griffin (6'8''-F-86, college: Oklahoma), the older brother of Los Angeles Clippers star Blake Griffin, had 16 points and nine rebounds. Cameron Jones added 15 points. Jerel McNeal (6'3''-G-87, college: Marquette) led Bakersfield with 21 points as the Jam (15-7) took sole possession of first place in the west. The Warriors open their two-week road trip Friday against the Maine Red Claws (16-8), who lead the Eastern Division with the NBDL's best record. The road trip along with the All-Star break means Santa Cruz won't play at home again until Feb. 20 against the Los Angeles D-Fenders. Despite 13 first-half turnovers and the fact that they couldn't finish in the paint and were somewhat bullied by Bakersfield forwards Renaldo Major and Adam Koch, the Warriors traded the lead 10 times with the Jam before halftime and went into the locker room trailing just 47-45. That was mostly because Hannah caught a spark in the second quarter, and that seemed to do the same for his teammates. Hannah scored 18 first-half points, including three second-quarter 3-pointers. "We need to finish better," Bjorkgren said. "By us not finishing, it allowed them to get off to the races." Mickell Gladness' two dunks at the start of the third quarter gave Santa Cruz a 49-47 lead, but before the quarter was over Bakersfield would lead by as much as 74-54. "We need to keep playing hard the whole time," Hannah said. "It's like it takes something for us to play hard." Courtesy of: santacruzsentinel.com

Rio Grande VV - Texas L. 120-118
The Rio Grande Valley Vipers looked to be in control after overcoming an early 19-point deficit and taking a 13-point lead midway through the fourth quarter. But their offense sputtered down the stretch and with the time tied, Andrew Goudelock (6'3''-G-88, college: Charleston) bailed out the Vipers with a game-winning layup with 3.8 seconds remaining that lifted them over the Texas Legends 120-118 Monday at State Farm Arena. The Vipers won for the fifth-straight time and improved to 7-1 at home. The Vipers have won seven in a row at home. The Legends lost for the sixth-straight time. The Vipers (13-8) kept a slight edge over Sioux Falls (13-10), Austin (12-10) and the Legends (11-11) in the NBA Development League Central Division standings. The Vipers and Legends will meet again at 7 p.m. Wednesday at State Farm Arena. The Vipers stayed in first place thanks to some clutch play by Goudelock, who finished 28 points and 10 rebounds. With the game tied at 118, the Vipers had the ball after a Legends' turnover. Goudelock took the ball and surfed around the baseline underneath the rim and pump faked once. Then in mid-air he switched the ball to the other hand and gently nestled the ball off the backboard for the game-winner. 'Big turnaround, (we're) just glad we hung in there,' Vipers coach Nick Nurse said. ' (Goudelock) he's always a threat to shoot and score but also opens up a lot of things for other people because they have to put a lot of attention on him. We were fortunate. We've had a few like these go against us; it's about time one goes our way.' The Vipers got off to a slow start before the Vipers settled into the flow of things. They trailed 27-8 halfway through the first quarter. But the Vipers fought back and cut the lead down to three by halftime. The Vipers went back and forth with the Legends in the third, until Vernon Macklin (6'10''-F/C-86, college: Florida) scored 16 of his 20 points in the third outscoring the Legends 36-27 in that quarter. 'We lost Terrence Jones to injury late in the first half, so Vernon had to start and play major minutes and contributed well,' Nurse said. Jones, on assignment from the Houston Rockets, had scored 27 points in each of the last two games. Leading comfortably 108-95 with just less than seven minutes to play, it seemed the Vipers were in control. But the Legends, led by Sean Singletary (6'0''-PG-85, college: Virginia) (38 points), stormed out on a 23-2 run with 2:49 to close the gap and lead it 118-110. But the Legends offense went cold after. Vernon Lewis missed a pair of free throws and Vernon Macklin added a tip in to tie the game at 118, before Goudelock made the game-winning shot. Vernon Macklin had 20 points. Terrel Harris 18 points and Chris Johnson 14 points. Maalik Wayns, acquired Monday by the Vipers, had 13 points. The Vipers made room for Wayns by deactivating Kyle Fogg. Courtesy of: themonitor.com

Canton C. - Ft.Wayne MA 78-69
The Canton Charge can take one positive away from Monday's performance at Memorial Civic Center. It's called winning ugly. Real ugly. Two tired basketball teams struggled through four quarters on a wintry night, and it was the Charge holding off Fort Wayne for a 78-69 win in front of 2,291 fans who should have covered their eyes. 'There's going to be nights like this,' said Charge forward JaJuan Johnson (6'10''-F-89, college: Purdue), who totaled 16 points and five rebounds in his best performance since coming to Canton in late December. 'The biggest thing is we hung in there defensively. Our team really played hard. We stuck together even though buckets weren't falling.' The Charge, the top defensive team in the D-League, didn't do anything to hurt their status in that regard. Fort Wayne's points and field goal percentage (31.0) are franchise defensive records for the Charge, who got the best of Luke Harangody in his return to Canton after he spent part of last year here on assignment from the Cavaliers. 'Anytime you shoot 36.8 percent as a team and you win, you have to feel good,' said Charge head coach Alex Jensen, whose own team avoided its season low in points by only three. Each team played for the third time in four nights. The difference was Fort Wayne played Friday and Saturday on the West Coast before traveling to Canton. Monday was the seventh straight road game for the Mad Ants (11-13) overall. 'We're not going to use that as an excuse. We were tired, they were tired,' Fort Wayne head coach Duane Ticknor said. 'We just couldn't make open shots.' The Mad Ants shot 4-of-19 (21.1 percent) from 3-point range. They committed 19 turnovers and had five assists (tying a season low by a Charge opponent). They managed only 13 second-quarter points, the lowest single-quarter output by a Charge opponent this season, as Canton led 45-35 at the break. Yet they still were within striking distance late in the fourth quarter. 'I was very, very proud of the way our team responded in the second half,' Ticknor said. 'We could have folded over and got beat by 25-30 points.' Assigned to the Charge (15-10) earlier in the day, Cavaliers forward Kevin Jones (6'8''-F-89, college: W.Virginia) totaled 25 points and 11 rebounds. Guard Kyle Gibson (6'5''-G-87, college: Louisiana Tech) had 14 points, eight rebounds and five assists. Both played 40 minutes and hit big shots in the fourth quarter. Fort Wayne cut its deficit to three points on two separate occasions in the fourth. The first time, Gibson answered with a tough fadeaway jumper in the lane. Back-to-back buckets from Anthony Richardson, who led the team with 17 points, had the Mad Ants down 72-69 with 2:11 left. Again the Charge countered, with Gibson finding Jones for a layup with 1:55 left. The Mad Ants went scoreless the rest of the way, missing their final six shots. Gibson's performance was especially gutsy, since he played point while Jorge Gutierrez sat much of the fourth with an injury. 'We asked a lot of him,' Jensen said of Gibson. Johnson, who came to Canton from Fort Wayne in the Harangody deal, stole a pass from Anthony Harris late in the game to help seal the Charge win - their second straight and third in the last four games. 'I was excited to play against Fort Wayne,' Johnson said. 'A lot of familiar faces, and obviously, you want to play good.' Harangody looked tired and frustrated much of the night. He shot 4-for-14 from the floor, finishing with 11 points and 10 rebounds. Courtesy of: cantonrep.com

Maine RC - Springfield A. 106-92
Springfield Armor coach Bob MacKinnon paced the sideline, applauding good plays and vocalizing support after failed ones. He was a one-man cheerleader, trying to ignite a spark in his team. But the Armor never got motoring Monday afternoon at the Portland Expo. The Maine Red Claws took the lead for good only three minutes in, and ran away with a 106-92 victory before 2,368. The Red Claws (16-8) won their sixth straight and continue to lead the NBA Development League's East Division. Springfield (6-15) remains in last place in the East. The Armor are 1-4 in their last five games, three of the defeats coming to Maine. 'They have a very good team, very good personnel,' MacKinnon said. Indeed, Maine featured one of its best lineups all season, with the recent returns of 6-foot-8 forwards Chris Wright (concussion) and DaJuan Summers (strained quadriceps muscle). Summers led all scorers with 23 points. Center Willie Reed (6'9''-F-90, college: St.Louis) paced Springfield with 22 points. James Mays (6'9''-F-86, college: Clemson) recorded a double-double with 21 points and 11 rebounds. Point guard Ben Uzoh (6'3''-PG-88, college: Tulsa) added 17 points and eight assists while forward Carleton Scott scored 12. Uzoh hit a jumper with 4:17 left in the first half to trim the deficit to 43-37, but the Red Claws finished the half with a 12-4 run to lead 56-41 at the break. And it just kept going that way. Springfield showed signs of life before Maine bolted for bigger leads. 'We were staying with them, but in the second half, they had a lot of runs and we couldn't come back,' Mays said. The same can be said for the Armor's season - they just can't sustain a run. 'We just have to put all the little things together,' Mays said. 'Getting loose balls, get back on defense, stop fast-break points. Hopefully we'll put it together and get on a little win streak.' Springfield shot only 37 percent to Maine's 46. The Armor are usually strong on the offensive boards, but they managed only 11, matching the Red Claws' total. 'They were very physical with us and we didn't answer that physicality and finish plays,' MacKinnon said. 'We didn't finish strong. We didn't finish tough. It is what it is.' Springfield, already 0-4 against Maine, needs to find a solution to the Red Claws quickly. The two teams meet five more times, including Thursday at the MassMutual Center and Sunday back in Portland. Maine had six players in double figures. The Red Claws lost point guard Shelvin Mack to a 10-day contract with the Philadelphia 76ers. Newly signed point guard Andre Barrett, a veteran of the NBA and the D-League, stepped in and recorded 10 points and 12 assists. Besides Springfield's two games with Maine this week, it hosts Santa Cruz on Saturday night. Courtesy of: masslive.com

Toros Acquire Chris Roberts From Legends For Dentmon, Head - by Eurobasket News

The Austin Toros have acquired Chris Roberts (6'4''-G-88, college: Bradley) in exchange for guards Justin Dentmon (6'0''-G-85, college: Washington) and Luther Head (6'3''-G-82, college: Illinois) from the Texas Legends.
While trading Justin Dentmon was a difficult decision we are thrilled to welcome Chris Roberts to the Toros, said Sean Marks, Toros General Manager. Chris is a talented young player with a big upside and a bright future ahead of him
Roberts (6-4, 205, Bradley) played two years at Navarro College and finished his collegiate career at Bradley where he averaged 9.2 points and 4.6 rebounds his senior year.
Courtesy of: basketball.realgm.com

Rockets assign Motiejunas to Vipers, recall Jones - by Eurobasket News

Houston Rockets forward-center Donatas Motiejunas (7'0''-F/C-90, agency: Interperformances) was assigned to the Rio Grande Valley Vipers on Tuesday. He will be available for the Vipers Wednesday when they play host to the Texas Legends at State Farm Arena. Its Motiejunas third assignment with the Vipers. He averaged 23.5 points and 8.3 rebounds in four games with the Vipers. Motiejunas has played in 14 games with the Rockets, averaging 1.6 points and 3.1 minutes.
The Rockets also recalled forward Terrence Jones (6'9''-F-92, college: Kentucky), who played for the Vipers in their previous 10 games.
Courtesy of: themonitor.com

Tornike Shengelia, Tyshawn Taylor re-join Springfield Armor - by Eurobasket News

The Brooklyn Nets have re-assigned forward Tornike Shengelia (6'8''-PF-91) and guard Tyshawn Taylor (6'3''-G-90, college: Kansas) to the Springfield Armor of the NBA Development League, Nets General Manager Billy King announced Tuesday. This will be the second time this season that both Shengelia and Taylor have been assigned to the Armor. The first came on Dec. 21, where in one game with the Armor, Taylor scored a game-high and Armor season-high 32 points and Shengelia recorded a triple-double with 22 points, 12 assists and 10 rebounds against the Erie BayHawks. Shengelias triple-double is one of just three recorded in the NBA D-League this season.
Shengelia, acquired from the Philadelphia 76ers after being drafted 54th overall in the 2012 NBA Draft, has appeared in 13 games for the Nets this season, averaging 1.4 points, 0.8 steals and 0.7 rebounds per game.
Taylor, a rookie out of Kansas, has made 21 appearances for the Nets on the year, averaging 1.6 points, 0.2 rebounds and 0.2 assists per game. Both players will be in uniform when the Armor take on the Main Red Claws on Thursday at the MassMutual Center in Springfield. Courtesy of: masslive.com

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DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Sammy Mejia selected the top Dominican playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

Traditionally, every week we bring you a list of the top performances of Dominicans who are currently playing abroad.

Sammy Mejia

#1. This week's number one is former international guard Sammy Mejia (198-83, college: De Paul, currently plays in Eurocup). He led his Turkish team Banvit BK to a victory against the closely-ranked Buducnost (1-1) 89-80 in the Eurocup on Wednesday night. Mejia scored 14 points and added 4 passes in 33 minutes on the court. Banvit Basketbol Kulubu (1-1) is placed second in group I. There are only four games left until the end of the Eurocup Top 16. So now every game will be critical. It's Mejia's first season with the team. Mejia is currently fifth on the list of most steals with 1.9spg. This year his other stats are: 17.1ppg, 5.9rpg, 3.6apg, 2FGP: 71.2%(47-66), 3FGP: 45.0% and FT: 76.2% in the eight games he played so far. Mejia has a dual citizenship: Dominican Republic and American. He played for the Dominican Republic senior national team eight years ago. Strangely Mejia has never played in Dominican Republic.

Jeff Greer

#2. Second place goes to an experienced former international swingman Jeff Greer (196-79, college: Rutgers, currently plays in France). He led Strasbourg IG to a victory over the fifth-ranked Paris-Levallois (10-6) 88-73 in the French ProA in Saturday night's game. Greer was MVP of the game. He recorded 21 points and had 3 steals. Strasbourg IG (11-5) is placed first in the ProA. It was his team's sixth consecutive victory in a row. Greer is ranked third on the list of the best rebounders in the league and also on the list of best passers (fifth place). This season he averages: 5.6ppg, 3.2rpg, 2FGP: 29.7%, 3FGP: 25.7% and FT: 71.4%. Greer is another player who holds two passports: Dominican Republic and American. He played for the Dominican Republic national team in 2009. Greer used to play for Cocolos de San Pedro de Macoris in Dominican Republic league.

Trevor Ariza

#3. The Dominican Republic player who performed third best last week abroad was former international forward Trevor Ariza (203-85, agency: David Lee services, college: UCLA, currently plays in NBA). Ariza contributed to a Washington Wizards' victory against the Denver Nuggets (25-18) 112-108 in the NBA on Friday night. He recorded 14 points and grabbed 5 rebounds. The Washington Wizards have not so impressive 9-30 record this season. Ariza has relatively good stats this year: 7.4ppg, 4.8rpg, 1.8apg, 1.5spg, 2FGP: 39.1%, 3FGP: 27.9% and FT: 81.3%. He has both American and Dominican Republic nationalities. Ariza played for the Dominican Republic national team eight years ago. Apparently he has never played in Dominican Republic.

Eulis Baez

#4. Forward Eulis Baez (198-82, college: W.Illinois, currently plays in Spain), who plays in the Spanish ACB could not help one of league's weakest teams G.Canaria 2014 (12-6) to beat Gescrap BB (12-6). Baez scored 9 points and grabbed 5 rebounds (went 5 for 5 at the free throw line). But G.Canaria 2014 was defeated 81-70 on the road by the higher-ranked Gescrap BB (#4). Baez's overall stats this season are: 8.4ppg, 4.9rpg and 1.2apg. He used to play for the Dominican Republic national team back in 2009.

Josh Asselin

#5. Former international power forward Josh Asselin (210-78, college: Michigan, currently plays in Spain) helped Assignia Manresa win their game against the tenth-ranked Blusens Monbus (9-9) 83-69 in the Spanish ACB on Sunday night. He scored 12 points and grabbed 4 rebounds in 22 minutes. Assignia Manresa (3-15) is placed second from the bottom (#17) in the ACB. They ended the series of four consecutive loses. This year Asselin has relatively solid stats: 11.6ppg and 3.2rpg in the 18 games. He also holds two passports: Dominican Republic and American. Asselin used to play for the Dominican Republic national team seven years ago. He played also for Naco in Dominican Republic league.

Rodrigo Madera

   #6. Center Rodrigo Madera (208-90, currently plays in Canada), who plays in the Canadian university league CIS was not able to help the St.Francis Xavier (6-5) in their last game on Sunday. Despite Madera's very good performance the St.Francis Xavier (#4) was edged in an overtime 96-94 in Halifax, NS by the Huskies. He scored 17 points and grabbed 7 rebounds. Madera's overall stats this season are: 9.9ppg and 4.1rpg. He is a former U17 international player as he played for the Dominican Republic team six years ago.

The list of other players, who all have Dominican Republic passport but never been selected to any of Dominican Republic national teams:

   #1. Alfred Horford (208-F/C-86, college: Florida, currently plays in NBA) led Atlanta Hawks to a victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves (17-21) 104-96 in the NBA in Monday night's game. He was MVP of the game. Horford had a double-double by scoring 28 points and getting 10 rebounds. He also added 3 blocks in 38 minutes. The Atlanta Hawks have 23-18 record this season. It's Horford's sixth year with the team. Horford has individually a very good year with high stats. He averages: 15.6ppg, 9.8rpg and 3.3apg in the 39 games he played so far.

   #2. James Feldeine (193-G-88, college: Quinnipiac, currently plays in Spain) was the main contributor in a Baloncesto Fuenlabrada's surprising victory against the third-ranked Valencia Basket (12-6) 72-69 in the Spanish ACB last Saturday. Feldeine was MVP of the game. He scored 37 points (!!!), had 4 rebounds and dished 5 assists (went 8 for 8 at the free throw line); quite an impressive performance considering it's only Feldeine's third season in pro basketball. Mad-Croc Fuenlabrada (5-13) is placed 16th in the ACB. It was his team's first victory after three consecutive loses. It's Feldeine's first year with the team. Feldeine is ranked second on the list of the top scorers in the league. This season he has very high stats. Feldeine averages: 17.1ppg, 2.7rpg and 2.4apg. He has a dual citizenship: Dominican Republic and American. Strangely Feldeine has never played in Dominican Republic.

   #3. Adris Deleon (180-G-84, college: E.Washington, currently plays in Australia), who plays in the Australian NBL could not help Wollongong Hawks (8-9) in their last game. Despite his very good performance Wollongong Hawks were edged 72-71 on the road by the leading New Zealand Breakers. Deleon was the top scorer with 34 points. He also added 4 rebounds and dished 6 assists in 38 minutes. It was Wollongong Hawks' sixth consecutive loss in a row. Deleon is ranked third on the list of the most steals in the league with 1.3spg. This year he also averages: 14.2ppg, 3.4rpg and 2.8apg in the 17 games.

   #4. Experienced Ricardo Greer (197-F/G-78, college: Pittsburgh, currently plays in France) contributed to an easy victory against the fifth-ranked Paris-Levallois (10-6) 88-73 in the French ProA in Saturday night's game. Greer had a double-double by scoring 10 points and getting the same number of rebounds. He also added 8 assists and 3 steals in 31 minutes. Strasbourg IG (11-5) is placed first in the ProA. It was his team's sixth consecutive victory in a row. Greer belongs to league's best rebounders (ranked #3) and also on the list of best passers (fifth place). He has very reliable stats this year: 13.7ppg, 8.1rpg, 5.2apg and 1.5spg in the 15 games. Greer is another player who holds two passports: Dominican Republic and American. Interesting that he has never played in Dominican Republic.

   #5. Charlie Villanueva (209-F-84, college: Connecticut, currently plays in NBA) contributed to an easy victory against the Orlando Magic (14-27) 105-90 in the NBA on Tuesday night. Villanueva scored 6 points and grabbed 6 rebounds in only 13 minutes. The Detroit Pistons have 16-25 record this season. Villanueva is one of the most experienced players in a team as it's his fourth year in Pistons' roster. This season he has relatively solid stats: 8.0ppg and 3.4rpg in the 30 games. Villanueva has both American and Dominican Republic nationalities. Despite his Dominican Republic passport, Villanueva previously played for the USA U21 national team and is probably not eligible to play for the Dominican Republic team. Interesting that he has never played in Dominican Republic.

   #6. Elys Guzman (206-F/C-82, college: Bemidji St., currently plays in Uruguay), who plays in the Uruguayan LUB was not able to help Hebraica (0-2) in their last game on Friday. Despite Guzman's very good performance the eighth-placed Hebraica was defeated 82-71 in a derby game by the higher-ranked Union Atletica (#3) in the Serie 1. He was the top scorer with 18 points. Guzman also added 5 rebounds. This season he has relatively solid stats: 15.0ppg and 6.2rpg.

   #7. Dago Pena (198-G/F-88, college: Marshall, currently plays in Uruguay), who plays in the Uruguayan LUB was not able to secure a victory for Maldonado (1-0) in their last game. Despite Pena's very good performance his team lost 72-86 at home to the second-ranked Sayago in the Serie 2. He was the top scorer with 23 points. Pena also added 5 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals in 40 minutes. It was his first game for Maldonado this season.

   #8. Emmanuel Quezada (188-PG-85, college: USF, currently plays in Spain) was the major contributor in a FIATC Joventut's victory against the league outsider Lagun Aro GBC 73-67 in the Spanish ACB on Saturday night. He scored 11 points. Quezada's overall stats this season are: 9.8ppg, 2.1rpg and 2.2apg. He also holds two passports: Dominican Republic and American. Interesting that Quezada has never played in Dominican Republic.

   #9. Francisco Garcia (201-F/G-81, college: Louisville, currently plays in NBA) managed to help Sacramento Kings in a victory against the Charlotte Bobcats 97-93 in the NBA in Saturday night's game. He scored 5 points in 17 minutes. This year Garcia's overall stats are: 5.3ppg, 1.6rpg and 1.1apg in the 30 games.

   #10. Chris Perez (190-G-90, currently plays college basketball in the States) contributed to an easy victory against the David Lipscomb University 85-69 in the NCAA last Saturday. He recorded 21 points and grabbed 7 rebounds. Perez's overall stats this season are: 5.3ppg, 1.6rpg and 1.1apg.

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

ESTONIA

Standings - KML

KML Standings

1. TU/Rock		15-0
2. Tarvas		13-4
3. Kalev/Cramo		10-5
4. TTU		9-9
5. Valga		8-9
6. Rapla		7-10
7. Parnu		6-10
8. Tln Kalev		4-14
9. Hito/Johvi		1-14

Regular Season: Round 16

Jan. 22: TU/Rock - TTU 74-64
Jan. 25: Tarvas - Rapla
Jan. 25: Valga - Hito/Johvi
Jan. 26: Hito/Johvi - Tarvas

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Maris LAKSA
  Tarvas
  (205-F-81)
  Avg: 17.1

1. Laksa, Tarvas	17.1
2. Tamm, Tarvas	16.2
3. Matulionis, Parnu	16.1
4. Lindmets, Tarvas	15.7
5. Akenparg, TTU	15.6
6. Okoye, Tln Kalev	15.4
7. Campbell, Tln Kalev	15.2
8. Peciukeviciu., Par.	14.7
9. Laur, Hito/Johvi	14.2
10. Pilk, Rapla	14.1

Rebounds Per Game

Rain RAADIK
  Parnu
  (208-C-89)
  Avg: 11.3

1. Raadik, Parnu	11.3
2. Okoye, Tln Kalev	10.4
3. Lindmets, Tarvas	9.4
4. Trumm, Hito/Johvi	8.2
5. Arnold, TTU	7.4
6. Ringmets, Rapla	7.0
7. Grafs, Valga	6.9
8. Cunda, Valga	6.8
9. Keedus, TTU	6.4
10. Grim, Valga	6.1

Assists Per Game

Augustas PECIUKEVICIUS
  Parnu
  (192-G-91)
  Avg: 5.5

1. Peciukeviciu., Par.	5.5
2. Tamm, Tarvas	5.2
3. Keedus, TTU	5.1
4. Laane, Rapla	3.9
5. Cunda, Valga	3.9
6. Campbell, Tln Kalev	3.7
7. Saare, Hito/Johvi	3.7
8. Pilk, Rapla	2.6
9. Akenparg, TTU	2.2
10. Umbrasko, Tarvas	2.2

Steals Per Game

Reimo TAMM
  Tarvas
  (185-PG-84)
  Avg: 2.6

1. Tamm, Tarvas	2.6
2. Laane, Rapla	2.5
3. Akenparg, TTU	1.9
4. Peciukeviciu., Par.	1.8
5. Leppik, TU/Rock	1.7
6. Saage, TU/Rock	1.7
7. Okoye, Tln Kalev	1.7
8. Campbell, Tln Kalev	1.7
9. Keedus, TTU	1.6
10. Saare, Hito/Johvi	1.5

Blocks Per Game

Andrew ARNOLD
  TTU
  (208-C-86)
  Avg: 1.2

1. Arnold, TTU	1.2
2. Okoye, Tln Kalev	0.8
3. Saarmets, TTU	0.7
4. Saks, Tarvas	0.7
5. Grim, Valga	0.7
6. Matulionis, Parnu	0.7
7. Raadik, Parnu	0.6
8. Tambre, Hito/Johvi	0.5
9. Lindmets, Tarvas	0.4
10. Nelyubov, TU/Rock	0.4

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

EUROCHALLENGE

Standings

EuroChallenge Standings

Group I
1. Karsiyaka			2-0
2. Gaz Metan			1-1
3. Kataja			1-1
4. Ventspils			0-2
Group J
1. Szolnok			1-0
2. Gravelines			1-1
3. Paris-Levallois			1-1
4. Hapoel Holon			0-1
Group K
1. Krasnie Krilya			2-0
2. Norrkoping			1-1
3. Tofas			1-1
4. Khimik			0-2
Group L
1. EWE Baskets			1-0
2. Telekom Baskets			1-0
3. Aalstar			0-1
4. Tsmoki-Minsk			0-1

Top 16: Round 2

Jan. 22: Gaz Metan - Kataja 84-82
Jan. 22: Ventspils - Karsiyaka 81-86

Jan. 22: Gravelines - Paris-Levallois 82-77
Jan. 23: Hapoel Holon - Szolnok

Jan. 22: Norrkoping - Tofas 84-82
Jan. 22: Khimik - Krasnie Krilya 69-77

Jan. 23: Tsmoki-Minsk - Aalstar
Jan. 23: Telekom Baskets - EWE Baskets

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Brandon BROWN
  Apollon
  (201-F-85)
  Avg: 22.2

1. Brown, Apollon	22.2
2. Hopkins, Antwerp	22.2
3. May, Paris-Levallo.	22.0
4. Buljan, Kormend	21.7
5. Shaw, Kormend	21.3
6. Dixon, Karsiyaka	18.9
7. Flowers, Kataja	18.4
8. Hassell, Hapoel Ho.	18.0
9. Dyson, Hapoel Hol.	17.6
10. Burtt, Tofas	17.3

Rebounds Per Game

Frank HASSELL
  Hapoel Holon
  (203-F-88)
  Avg: 12.2

1. Hassell, Hapoel Ho.	12.2
2. Bader, Szolnok	10.3
3. Qvale, M.Hainaut	9.7
4. Williams, Pyrinto	9.5
5. Brown, Apollon	8.8
6. Thondique, Antwerp	8.8
7. Hill, Hapoel Holon	8.7
8. Elonu, Tofas	8.6
9. May, Paris-Levallo.	8.6
10. Wilson, Armia	8.5

Assists Per Game

Aaron MILES
  Krasnie Krilya
  (186-G-83)
  Avg: 7.5

1. Miles, Krasnie Kri.	7.5
2. Albicy, Paris-Le.	6.5
3. Jordan, Telekom	6.4
4. Dixon, Karsiyaka	6.1
5. Deane, Khimik	5.9
6. Williams, Pyrinto	5.7
7. Kudrautsau, Tsmoki.	5.3
8. Rujak, Kormend	5.2
9. Jovanovic, Timisoa.	5.2
10. Joyce, EWE Baske.	5.0

Steals Per Game

Jonte FLOWERS
  Kataja
  (196-F/G-85)
  Avg: 3.9

1. Flowers, Kataja	3.9
2. Harris, Dijon	2.8
3. Clark, Aalstar	2.7
4. Mitchell, Gaz Metan	2.6
5. Albicy, Paris-Le.	2.6
6. Crocker, Keravnos	2.2
7. Barac, Pitesti	2.2
8. Diot, Paris-Levall.	2.1
9. Diabate, Nancy	2.0
10. Johnson, Timisoara	2.0

Blocks Per Game

Kenneth SIMMS
  Sodertalje
  (203-C-86)
  Avg: 2.2

1. Simms, Sodertalje	2.2
2. Goodridge, Khimik	1.9
3. Vaughn, Keravnos	1.8
4. Vasiliev, Krasni.	1.7
5. Qvale, M.Hainaut	1.7
6. Aminu, Karsiyaka	1.5
7. Hill, Hapoel Holon	1.4
8. May, Paris-Levallo.	1.3
9. Love, Antwerp	1.3
10. Archie, Timisoara	1.2

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

EUROCUP

Standings

Eurocup Standings

Group I
1. Budivelnyk			2-0
2. Banvit BK			1-1
3. Buducnost			1-1
4. Triumph			0-2
Group J
1. Valencia			2-0
2. CEZ Nymburk			1-1
3. VEF Riga			1-1
4. Gescrap BB			0-2
Group K
1. Lokomotiv			2-0
2. Spartak SP			1-1
3. Stelmet ZG			1-1
4. Cajasol			0-2
Group L
1. Galatasaray			2-1
2. Crvena Zvezda			1-1
3. Unics			1-1
4. Ratiopharm			1-2

Stage One Standings

Top 16: Round 3

Jan. 23: Banvit BK - Triumph
Jan. 23: Budivelnyk - Buducnost

Jan. 23: Gescrap BB - Valencia
Jan. 23: CEZ Nymburk - VEF Riga

Jan. 23: Stelmet ZG - Spartak SP
Jan. 23: Cajasol - Lokomotiv

Jan. 22: Galatasaray - Ratiopharm 82-66
Jan. 23: Unics - Crvena Zvezda

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Walter HODGE
  Stelmet ZG
  (183-PG-86)
  Avg: 21.5

1. Hodge, Stelmet ZG	21.5
2. McKee, Triumph	20.3
3. Rakocevic, Crvena	20.0
4. Pappas, Panionios	19.8
5. Diener, Banco d.	19.2
6. Thornton, Banco d.	18.7
7. Davis, Banvit BK	17.9
8. Walsh, Spirou	17.6
9. Eidson, Unics	17.5
10. Batista, Le Mans	17.2

Rebounds Per Game

John BRYANT
  Ratiopharm
  (208-C-87)
  Avg: 8.9

1. Bryant, Ratiopharm	8.9
2. Landry, Triumph	7.6
3. Stevic, Stelmet ZG	7.6
4. Lyons, Budivelnyk	7.6
5. Maric, Lokomotiv	7.5
6. Stimac, Banvit BK	7.4
7. Duncan, Hapoel J-M	7.0
8. Hervelle, Gescr.	7.0
9. Fells, Hapoel J-M	6.7
10. Easley, Banco d.	6.5

Assists Per Game

Travis DIENER
  Banco d.
  (184-PG-82)
  Avg: 8.5

1. Diener, Banco d.	8.5
2. Calathes, Lokom.	7.3
3. Everett, Cholet	6.3
4. Greer, Azovmash	6.2
5. Pellin, Orleans	5.7
6. Turner, Trefl Sopot	5.7
7. Markovic, Valencia	5.4
8. McKee, Triumph	5.4
9. Satoransky, Cajasol	5.3
10. Hodge, Stelmet ZG	5.1

Steals Per Game

Nikos PAPPAS
  Panionios
  (195-G-90)
  Avg: 2.7

1. Pappas, Panionios	2.7
2. Chatman, Unics	2.1
3. McKee, Triumph	2.0
4. Kovacevic, Cibona	2.0
5. Mejia, Banvit BK	1.9
6. Pullen, Hapoel J-M	1.8
7. Hosley, Stelmet ZG	1.8
8. Lojeski, Oostende	1.8
9. Fells, Hapoel J-M	1.8
10. Greene, Orleans	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Charles DAVIS
  Banvit BK
  (205-C-84)
  Avg: 1.5

1. Davis, Banvit BK	1.5
2. Lapeta, Stelmet ZG	1.5
3. Looby, Trefl Sopot	1.2
4. Theis, Ratiopharm	1.1
5. Booker, Panionios	1.0
6. Fischer, BC Donet.	1.0
7. King, Art.Dragons	1.0
8. Naymick, CEZ N.	1.0
9. Anisimovas, Budiv.	0.9
10. Vougioukas, Unics	0.9

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

FINLAND

Marcus Relphorde joins Salon Vilpas, ex Naglis Palangos - by Greg

Eurobasket.com reveals that Salon Vilpas Vikings (Korisliiga) agreed terms with 25-year old American forward Marcus Relphorde (198-101kg-88, college: Colorado). He already started the season at Naglis Palangos in Lithuanian LKL league. In three games this season he had very impressive stats: 19.7ppg, 5.7rpg, 1.3apg and 3.0spg. Relphorde also played 2 games in Baltic League where he recorded 8.0ppg, 2.0rpg, 1.0apg and 1.0spg. The most of last season he spent at LF Basket (Basketligan) in Swedish Basketligan. In 20 games last year he was fourth best scorer with impressive 18.9ppg and averaged 4.0rpg, 1.8apg and 1.2spg. He helped them to make it to the semifinals. Relphorde also played at Canton Charge in D-League earlier that season. In 9 games he recorded 11.7ppg, 5.2rpg, 1.3apg and 1.0spg.
He graduated from University of Colorado in 2011 and it is his second season as a professional player.

By Eurobasket Data Center

EUROCHALLENGE: Kyle Shiloh became the hero - by Rauno Hurmalainen

EuroChallenge, Last 16, Group I, round 2: What a thriller it was. Once again everybody understood, basketball games are lasting at least 40 minutes! Kataja (Joensuu) visiting Romania and the hosting CS Gaz Metan Medias leading almost all the time. But sharpshooter Antti Kanervo (193-SG-89) made his eight 3-pointer (8/11 from behind the arc) in the game and Kataja was finally ahead by one (80-81), when there was 22 seconds on the clock. Five seconds later Kanervo was 1/2 at the FT-line and Kataja was leading by two 80-82. But American G Kyle Shiloh (191-PG-85, college: Nevada), who has played earlier two seasons (2007-08 and 2009-10) even in Finland, made his 3-pointer from down town with three seconds left on the clock, and the Romanian team was leading 83-82. During the last second Gaz Metan Medias made one FT and the final digits were 84-82 (45-33). Quarters: 25-16, 20-17, 17-26, 22-23.
CS Gaz Metan Medias - Kataja 84-82 (45-33). (Ivan Lilov 19, Kyle Shiloh 17, Ivan Ivanovic 16/9. 1 - 57,1% (8/14), 2 - 62,2% (23/37), 3 - 50,0% (10/20). R: 23+9=32. TO: 21. - Antti Kanervo 25, Dan Coleman 23/7, Jonte Flowers 16. 1 - 72,2% (13/18), 2 - 50,0% (18/36), 3 - 44,0% (11/25, First half 1/11, second half 10/14). R: 16+9=25. TO: 14).

EuroChallenge: Gaz Metan Medias beat Joensuun Kataja in Round 2 opener - by Eurobasket News

Gaz Metan Medias-Joensuun Kataja 84:82

Gaz Metan Medias beat Joensuun Kataja in Round 2 opener. The Romanian team needed an 84:82 win to tie both records at 1-1.
Gaz Metan Medias opened the game with 25-16 and even added 20-17 in the second frame. The second half however was dominated by the Finnish side that did almost everything to win the game, but failed at the very end. Joensuun Kataja won the third period 26-17 and produced 23-22 in the last stanza. Antti Kanervo (193-SG-89) gave the guests 82:80 lead with 16 seconds to go, but Kyle Shiloh (191-PG-85, college: Nevada) nailed three for the hosts and then Ivan Lilov (196-SG-88) made one free throw for the final success.
Ivan Lilov top-scored for the winners with 19 points and Kyle Shiloh added 17. Ivan Ivanovic (205-F-80, agency: Beo Basket) posted 16, while Zoran Krstanovic (204-C-82, agency: TSS Management) delivered 12. Antti Kanervo answered with 25 points in the losing effort and Daniel Coleman (206-F-85, college: Minnesota) notched 23. Jonte Flowers (196-F/G-85, agency: Warren Sports International, college: Winona St.) added 16 and Petri Virtanen (183-PG-80) brought 7.

Gaz Metan Medias: Ivan Lilov 19, Kyle Shiloh 17, Ivan Ivanovic 16, Zoran Krstanovic 12
Joensuun Kataja: Antti Kanervo 25, Daniel Coleman 23, Jonte Flowers 16, Petri Virtanen 7

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

FRANCE

Brown's 20 points and 7 rebounds give him Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News

28-year old center Graham Brown (205-C-84) had an amazing evening in the last round for Le Havre and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 16.
He had the game-high 20 points adding seven rebounds and two assists for Le Havre in his team's victory, helping them to crush Cholet (#9, 7-9) with 19-point margin 87-68. The game rather meaningless between the teams, which do not have any influence on the top of the standings. Le Havre maintains the 14th position in French league. Le Havre is rather a weak team placed in lower part in the standings. They need more victories to improve their 6-10 record. It was one of impressive evenings for Brown as usually he does not deliver so high stats. Graham Brown averages this season 9.9ppg and 5.5rpg.

Second best performed player last round was David Lighty (195-G/F-88) of Nanterre. He is American swingman in his first season at Nanterre. In the last game Lighty recorded impressive 21 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists. Of course Nanterre cruised to a 85-74 relatively comfortable win over slightly lower-ranked Poitiers (#15, 5-11). The game was between two teams which are definitely not main contenders for the title. Nanterre keeps 13th position. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 7-9 record. Lighty is a newcomer at Nanterre and quickly became one of team's most reliable players.

Third place about best performers goes to Darryl Monroe (202-C/F-86, agency: SportsTalent) of Boulazac (#16). Monroe scored 16 points and grabbed twelve rebounds (!!!). Despite Monroe's great performance Boulazac lost 68-77 to the higher-ranked Le Mans (#2, 11-5). But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates. Boulazac can only dream about fighting for top spots in the league. They have extremely bad season and 4-12 record places them at the very bottom of the standings. Too bad for Monroe he does not play for a better team. But maybe if he did, his season stats would not be that high. Monroe has individually a great season in France. After 14 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in rebounds with 8.2rpg (2nd best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Edwin Jackson (191-G-89) of ASVEL - 28 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists
5. Bernard King (196-G-81) of Le Havre - 23 points and 7 assists
6. Johan Passave-Ducteil (200-C-85) of Nanterre - 20 points and 6 rebounds
7. Rudy Gobert (212-C-92) of Cholet - 16 points and 6 rebounds
8. Dwight Buycks (190-PG-89) of Gravelines - 23 points, 3 rebounds and 5 assists
9. Ousmane Camara (202-C-89) of Gravelines - 10 points and 14 rebounds
10. Vlad Moldoveanu (209-F-88) of Le Havre - 14 points, 10 rebounds and 2 assists

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

EuroChallenge: BCM Gravelines wins the French battle against Paris Levallois - by Eurobasket News

BCM Gravelines- Paris Levallois 82:77

BCM Gravelines wins the French battle against Paris Levallois. BCM Gravelines used a home court advantage at the Round 2 of EuroChallenge Top 16 for 1-1 records for both sides.
BCM Gravelines started with 21-16 in the first period but could not win the half. They lost the second frame 16-23 and allowed the opponents to take 39:37 advantage at the halftime. The third quarter became decisive in the game and brought 28-9 burst for the home side. Paris Levallois bounced back with 29-17 in the last stanza but could not come closer than to 5 points. Andrew Albicy (178-PG-90) made the last points in the game for the final 82:77 on the board.
Ludovic Vaty (206-C-88, college: Moraine Valley CC) top-scored for the winners with 22 points and Dwight Buycks (190-PG-89, college: Marquette) notched 16. David Noel (199-G/F-84, college: N.Carolina) nailed 15, while J.K. Edwards (202-C/F-82, college: UNLV) finished the game with 9. Sean May (206-F-84, college: N.Carolina) finished the game with 25 points for the guests and Andrew Albicy had 18. Jawad Williams (204-F-83, college: N.Carolina) brought 10, while Giovan Oniangue (196-F-91) netted 9.

BCM Gravelines: Ludovic Vaty 22, Dwight Buycks 16, David Noel 15, J.K. Edwards 9
Paris Levallois: Sean May 25, Andrew Albicy 18, Jawad Williams 10, Giovan Oniangue 9

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

FYR MACEDONIA

Standings - Division II

Vtora Liga Standings

1. Apave		7-1
2. Karpos Sokoli		6-2
3. Angeli Skopje		5-3
4. Lihnidos		5-3
5. Goce Delchev		4-4
6. Best Gevgelija		3-5
7. V.Lisici		3-5
8. Teteks TTK		2-5
9. Negotino		0-7

GERMANY

David Weaver is a newcomer at DniproAzot, ex Neckar Lburg - by Eurobasket News

SK Dnipro Azot Dniprodzerzhynsk (Superleague) strengthened their roster with addition of 26-year old American center David Weaver (209-113kg-87, college: Wake Forest). He just played at Neckar Lburg in German BBL league. In 18 games this season he recorded 5.5ppg and 3.3rpg. The last season he played at Energa Czarni (TBL) in Polish TBL. In 36 games last year he averaged 9.2ppg and 4.3rpg.
The previous (10-11) season Weaver played at BC Siauliai (LKL) in Lithuanian LKL. The team played in three different competitions (!!!) that year, and he was exposed to basketball on different levels. In 23 LKL games that season he averaged 11.5ppg and 5.5rpg. Great season indeed as he was voted to Lithuanian League All-Star Game and All-Newcomers Team. Weaver also played 6 games in Eurocup where he averaged 11.5ppg, 3.0rpg and 1.5apg. He also played 17 games in Baltic League where he averaged 9.2ppg and 4.0rpg. He helped them to make it to the quarterfinals. Weaver also spent pre-season at Ilysiakos (A1) in Greek A1 earlier that year.
His team was regular season runner-up in ACC in 2009.
Weaver attended Wake Forest University until 2010 and it will be his third season as a professional player.
The scouts decsribe him following way: Versatile big man who possesses a defensive-minded game. An excellent shot blocker and post defender. Powerful dunker who finished with 45 dunks in his NCAA career. Can play at both the power forward and center positions.

By Eurobasket Data Center

Loren Stokes Working Out With Neckar Riesen Ludwigsburg - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

According to twitter, the Neckar Riesen Ludwigsburg are taking a look at Loren Stokes (190-G-83, agency: KMG Sports Management, college: Hofstra). After the departure of Kammron Taylor and David Weaver, head coach John Patrick is wasting no time looking for replacements. Stokes is a 29 year old 190cm guard from Buffalo, New York that is in his sixth professional season. Last season he played for Erie Bay Hawks: 15 games: 6.1ppg, 2.5rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 54.8%, FT: 61.5%. He played at Hofstra and has gained experience in Europe playing in Cyprus, Belgium and the Ukraine.

Johannes Voigtmann (Fraport Skyliners) My General Understanding Of The Game Gets Unnoticed - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Johannes Voigtmann (208-C-92, agency: Limelight Hoops) is a 20 year old German from Eisnach that is playing his first season for the Fraport Skyliners. He is a former handball player and started to play basketball at age 15... He has quick feet and is agile and mobile for his size, a big and versatile talent that can play both inside spots with efficacy, tough and strong, has good lateral mobility, can face the basket and put the ball on the floor, has good vision of the court, excellent passer for his size and position, has a soft touch up to 3-point range, has a good attitude and stays always under control, not afraid of contact, has good control of his body when driving to the basket and against pick and rolls he is always ready and has the quickness to step out and double. He started his basketball career in 2009 for TuS Jena II (2.Regionalliga). Last season for Science City Jena (ProA), he played 28 games: 4.1ppg, 3.1rpg. He spoke to eurobasket about basketball.

What playing quality would you like to have from 2012 Beko BBL MVP John Bryant?

Just to be able to have everything in control. He always knows exactly what he has to do. I think that is one of the reasons why he was MVP.

Were you able to learn anything from physical Jason Boone when you played against him this season?

He lives form his athletic play and strength. I would like to be bale and move as well as him.

You are playing your first season with the Fraport Skyliners. Did the Skyliners have the first contact to you or did you approach them?

In the off season I wanted to find a Beko BBL program. I had some teams that were interested. The Fraport Skyliners contacted me pretty late, but right away I liked the infrastructure and everything about the organization.

You come from the former East Germany. How comfortable are you living in Frankfurt?

I feel very comfortable here. I like the downtown area. I had been here many times before. My dad had run the marathon in Frankfurt.

You are progressing very nicely as a rookie in the Beko BBL. How difficult is it making the transition?

There are always highs and lows. I am very happy to be able to get the confidence of the coach and be able to play so many minutes so far. I just try to give my best and use my chance.

How difficult is the physical stress of playing beko BBL and PRO B?

There is a lot of physical stress, but I knew what to expect coming in. I also had this in Jena so I kind of used to it. I also have played some fewer PRO B games because of the injuries. I do feel the stress at night when I go to bed.

Would you agree when I say that you use the Beko BBl to learn and PRO B to work on your strength and weaknesses?

Yes that was the plan coming in. I can learn a lot from Zack Peacock and Marius Nolte.

What has been the most important thing that you have learned from Muli Katzurin?

Just always being aggressive. He always stresses to be aggressive. We play a very aggressive defense something I wasnt used to before, but I am getting used to it now.

Your ally-op dunk against ratiopharm Ulm was more soft than banging. Will we see more banging dunks from you in the future?

I hope so. I work every morning on my athletic skills. I am on a good way.

Danilo Barthel seems to be more a quiet guy. How does he bring you to laugh?

Danilo Barthel, Konstantin Klein and me are a good trio. We hang out a lot and always bring each other to laugh. Our characters fit each other well.

What is a strength in your game that gets unnoticed?

I think my general understanding of the game.

We saw a lot of the give and go in the preseason with Konstantin Klein and yourself. Do you practice it a lot in practice?

We dont so much at the moment since Klein plays the two now. If we get a chance to use it in the game then we use it.

You come from Eisenach. What do you miss most form there?

Not much except my family. I havent lived there in while since I was living in Jena the last years. My brother also was living in Jena.

Who were your basketball idols as a kid?

Dirk Nowitzki and non basketball idols were Ali and Michael Schumacher.

How did Georg Eichler coach at Jena get you prepared for the Beko BBL?

He did very much individual training with me and was interested in leading me to reaching the Beko BBL. He gave me a lot of confidence and gave me minutes last season that really helped me.

How does Philipp Neumann make you better when you are together with the German U-20 team?

He is already very far with his game for his age. He found a role quick in Bamberg and has played Euroleague. He is always aggressive and it is a challenge to paly against him. I would like to become more agile like him.

Who wins a one on one in practice you or Philipp Neumann?

We havent played so much one on one, but I think he would beat me 6-4 or 7-3 if we played 10 times.

How many free throws have you made in a row without missing?

43.

What was your most crazy shot in your career?

I cant think of one.

What NBA player would you like to meet?

Metta World Peace.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Edge of darkness with Mel Gibson.

Thanks Joe for the chat.

Eric Kibi and BG Halstenbek/Pinneberg stopped the bleeding, but still have tough tasks to tackle - by Moritz Korff

Nothing comes easy for BG Halstenbek/Pinneberg in their first 1. Regionalliga North season. Once dubbed an ambitious program with big plans, reality arrived early as the team suffered 12 losses in 13 games until the "Holstein Hoppers" named Mario Protuder a new head coach in January and snapped a 11 game losing streak with a 79-69 win over Bernau on Saturday.
"It was a huge relief because as you know we were on a pretty long losing streak so it was good for us to see that our perseverance and hard work finally paid off. Also, mentally it was good for us because they are 3rd in the league so it also gives us a little boost psychologically. As far as personally, it was my best game this season, so I think it's going to help me moving forward to stay hungry and finish out the season strong", Eric Kibi (198-F-90, college: Abil.Christian) said. The 22-year-old Canadian forward paved the way with 30 points, connecting on 68.4% of his attempts (13-for-19), and five rebounds.

But the RLN newcomer still has a huge amount of work to do to climb the ladder. To avoid relegation at least five wins out of the eight games remaining are required. "Of course I think it is possible, but if we begin to think about it in that way it will become difficult. I think that if we just focus on one game at a time and not look too far ahead anything is possible. Even though the season hasn't gone the way we wanted it to, I have a lot of confidence in my team. We have a lot of heart on this team, guys never quit. We have been in almost every game this season, it's just always little mistakes that cost us in the end of games. If we cut down on those, I think we will be right there in the end", Kibi told Eurobasket.com.

Mario Protuder who overtook coaching duties from player/coach Zoran Krezic (190-G-79) earlier this month, seems to have changed quite a bit within only a couple of days. While Krezic opted to focus on helping his team on the basketball court, running the point, Protuder provides experience and knowledge on the bench: "I really like Mario a lot, he is a great teacher of the game of basketball. I feel very fortunate to have the opportunity to learn from such a great coach like him, he's coached in some of the top leagues so I am excited to learn from him. He has brought a lot of energy and passion to our practices, he's very good at pointing out the small details and making them teaching points. Mario also holds everyone accountable, first thing he told me when I met him was that, he knew that I was one of the league leaders in points and rebounds but that he didn't care and that he was going to hold me accountable for everything - got to love that", Kibi said.

Krezic, who played for SC Rist Wedel in the 2. Bundesliga in the late 90s and then spent two years playing in the BBL at Wuerzburg and BC Hamburg, scored 10 points in the win over Bernau to go along with five assists, three steals and two boards. "I still think Zoran was a great coach", Kibi said who added: "He's a great leader but I think it was just a tough situation to balance out the coaching and the playing as it would on any team with a player/coach. I think with him just playing now, it's a burden off his shoulders. Zoran has 1st league (BBL) experience, played with Dirk Nowitzki in his youth and he can still play so he really helps us at the point where I think we we're very young and struggling a bit. He's a smart player and even though he's not the coach anymore he's still someone I look up to for advice during the game. I appreciate everything he's done for me to grow as a player."

The Hoppers return to RLN play this weekend, traveling to the Bodfeld Baskets who are being paced by the league's leading scorer, Everage Richardson (191-G-85, college: Co.Carolina): "Everage is a great player obviously", Kibi said. "I think he was the top scorer in any league in the world last year. With a guy like that, I think you have to limit his touches and once he does get the ball have to make his shots as difficult as possible. He's obviously going to get his points, but we just have to make it as difficult as we can for him. As far as winning the game, I think it starts on the defensive end, last game we played them it was a shootout - I think both teams scored over 90 points. I think if we play defense and execute with poise on the other end then we have a great chance. If I remember correctly, last game it was maybe a 4 or 5 point game so we were right there. It should be a great atmosphere, I hear they have great passionate fans."

Plenty of work ahead for Kibi and his team - on Saturday and in the weeks to come. On a squad filled with veterans the 22-year-old forward is providing solid showings in his first year overseas. Tallying 20.0 points a game he is shining as the team's leading scorer and also pulls down 9.2 rebounds per outing. But at the end of the day, Kibi's strong performances resulted in only two wins so far this season: "You know I am not going to make excuses, we have to look at ourselves in the mirror. We just haven't executed down the stretch in games. Third quarters have been very tough for us this year. It seems that every third quarter we have a mental let down for some reason, but hopefully that will change in the remaining games. I think our youth sometimes shows on defense with rotations and all that but those are things that we can work on. However, the heart and effort is always there which is a good sign for the remaining 8 games. It's been very frustrating at times, it's hard to work so hard everyday at practice and then your hard work doesn't get rewarded in games. Before the Bernau game we went almost two months without winning a game so that can really test you as player and a person. Fortunately, I have a great support system with my mom and dad who have helped keep my morale up and also here on the team also. I can't tell you how important Veterans like Mac Davis Duah and Ionnis Tringas have been for me, they're guys who have been pros for many years and they've really helped me during some of my lowest times so its been great having them to lean on and learn from. Personally, I'm just trying to make this a learning experience in my career and make the best of the situation", Kibi said.

The Canadian spent his university career at Jacksonville College, followed by stints at Arkansas-Little Rock and Abilene Christian. He averaged 8.2 points and 5.7 rebounds for the NCAA D2 school as a senior and jumped on the chance to take his game to Germany: "The fact that I had a difficult Senior season in college didn't help much", he says. "Zoran and the club were one of the few teams to respond and take a chance on me so I was very grateful for that. I think I have proved a lot of coaches wrong with my play, I've been in the top 5 in the league in scoring and rebounding at 20 and 10. I just wish it would of translated into more wins. As far as my impression of Germany, it's been a great eye-opening experience. To be so far away from home alone really helped me grow up a lot as a man and not take anything for granted. My teammates still consider me young at 22 but I feel that four years of college basketball makes up for that. I've won a conference championship (Sun Belt) and played in the NCAA tournament so that brings great experience but nothing compares to being in a foreign country alone. It's a totally different than college, you have to be really strong mentally, have an open mind and humble yourself when you come out here because everything is different, the food, the language, the culture, everything."

Despite the difficulties, Kibi has developed a liking for playing overseas: "Right now now I am focused on making sure our team isn't relegated and winning as many games as possible in these last 8 games. I am not completely sure of the future yet. Of course as a competitor my goal is to keep working hard to move up in leagues and eventually play in one of the top leagues in Europe - that is a huge dream of mine. Every level I have played at I have always been doubted so that's always great motivation for me to stay hungry and keep pushing. I think this season I've proven I can play at this level and be successful, but for right now I am focused on Halstenbek/Pinneberg and when the season is over I'll get together with my agent and evaluate what next season has in store."

EuroCup: Galatasaray better Ratiopharm Ulm in Istanbul - by Eurobasket News

Galatasaray - Ratiopharm Ulm 82:66

Galatasaray claimed a comfortable home win over Ratiopharm Ulm in the third round of EuroCup Last 16. Jamont Gordon (193-G/F-87, college: Mississippi St.) stepped up with 18 points as the hosts improved at 2-1 record in Group L. Ulm in the meantime slipped at 1-2 record in the ladder.
Galatasaray tipped off the game with nine straight points to set the tone. They opened a 21:8 lead midway through the first term. But Ulm managed to narrow the deficit at 5-point mark at the first break 17:22. The visitors got within a single point in the second frame 33:34. John Bryant (208-C-87, college: Santa Clara) finally put Ulm in front 37:36. However Jamont Gordon and Milan Macvan (205-PF-89, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) drained triples to make it 44:37 at halftime. The hosts went on a 10:0 run in the third quarter to ensure a 62:44 advantage. Galatasaray enjoyed a 66:53 lead heading into the fourth frame. The gap grew at 15-point mark midway through the quarter and the hosts never looked back en route to the win. Carlos Arroyo (188-G-79, agency: Interperformances, college: FIU) delivered 15 points, while Milan Macvan added 14 points for the winners. John Bryant answered with 18 points for Ulm.

Galatasaray: Jamont Gordon 18, Carlos Arroyo 15, Milan Macvan 14
Ratiopharm Ulm: John Bryant 18

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GREECE

Brent Petway claims Greek A1 weekly honour - by Eurobasket News

American Brent Petway (204-F-85) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for AGOR and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 13.
The 27-year old forward had the game-high 19 points adding six rebounds for AGOR in his team's victory, helping them to beat Kavala (#13, 3-10) 88-79. AGOR maintains the 5th position in Greek A1. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. AGOR will need more victories to improve their 8-5 record. It's Petway's second year at AGOR and it's hard to imagine this team without him. Brent Petway averages this season 11.2ppg and 5.1rpg.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 25-year old American swingman Kevin Palmer (198-G/F-87) of KAOD. Palmer impressed basketball fans with a double-double of 15 points and 14 rebounds. It was enough for KAOD to edge the lower-ranked Panelefsiniakos (#14, 2-11) by 2 points 76-74. The game was between two teams which are definitely not main contenders for the title. But KAOD managed to improve slightly their position in standings taking 9th place. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 5-8 record. Palmer is a newcomer at KAOD and it seems he did not have too much trouble to become one of team's leaders.

The third best performed player last round was another AGOR's star - Serbian Uros Duvnjak (190-G-86, agency: Beo Basket). Duvnjak scored 23 points. He was another key player of AGOR, helping his team with a 88-79 win against the lower-ranked Kavala (#13, 3-10). AGOR needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 8 victories and 5 lost games. Duvnjak has a very solid season. In 13 games in Greece he scored 11.9ppg.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Nikos Pappas (195-G-90) of Panionios - 22 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists
5. Vladimir Jankovic (202-F-90) of Panionios - 20 points and 11 rebounds
6. Terrell Stoglin (185-PG-91) of Ilysiakos - 32 points and 3 rebounds
7. Aloysius Anagonye (203-F-81) of Ilysiakos - 12 points and 10 rebounds
8. Guy-Marc Michel (213-C-88) of KAOD - 9 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists
9. Errick McCollum (185-PG-88) of Apollon Patras - 19 points and 4 rebounds
10. Darrin Williams (205-C-90) of Peristeri GS - 19 points and 3 rebounds

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

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INDONESIA

ASEAN League: Indonesia Warriors hold off KL Dragons for initial win - by Eurobasket News

Indonesia Warriors - KL Dragons 68:67

Indonesia Warriors snapped two-game losing skid and nipped KL Dragons at home court for the first win in the ASEAN League season. Steve Thomas (204-C/F-81, college: Middle Tenn.St.) posted 15 points and 14 boards for the hosts.
Indonesia Warriors had to overcome a slow start to the game. They trailed by as many as 8 points after the opening quarter 14:22. The Warriors however picked up the tempo in the second term. They knocked down 20 points in the period to narrow the margin at 3-point mark 34:37. The hosts stayed aggressive defensively throughout the third term. They trimmed the gap at just a single point 52:53 at the final intermission. Wuysang put the home team in front midway through the fourth frame. They opened a four-point lead with under two minutes remaining and hung on to clinch victory at the end. Chris Daniels (200-PF-82, agency: Limelight Hoops, college: Georgia) had 14 points, 11 boards and 5 assists, while Jerick Canada (170-G) delivered 12 points for the winners. Cedric Bozeman (198-G-83, college: UCLA) answered with 24 points and 9 rebounds for KL Dragons. Gavin Edwards (206-F/C-88, college: Connecticut) notched 18 points and 13 boards in defeat.

Indonesia Warriors: Steve Thomas 15+14 boards, Chris Daniels 14+11 boards, Jerick Canada 12
KL Dragons: Cedric Bozeman 24, Gavin Edwards 18+13 boards

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IRAQ

Standings - D1

D1 Standings

1. Al Kahraba		6-1
2. Al Karkh		5-2
3. Zakho		5-2
4. Duhok		4-2
5. Al Shurtah		4-3
6. Nift Al-Janoub		3-4
7. Al-Tadamoun		2-5
8. Al Hilla		2-6
9. Al-Mofiqia		0-6

Regular Season: Round 9

Feb. 20: Al Kahraba - Al-Mofiqia
Feb. 20: Al Karkh - Zakho
Feb. 20: Al Shurtah - Nift Al-Janoub
Feb. 20: Duhok - Al-Tadamoun

Exclusive interview with Vladimir Bosnjak, new head coach of Duhok (Iraq) - by Nenad Ilijev

In January ambitous Iraqi team Duhok made the change at the bench and signed successful coach Vladimir Bosnjak as new head coach. We had a chance to make an exclusive interview with coach Bosnjak just after he arrived to Iraq.

Eurobasket.com: For the start, tell us your first impressions of Iraq. What are living conditions and safety at the moment?
Vladimir Bosnjak : ''When we are speaking about sports and safety generally, Iraq becomes more stable every new day especially north part of country, where I'm working now. Unfortunately, we are all familiar with causes of crisis that affects mostly southern Iraq but the same situation is happening somewhere else in the world too or it was already seen in the past. Generally, situation becomes better and better.''

Eurobasket.com: Did you had a chance to evaluate potential and infrastructure of Iraqi basketball?
Vladimir Bosnjak : '' Well, I didnt had a chance to evaluate so much for this short period but I have to highlight that morale and working ethic of domestic players are on high level, I would say even European level which is interesting considering tough living conditions in this country in last 20 years. Of course they are not on Euroleague level but they do not have lower morale than some local leagues of countries like my Serbia is.''

Eurobasket.com: You're coaching for almost 30 years. You have a lot of success in countries like Libya, Bahrain, Jordan, Morocco, Kuwait, etc. Could you compare training methods or mark off somebody from this region?
Vladimir Bosnjak : ''There shouldnt be any difference if you're bringing foreign coach. You're bringing foreign coach not to become Chinese or Arabian, you're bringing him for Chinese and Arabians to become Serbians or Americans, in basketball terms speaking. Unfortunately, some foreign coaches are already too much in Arabian countries, they are practically naturalized so we have situation that Abdul Hamed (UAE), Ghaith Najjar (Jordan), Adel Tlathi (Tunisia) or Fuad Abou Chakra (Lebanon) have much more harder practices, bigger discipline level and they are more strict. Its absurdly! Where is the point of bringing foreign coach then? By my opinion, money is the biggest problem as it comes like the only motive for foreign coaches to come and work in this countries. There are also low basketball educated GM's that lead the team instead of coaches. I never had an interest in such things and I was always coming to make some results and to make changes, not just to make some money. That's why I have big respect for coaches I have mentioned above.''

Eurobasket.com: You have brought Iran to basketball maps, thats a fact. You were involved in rapidly improved basketball skills of many players including Memphis Grizzlies player Hamed Haddadi. You have also won many awards and trophies in Western Asia. What are your new team's ambitions in domestic and international tournaments?
Vladimir Bosnjak : My new team Duhok have big tradition and desire to make success. I can say that conditions in this team are European. Unfortunately, Duhok lost two important games before my arrival so we dropped to third place now. Beside title ambitions in domestic championships, we have a mission to make solid result in WABA League too. Basketball team, town and region Kurdistan are in expansion and I have some positive pressure to push to the end! I do not think that Hamed Haddadi would be the last player from this region that I have coached to play in NBA so I'm inviting scouts to look for some at Duhok too!

Eurobaket.com: Are you the only one Serbian in Iraqi basketball at the moment?
Vladimir Bosnjak : ''No, players Milan Medvedj and Aleksandar Belanovic were already here. Bratislav Djordjevic worked here as coach in the 1980s and he made biggest impression and results.

Eurobasket.com: What do you think about Serbian players? In your team you have only US players. What is your view on small number of Serbian players in this region?
Vladimir Bosnjak : ''Quality of Serbian players is definitely not the reason. We shouldn't forget that we are a little bit old nation with around 8 million people. Our best players are playing in European best teams. In this region, teams need the player that will make difference, score when others stop or can't do that, to solve situations in defense and offense not just in 1 on 1 situation, it's often in 1 on 2 or 3 situations. Unfortunately, we do not have that number of quality players to export them to other leagues. I see our poor demography as one of the reasons and basketball progress in other countries as well.''

Eurobasket.com: So Serbia definitely records crisis in basketball, like a lot of basketball people notices. Do you think that we do not work well anymore in Serbia or our coaches are not so dominant like in the past?
Vladimir Bosnjak : ''Well I would say that the way of thinking of most of our coaches brought us here. For example, few years ago one of our coaches took one team and brought the team from 11th place to playoff finals in second year. Next year team owner openly criticized him because of one defeat and our coach resigned. People were questioning him why he left the team and didn't got all of money he should upon the contract.Instead of having character to be a leader some of them are just happy to stay with the team and get paid no matter who leads the team, him or GM or someone else. This way of working got us to the point that we are not idols anymore that win trophies.''

Eurobasket.com: You had a chance to cooperate with some of the best Yugoslav and American coaches as you worked with NCAA teams and Milwaukee Bucks from 1991 to 1996. From whom did you learned most?
Vladimir Bosnjak : ''I have learned a lot from all coaches I had a chance to work with. I should mention late Aca Janjic, who was a youth categories specialist, Dale Brown, a personal coach of Shaquille O'Neal and Gene Smithson. Many Yugoslav players and coaches were visiting him to educate in 1980's. At that time I think our coaches were more fanatic while US coaches were more organized. However there are some other differences now...''

Eurobasket.com: You're mentioning differences again. What should be a role of foreign coach by your opinion?
Vladimir Bosnjak : ''This job we are doing represent a life for somebody, somebody do it as hobby while somebody do it to make good money. When I was a basketball player, I was an average player in junior team and I started coaching very quickly. Sporting motive is at first place in my case and I was already looking to make first place with my team or to make players good and win medals. My former team in Jordan and Iranian National Team are the best example if we are considering results. Unfortunately, coaches who know how to earn money are now more suitable than coaches that want to win trophies. If you have a good agent and if you're ''cooperative'' with GM or team owner, it doesnt mean you will lose a job if you have average or low results.''

Eurobasket.com: You have made most of your success in Asia and Africa. Do you plan to come back to Europe?
Vladimir Bosnjak : ''I have a motive to come back to Europe and my natives. It's not easy, competition among coaches is very big but most of my colleagues that work in Europe didnt had a chance to work in such tough conditions like I have worked in. I think most of them wouldnt make results in this region and I will try my best to start coaching in Europe again.''

Eurobasket.com: Starting from 2000 in Beijing, you held a lot of basketball clinics around the globe. Do you have in plan something similar to organize in Iraq? Your experience will probably help a lot to domestic coaches.
Vladimir Bosnjak : ''Yeah, I held it in Teheran, Beijing and other places but now I have a goals with my teams and I didnt considered it yet to be honest with you. It's my 14th country I'm working in now (counting Yugoslavia, Serbia&Montenegro and Serbia separately) and there are not too many coaches that achieved the same. I'm hoping one day I will become FIBA Instructor!''

Eurobasket.com: You have two sons - Jovan and Vuksan. How would you describe your relationship with them?
Vladimir Bosnjak : ''My two sons are great kids and I'm very close to them. My older son Jovan is training disciplines like Krav Maga and MMA and he is very focused. I recognize same passion in Jovan like I had in his age so I think he would be very successful. He is Jean Claude Van Damme type of person! Younger son Vuksan started training basketball, he is left handed and I think he will be really tall guy but I do not want to make any judgement in his case.. I want to follow his progress.''

Eurobasket.com: Thank you for your time coach! All the best in Iraq with wishes for you to come back to Europe and make your career goal!
Vladimir Bosnjak : ''Thank you for your time and best regards to followers of Eurobasket.com and Asiabasket.com too! Despite winning a cup or national title every single year, I still didn't had a real chance to prove my work in Europe. Hope so this will become real next summer.''

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IRELAND

Standings - EBS Superleague

Superleague Standings

1. UL Eagles		12-3
2. UCC Demons		11-3
3. B.Gais Neptune		10-5
4. DCU Saints		7-7
5. Killester		6-10
6. Ballon Inter		4-9
7. Moycullen		4-9
8. UCD Marian		3-11

Regular Season: Round 15

Feb. 1: Ballon Inter - Killester
Feb. 2: B.Gais Neptune - DCU Saints
Feb. 2: Moycullen - UCD Marian
Feb. 3: Moycullen - Ballon Inter
Feb. 3: UCC Demons - UL Eagles

Stats Leaders - Men

Points Per Game

Patrick SULLIVAN
  Moycullen
  (201-F-)
  Avg: 23.5

1. Sullivan, Moycullen	23.5
2. Townes, B.Gais N.	22.2
3. Galvin, UCD Marian	21.8
4. Walker, UCC Demons	21.1
5. Taylor, UL Eagles	20.7
6. Killeen, UL Eagles	16.2
7. Glover, DCU Saints	15.5
8. Coughlan, UCC D.	13.7
9. O''Sullivan, UCC D.	13.3
10. Summers, Killester	13.3

Rebounds Per Game

John GALVIN
  UCD Marian
  (203-F-88)
  Avg: 17.4

1. Galvin, UCD Marian	17.4
2. Walker, UCC Demons	12.9
3. Townes, B.Gais N.	11.8
4. Killeen, UL Eagles	11.6
5. Sullivan, Moycullen	11.5
6. Noonan, B.Gais N.	8.9
7. Quill, DCU Saints	7.8
8. Foley, UCD Marian	7.5
9. Tummon, Moycullen	7.2
10. Rudak, B.Gais N.	6.9

Assists Per Game

Gerard NOONAN
  B.Gais N.
  (180-G-82)
  Avg: 8.1

1. Noonan, B.Gais N.	8.1
2. Camps, Moycullen	7.4
3. Coughlan, UCC D.	5.0
4. Kinevane, UL Eagl.	4.5
5. Taylor, UL Eagles	4.4
6. Walsh, B.Gais N.	3.9
7. Donnelly, DCU S.	3.5
8. O''Sullivan, UCC D.	3.4
9. O''Reilly, UCC D.	2.9
10. Anderson, DCU S.	2.8

Steals Per Game

Salvador CAMPS
  Moycullen
  (178-PG-79)
  Avg: 2.8

1. Camps, Moycullen	2.8
2. Taylor, UL Eagles	2.6
3. McGinn, B.Gais N.	2.5
4. Anderson, DCU S.	2.2
5. Summers, Killester	2.1
6. Drumm, UCD Marian	2.0
7. Kinevane, UL Eagl.	1.9
8. Townes, B.Gais N.	1.9
9. Donnelly, DCU S.	1.9
10. Noonan, B.Gais N.	1.9

Blocks Per Game

John GALVIN
  UCD Marian
  (203-F-88)
  Avg: 2.9

1. Galvin, UCD Marian	2.9
2. Walker, UCC Demons	2.1
3. Stapleton, B.Gais	2.1
4. Rudak, B.Gais N.	1.9
5. Trimmer, DCU S.	1.7
6. Townes, B.Gais N.	1.7
7. Killeen, UL Eagles	1.4
8. Quigley, UL Eagles	0.9
9. O''Brien, Killester	0.7
10. Taylor, UL Eagles	0.6

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KAZAKHSTAN

Standings -D1

D1 Standings

1. BC Astana		12-0
2. Barsy Atyrau		6-4
3. Tobol		5-7
4. Kaspiy Aktau		4-6
5. BK Almaty		4-8
6. BK Kapshagay		2-6

Regular Season: Round 12

Jan. 21: BK Almaty - Tobol 73-88
Jan. 22: BK Almaty - Tobol 73-76

Regular Season: Round 13

Jan. 25: BK Kapshagay - Tobol
Jan. 26: BK Kapshagay - Tobol
Jan. 26: BK Almaty - BC Astana
Jan. 26: Kaspiy Aktau - Barsy Atyrau
Jan. 27: BK Almaty - BC Astana
Jan. 27: Kaspiy Aktau - Barsy Atyrau

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KOSOVO

Stats Leaders

BKT Superliga Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Dardan Berisha (193-SG-88, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group), 27.2
Joshua Alexander, 25.1
Marcel Mihalic, 22.9
Dustin Mitchell, 22.9
Devin Chambers, 21.3

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LATVIA

EuroChallenge: Karsiyaka upset Ventspils in Latvia - by Eurobasket News

Ventspils - Karsiyaka 81:86

Karsiyaka upset Ventspils in Latvia in Round 2 of Top 16 of EuroChallenge. The Turkish team grabbed 86:81 win for 2-0 record in Group I. The Latvian side suffered their second loss and dropped at 0-2 record.
Karsiyaka came to Latvia with one victory earlier and started with 21:18. They posted another 21 points in the second frame, but it was enough only to keep 3-point advantage at the halftime. Ventspils replied with 22-18 in the third period and took the lead entering the final stanza. Karsiyaka however replied with 26-20 surge in the last period to seal the victory.
Bobby Dixon (178-PG-83, agency: Beo Basket, college: Troy) paced all the winners with 32 points, while Jon Diebler (198-G-88, college: Ohio St.) had 17. Will Thomas (203-PF-86, agency: Two Points) collected 15 points and 11 boards, whilst Alade Aminu (210-C-87, college: Georgia Tech) had 13. Arturs Berzins (204-PF-88, agency: FCM) ended up with 19 points in defeat and Folarin Campbell (192-G-86, college: George Mason) as well as Sandis Valters (193-G-78) had 14 each. Martins Meiers (208-C-91) followed them with 13 points in a loss.

Ventspils: Arturs Berzins 19, Folarin Campbell 14, Sandis Valters 14, Martins Meiers 13
Karsiyaka: Bobby Dixon 32, Jon Diebler 17, Will Thomas 15+11 rebs, Alade Aminu 13

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MALAYSIA

MEXICO

Fuerza Guinda de Nogales names coach - by Alejandro Martinez

Fuerza Guinda since its 2005 Championship has not been able to find a consistent winning formula. In order to turn its fortunes, the team has turned to the winningest coach in CIBACOPA's modern history. The club announced the signing of 2 time champion Andres Contreras. He won two championships with Cananea and has disputed 3 out of the last 4 finals. Andres is expected to arrive in Nogales on mid February to start preseason camp.

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

MONTENEGRO

Standings - 1B

1B Standings

1. KK Zeta 2011		9-0
2. Gorstak		7-2
3. S.Centar		6-3
4. Berane 2010		5-4
5. Pljevlja		4-5
6. KK Zeta		4-5
7. Buducnost II		3-6
8. Un.Mediteran		2-7
9. Gusinje		0-8

Regular Season: Round 11

Jan. 26: S.Centar - Zeta 2011
Jan. 26: Un.Mediteran - Buducnost II
Jan. 26: Berane 2010 - Pljevlja
Jan. 26: Gorstak - Gusinje

Balkan League: Kumanovo upset Teodo Tivat - by Eurobasket News

Teodo Tivat - KK Kumanovo 79:95

Kumanovo victoriously opened their Balkan League second stage campaign. They drubbed Teodo Tivat on the road to claim the first win at the First Six round. Aleksandar Kostoski (186-G-88, agency: Global Sports Plaza) came up with 22 points and 6 boards for the Macedonian team.
Kumanovo jumped to an early lead. They enjoyed a 21:17 advantage after ten minutes. Teodo Tivat increased the tempo and fired 25 points in the second quarter. The Montenegrin team cut the deficit at 2-point mark at halftime 42:44. But Kumanovo cleared off in the third quarter. The visitors went on a 25:16 rally to ensure an 11-point buffer at the final intermission. They unloaded 26 points in the fourth stanza and sealed the winning outcome at the end. Ivica Dimcevski (194-G/F-89, agency: Interperformances) netted 21 points, while Marjan Janevski (203-F-88) added 15 points for the winners. Sinisa Tepavcevic (201-F-84) answered with 30 points for Teodo Tivat. Igor Kunjic (199-F-87) and Savo Djikanovic (211-C-75, agency: Beo Basket) had 12 points each in the loss.

Teodo Tivat: Sinisa Tepavcevic 30, Igor Kunjic 12, Savo Djikanovic 12
KK Kumanovo: Aleksandar Kostoski 22, Ivica Dimcevski 21, Marjan Janevski 15

Ibars press release: Brandon Roberson is suspended - by Darko Pekic

Dear fans,

On the Board meeting held today (22. jan. 2013) in Rozaje we concluded that our player Brandon Roberson (180-PG, college: Missouri Baptist) had failed to respect his duties, therefore the Club decided to suspend him and will inform basketball federation of Montenegro (KSCG) and FIBA about our decison hoping that FIBA would take adequate measures and suspend the Player from all competitions under its coverage for at least a year.

We want to specify that the Club has respected all the clauses from the Players contract and that the Player, who was our leading player in the first part of 2012/2013 season, left the Club without a prior notice, two days before the end of signing season leaving the Club with no chance to find a replacement.

Faruk Kalic
General Manager of Basketball Club Ibar Rozaje

Interview with Mladen Ostojic, former National Team coach of Romania and resident of Herceg Novi - by Darko Pekic

Coach Mladen Ostojic , born and raised in Bosnia, has been living in Herceg Novi, Montenegro for 18 years. Eurobasket.com took the opportunity to interview the former memebr of Bosna golden generation and ask him about his career and plans for the future.

Mr. Ostojic, could you tell us something about your playing career during the 70's and good moments in Bosna?

From 1972 to 1978 I played for a great team of Bosna under the lead of famous coach Bogdan Tanjevic (agency: Interperformances ) and along with Mirza Delibasic , Zarko Varajic, Svetislav Pesic (agency: Interperformances ), Ratko Radovanovic . In 1975 I was the captain of U16 Yugoslavia National Team, and in 1976 a member of the junior national team that won the European Championship. I finished my career at 24 and began my coaching career.

How have you decided to start coaching? Among notable players under your lead in Bosnia were such players as Predrag Danilovic (202-G-70), Dzevad Alihodzic (208-C-69) and Nenad Markovic (195-G-68)?

After I left Bosna, I played three years for the team Alhos Sarajevo and realized that would be impossible to make a top career so I chose to start a coaching career

I was lucky to work at a big club and to have talented players you mentioned.On the basis of working with young players in Bosna I got the opportunity to work as an assistant coach of the national team (led by Svetislav Pesic (agency: Interperformances ) (agency: Interperformances ) in 1984) and collaborate with Dusko Vujosevic (agency: Beo Basket ) in 1988 when we won gold medal at the European Championships in Srbobran (Predrag Danilovic, Zan Tabak (213-C-70) , Arijan Komazec (202-G/F-70) ...)

During the late 80-s and early 90-ies you coached a number of teams from all over the former state (Bosnia, Sutjeska, Rudar, Borac etc). How satisfied are you with the results in this period and how would you rate the quality of the then-league compared to what we have the opportunity to watch today in the former Yugoslavia?

I went in 1986 to the USA to improve my coaching abilities and learn and next year I got the opportunity to lead the senior team of Bosna.In these years, basketball was the number one sport in Yugoslavia thanks to strong organization and a number of top coaches. We, younger ones, were able to learn from them . The leagues were were interesting at all levels, the youngsters worked hard in their clubs and had the chance to play a lot, and there were no transfers from one club to the other every two months, unlike today when 15 and 16 year old players are just thinking about the material side of sport.

After the outbreak of the war in the former Yugoslavia you went to Greece and started working as an assistant coach at Panionios and then as head coach of Olimpiakos Volos in Division II. How did you make the decision to continue your career in Greece and how did you deal with the language barrier and other challenges that you faced abroad?

Yes, when the war started I went to Greece. My knowledge of English and quick learning of Greek helped me to adapt to work abroad.

After completion of the episode in Greece in the season 1996/1997 you returned to Yugoslavia and accepted to coach Herceg Novi, which then competed in the Yugoslav Second League. In Herceg Novi you spent the next two seasons. What do you remember about that period in your career and how good was the roster of that team?

When I returned from Greece in 1996 with my family I moved to Herceg Novi, where even now we live.Te two seasons have been successful, in a strong second division we avoided relegation and had a full hall every night. We were led by local boys Dusan Sucevic (204-F-61) and Dejan Jevtic but we also had many oung players from the region.

In the first decade of 21st century follows the most successful part of your career. You worked in Olympiakos as an assistant coach, and then run independently Israeli Premiership club Maccabi Ramat Gan and Shangdong from China. Could you tell us what is needed to prove yourself as a coach abroad and how much is difficult to survive on that level?

Since 1998 I have been permanently employed abroad. Knowledge of English is the most important for rapid adaptation to the conditions of life in foreign countries.It helped me a lot through the 1999-2000 season at Maccabi Haifa when we were considered as a team for the relegation place and we won the 4th place. The federation awarded me as the best foreign coach along with the famous coach of Maccabi Pini Gershon . As a foreign coach, you're always the most responsible for bad results, but with a lot of work and a little luck you can survive.

You also worked in Arab countries. How important was that experience for you?

Yes, I have worked in the Gulf countries twice, tI was the UAE National Team head coach in 2008 and in 2011-12 I worked in Saudi Arabia, Itihad. Its a very specific job coaching there, the players are not professionals and they practice once a day, but have great conditions and facilities. I also need to mention that UAE was not my only experience as National Team head coach. Last summer I was hired to help the National Team of Romania. It was a new experience and against strong competition we failed to qualify for the European Championship, but I am pleased with our performances and with a little more luck we could have won more, Problem of Romanian basketball is a large number of foreigners (7 in each team) , local players have little chance to play, and therefore the national team lacks quality.

Herceg Novi is a city in which you live today. Try to assess the state of Herceg Novi's basketball and basketball in general in Montenegro? Do you follow the domestic league?

I follow the league appearances of Primorje. Basketball in Herceg Novi is not in a great situation, finances are an issue, so the club needs to count on the young players, and this does not have to be bad. Generally the problem in Montenegro is the lack of competitive teams. With at least 2 or 3 more the domestic championship would be interesting. On the other hand, we have a strong national team and I wish them success on the European Championship in Slovenia next summer. Money should be invested in the education of young coaches (seminars, USA experience). There is still a lot of talent in this area and we do not need to worry about the future.

What are your plans for the future? Is there a possibility to continue your career at Erste basketball league?

I do not have a job at the moment. Since I have been a resident of Montenegro for about 18 years it would be my pleasure to work here.

Thank you for this interview. Eurobasket.com and myself wish you a lot of success in your career

Thank you for this interview,

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NAIA

Division 1 Men's Basketball Coaches' Top 25 Poll - by Eurobasket News

By Chad Waller, NAIA Director of Communications & Sports Information

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Standing as the only undefeated team in NAIA men's basketball, Columbia (Mo.) earns the No. 1 ranking in the fifth regular season edition of the 2012 - 13 NAIA Division I Men's Basketball Coaches' Top 25 Poll, announced Tuesday by the national office. The 20-0 Cougars are on top of the charts for the second-straight poll, going 3-0 last week and winning by an average margin over 30 points. Columbia collected all 11 first-place votes and 281 total points.

Improving four positions, No. 2 Lee (Tenn.) posted 264 total points. This is the highest spot for the Flames (photo top left) since the 2007 - 08 season. Lee has won four in-a-row and is 17-1 on the season. No. 3 Pikeville (Ky.) fell one spot with 260 points. The Bears lost their second game of the year, 80-77, to unranked Georgetown (Ky.) Jan. 19.

Tied at No. 4 with 247 points, John Brown (Ark.) and Lewis-Clark State (Idaho) are moving in opposite directions. With two wins last weekend, John Brown has won six-consecutive games. One of those triumphs was a 75-70 nail-biter over then-No. 5 Oklahoma Baptist Jan. 17 in the NAIA Game of the Week. Starting the season 18-0, the Warriors have dropped two of their last three games, with both losses against unranked foes.

No. 17 MidAmerica Nazarene (Kan.) made the biggest splash this week, enjoying the best upward spike with an eight-spot shift. The Pioneers are 15-6 overall and hold the Heart of America Athletic Conference lead with No. 19 Evangel (Mo.).

Cumberlands (Ky.), losers of four-straight, plummets to 25th for the largest fall of 11 spots. Two weeks ago, the Patriots held the No. 1 ranking.

No. 24 Shawnee State (Ohio) is the lone newcomer this week with 76 points. The Bears, with an 11-7 record, have won six of their last seven contests, including a 70-66 win Jan. 3 against then-No. 8 Lindsey Wilson (Ky.). This is the first NAIA Division I ranking for the Bears - Shawee State was members of NAIA Division II prior to 2009 - 10 season and were last ranked nationally during the 2003 - 04 Division II campaign.

After three-straight weeks in the Top 25, Texas College (No. 24) falls out. The Steers have lost four-in-a-row.

With four Top 25 teams, the Mid-South Conference, Sooner Athletic Conference and Southern States Athletic Conference listed the most teams of any conference or unaffiliated group. The Frontier Conference landed a trio of ranked programs. Overall, all 11 conferences and unaffiliated groups are represented this week.

The poll was voted upon by a panel of head coaches representing each of the conference and unaffiliated groups. The sixth regular-season Top 25 will be announced on Jan. 29. For more information on the polls, click here.

NOTES: (All information dates back to 2000 - 01 season) Last week was a difficult stretch for the former Nos. 2-5 - those teams from the Jan. 15 edition all lost at least one contest... Twelve teams have been ranked in all of the six polls this season (including Preseason Top 25)... Columbia is the only program in NAIA Division I and II men's basketball without a loss - Lee (Tenn.) is the only one-loss team in Division... There have been 40 different teams represented through six polls this season (includes Preseason Top 25)... Columbia (Mo.) is the fourth different No. 1 team this year, joining Concordia (Calif.), Cumberlands (Ky.) and Oklahoma Baptist... Oklahoma Baptist leads the active group of being ranked with 56-straight mentions, followed by Rogers State (Okla.) at 22 and Montana State-Northern at 21... Since the 2000 - 01 season, there have been 25 different teams to hold the No. 1 ranking, with seven of those program having five-or-more listings on top of the charts...Former NAIA member Mountain State (W.Va.) leads this group with 48 No. 1 rankings, followed by Robert Morris (Ill.) with 24, Concordia (Calif.) is next with 12, Georgetown (Ky.) is at 10 and Rogers State is at seven... Robert Morris is the only program to start and end a season ranked No. 1, doing so during the 2006 - 07 season... By falling out of the Top 25 in the Dec. 4, 2012 edition, Georgetown had its consecutive streak of being ranked stopped at 78-straight, which was the longest active stretch at the time.

2012 - 13 NAIA Division I Men's Basketball Coaches' Top 25 Poll - (Jan. 22)

2012 - 13 NAIA Division I Men's Basketball Coaches' Top 25 Poll - (Jan. 22)

RANK	LAST WEEK	SCHOOL (1ST PLACE VOTES)	2012 - 13 RECORD	TOTAL POINTS
1	1	Columbia (Mo.) (11)	20-0	281
2	6	Lee (Tenn.)	17-1	264
3	2	Pikeville (Ky.)	18-2	260
T4	10	John Brown (Ark.)	17-3	247
T4	3	Lewis-Clark State (Idaho)	19-2	247
6	7	Westmont (Calif.)	16-3	243
7	T8	Lindsey Wilson (Ky.)	18-2	229
8	4	William Carey (Miss.)	16-3	212
9	T8	Cal State San Marcos	16-4	210
10	5	Oklahoma Baptist	16-4	209
11	13	Xavier (La.)	17-3	184
12	15	Bethel (Tenn.)	18-2	176
13	12	Montana State-Northern	17-4	168
14	18	Emmanuel (Ga.)	18-2	159
15	16	Hope International (Calif.)	18-2	158
16	17	SAGU (Texas)	15-3	156
17	25	MidAmerica Nazarene (Kan.)	15-6	126
18	20	Rogers State (Okla.)	15-5	125
19	11	Evangel (Mo.)	14-5	118
20	21	Faulkner (Ala.)	17-3	115
21	23	Science & Arts (Okla.)	10-4	85
22	19	Westminster (Utah)	16-4	84
23	22	Philander Smith (Ark.)	13-5	80
24	RV	Shawnee State (Ohio)	11-7	76
25	14	Cumberlands (Ky.)	15-5	60

Courtesy of: http://www.naia.org

No. 10 Golden Eagles Hand No. 5 Oklahoma Baptist 75-70 Setback - by Eurobasket News

Story by Nicholas Robinson, John Brown Sports Information

Caption: John Brown's Nate Anderson (34) guards Oklahoma Baptist's David Johnson (3)

SHAWNEE, Okla. - Trailing by five points at the half in the NAIA National Game of the Week, No. 10 John Brown (Ark.) took its first lead of the contest with under a minute left and held on to stun No. 5 Oklahoma Baptist, 75-70, on Thursday night inside Mabee Arena, its first home-court loss in 34 games.

With the victory, John Brown retains sole possession of the Sooner Athletic Conference lead, boasting a 5-0 record while moving to 16-3 overall. The Bison have now dropped two of its last three conference games, falling to 3-2 in league play with an overall mark of 15-4.

The Bison had not dropped a game in Shawnee since the 2010-11 season while the Golden Eagles hadn't secured a victory at the Noble Complex since a 80-71 win on Jan. 24, 2005. JBU handed Oklahoma Baptist just its fourth loss in the last 89 contests hosted by the Bison, dating back to 2006-07.

"While I'm very happy for our players, those impressive numbers are a testament to how strong this Oklahoma Baptist program is historically," said head coach Clark Sheehy. "That record is truly unbelievable, but I'm proud of the hard work our men turned in today."

Freshman forward Kofi Josephs netted a game and career-high 21 points, adding four rebounds to his bottom line. Josephs finished 7-of-11 from the field, including a game-pacing four triples. Senior guard E.J. McWoods used an 8-of-8 game from the line to finish with 14 points while senior guard Coleson Rakestraw chipped in with 12 points and five boards. Senior guard Abel Galliguez dished out an impressive game-high seven assists.

John Brown trailed for over 39 minutes in the contest, starting out poorly as OBU nabbed an early 9-0 lead as the Golden Eagles missed its first two baskets while committing two turnovers during its first four possessions of the game. Coming out of the timeout, JBU quickly jumped back into the game as Josephs landed a three-pointer before Rakestraw's field goal pulled the Golden Eagles back to within four, 9-5.

John Brown then fell behind again by nine, 19-10, as the Golden Eagles missed four buckets en route to the 10-5 Bison run. A McWoods' triple closed the gap to six before Oklahoma Baptist rebounded with a pair of eight-point leads with, 27-19, with 9:04 left in the first frame.

Over the next two minutes, the Golden Eagle defense stepped up and allowed only one basket, sparking a 7-2 run that was keyed by a Rakestraw triple and a pair of free throws from McWoods. Behind 29-26, the Bison began charging the offensive boards over the next 2:17, grabbing three rebounds in the front court which resulted in a resurgent seven-point advantage, 33-26.

A Rakestraw triple would spurn JBU on a quick 5-0 run, pulling to within two points, its closest margin of the first half, 33-31, with 2:44 on the clock. However, OBU closed out the first half with a 9-6, pushing the Golden Eagles back to a five-point deficit at the half, 42-37.

"We really struggled coming out of the gates tonight," Sheehy admitted. "I thought they played excellent defense to open up both halves. We also didn't read and react well. They made us work hard for every basket we could."

Rakestraw's 10 points in the first half led all scorers and the John Brown big men outrebounded OBU 23-22 over the first 20 minutes. The Golden Eagles took 11 less shots than the host squad, converting on 11-of-27 (40.7 percent) while the Bison shot at a 42.1 percent clip, knocking down 16-of-38 opportunities. JBU attempted seven more shots from the charity stripe, converting 11-of-17.

John Brown showed signs of life in the second half, securing five of the first seven points, again whittling the OBU lead back to just a bucket, 44-42, but the Bison pushed back with a 7-2 run as the home lead ballooned back to eight, 51-43. The next 4:03 would be frustrating for the Golden Eagles as the visitors remained eight points behind, 58-50, while committing three turnovers, negating McWoods' trey that brought the deficit back to only four.

Up by eight with 8:18 remaining, 60-52, the Golden Eagles finally made its run. Powered by its defensive pressure over a 2:53 span, allowing the Bison only two field goal attempts that were both missed, JBU collected 10 of the next 13 points. Josephs stepped up and drained two field goals, one from behind the arc, while John Brown received another triple from Kurtis Phillips in addition to fourth bucket from Galliguez.

For the first time in the game, the Golden Eagles realized an opportunity to seize control with only 5:08 left in the game, but a pair of misses from McWoods and Hopfgartner allowed OBU to grab three points in the process, bolstering its late-game lead back to four, 66-62, with just under four minutes remaining.

At the 3:32 mark, Galliguez launched a long three-pointer that found its mark, his only of the game, only to see Oklahoma Baptist convert one free throw at the other end of the court. Then came the turning point of the game.

Down 67-65 with just a minute and a half to play, Galliguez collected a defensive rebound and quickly pushed the ball in transition up the floor, finding himself in an odd-man situation. With speed, Galliguez cut to the hoop, laying up a shot that proved to powerful. With two defenders under the basket, D'Shon Taylor came flying through the lane and, in one motion, collected the rebound in mid-air before slamming down a thunderous dunk that tied the score at 67 with 88 ticks left in regulation.

"That play clearly turned the momentum back to our favor," said Sheehy of Taylor's authoritative put-back. "I was proud of D'Shon's play today, especially the way he got out of foul trouble to make a great contribution to the victory. Needless to say, I was even more impressed with his defensive play tonight."

With under a minute to play, Rakestraw picked up a timely steal before dishing off to Josephs who nailed his fourth and final triple of the game, handing JBU its first lead of the night. During the final 60 seconds, Josephs, McWoods and Galliguez each converted their pair of free throws, sealing the Bison's fate as John Brown completed the 75-70 upset victory.

"What I really wanted to guys to focus on tonight was finishing a game strong," Sheehy admitted, alluding to JBU almost squandering its 10-point lead over Rogers State last Saturday evening. "Coming out with this win is a real step in the right direction."

The Golden Eagle defense did as Sheehy had hoped, forcing Oklahoma Baptist to miss its final six attempts from the field in addition to causing one Bison turnover in its final 10 possessions of the game. OBU only managed to sink four of its last eight attempts from the free throw line.

The Bison were able to keep John Brown at may for most of the evening by pressuring the Golden Eagles into 17 turnovers while only committing nine of its own. The difference was the No. 7 in the nation three-point field goal defense of JBU, only allowing the Bison to convert 2-of-17 from behind the arc, an anemic 11.8 percent.

Each team only used four reserves as the Bison bench outscored John Brown, 37-24. JBU narrowly won the battle on the boards, nabbing four more than its counterparts, 41-37.

The Golden Eagles outscored the hosts 38-28 in the second stanza, shooting 50.0 percent from the field (13-of-26) while converting 17-of-26 attempts at the free throw line. The Bison only managed eight field goals in the second half on 24 chances, missing all six attempts from behind the three-point line.

Senior forward Clinton Houston posted a double-double for Oklahoma Baptist in the loss, pacing the Bison with 17 points while managing a game-high 14 rebounds. Junior guard Kameron Price found double-digits, chipping in 10 points and a team-high four assists.

John Brown has played five ranked opponents and turned in four upsets, claiming a 4-1 mark so far in the 2012-13 season against top-25 programs.

"While this win is wonderful, we have a big game on Saturday," Sheehy cautiously added in reference to John Brown's matchup with Mid-America Christian in 48 hours. "They are on a hot run right now and you can't count out any team in this conference. We need to maintain our focus and carry momentum over from one game to another."

With the Evangels' 81-66 victory over St. Gregory's tonight in Oklahoma City, MACU (8-5) leap-frogs the Bison for second place in the conference, coming in at 3-1 after four games. Mid-America Christian's slate includes wins at then-No. 19 Rogers State and Lubbock Christian.

After losing back-to-back games for the first time in 2012-13 in December to close the first semester, the Golden Eagles have rattled off its second five-game winning streak of the season. John Brown started the season 8-0 before falling to Oklahoma Wesleyan on Dec. 1.

The Evangels will visit Bill George Arena this Saturday, Jan. 19, looking for its second win over a top-25 team on the road. Game time is slated for 5:00 p.m.
Courtesy of: http://www.naia.org

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NBA

Standings

NBA Standings

Eastern Conference
Atlantic Div.
1. New York K.		25-14
2. Brooklyn N.		25-16
3. Boston C.		20-21
4. Philadelph.76		17-25
5. Toronto R.		15-26
Central Div.
1. Indiana P.		26-16
2. Chicago B.		24-16
3. Milwaukee B.		22-18
4. Detroit P.		16-25
5. Cleveland C.		11-32
Southeast Div.
1. Miami Heat		26-12
2. Atlanta H.		23-18
3. Orlando M.		14-27
4. Charlotte B.		10-31
5. Washington W.		9-30
Western Conference
Northwest Div.
1. Oklah.City T.		33-9
2. Denver N.		25-18
3. Utah Jazz		22-19
4. Portland TB		20-21
5. Minnesota T.		17-21
Pacific Div.
1. LA Clippers		32-11
2. Golden St.W.		25-15
3. LA Lakers		17-24
4. Sacramento K.		16-26
5. Phoenix Suns		13-28
Southwest Div.
1. San Antonio S.		33-11
2. Memphis G.		26-14
3. Houston R.		22-21
4. Dallas M.		18-24
5. N.Orleans H.		14-27

Regular Season: Round 83

Jan. 22: LA Clippers - Oklah.City T. 97-109
Jan. 22: Cleveland C. - Boston C. 95-90
Jan. 22: Milwaukee B. - Philadelph.76 110-102
Jan. 22: Detroit P. - Orlando M. 105-90

Regular Season: Round 84

Jan. 23: Charlotte B. - Atlanta H.
Jan. 23: Miami Heat - Toronto R.
Jan. 23: Chicago B. - Detroit P.
Jan. 23: Memphis G. - LA Lakers
Jan. 23: Houston R. - Denver N.
Jan. 23: Minnesota T. - Brooklyn N.
Jan. 23: San Antonio S. - N.Orleans H.
Jan. 23: Utah Jazz - Washington W.
Jan. 23: Sacramento K. - Phoenix Suns
Jan. 23: Portland TB - Indiana P.
Jan. 23: Golden St.W. - Oklah.City T.

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Kevin DURANT
  Oklah.Ci.
  (206-SF-88)
  Avg: 29.5

1. Durant, Oklah.Ci.	29.5
2. Bryant, LA Lakers	29.2
3. Anthony, New Y.	29.2
4. James, Miami Heat	26.3
5. Harden, Houston R.	25.9
6. Irving, Cleveland	23.7
7. Westbrook, Oklah..	23.0
8. Curry, Golden S.	20.7
9. Aldridge, Portland.	20.5
10. Wade, Miami Heat	20.1

Rebounds Per Game

Anderson VAREJAO
  Clevelan.
  (205-C-82)
  Avg: 14.4

1. Varejao, Clevelan.	14.4
2. Love, Minnesota T.	14.0
3. Howard, LA Lakers	12.3
4. Randolph, Memph.	11.6
5. Vucevic, Orlan.	11.0
6. Asik, Houston R.	11.0
7. Chandler, New Y.	11.0
8. Hickson, Portland.	10.9
9. Noah, Chicago B.	10.7
10. Lee, Golden St.W.	10.7

Assists Per Game

Rajon RONDO
  Boston C.
  (185-PG-86)
  Avg: 11

1. Rondo, Boston C.	11.0
2. Paul, LA Clippers	9.7
3. Vasquez, N.Orlean.	9.2
4. Holiday, Philadel.	9.0
5. Nash, LA Lakers	8.6
6. Westbrook, Oklah..	8.2
7. Williams, Brooklyn	7.8
8. Calderon, Toron.	7.6
9. Parker, San A.	7.3
10. Nelson, Orlando M.	7.2

Steals Per Game

Chris PAUL
  LA Clippers
  (183-PG-85)
  Avg: 2.6

1. Paul, LA Clippers	2.6
2. Conley, Memphis G.	2.3
3. Jennings, Milwauke.	2.0
4. Lin, Houston R.	2.0
5. Walker, Charlott.	1.9
6. Kidd, New York K.	1.9
7. Harden, Houston R.	1.9
8. Westbrook, Oklah..	1.9
9. World Peace, LA La.	1.8
10. Rondo, Boston C.	1.8

Blocks Per Game

Larry SANDERS
  Milwauke.
  (211-F-88)
  Avg: 3.1

1. Sanders, Milwauke.	3.1
2. Ibaka, Oklah.Ci.	2.8
3. Hibbert, Indiana P.	2.8
4. Duncan, San A.	2.7
5. Howard, LA Lakers	2.5
6. Smith, Atlanta H.	2.2
7. Noah, Chicago B.	2.1
8. Lopez, Brooklyn N.	2.1
9. McGee, Denver N.	1.9
10. Davis, N.Orleans	1.9

Rockets assign Motiejunas to Vipers, recall Jones - by Eurobasket News

Houston Rockets forward-center Donatas Motiejunas (7'0''-F/C-90, agency: Interperformances) was assigned to the Rio Grande Valley Vipers on Tuesday. He will be available for the Vipers Wednesday when they play host to the Texas Legends at State Farm Arena. Its Motiejunas third assignment with the Vipers. He averaged 23.5 points and 8.3 rebounds in four games with the Vipers. Motiejunas has played in 14 games with the Rockets, averaging 1.6 points and 3.1 minutes.
The Rockets also recalled forward Terrence Jones (6'9''-F-92, college: Kentucky), who played for the Vipers in their previous 10 games.
Courtesy of: themonitor.com

Did we hire/fire the wrong Mike?? - by Alex Yam

Somewhere Mike Brown is glad he was "relieved" of his duties as director of the Los Angeles Lakers self-imploding reality show. So the firing of Mike, then came hiring of Mike, as in Mike D'Antoni to guide a Laker team that at least on paper, is arguably the most talented in the league, Kobe Bryant is a having an MVP type season at the age of 34, yet the Lakers are struggling to string up wins. They have a center in Dwight Howard who at least for now, is fine with being a Laker, but how long will that last? They have an aging point guard in Steve Nash, who is running a system predicated upon speed, athleticism, and most of all YOUTH, they have one of the most talented big men, to ever play the game, in Pau Gasol, and he has been relegated to the bench as a 6th man.

Did the Lakers rush to judgement and hire a coach that has had little success anywhere else but Phoenix where he essentially installed an offense that needed to score 120 plus points a night to win? This Laker team is a disaster, they can't win on the road, do not look good winning at home, where in recent years they have been near unbeatable, when that other guy was coaching.. ..

Someone will have to take the fall for this horrendous season, a loss on Wed vs Memphis on the road.. would put this team at 17-25, while those other guys are battling for the best record in the NBA. Is LA still Laker town?? I guess, since talk radio seems to only talk about the Lakers, yet ignoring the fact that the Clippers are 32-10 and have a chance to hold the best record in the league if they can beat OKC at home tonight.

Only D'Antoni can turn a team with this payroll and history into an overnight joke, the games are laughable, and for true Laker fans difficult to watch. For all of you that were calling for Mike Brown's head, hmmm... I wonder what you are thinking now?.

Tuesday recap of four games - by Eurobasket News

LA Clippers - Oklah.City T. 97-109
LOS ANGELES-Kevin Durant scored 32 points, Russell Westbrook (6'3''-PG-88, college: UCLA) added 26 and the Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the Los Angeles Clippers 109-97 on Tuesday night in a matchup of teams with the two best records in the NBA. Serge Ibaka added 17 points before fouling out late while helping the Thunder improve to a league-leading 33-9 and expand their lead in the West to 1 1/2 games over the Clippers, who were without All-Star Chris Paul (6'0''-PG-85, college: Wake Forest) and fell to 32-11. Blake Griffin had 31 points and 11 rebounds, and Jamal Crawford added 14 points off the bench. Eric Bledsoe had 12 points in place of Paul. The Clippers had won four straight at home against the Thunder, and they led much of the first quarter before giving up the lead for good early in the second. Courtesy of: http://www.mercurynews.com

Milwaukee B. - Philadelph.76 110-102
MILWAUKEE - Ersan Ilyasova (6'10''-F-87) had 27 points and 16 rebounds, Brandon Jennings scored 25 points and the Milwaukee Bucks beat the Philadelphia 76ers 110-102 on Tuesday night. Monta Ellis added 18 points and 10 assists for Milwaukee, which has won six of eight games since Jim Boylan replaced former coach Scott Skiles, who parted ways with the team following a season-worst four-game losing streak. Evan Turner scored 23 points to lead the 76ers, Spencer Hawes added 21 points and 12 rebounds, and Nick Young scored had 20 points. Philadelphia lost its fifth straight on the road, and 15th in its last 21 overall. The Sixers used a 17-7 run to start the fourth quarter to cut the Bucks' lead to 90-86 when Thaddeus Young (6'8''-F-88, college: Georgia Tech) stole the ball and scored on a breakaway layup with 6:47 remaining. Ilyasova made 1 of 2 free throws to extend Milwaukee's lead to 99-92 with 3:56 left. He then hit a jumper with about 2 1/2 minutes to go, stretching the advantage to nine points. Hawes hit a baseline jumper to trim the lead to 101-94 with 1:39 remaining, but Milwaukee made 4 of 6 free throws in the final minute to seal the win. Larry Sanders had two blocked shots, giving him at least one in his last 27 games, the second longest streak in the NBA behind Tim Duncan, who has blocked a shot in 29 straight. NOTES: 76ers guard Royal Ivey made the start in place of Dorell Wright as coach Doug Collins wanted more speed in his starting lineup to defend Jennings. ... Bucks F Marquis Daniels was sick and inactive for the game. Rookie guard Doron Lamb, who was recalled Monday from the NBA Development League, suffered a sprained ankle and was also inactive. ... 76ers guard Jason Richardson did not travel with the team due to left knee synovitis. Courtesy of: The Associated Press

Detroit P. - Orlando M. 105-90
AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- On the night the Orlando Magic reached their season's halfway point, they lost in a way that didn't inspire confidence for the rest of the way. The Detroit Pistons clobbered them 105-90 at the mostly empty Palace of Auburn Hills. Detroit outrebounded Orlando 54 to 41 and generated 13 turnovers that led to 17 points. The Pistons (16-25) started to pull away from the Magic (14-27) in the third quarter by shooting 57 percent from the field. Detroit's Greg Monroe scored 10 of his 16 points in the period. Arron Afflalo began the day as Orlando's leading scorer, averaging 17.5 points per game, but he didn't attempt his first shot until he tried a midrange jumper with 2 minutes, 33 seconds left in the third quarter. He went 0-for-4 and didn't score a point. Glen Davis (6'9''-F-86, college: LSU) also struggled. He made only four of his 16 shot attempts and finished with 11 points. J.J. Redick, in his first start since Nov. 19, sank his first seven shots and finished with a game-high 26 points on 9-of-10 shooting. He was perhaps the Magic's only bright spot. Courtesy of: http://www.orlandosentinel.com

Cleveland C. - Boston C. 95-90
Cavaliers point guard Kyrie Irving (6'3''-G-92, college: Duke) might have punched his ticket to the NBA All-Star Game on Tuesday. He exploited the Celtics for a game-high 40 points in the Cavs' 95-90 victory before an announced crowd of 14,192 at Quicken Loans Arena. The Cavs (11-32) were clinging to a one-point lead with less than a minute to play. Power forward Tristan Thompson grabbed a rebound and his outlet pass found Irving on the wing. There appeared to be a few Boston defenders ahead of him on the fast break. However, Irving looked like he was shot out of a cannon as he beat everyone to the basket. The incredible play extended the Cavs' lead to 90-87 with 52 seconds remaining. "I thought it was a pretty loud statement tonight," said Cavs coach Byron Scott of Irving's All-Star chances. "Some Eastern Conference coaches will look at his stats and his accomplishments, but they'll also look at our record. Some will say, He's playing great, but he's not winning.' Name me one point guard in the Eastern Conference having a better season." Irving had 15 points in the fourth quarter, 11 in the last 2 minutes, 31 seconds. He said the Cavs are developing that camaraderie needed to close out games. The 6-foot-3, 191-pounder just destroyed anyone in his path on Tuesday. He converted 16 of 24 shots from the field, 1 of 3 from behind the arc and 7 of 7 from the foul line. "He sets the tone for us," Scott said. "I told him, I need you to be aggressive.' When he's aggressive, everyone picks up on that. That's the type of player we need." He must have convinced Celtics coach Doc Rivers. He said he voted for Irving as one of the reserves on the All-Star team. The reserves will be announced on Thursday. Irving said his play was needed against the Celtics (20-21), who have now lost four in a row. "The last time, they really handed it to us in Boston," he said. It was the second 40-point game of his career. He had a career-high 41 points on Dec. 15 against the Knicks at Madison Square Garden. "In my mind, he's a top-five point guard in this league," Thompson said. Scott instructed Irving he needed to be more assertive. "You only need to tell me once," Irving said. At times this year, the Cavs were tentative down the stretch. Tonight, they went for it. "It was us trying to put our foot on their neck," Scott said. "Sometimes we try not to lose. Tonight we tried to win." Thompson was also outstanding against the Celtics' front line. He added a season-high 21 points, nine rebounds and five assists. "He's oozing with confidence," Scott said. "He has that natural-born leadership in him. He's playing great basketball. He had five assists tonight. I don't know if he had five all of last year. The game has slowed down big time for him. "Both (Thompson and Irving) are capable of impacting the game every night." Celtics point guard Rajon Rondo (6'1''-PG-86, college: Kentucky) flirted with a triple-double with 17 points, a game-high 13 rebounds and eight assists. Center Kevin Garnett added 16 points, five rebounds and five blocks. The Cavs were playing with just one legitimate big man in the last 1:33. Rookie center Tyler Zeller picked up his sixth foul and was replaced by 6-8 Luke Walton. The Cavs got a key stop on their next defensive possession when Rondo had trouble shooting over 6-7 Shaun Livingston. That led to Irving's shot off the glass with 22.8 seconds left. Celtics rookie Jared Sullinger, making his first appearance at The Q, fouled out on the play. The former Ohio State star finished with 12 points and 10 rebounds. Irving completed the three-point play for a 93-87 lead. Zeller struggled mightily against All-Star Garnett. He was 2 of 10 from the field and ended with six points, 10 rebounds and three blocks. Quick shots -- The three new Cavs players will take their physicals on Wednesday. They are not expected to practice Wednesday. They are hoping for Thursday. The trade isn't official until all the players pass their physicals. -- The Cavs now have a logjam at shooting guard with C.J. Miles, Wayne Ellington, Dion Waiters and Daniel Gibson. "I'm going to try to (find minutes for Ellington)," Scott said. "He's very smart. He knows how to play. Guys will be fighting for minutes." -- Scott said it's his job to get all the new players comfortable with his system. "It's difficult if you make it difficult," Scott said. "It's my responsibility to get them acclimated." -- Scott spoke to guard Jeremy Pargo, who was waived on Tuesday. "He's not real happy," Scott said. -- Miles was sick and didn't play in Tuesday's game. Waiters moved into the starting lineup. Courtesy of: http://news-herald.com

Grizzlies trade Marreese Speights, Wayne Ellington, Josh Selby to Cavaliers - by Eurobasket News

The Memphis Grizzlies acquired forward Jon Leuer (6'10''-F-89, agency: Priority Sports, college: Wisconsin) (LOO-er) and a trade exception from the Cleveland Cavaliers in exchange for forward/center Marreese Speights (6'10''-F/C-87, college: Florida), guards Wayne Ellington (6'4''-G-87, college: N.Carolina) and Josh Selby (6'2''-PG-91, college: Kansas) and a protected future first round draft pick, Grizzlies General Manager and Vice President of Basketball Operations Chris Wallace announced today. Marreese will strengthen our front court, while Wayne and Josh will add depth to our back court. At the same time, we are adding a valuable asset with another future first round pick, while also maintaining our future flexibility, said Cavaliers General Manager Chris Grant. We wish Jon and Jeremy the best as they move on with their careers and thank them for their time with us here in Cleveland.
The Cavs will receive Memphiss first round draft pick in the first available year (which is two years after Memphis has satisfied its current pick obligation to Minnesota). Starting in 2015 the pick could be conveyed to the Cavaliers. The pick is protected one-five and 15-30 in 2015 and 2016 (meaning the Cavaliers would acquire a 6-14 pick) and the pick is protected one-five in 2017 and 2018. If the pick has not been conveyed by 2018, it becomes unprotected in 2019. Currently in his second professional season, Leuer (6-10, 228) recorded 19.5 points, 12.3 rebounds and 1.8 assists on .512 shooting (.467 3FG) in 36.5 minutes in eight games (seven starts) for Clevelands exclusively-owned NBA Development League team, the Canton Charge. The 23-year-old also has made nine appearances for the Cavaliers this season, averaging 2.4 points in 10.1 minutes. Leuer holds NBA career averages of 4.4 points and 2.4 rebounds on .489 shooting in 11.7 minutes in 55 games (12 starts) with the Cavaliers and Milwaukee Bucks. The Long Lake, Minn. native was drafted by Milwaukee in the second round (40th overall) of the 2011 NBA Draft after a four-year career at the University of Wisconsin.
Speights (6-10, 255) averaged 6.6 points and 4.7 rebounds on .429 shooting in 14.5 minutes in 40 games (two starts) in his second season in Memphis. Drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers in the first round (16th overall) of the 2008 NBA Draft, the 25-year-old owns career averages of 7.4 points, 4.3 rebounds and 0.5 assists on .474 shooting in 16.2 minutes in 305 games (60 starts) over five seasons with the Grizzlies and 76ers.
Ellington (6-4, 200) posted 5.5 points, 1.3 rebounds and 1.1 assists on .407 shooting in 16.9 minutes in 40 games (four starts) in his first season with the Grizzlies. Drafted by the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first round (28th overall) of the 2009 NBA Draft, the 25-year-old holds career averages of 6.3 points, 1.5 rebounds and 1.8 assists on .411 shooting in 18.4 minutes in 229 games (17 starts) over four seasons with the Grizzlies and Timberwolves.
Selby (6-2, 183) made 10 appearances with the Grizzlies this season, averaging 2.0 points in 5.9 minutes. Drafted by Memphis in the second round (49th overall) of the 2011 NBA Draft, the 21-year-old owns career averages of 2.2 points and 0.9 assists on .330 shooting in 7.8 minutes in 38 games over two seasons with the Grizzlies.
Courtesy of: insidehoops.com

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

NCAA1

Top 25 - Men

ACC Standings

1. Miami, FL		4-0 (11-2)
2. Duke (8)		3-1 (15-1)
3. Wake Forest		3-2 (10-7)
4. N.Carolina St. (6)		3-2 (13-4)
5. Maryland		3-3 (14-4)
6. Virginia		2-2 (11-5)
7. Virginia Tech		2-2 (11-5)
8. N.Carolina (12)		2-2 (12-5)
9. Florida St. (24)		2-2 (10-7)
10. Clemson		1-2 (8-5)
11. Boston Coll.		1-4 (8-9)
12. Georgia Tech		0-4 (10-5)

Regular Season: Round 73

Jan. 22: Wake Forest - N.Carolina St. 86-84
Jan. 22: Liberty - Longwood 74-47
Jan. 22: Villanova - Louisville 73-64
Jan. 22: Ohio St. - Iowa 72-63
Jan. 22: Maine - Vermont 71-68
Jan. 22: Missouri - S.Carolina 71-65
Jan. 22: Memphis - Tulane 71-60
Jan. 22: Providence - Pittsburgh 64-68
Jan. 22: Maryland - Boston Coll. 64-59
Jan. 22: UMKC - Houston Baptist 61-63
Jan. 22: Alabama - Kentucky 59-55
Jan. 22: Kansas St. - Kansas 55-59
Jan. 22: Nebraska - Illinois 51-71
Jan. 22: Wisconsin - Michigan St. 47-49

Regular Season: Round 74

Jan. 23: Dayton - Fordham
Jan. 23: Bucknell - Lehigh
Jan. 23: Miami, FL - Duke
Jan. 23: Winthrop - Gardner-Webb
Jan. 23: Albany - Boston U.
Jan. 23: Cent.Florida - Rice
Jan. 23: Presbyterian - Charleston So.
Jan. 23: Seton Hall - S.Florida
Jan. 23: Temple - Pennsylvania
Jan. 23: Lafayette - Holy Cross
Jan. 23: UMBC - Stony Brook
Jan. 23: W.Michigan - E.Michigan
Jan. 23: Ball St. - Buffalo
Jan. 23: High Point - VMI
Jan. 23: Campbell - Radford
Jan. 23: Colgate - Army
Jan. 23: Duquesne - St.Louis
Jan. 23: Hofstra - Drexel
Jan. 23: Indiana - Penn St.
Jan. 23: Towson - George Mason
Jan. 23: NC-Asheville - Co.Carolina
Jan. 23: Cleveland St. - Loyola, IL
Jan. 23: Georgia St. - NC-Wilmington
Jan. 23: St.Joseph's - St.Bonaventure
Jan. 23: Toledo - Akron
Jan. 23: Miami, OH - Ohio
Jan. 23: William & Mary - Northeastern
Jan. 23: Bowling Green - Kent St.
Jan. 23: Cent.Michigan - N.Illinois
Jan. 23: Rhode Island - G.Washington
Jan. 23: S.Mississippi - Marshall
Jan. 23: La Salle - Butler
Jan. 23: Youngstown St. - Wright St.
Jan. 23: American - Navy
Jan. 23: Charlotte - Xavier
Jan. 23: W.Virginia - TCU
Jan. 23: Rutgers - St.John's
Jan. 23: Delaware St. - Howard
Jan. 23: Boise St. - Fresno St.
Jan. 23: N.Iowa - S.Illinois
Jan. 23: Houston - Tulsa
Jan. 23: LSU - Texas A&M
Jan. 23: UAB - E.Carolina
Jan. 23: Illinois St. - Indiana St.
Jan. 23: Vanderbilt - Auburn
Jan. 23: N.Mexico - Colorado St.
Jan. 23: Georgia - Florida
Jan. 23: Ill.-Chicago - Wisc.-Milwaukee
Jan. 23: Valparaiso - Green Bay
Jan. 23: Evansville - Bradley
Jan. 23: Missouri St. - Wichita St.
Jan. 23: Drake - Creighton
Jan. 23: Air Force - New Orleans
Jan. 23: N.Carolina - Georgia Tech
Jan. 23: Arkansas - Mississippi St.
Jan. 23: Northwestern - Minnesota
Jan. 23: Texas Tech - Iowa St.
Jan. 23: Oregon - Washington St.
Jan. 23: Nevada - San Diego St.
Jan. 23: Santa Clara - CSU Bakersfield
Jan. 23: N.Mexico St. - Denver
Jan. 23: Oregon St. - Washington

Stats Leaders - NCAA1

Points Per Game

Erick GREEN
  Virginia Tech
  (190-PG-91)
  Avg: 24.6

1. Green, Virginia Te.	24.6
2. Plumlee, Duke	17.4
3. Curry, Duke	17.0
4. Anderson, Boston	15.6
5. Leslie, N.Caroli.	15.3
6. McKie, Wake Forest	15.3
7. Harris, Virginia	15.2
8. Snaer, Florida St.	14.8
9. Eddie, Virginia Te.	14.8
10. McAdoo, N.Carolina	14.7

Rebounds Per Game

Mason PLUMLEE
  Duke
  (208-F-90)
  Avg: 11.6

1. Plumlee, Duke	11.6
2. Howell, N.Caroli.	10.9
3. Anderson, Boston	9.7
4. Mitchell, Virginia	9.1
5. McKie, Wake Forest	8.2
6. Len, Maryland	8.2
7. McAdoo, N.Carolina	8.2
8. Booker, Clemson	7.9
9. Kadji, Miami, FL	7.3
10. Thomas, Wake F.	7.3

Assists Per Game

Lorenzo BROWN
  N.Caroli.
  (196-G-)
  Avg: 6.9

1. Brown, N.Caroli.	6.9
2. Cook, Duke	5.9
3. Howard, Maryland	4.6
4. Green, Virginia Te.	4.5
5. Paige, N.Carolina	4.3
6. Strickland, N.Car.	3.9
7. Larkin, Miami, FL	3.9
8. Hall, Clemson	3.5
9. Rahon, Boston Coll.	3.4
10. Wells, Maryland	3.1

Steals Per Game

Shane LARKIN
  Miami, FL
  (180-PG-92)
  Avg: 2.3

1. Larkin, Miami, FL	2.3
2. Brown, N.Caroli.	2.1
3. Cook, Duke	2.0
4. Scott, Miami, FL	1.9
5. Strickland, N.Car.	1.6
6. Thornton, Duke	1.6
7. McKie, Wake Forest	1.6
8. Green, Virginia Te.	1.5
9. McAdoo, N.Carolina	1.5
10. Mitchell, Virginia	1.4

Blocks Per Game

Daniel MILLER
  Georgia Tech
  (211-C-91)
  Avg: 2.4

1. Miller, Georgia Te.	2.4
2. McDaniels, Clemson	2.3
3. Len, Maryland	1.9
4. Plumlee, Duke	1.8
5. Kadji, Miami, FL	1.6
6. Atkins, Virginia	1.6
7. Thomas, Wake F.	1.4
8. Kelly, Duke	1.4
9. Gamble, Miami, FL	1.4
10. White, Florida St.	1.4

Ross Leads No. 22 Missouri Past South Carolina, 71-65 - by Eurobasket News

COLUMBIA, Mo. The 22nd-ranked Missouri Tigers missed 22 of their first 25 three point attempts Tuesday night at Mizzou Arena against the visiting South Carolina Gamecocks, but they hit a pair of clutch threes in the final 1:10 to key a thrilling 71-65 comeback win.

Jabari Brown (6'5''-G-92) hit the last three of the night, a clutch trey from the left wing with 14 seconds to play and the Tigers (14-4 overall, 3-2 in SEC play) holding a slim 66-65 lead. His three made it 69-65 and effectively iced the game, as the Gamecocks (11-7, 1-4) fouled Tiger forward Tony Criswell (6'9''-F) after a missed shot on their ensuing possession. Criswell sank both free throws with four seconds left to account for the final score.

Less than a minute earlier, it was guard Earnest Ross (6'5''-G-91) who hit just as big of a shot from long range, when he sank a contested three with 1:10 left to give Mizzou a 66-63 lead. Ross, who came off the bench and wasn't completely 100 percent after injuring his back last week against Georgia, scored a game-high and personal season-high 21 points on the night.

Frank Haith's team needed a furious second-half rally to overcome a rough first half which saw Mizzou shoot just 20.0% in the opening 20 minutes as South Carolina claimed a 35-27 halftime lead. The USC lead would grow to 13 points (41-28 with 17:11 left) for the visiting Gamecocks and their Coach Frank Martin, but a quick 5-0 mini run for Mizzou got the Tigers within striking distance.

Brown's trey capped a 17-point night for the sophomore guard, and it negated an ice-cold shooting night for the Tigers, who shot only 18.5% from three-point range (5-of-27), while shooting just 33.3% overall in the game (19-of-57 FGs).

Not to be overlooked was the huge performance by center Alex Oriakhi. The senior post scored 18 points, including a perfect 10-of-10 from the foul line, and added 11 rebounds to the cause. Ross added 10 rebounds of his own for his third double-double of the season (first since 10 points and 11 rebounds on Nov. 22nd against Stanford). Oriakhi netted his sixth double-double of the season before fouling out with 46.8 seconds left in the game.

In a very physical game, the Tigers held up well, as they shot 28-of-36 from the foul line (77.8%) as a team, outscoring South Carolina (11-of-17 FTs) by 17 points from the charity stripe. That effectiveness from the line certainly helped balance the tough shooting night from the floor.

Junior guard Phil Pressey had a game-high seven assists and added six points and two steals in the win, which extended Mizzou's home-court winning streak to 12 games.

South Carolina came out aggressive early on, and led for the final 16:13 of the first half. The Gamecocks' biggest margin was nine points in the opening half, as USC made 5-of-10 three-pointers in the opening half. Carolina shot just 1-of-10 from long distance after halftime, and they connected 36.9% from the floor overall on the night (24-of-65 FGs).

A 20-2 Tiger scoring run early in the second half set the stage for the big comeback. After the Gamecocks took their 13-point lead on a layin by Michael Carrera with 17:11 to play (giving them a 41-28 lead), Mizzou scored five straight, and after another Carrera bucket made it 43-33, Mizzou scored 15 straight points to take a 48-43 lead with 11:50 left. Brown had nine points in that stretch, and his three-pointer with 12:43 left tied it up at 43-apiece. With 12:25 left, Brown was fouled after rebounding a South Carolina miss, and he hit one of two free throws to give Mizzou its first lead (44-43) since the 17:40 mark of the first half.

Up next for Mizzou will be another home game, as the Tigers will play host to the Vanderbilt Commodores Saturday afternoon at Mizzou Arena. Tipoff is set for 4 p.m. (central time).
Courtesy of: http://www.mutigers.com

Wildcats Topple No. 5 Louisville 73-64 - by Eurobasket News

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. - Eight years to the day since it last toppled a top five team at the Wells Fargo Center, the Villanova Wildcats made sure history repeated itself on Tuesday night by downing the No. 5 Louisville Cardinals 73-64 at the Wells Fargo Center. VU improves to 12-7 overall, 3-3 in the BIG EAST while the Cards fall to 16-3 overall, 4-2 BIG EAST.

Villanova defeated No. 2 Kansas 82-63 on Jan. 22, 2005.

"I'm so glad for these guys that we broke through tonight," stated Villanova head coach Jay Wright . "Through all the mistakes they have never wavered, never stopped trying to do what we ask them to. When they feel success, I think that gives them confidence in themselves."

The Wildcats entered this game on a three-game slide after falling at Providence 69-66 on Saturday.

"We showed them film of Providence and we showed them that they were trying to do the right things but they just haven't played together long enough," stated Wright. "These guys have continued to do the right thing. That's all we talked about these last few days - just keep trying to do the right things. If you do that things will fall into place."

Freshman Ryan Arcidiacono (6'3''-G-94) led the Wildcats with 15 points, five rebounds, three assists and a pair of steals. Wayne Blackshear led Louisville with 17 points. The Cardinals were also damaged by connecting on just 12-of-24 free throw attempts on this night. In contrast, VU drained 22-of-29 from the stripe (.759).

Louisville's Peyton Siva opened the scoring with a pair of free throws before Darrun Hilliard drained a triple to give the Wildcats a 3-2 lead two minutes into the contest. Louisville came right back on a Siva triple but the 'Cats soon responded with an 8-0 run to grab a 14-7 lead with just under 12 minutes to go in the period.

The Wildcats used balanced scoring to extend the lead to 23-13 after a 3-pointer from Tony Chennault with 8:22 on the first half clock. But the Cardinals responded with a run of their own keyed by a Blackshear corner triple that was quickly followed by a Blackshear dunk at 6:45 that forced a Wildcat time out and cut the gap to 23-21. A pair of Russ Smith free throws knotted the contest at 23.

A Jayvaughn Pinkston (6'7''-F-91) driving shot allowed the Cats to end what had become a 12-0 run and with a free throw to finish the play gave VU back the edge at 26-25 with 3:43 to play in the first.

The Wildcats took a 30-28 edge into halftime. Seven of the eight Villanova players who saw first half action, led by six points each from Hilliard and Pinkston. The Cardinals were paced by Blackshear's eight points in the first 20 minutes.

Villanova scored six of the first seven points in the second half and built their advantage to 39-34 five minutes into the period. But Louisville put together a mid-half surge much like the one it constructed in the first half. Blackshear and the full-court defense were at the center of it again. The Cardinals used a 9-0 burst to grab a 43-39 advantage with 12:34 left in the second half.

"There was a point there in the second half where they made a run and had a six point lead," stated Arcidiacono. "But we hung together and kept getting stops."

But VU slowly came out of its scoring drought and, aided by some missed Cardinal opportunities at the free throw line, regained the lead at 53-52 with more than five minutes to play in the second half.

Even as Louisville kept applying pressure, Villanova's defense stiffened. A three-pointer in the corner from Achraf Yacoubou with 3:57 left gave VU a 56-53 and that was followed by a 3-ball from the top of the key by James Bell to extend the lead to six. In fact, over the final 3:57 Villanova outscored Louisville 20-11.

"The great thing about playing in this league is if you have a tough night, you get another chance to do something great your next time out," noted Wright. "You are always playing outstanding teams."

That theme continues Saturday when No. 3 Syracuse visits the Center at 11:00 a.m. (ESPNU/610 WIP Radio).

Notes: Villanova's last victory over a Top 10 team came on Jan. 22, 2011, an 83-72 victory over No. 3 Syracuse at the Carrier Dome ... Its last win over a ranked team came on Feb. 5, 2011, when it upended West Virginia 66-50 ... This was Villanova's 22 win as unranked team over a top five squad.
Courtesy of: http://www.villanova.com

No. 3/2 Kansas Takes Round One, Wins at No. 11/13 Kansas State, 59-55 - by Eurobasket News

MANHATTAN, Kan. -- Senior center Jeff Withey (7'0''-C-90) 's seventh double-double of the year led the Kansas men's basketball team past Kansas State, 59-55, in the first installment of this year's Sunflower Showdown series, Tuesday night inside Bramlage Coliseum.

The last unbeaten teams in the Big 12 Conference, No. 3/2 Kansas (17-1, 5-0) outdueled No. 11/13 Kansas State (15-3, 4-1) in a gritty matchup for the early lead in the conference race. Working around a season-low 59 points, KU held the Wildcats to 35 percent shooting (20-for-57) on their home floor to chalk up its 16th-consecutive win.

Fittingly for an in-state rivalry, the home crowd produced the Jayhawks' toughest road environment thus far, and despite both teams combining to miss their first seven shots, the energy and pace soared from tip-off. Kansas achieved a double-digit lead only once, but trailed just twice in the win.

Two of the Big 12's top-three scorers in Kansas' Ben McLemore (6'5''-G) and Kansas State's Rodney McGruder (6'4''-G-91) squared off Tuesday night, but neither carried much weight in the first half. The duo scored just two points apiece in the opening 20 minutes due to two quick fouls putting McLemore on the bench. McGruder was overshadowed by teammates Angel Rodriguez and Shane Southwell, who combined for 21 of KSU's 27 first-half points.

By game's end, however, McLemore had tallied 11 points on 57 percent shooting (4-for-7), while McGruder ended with 13 points (4-for-12).

Withey matched McLemore's output with 11 points, but grabbed 10 rebounds for his seventh double-double, the second-most in the Big 12. Senior guard Travis Releford led the team with 12 points, missing only one of his six shots. Senior guard Elijah Johnson and freshman forward Perry Elliseach chipped in eight points.

Joining McGruder in double-digits, Rodriguez added 12 points and Southwell led all scorers with 19. After the duo racked up 21 points in the first frame, Kansas held them to 10 in the second half - all from Southwell.

After the Wildcats notched the first bucket of the game, Kansas broke free for a 9-3 run using a three from Releford. Another long ball from Johnson kicked the lead out a point further by the second media timeout, 15-8.

Johnson, making three of his first five shots, sent Kansas on a mini 5-0 run. The rally took a backseat, however, to McLemore getting whistled for his second charge call with more than nine minutes still remaining in the opening half. Shortly after the rookie guard was relegated to the bench with early foul trouble, the Wildcats caught fire to turn an 18-10 Kansas lead into their one-point advantage with six minutes to play, 19-18.

Unyielding to the shift in momentum, a Kansas timeout quickly sparked a 9-2 Kansas run. Releford's second three of the evening and a shot-clock beating jumper from sophomore guard Naadir Tharpe powered the rally and returned the lead to the Jayhawks, 27-21. Kansas State would not lead again.

With Southwell and Rodriguez still sinking shots as the break approached, Young battled under the basket to grab an offensive rebound the last possession, converting it to a layup and the Jayhawks took a 31-27 lead to halftime.

Kansas came out focused for the second half, hitting all three shots and all four free throws in the first five minutes to up the lead, 39-30. Releford missed his first - and only - shot of the game, but took little time to return to form as he drove to the basket for a layup to keep his team ahead by five.

The five-point margin stayed fairly consistent for the remainder of the game until McLemore kicked into higher gear with seven-straight Kansas points. Moments after drilling a three in front of his own bench, McLemore benefitted from textbook ball movement in KU's next possession, which peaked with him receiving the ball on the wing. He obliged with a made jumper, pushing the Jayhawks to their only double-digit lead of the game, 53-43.

Kansas State kept clawing back. Southwell hit back-to-back three-pointers to help bring the home team within five, 54-49, under the last media timeout. With plenty of time for a comeback still on the clock, sophomore forward Thomas Gipson muscled in for a bucket under the basket and Southwell converted a steal into an uncontested layup on the other end to cut the KU lead to three with 37 seconds to play, 56-53.

Tharpe faced a hostile crowd as he stepped to the free-throw line with 22 seconds to play, but he sunk them both. Johnson added one more to seal the 59-55 victory.

UP NEXT
No. 3/2 Kansas returns home Saturday, Jan. 26 against Oklahoma at 3 p.m. on ESPN. The game will be the annual Suits and Sneakers contest promoting cancer awareness and is sponsored by the NABC's Coaches vs. Cancer program.

KUAthletics.com: The official online source for Kansas Athletics, Williams Education Fund contributions, tickets, merchandise, multimedia, photos and much, much more.
Courtesy of: http://www.kuathletics.com

No. 13 Spartans Outlast Wisconsin, 49-47 - by Eurobasket News

MADISON, Wis. (AP) - Michigan State coach Tom Izzo says some teams make the mistake of trying to speed up Wisconsin.

Instead, the 13th-ranked Spartans decided to grind the Badgers down.

Keith Appling (6'1''-PG-92) scored 19 points and Branden Dawson (6'6''-G-93) added 18 while grabbing 13 rebounds to lead Michigan State to a 49-47 victory over Wisconsin in a defensive struggle Tuesday night.

"They don't turn it over. I don't care who they're playing," said Izzo, whose team finished with 10 turnovers, one more than Wisconsin. "So we said we have to play like them in that respect. We wanted to run, but we wanted to be solid with the ball, and I think we did a good of that."

It should be no shock the game was a grind considering Wisconsin is tops in the Big Ten in scoring defense and the Spartans are third. But defense alone doesn't explain the offensive struggles of both teams.

They both went more than 4 minutes without scoring down the stretch until Dawson broke the drought, hitting one of two from the free throw line. That put the Spartans (17-3, 6-1 Big Ten) up 48-44 with just over 2 minutes left.

The defenses clamped down again until Ryan Evans' 3-pointer from the wing with 17 seconds left pulled Wisconsin (13-6, 4-2) within 48-47.

The Badgers fouled Michigan State freshman Gary Harris. He took his time in hitting the front end of a 1-and-1, but rimmed out the second to leave the Spartans up 49-47.

Wisconsin's George Marshall, who missed practice Monday because he was sick, then drove the lane and was fouled with 3.5 seconds left. But he missed the first free throw and intentionally tried to miss the second, failing to draw iron and giving the ball to the Spartans.

After winning their first game at Wisconsin since 2001 last season, the Spartans have won two straight at the Kohl Center and have a four-game winning streak against the Badgers.

"I just love playing against Wisconsin," Appling said. "Each year they have competitive guys that push me and make me better, so I just look at it as a challenge. These past couple years it's worked out in my favor and my team's favor."

Though it was a defensive struggle for both sides, Wisconsin took the worst of it.

The Badgers shot just less than 30 percent from the field, including 8 of 27 from 3-point range. The starting frontcourt - Evans, Mike Bruesewitz and Jared Berggren - combined to shoot 9 of 32.

Wisconsin played without backup forward Frank Kaminsky, who missed his second straight game after being poked in the eye at Indiana last week. Wisconsin coach Bo Ryan said it hurt to lose a post player who can score.

Bruesewitz led the Badgers with 10 points.

"You can have a guy have an off night," Ryan said. "We had more than one guy have an off night, and it's a one possession game. That's frustrating because you know you had opportunities."

It was another poor showing night at the free throw line for the Badgers. Berggren, who came in shooting 76 percent from the line, missed three straight during Wisconsin's second-half scoreless streak, including the front end of a 1-and-1. The Badgers finished 7 of 18 from the line, including 5 of 13 in the second half, and are now shooting 61 percent on the season.

Berggren said it was particularly painful that the missed free throws included two after he went in for a dunk and was fouled during the scoreless stretch, saying he needed to fight through the contact better.

"To get easy points like that and leave those on the board is frustrating," he said.
Courtesy of: http://www.msuspartans.com

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NCAA2

Dip Earns 200th Win At ASU - by Eurobasket News

AUGUSTA, Ga. Augusta State Head Basketball Coach Dip Metress notched his 200th win at Augusta State University as the Jaguars triumphed over Georgia College, 69-44, Monday night in Christenberry Fieldhouse.

The win moved ASU to 9-5 overall and 5-3 in the Peach Belt Conference, while the loss dropped GC to 6-9 and 2-6 in the PBC.

"Since the day we were hired on my wife's birthday, May 10, 2004, I have not made a jump shot or had an assist," said Metress, in his ninth year at the helm of the Jaguar Men's Basketball program. "Getting our 200th win is a tribute to the 24 seniors that have completed their eligibility in our time here. Out of those 24 and actually 25, if we include Travis Keels (6'9''-F-90), 20 of them (80 percent) have either graduated or are on track to graduate with their degree. This is more important than all the championship banners that are hanging in Christenberry Fieldhouse. I am truly thankful to Coach (Director of Athletics Clint) Bryant for giving us this opportunity nine years ago."

ASU sophomore forward Devon Wright-Nelson led all scorers with 17 points, while pulling down seven rebounds. Junior guard Ryan Weems notched the first double-double of his career, scoring 11 points and grabbing a season and game-high 12 rebounds. Sophomore guard Devonte Thomas scored 13 points and contributed eight rebounds. Sophomore point guard D'Angelo Boyce handed out a game-leading and season-high 11 assists and scored nine points. Senior forward Travis Keels had a game-high four blocks and nine points.

The Bobcats were paced by junior Aaron Robinson's 10 points. Sophomore David Wagner pulled down a team-leading eight rebounds while contributing six points.

The Jags began the contest with a 20-0 run and allowed the first Bobcat bucket almost halfway through the period, after missing on their first 12 shots. Wright-Nelson was 5-5 in the half, scoring half of ASU's first 20 points. ASU ended the half with an 18-point advantage, 36-18, on freshman forward Michael Graham's alley-oop dunk with 56 seconds left in the period.

"We started out with great defense tonight. They missed a lot of shots and we were able to capitalize on those misses," said Metress.

Georgia College did pull back within 15 with 7:36 left on the clock, but the Jags closed out the game with a 27 point advantage, 69-44.

ASU shot 44 percent (25-57) for the game, holding the Bobcats to 28 percent (16-58). The Jags hit 15-19 (79 percent) from the charity stripe, while the Bobcats were 8-12 (68 percent). The Jags pulled down 45 rebounds compared to Georgia College's 34. ASU had seven steals and created 11 turnovers, while committing eight.

"I am pleased with the win, but now we have to get ready for the City Classic against Paine on Thursday night," Metress said."

The Jags remain in Augusta for their next contest, when they head to HEAL Complex on the campus of Paine College for an 8:00 p.m. tipoff on Thursday, Jan. 24.
Courtesy of: http://www.jaguarsroar.com

Pirate Block Party As Armstrong Downs Georgia Southwestern, 79-57 - by Eurobasket News

SAVANNAH, Ga. - The Armstrong Atlantic State University men's basketball team turned up the defense, forcing 20 turnovers and blocking 10 shots in a 79-57 Peach Belt Conference victory over visiting Georgia Southwestern State University on Monday evening at Alumni Arena.

The Pirates (10-5, 6-2 PBC) won their sixth game out of their last seven and kept pace atop the Peach Belt Conference's East Division standings with the victory, while Georgia Southwestern (5-9, 3-6 PBC) dropped its seventh game out of its last eight with the loss.

Armstrong used a 14-0 run late in the first half to build a commanding 46-27 lead at halftime. The Pirates did not turn the ball over for the first 18 minutes of the game and had a 14-0 edge in points off of turnovers, scoring a basket after each of the Hurricanes' seven first-half miscues. Armstrong also shot 50 percent from the field in the first half (17-of-34) compared to just 36.7 percent for the Hurricanes (11-of-30). Senior Aric Miller had 17 points at the break.

"We did a good job," Armstrong head coach Jeremy Luther said. "I think what set the tone early is that Aric Miller was really good early, making shots, being patient. We moved the ball. When we're shooting the basketball from the perimeter like we were, we're pretty hard to beat."

The Pirates also reached double-digits in blocked shots for a second time this season, led by junior Darius Morales (6'9''-F/C-90), who had seven in the game. The PBC's blocked shots leader, Morales is the first Armstrong player to block seven shots in a game since Bryan Taylor had seven against UNC Pembroke on February 11th, 2006.

"It's a great win for us, but we've got to continue to get better," Luther said. "I think we're clicking right now. I think the best part is that we have unselfish kids. They say, 'Coach, whatever it takes to win.'"

Miller finished the night with a game-high 22 points to lead the Pirates, while senior Antroine Williford added 16 points and eight rebounds. Junior Eric Eversley came off the bench to add 12 points and junior Kenny Bellinger II had nine points, eight steals and seven assists.

Georgia Southwestern was led by Matt Shaw's 17 points and Milos Kleut's double-double of 13 points and 11 rebounds.

The Pirates finished the game with a 28-11 edge in points off of turnovers, as well as a 25-2 edge in fastbreak points.

Armstrong returns to action on Saturday, January 26th, visiting NCAA DII national finalist Montevallo for a 4:30 p.m. Peach Belt Conference matchup in Montevallo.
Courtesy of: http://www.armstrongpirates.com

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NCAA3

Down Goes No.1! - by Eurobasket News

MOORHEAD, Minn. (1/21/13)Jason Huus scored the final seven points in Concordia's improbable 54-52 upset win over No.1-ranked St. Thomas on Monday. Huus finished with nine points, 11 rebounds and four blocks to propel the Cobbers to its biggest win in program history.

"It was the greatest moment of my life by far," responded Huus on the huge home win.

The win is the first in program history over a No.1-ranked team and snaps a two-game losing streak. It also keeps the Cobbers in the thick of the conference playoff race. Concordia is now 11-6 overall and 8-4 in league play and in sole possession of third place in the MIAC standings.

The 52 points scored by the Tommies is the fewest by a UST team since the 2009-10 season a stretch that covers 93 games.

"We had great effort the whole game," said Cobber head coach Rich Glas. "We kept battling... we just stuck with them defensively. We made them really work on the defensive end and offensively we made enough plays in critical times to get the win."

St. Thomas loses for the first time all season. The Tommies, who gained the No.1 ranking in the D3hoops.com poll last week, are now 16-1 in all games and 11-1 in the MIAC. It is the first loss for St. Thomas against a conference team in 18 games.

Huus was at the forefront of Concordia's first win over the Tommies since the 2007-08 season but the Cobbers had several other players step up during the electric 60 minutes of play. Andrew Martinson went 3-for-6 from behind the arc, had a stretch in the second half where he couldn't miss from the outside and finished with a team-high 11 points all in the second period of play.

Martinson's hot streak in the second didn't go unnoticed by Glas who singled out that second-half stretch as one of the keys in the game, "AMart (Andrew Martinson) was huge, he had an 11-point run that got us a little lead and we never let go," commented Glas.

The Cobbers trailed by three at the break but then watched the deficit creep to seven at 37-30 with 14:09 to play before the Cobbers scored seven straight points to tie the game at 37-37. From there the Tommies would regain a four-point lead before Martinson went on his 11-point run to stake CC to a 49-43 lead with 5:55 to play.

The Tommies eventually tied the game at 52-52 before Huus was fouled under the basket and connected on two free throws with just 29-seconds to play. St. Thomas had a pair of chances to tie the game in the final nine seconds but both shots glanced off the rim including a potential game-winning 3-point attempt at the buzzer.

Neither team was able to find a consistent rhythm on offense. The Cobbers shot 39.6% (21-for-53) from the floor and 30.0% (6-for-20) from 3-point range. On the other end of the court St. Thomas connected on 37.3% (19-for-51) of their shots from the floor and 28.6% (4-for-14) of their attempts from outside the arc.

The biggest statistical advantage came on second chance points. Concordia used 10 offensive rebounds to come away with an 11-2 edge in second chance points. The Cobbers had a slight 36-32 advantage in overall rebounds.

Besides the nine points from Huus and 11 points from Martinson, Concordia had two other players score in double figures. Ebo Nana-Kweson posted a 10-point, 8-rebound performance and Jordan Bolger came off the bench to go 4-for-5 from the field and score 10 points.

St. Thomas was led by forward Zach Riedeman who went 6-for-8 from the field and had a game-high 14 points. Will DeBerg added 10 points and Connor Nord recorded a team-high six rebounds.

Concordia will have little time to celebrate the win as they grind through a three-game week. The Cobbers will play at Carleton on Wednesday, Jan. 23 before returning home to host second-place Augsburg on Saturday, Jan. 26.
Courtesy of: http://d3hoops.com

Brooklyn Falls at Richard Stockton - by Eurobasket News

Galloway, NJ --- The Brooklyn College Men's Basketball team dropped a non-conference matchup on Monday afternoon against the Ospreys of Richard Stockton College, 83-70, on the road in Galloway, NJ. With the loss, BC falls to 4-11 overall on the season, while Richard Stockton improves to 13-4 overall on the year.

BC was led once again by senior captain Kavon Baker's game-high 22 points, to go with four rebounds, three assists and three steals, while playing in all 40 minutes. Classmate Steven Grant chipped in with 16 points and five rebounds coming off the bench, while freshman Egzon Gjonbalaj finished with 10 points and six rebounds. Senior Jeffrey Noel added seven points and seven rebounds.

Richard Stockton had four starters in double figure scoring, led by Darnell McCargo's 19 points and nine rebounds. Nnamdi Usuwa added 18 points and eight rebounds, while Josh Blamon finished with 15 points. Kevin Johnson chipped in with 10 points and nine assists, while Rameel Johnson recorded a double-double with 10 points and a game-high 10 rebounds coming off the bench. Sal Pistone also had nine rebounds, as the Ospreys won the battle of the glass out-rebounding the Bulldogs, 45-30, on the day.

Stockton took control of the game early on, as the Ospreys took a 15-point advantage, 19-4, at the 12:07 mark of the opening period. The Bulldogs would spend the rest of the half chipping away at its deficit and eventually get to within five points twice, before Richard Stockton headed into the locker room with a seven point halftime lead, 42-35. The Ospreys shot 51.5% (17-33) from the field in the first half, including going 4-for-10 from three and 4-for-7 from the line to build their intermission advantage.

Brooklyn opened the second half with a three from Grant to cut their deficit to four, 42-38; however, Richard Stockton would go on a 10-2 run to regain a double-digit lead, 52-40, at the 16:44 mark of the final half. The Bulldogs would once again chip away at its deficit and would again get it to within four, 59-55, with just 10:34 left in the game, after a three-point play from Noel. Noel was fouled on a fast-break dunk and converted the free-throw to complete the three-point play and make it a four point game.

However, the Ospreys would again retake momentum scoring the next eight points to go up by 12, 67-55, with 8:30 remaining. Richard Stockton would lead by double figures throughout much of the final eight minutes, as the home team would take the 83-70 final.

Along with holding the rebounding advantage, Richard Stockton also outscored Brooklyn 40-26 in the paint.

For the game, the Bulldogs shot 41.1% (23-56) from the field and 30.0% (6-20) from beyond the arc. BC also shot 69.2% (18-26) from the free throw line.

Richard Stockton shot 48.3% (29-60) from the field and 40.0% (6-15) from three. The Ospreys also shot 65.5% (19-29) from the charity stripe.

Brooklyn returns to action this Wednesday, January 23rd, as the Bulldogs will be on the road to take on borough rival St. Joseph's College (Brooklyn) in another non-conference tilt. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 pm. Live stats and video will also be available for the game.
Courtesy of: http://d3hoops.com

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NORWAY

Standings - BLNO

BLNO Standings

1. Tromso		14-3
2. Centrum		12-6
3. Baerum Basket		10-9
4. Gimle BBK		9-12
5. Froya Basket		8-9
6. Asker Aliens		7-9
7. Ammerud Bskt		3-15

Regular Season: Round 20

Jan. 20: Froya Basket - Ammerud Bskt 96-67
Jan. 20: Tromso - Baerum Basket 89-78
Jan. 22: Baerum Basket - Centrum 105-86

Regular Season: Round 21

Jan. 26: Ammerud Bskt - Froya Basket
Jan. 27: Centrum - Froya Basket
Jan. 27: Asker Aliens - Baerum Basket

BLNO Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Jonathan JONES
  Tromso
  (196-F-88)
  Avg: 22.8

1. Jones, Tromso	22.8
2. Westerlund, Asker	22.1
3. Thompson, Baerum	22.0
4. Thomas, Gimle BBK	19.8
5. Timus, Ammerud	18.9
6. Wallace, Tromso	18.6
7. Silavs, Froya B.	18.4
8. Stien, Asker Aliens	18.2
9. Gabrans, Froya B.	17.9
10. Ble, Centrum	17.4

Rebounds Per Game

Jonathan JONES
  Tromso
  (196-F-88)
  Avg: 14.8

1. Jones, Tromso	14.8
2. Thomas, Gimle BBK	10.2
3. Thompson, Baerum	9.2
4. Mostafa, Froya B.	7.8
5. Berg, Asker Aliens	7.7
6. Timus, Ammerud	7.0
7. Lepovic, Centrum	6.4
8. Ble, Centrum	6.1
9. Nyborg, Centrum	6.1
10. Wallace, Tromso	5.9

Assists Per Game

Edmunds GABRANS
  Froya B.
  (190-G-79)
  Avg: 4.8

1. Gabrans, Froya B.	4.8
2. Issalhi, Tromso	4.1
3. Stien, Asker Aliens	4.0
4. Holm, Baerum B.	3.6
5. Wallace, Tromso	3.5
6. Thomas, Gimle BBK	3.5
7. Mahnin, Centrum	3.5
8. Timus, Ammerud	3.1
9. Mihaylov, Tromso	3.0
10. Mjos, Baerum B.	2.9

Steals Per Game

Hani ISSALHI
  Tromso
  (187-G-84)
  Avg: 3.1

1. Issalhi, Tromso	3.1
2. Timus, Ammerud	2.3
3. Gabrans, Froya B.	2.2
4. Thompson, Baerum	1.8
5. Silavs, Froya B.	1.8
6. Wallace, Tromso	1.6
7. Amoikon, Asker Ali.	1.3
8. Thomas, Gimle BBK	1.3
9. Ble, Centrum	1.3
10. Westerlund, Asker	1.2

Blocks Per Game

Delano THOMAS
  Gimle BBK
  (203-F-81)
  Avg: 2.5

1. Thomas, Gimle BBK	2.5
2. Thompson, Baerum	2.1
3. Jones, Tromso	1.0
4. Nyborg, Centrum	0.6
5. Bakken, Gimle BBK	0.6
6. Andreassen, Baerum	0.4
7. Austgulen, Centrum	0.4
8. Ferranti, Baerum B.	0.4
9. Mostafa, Froya B.	0.4
10. Lepovic, Centrum	0.4

BLNO Round 20: Baerum Basket beats Centrum in the most crucial game of the week - by Eurobasket News

An exciting game was played in Bekkestua. Third ranked Baerum Basket faced second-ranked Centrum. Host Baerum Basket (10-9) smashed guests from Oslo (12-6) 105-86. The game without a history. Baerum Basket led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Baerum Basket forced 19 Centrum turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 25 assists comparing to just 10 passes made by Centrum's players. 25 personal fouls committed by Centrum helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was American swingman Lionel Green (196-84, college: SUNO) who had a double-double by scoring 31 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists. point guard Stian Mjos (182-89) chipped in 12 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists. The former international point guard Mustafa Mahnin (182-80) produced 31 points and 4 assists for the guests. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Baerum Basket maintains third position with 10-9 record having two points less than leader Tromso. Centrum at the other side keeps the second place with six games lost. Baerum Basket are looking forward to face Asker Aliens (#6) on the road in the next round. Centrum will play against Froya Basket (#5) in Laksevag and is hoping to win this game.
An exciting game was played in Tromso. First ranked Tromso faced 3rd ranked Baerum Basket. Host Tromso (14-3) defeated guests from Bekkestua (10-9) 89-78. The game was dominated by American players. Guard Gary Wallace (187-88, college: Robert Morris, agency: TSS Management) orchestrated the victory with a triple-double by scoring 25 points, 10 rebounds and 10 assists. Jonathan Jones contributed with 21 points and 16 rebounds for the winners. Swingman Lionel Green (196-84, college: SUNO) replied with 24 points and 8 rebounds for Baerum Basket. Tromso maintains first position with 14-3 record. Baerum Basket at the other side keeps the third place with nine games lost. Tromso will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Baerum Basket will play on the road against Asker Aliens and hopes to get back on the winning track.
The game with biggest result difference took place in Laksevag. Local Froya Basket (8-9) outscored 7th ranked Ammerud Bskt (3-15) 96-67 on Sunday night. Worth to mention a quality performance of Reno Silavs who helped to win the game recording 19 points and 4 assists. Froya Basket's coach felt very confident that he used entire bench and allowed the starting five to rest. Ronald Timus responded with 17 points and 9 rebounds. Defending champion maintains fifth position with 8-9 record. Ammerud Bskt lost fourth consecutive game. They stay at the bottom place with 15 games lost. Froya Basket will meet league's second-placed Centrum in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Ammerud Bskt will have a break next round.

Baerum Basket - Centrum 105-86

An exciting game was played in Bekkestua. Third ranked Baerum Basket faced second-ranked Centrum. Host Baerum Basket (10-9) smashed guests from Oslo (12-6) 105-86. The game without a history. Baerum Basket led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Baerum Basket forced 19 Centrum turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 25 assists comparing to just 10 passes made by Centrum's players. 25 personal fouls committed by Centrum helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was American swingman Lionel Green (196-84, college: SUNO) who had a double-double by scoring 31 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists. point guard Stian Mjos (182-89) chipped in 12 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists. Five Baerum Basket players scored in double figures. The former international point guard Mustafa Mahnin (182-80) produced 31 points and 4 assists and guard Thomas Ble (185-89) added 20 points respectively for the guests. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Baerum Basket maintains third position with 10-9 record having two points less than leader Tromso. Centrum at the other side keeps the second place with six games lost. Baerum Basket are looking forward to face Asker Aliens (#6) on the road in the next round. Centrum will play against Froya Basket (#5) in Laksevag and is hoping to win this game.
Top scorers:
Baerum Basket: L.Green 31+10reb+5ast, R.Ferranti 14+7reb+2ast, L.Harto 13+6reb, P.Holm 12+8ast, S.Mjos 12+6reb+6ast, B.Andreassen 10
Centrum: M.Mahnin 31+4reb+4ast, T.Ble 20+2reb, M.Lepovic 15+5reb+2ast, M.Austgulen 7+5reb+1ast, C.Hinsch 4+3reb+2ast, F.Nyborg 4+4reb

Froya Basket - Ammerud Bskt 96-67

The game with biggest result difference took place in Laksevag. Local Froya Basket (8-9) outscored 7th ranked Ammerud Bskt (3-15) 96-67 on Sunday night. The game was mostly controlled by Froya Basket. Ammerud Bskt managed to win second period 16-15. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Froya Basket shot the lights out from three sinking 14 long-distance shots on high 51.9 percentage. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 32 assists comparing to just 9 passes made by Ammerud Bskt's players. Worth to mention a quality performance of Latvian point guard Reno Silavs (180-91) who helped to win the game recording 19 points and 4 assists and American power forward Peter Bullock (198-82, college: Alaska-Anch.) who added 15 points and 8 rebounds during the contest. Four Froya Basket players scored in double figures. Froya Basket's coach felt very confident that he used entire bench and allowed the starting five to rest. American swingman Ronald Timus (197-84, college: Morgan St.) responded with 17 points and 9 rebounds and guard Brian Mariampillai (187-85) scored 19 points and 7 rebounds. Defending champion maintains fifth position with 8-9 record. Ammerud Bskt lost fourth consecutive game. They stay at the bottom place with 15 games lost. Froya Basket will meet league's second-placed Centrum in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Ammerud Bskt will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
Froya Basket: R.Silavs 19+4reb+4ast, H.Mostafa 18+2reb+4ast, P.Bullock 15+8reb+3ast, C.N'Diaye 11+5reb+2ast, E.Gabrans 9+4reb+9ast, H.Gulliksen 8+1reb
Ammerud Bskt: B.Mariampillai 19+7reb, R.Timus 17+9reb+2ast, A.Haddad 10, O.Egeland 7+4reb+3ast, H.Sorensen 6+1ast, M.Bryn 5+4reb+1ast

Tromso - Baerum Basket 89-78

An exciting game was played in Tromso. First ranked Tromso faced 3rd ranked Baerum Basket. Host Tromso (14-3) defeated guests from Bekkestua (10-9) 89-78. It looked good early as Baerum Basket took an 5-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Tromso had a 29-22 second period charge getting the lead and Baerum Basket was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 78-89. Tromso made 22-of-29 charity shots (75.9 percent) during the game. They outrebounded Baerum Basket 37-21 including a 29-13 advantage in defensive rebounds. Tromso players were unselfish on offense dishing 24 assists comparing to just 10 passes made by Baerum Basket's players. The game was dominated by American players. Guard Gary Wallace (187-88, college: Robert Morris, agency: TSS Management) orchestrated the victory with a triple-double by scoring 25 points, 10 rebounds and 10 assists. Forward Jonathan Jones (196-88, college: Kean) contributed with a double-double by scoring 21 points and 16 rebounds for the winners. Swingman Lionel Green (196-84, college: SUNO) replied with 24 points and 8 rebounds and swingman Ryan Ferranti (195-86, college: Rollins) added 13 points and 7 rebounds in the effort for Baerum Basket. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Tromso maintains first position with 14-3 record. Baerum Basket at the other side keeps the third place with nine games lost. Tromso will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Baerum Basket will play on the road against Asker Aliens and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Tromso: G.Wallace 25+10reb+10ast, J.Jones 21+16reb+2ast, N.Phillip 18+2reb+2ast, A.Finstad 16+3reb+1ast, G.Mihaylov 5+2reb+6ast, A.Smalas 3+3reb+2ast
Baerum Basket: L.Green 24+8reb+3ast, S.Mjos 16+2reb+1ast, R.Ferranti 13+7reb+2ast, P.Holm 12+2ast, R.Haag 9+2ast, L.Harto 3+2reb

Gary Wallace's triple-double lands him Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News

American Gary Wallace (187-G-88, agency: TSS Management) had a very impressive game in the last round for league's leader Tromso and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 20.
The 24-year old guard recorded a triple-double of 25 points addeding also ten rebounds and ten assists, while his team beat Baerum Basket (#3, 10-9) 89-78. The game was between two of the league's top four teams. It allowed Tromso to consolidate first place in the Norwegian BLNO. Tromso have a solid 14-3 record. It's Wallace's second year at Tromso and it's hard to imagine this team without him. Robert Morris University graduate has very impressive stats this year. Wallace is in league's top in points (6th best: 18.6ppg) and assists (5th best: 3.5apg).

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 28-year old American swingman Lionel Green (196-G/F-84) of Baerum Basket. Green impressed basketball fans with a double-double of 31 points and 10 rebounds. Of course he lead Baerum Basket to another comfortable win 105-86 over slightly higher-ranked Centrum (#2, 12-6) being unquestionably team leader. It was definitely game of the week between two contenders to the title. Baerum Basket consolidated its place in top 3 of the standings. His team's 10-9 record is not bad at all. Green is a newcomer at Baerum Basket and it seems he did not have too much trouble to become one of team's leaders.

The third best performed player last round was former international guard Mustafa Mahnin (182-PG-80) of second-ranked Centrum. Mahnin got into 30-points club by scoring 31 points in the last round. He went also for four assists. Despite Mahnin's great performance Centrum lost 86-105 to #3 ranked Baerum Basket. But his team cannot count on just a single shooter as he also needs help of the other teammates especially in such crucial game. The last thing Centrum needs is to lose another game like this one. They lose more and more distance to the top teams. Their record is 12 victories and 6 lost games. Mahnin has a great season in Norway. After 17 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in assists with 3.5apg (7th best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Jonathan Jones (196-F-88) of Tromso - 21 points, 16 rebounds and 2 assists
5. Lionel Green (196-G/F-84) of Baerum Basket - 24 points, 8 rebounds and 3 assists
6. Peter Bullock (198-F/C-82) of Froya Basket - 15 points, 8 rebounds and 3 assists
7. Edmunds Gabrans (190-G-79) of Froya Basket - 9 points, 4 rebounds and 9 assists
8. Nicholas Phillip (187-F/G-90) of Tromso - 18 points, 2 rebounds and 2 assists
9. Ryan Ferranti (195-F/G-86) of Baerum Basket - 14 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Phillip Holm (175-G-80) of Baerum Basket - 12 points and 8 assists

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

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PHILIPPINES

The 2013 Super Kung Sheung Cup: Gilas Dominates Indonesia on Day 1 - by Enzo Flojo

Smart Gilas opened their redemptive campaign in the 2013 Super Kung Sheung Cup by beating a young and raw Indonesian side, 110-78.

Continuing the hot shooting they showed in Dubai, Garvo Lanete and KG Caaleta lit up the scoreboard anew for Gilas with 23 and 17 points respectively. Both players hit three triples each to lead the Pinoys in the expected rout of their SEABA rivals. Gary David, Jake Pascual, and Kevin Alas all scored in double-figures to help Team Pilipinas rebound after a disappointing sixth place finish in the recently concluded Dubai International Basketball tourney.

Naturalized center Marcus Douthit registered just 2 points and 4 rebounds, but Gilas hardly needed him as the Filipinos were just clearly too good for the Indons.

Other matches:

The Changsha Park Lane Snow Wolves beat Thailand, 83-70, thanks to the the combined 37 points of Jiang Junqi and Sun Jian.

The Hong Kong National Team defeated Malaysia, 87-53. Cheung Wai Hong scored 16 points to pace the home side.

Defending champions SCFA (Southern California Fukienese Association) trounced Hong Kong Xinlibao, 69-59. Robert Curtis and Trayvonte Britt led SCFA with 17 and 14 markers respectively.

Source: HoopNut.blogspot.com

San Miguel Beer tune-ups before meeting Heat - by Aris Ignacio

Keeping in step and in tip-top form before their next ABL assignment, the San Miguel Beermen, kept themselves busy by winning a pair of scrimmages against two PBA teams.

The Beermen, led by import Brian Williams (208-C-87, college: Tennessee) and Fil-am Chris Banchero (185-G, college: Seattle Pacific), edged Barako Bull Energy, 97-77, and won over Barangay Ginebra San Miguel, 102-93, a couple of days later. They will meet the Petron Blaze Boosters before flying to Ho Chi Minh City for their ABL clash with the Saigon Heat on January 26.

San Miguel came from an impressive season ABL debut with a throbbing of the defending champions, Indonesia Warriors, 64-53, last January 11 at Jakarta, Indonesia. Williams lead the Beermen with 15 points and 19 rebounds while Banchero scored 14 and reigning MVP Leo Avenido (186-G-78) chipping 10. Celebrated frontlines Asi Taulava (206-C-73, college: BYU-Hawaii), who contributed 2 points and 10 rebounds, and Eric Menk (199-F-74, college: L.Superior), scoring 6, has struggled in their debuts.

PBA approves multi-team, multi-player deal - by Aris Ignacio

The Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) has approved trade deals of that involved five teams and ten players last January 22. The roster shake-up is in preparation by ballclubs for the upcoming Commissioner's Cup that will start on February 8.

The trades, who centered around Barako Bull Energy, had teams beef up their respective lineups. The Energy, traded swingman Ronald Tubid (186-G-81) to the Petron Blaze Boosters in exchange for 2012 3rd pick Alex Mallari and guard/enforcer Jojo Duncil (186-G-83). Mallari was later sent to the San Mig Coffee Mixers along with guard Lester Alvarez, forward Leo Najorda (191-F-82) and a 2014 first round pick for forwards JC Intal (195-C-83) and Aldrech Ramos (198-C/F-88) and guard Jonas Villanueva (184-G-83).

In a separate deal, Ramos, just traded to the Energy, was again shipped to the Alaska Aces for Marnel Baracael (193-F/G-85), who in return was forwarded to Barangay Ginebra San Miguel in exchange for Allein Maliksi (191-F-87).

Here are the summary of the deals that had taken place:

Barako Bull Energy

Gained - JC Intal, Jonas Villanueva, Allein Maliksi, 2014 first round pick
Lost - Ronald Tubidd

Petron Blaze Boosters

Gained - Ronald Tubid
Lost - Alex Mallari, Jojo Duncil

San Mig Coffee Mixers

Gained - Alex Mallari, Leo Najorda, Lester Alvarez
Lost - JC Intal, Jonas Villanueva, Aldrech Ramos, 2014 first round pick

Alaska Aces

Gained - Aldrech Ramos
Lost - Marnel Baracael

Barangay Ginebra San Miguel

Gained - Marnel Baracael
Lost - Allein Maliksi

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QATAR

D1 Stats

Points Per Game

Chauncey LESLIE
  Qatar
  (183-G/F-81)
  Avg: 26

1. Leslie, Qatar	26.0
2. Jalloh, Al Arabi	24.8
3. Ayeni, Al Wakrah	23.9
4. Nwigwe, Al Shamal	20.9
5. Musa, Al Rayyan	19.6
6. Byrd, Al Arabi	18.5
7. Watson, Al Rayyan	17.8
8. N''Diaye, Al Gharafa	17.6
9. Mofunanya, Al Ar.	17.1
10. Moliva, Qatar	16.3

Rebounds Per Game

Oumar SECK
  Qatar
  (--)
  Avg: 15.8

1. Seck, Qatar	15.8
2. Mofunanya, Al Ar.	14.3
3. Byrd, Al Arabi	13.5
4. Ayeni, Al Wakrah	13.0
5. Moliva, Qatar	11.2
6. Southall, Al Sadd	10.8
7. Egona, Al Shamal	10.6
8. Mpondo, Al Sadd	10.3
9. Adako, Al Gharafa	10.0
10. Zaidan, Al Ahli	9.9

Assists Per Game

Boney WATSON
  Al Rayyan
  (183-PG-78)
  Avg: 6.6

1. Watson, Al Rayyan	6.6
2. Williams, Al Shamal	5.9
3. Belton, Al Gharafa	5.4
4. Leslie, Qatar	5.4
5. Obazuaye, Al Wa.	5.0
6. Abilmoni, Al Jaysh	4.9
7. De La Rosa, Al Sa.	4.8
8. Jalloh, Al Arabi	4.5
9. El Hadary, Al Arabi	4.1
10. Nwigwe, Al Shamal	4.0

Steals Per Game

William BELTON
  Al Gharafa
  (186-G-84)
  Avg: 3.3

1. Belton, Al Gharafa	3.3
2. Abilmoni, Al Jaysh	2.9
3. Saad, Al Sadd	2.9
4. Leslie, Qatar	2.6
5. Jalloh, Al Arabi	2.5
6. Musa, Al Rayyan	2.5
7. Ayeni, Al Wakrah	2.4
8. N''Diaye, Al Gharafa	2.2
9. Moliva, Qatar	2.2
10. Obazuaye, Al Wa.	1.9

Blocks Per Game

William BYRD
  Al Arabi
  (201-G/F-85)
  Avg: 3.7

1. Byrd, Al Arabi	3.7
2. Southall, Al Sadd	2.6
3. Souleye, Al Wakrah	1.6
4. Yembo, Al Shamal	1.5
5. Sarr, Al Ahli	1.3
6. Marone Ngom, Al Ja.	1.0
7. Seck, Qatar	1.0
8. Ali Saeed, Al Ra.	1.0
9. Ayeni, Al Wakrah	1.0
10. Moliva, Qatar	1.0

Southall number one in Qatar for round 15 - by Eurobasket News

American center Michael Southall (210-C-82) had a very impressive game in the last round for Al Sadd, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 15.
The 30-year old player had a double-double of 24 points and 13 rebounds, while his team outclassed Al Shamal (#8, 2-11) with 28-point margin 80-52. Al Sadd is placed at 3rd position in Qatari D1. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Al Sadd will need more victories to improve their 10-3 record. It's Southall's second year at Al Sadd and it's hard to imagine this team without him. Former University Louisiana at Lafayette star has very solid stats this year. Southall is in league's top in rebounds (6th best: 10.8rpg) and averages impressive 2.6bpg and 62.3% FGP.

The second best player in last round's games was 27-year old American William Byrd (201-G/F-85) of Al Arabi. Byrd had a very good evening with a double-double of 24 points and 13 rebounds. Of course he lead Al Arabi to another comfortable win outscoring the lower-ranked Qatar (#7, 3-10) 93-70. Al Arabi's 4th position in the standings has not changed. His team's 10-3 record is not bad at all. Byrd is well-known at Al Arabi and is a proven leader in his second season with the team. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 18.5ppg (#6). He also registered 13.5 boards per game.

Third on the list of top players last round was another Al Arabi's star - American forward Alvin Mofunanya (203-F-87, agency: Dream Team Management). Mofunanya showcased his all-around game by recording 20 points, fourteen rebounds (!!!) and seven assists in the last round. He was another key player of Al Arabi, helping his team with a 93-70 easy win against the lower-ranked Qatar (#7, 3-10). Al Arabi needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 10 victories and 3 lost games. Mofunanya has a great season in Qatar. After 13 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 17.1ppg (9th best) and rebounds with 14.3rpg (2nd best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Gaston Moliva (202-F-85) of Qatar - 22 points, 13 rebounds and 2 assists
5. Mansour El Hadary (177-PG-90) of Al Arabi - 21 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists
6. Chauncey Leslie (183-G/F-81) of Qatar - 30 points, 4 rebounds and 6 assists
7. Kayode Ayeni (196-F-87) of Al Wakrah - 17 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists
8. Boney Watson (183-PG-78) of Al Rayyan - 18 points, 10 rebounds and 3 assists
9. Baker Ahmad Mohammed (199-F-86) of Al Jaysh - 14 points, 10 rebounds and 3 assists
10. Ibrahima Thomas (210-F-87) of Al Sadd - 17 points, 11 rebounds and 3 assists

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

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ROMANIA

EuroChallenge: Gaz Metan Medias beat Joensuun Kataja in Round 2 opener - by Eurobasket News

Gaz Metan Medias-Joensuun Kataja 84:82

Gaz Metan Medias beat Joensuun Kataja in Round 2 opener. The Romanian team needed an 84:82 win to tie both records at 1-1.
Gaz Metan Medias opened the game with 25-16 and even added 20-17 in the second frame. The second half however was dominated by the Finnish side that did almost everything to win the game, but failed at the very end. Joensuun Kataja won the third period 26-17 and produced 23-22 in the last stanza. Antti Kanervo (193-SG-89) gave the guests 82:80 lead with 16 seconds to go, but Kyle Shiloh (191-PG-85, college: Nevada) nailed three for the hosts and then Ivan Lilov (196-SG-88) made one free throw for the final success.
Ivan Lilov top-scored for the winners with 19 points and Kyle Shiloh added 17. Ivan Ivanovic (205-F-80, agency: Beo Basket) posted 16, while Zoran Krstanovic (204-C-82, agency: TSS Management) delivered 12. Antti Kanervo answered with 25 points in the losing effort and Daniel Coleman (206-F-85, college: Minnesota) notched 23. Jonte Flowers (196-F/G-85, agency: Warren Sports International, college: Winona St.) added 16 and Petri Virtanen (183-PG-80) brought 7.

Gaz Metan Medias: Ivan Lilov 19, Kyle Shiloh 17, Ivan Ivanovic 16, Zoran Krstanovic 12
Joensuun Kataja: Antti Kanervo 25, Daniel Coleman 23, Jonte Flowers 16, Petri Virtanen 7

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RUSSIA

RWANDA

Egypt routs Rwanda 95-57 in Zone V-opener - by Kristian Santiago

Zone V-powerhouse Egypt showed no mercy with Rwanda and beat them by almost 40 points. In other games on the first day in Dar es Salaam, Burundi bowed to Kenya 63-71 and Uganda outplayed the hosts Tanzania 80-66. Here are the first two available rosters from the qualifiers for the African Championships:

Rwanda

Aboubakar Barame (181-G-84)
Brad Cameron (193-G)
Kenny Wilson (193-G-84, college: Boise St.)
Jean Habineza (192-F-83)
Lionel Hakizimana (92)
Kami Kabangu (203-C-84)
Valery Kajeguhakwa (191-G-82)
Aristide Mugabe (183-PG-88)
Olivier Muhizi (198-F-88)
Daniel Rugamba (195-F-87, college: Seattle CC)
Olivier Shyaka
Thierry Sukusuku (194-F-89)

Uganda

Ben Komakech
Ivan Enabu (182-G)
Joseph Ikong (193)
Ronnie Kasewu (199-F)
Jimmy Enabu (183-G-88)
Steven Omony (198-G/F-79)
Norman Blick (201-F-83)
Peter Elugant
Henry Malinga (193-F)
Sam Gomboye (213-C)
Geoffrey Soro
Ivan Lumanyika

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SERBIA

Standings - 1 Srpska Liga

1Liga Standings

Group Central
1. Kolubara		12-1
2. Beko		10-3
3. Zarkovo		9-4
4. Zvezdara		9-4
5. Viva Basket		8-5
6. Zemun		8-5
7. Astra		7-5
8. Slodes		7-6
9. Torlak		7-6
10. Borca Beograd		4-9
11. Zitko Basket		4-9
12. Grocka		3-10
13. Sava		2-11
14. Mladost 2009		0-12
Group East
1. Pirot		11-2
2. KK Nis		10-3
3. Knjazevac		10-3
4. Jablanica M.		9-4
5. Junior Nis		8-5
6. Zdravlje 09		8-5
7. Kursumlija		6-7
8. RTB Bor		6-7
9. Zdravlje LS		6-7
10. Boljevac		5-8
11. Mladost Za.		4-9
12. Prokuplje		4-9
13. Dimitrovgrad		3-10
14. Jug Vranje		1-12
Group North
1. Srem		11-1
2. Vojvodina NS		10-2
3. Akademik		8-5
4. Vrbas		8-5
5. Topola		7-5
6. Sveti DZ		7-6
7. Dunav SB		6-6
8. Jedinstvo NB		6-6
9. Stara Pazova		6-6
10. Vojvodina S Gas		6-7
11. Mladost BJ		5-7
12. Nova Pazova		4-9
13. Veternik		2-11
14. Odzaci		1-11
Group West
1. Sabac		14-0
2. KK Ub		10-4
3. Novi Pazar		9-4
4. Priboj		9-5
5. Sloga Pozega		9-5
6. Zlatibor		9-5
7. Svilajnac		8-6
8. Zlatar NV		8-6
9. Zeleznicar C.		7-7
10. Prva Petolet.		6-8
11. Temnic		5-8
12. Polet Ratina		5-9
13. Radnicki Stud.		4-10
14. Masinac		0-26

SLOVAKIA

Boon is back - by Thomas Kottra

After playing only five games for BC Prievidza in beginning of the season, G.W. Boon (193-SG-89, agency: SDJ Sports, college: Bucknell) got injured and had to fly back home to a surgery of his injured knee. Management never lost their will to keep the player on the court with jersey of BC Prievidza
Now is he back with opportunity to elevate his statistics and play of recent champion who is still not likely to reach their objective - to win the championship. Fans are still dissatisfied with both results and performance of their team. The team stands now on fifth place, will take a challenge on Thursday when renewed squad of BK Iskra Svit will come to town.

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SOMALIA

SOUTH KOREA

Standings

KBL Standings

1. SK Knights		27-7
2. Mobis Phoebus		24-10
3. ET Land		20-13
4. Anyang KGC		18-16
5. Sonic Boom KT		16-18
6. Dongbu Promy		16-19
7. Goyang Orions		15-18
8. LG Sakers		15-20
9. Samsung Th.		13-21
10. KCC Egis		6-28

Regular Season: Round 27

Jan. 22: Dongbu Promy - LG Sakers 79-71
Jan. 23: Samsung Th. - SK Knights
Jan. 23: Goyang Orions - Anyang KGC
Jan. 24: ET Land - Mobis Phoebus
Jan. 24: Sonic Boom KT - KCC Egis

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SPAIN

Standings - ACB

ACB Standings

1. Real Madrid		17-1
2. Caja Laboral		15-3
3. Valencia		12-6
4. Gescrap BB		12-6
5. G.Canaria 2014		12-6
6. FCB Regal		10-8
7. CAI Zaragoza		10-8
8. FIATC Joventut		9-9
9. Asefa Estudian.		9-9
10. Blusens M.		9-9
11. Unicaja		8-10
12. CB Canarias		7-11
13. Cajasol		7-11
14. UCAM Murcia		7-11
15. Blancos de R.		7-11
16. Mad-Croc		5-13
17. Assignia M.		3-15
18. Lagun Aro GBC		3-15

Regular Season: Round 18

Jan. 22: CB Canarias - Asefa Estudian. 84-79
Jan. 20: Assignia M. - Blusens M. 83-69
Jan. 20: Blancos de R. - FCB Regal 82-88
Jan. 19: Gescrap BB - G.Canaria 2014 81-70
Jan. 20: Caja Laboral - CAI Zaragoza 74-73
Jan. 20: UCAM Murcia - Cajasol 73-81
Jan. 19: Mad-Croc - Valencia 72-69
Jan. 20: Unicaja - Real Madrid 67-91
Jan. 19: Lagun Aro GBC - FIATC Joventut 67-73

Regular Season: Round 19

Jan. 26: Asefa Estudian. - Lagun Aro GBC
Jan. 27: FIATC Joventut - Unicaja
Jan. 27: Real Madrid - Blancos de R.
Jan. 27: FCB Regal - Gescrap BB
Jan. 27: G.Canaria 2014 - Assignia M.
Jan. 26: Blusens M. - Mad-Croc
Jan. 26: Valencia - UCAM Murcia
Jan. 26: Cajasol - Caja Laboral
Jan. 26: CAI Zaragoza - CB Canarias

Stats Leaders - ACB

Points Per Game

Carl ENGLISH
  Asefa E.
  (192-G-81)
  Avg: 18.5

1. English, Asefa E.	18.5
2. Feldeine, Mad-Croc	17.1
3. Doellman, Valencia	15.6
4. DeVries, Assignia.	15.3
5. Corbacho, Bluse.	15.1
6. Gabriel, Asefa E.	14.6
7. Vasiliadis, Gescr.	14.2
8. Nelson, G.Canari.	14.2
9. Fisher, FIATC J.	13.8
10. Dubljevic, Valenc.	13.4

Rebounds Per Game

Jakim DONALDSON
  CB Canar.
  (204-C/F-83)
  Avg: 7.5

1. Donaldson, CB Cana.	7.5
2. Hunter, Blancos	6.9
3. Nelson, G.Canari.	6.8
4. Tomic, FCB Regal	6.7
5. Sene, Mad-Croc	6.6
6. Lewis, UCAM M.	6.4
7. Mainoldi, Mad-Croc	6.3
8. Norel, CAI Zaragoza	6.1
9. Martin, Blancos	6.1
10. Kuzmic, FIATC J.	5.8

Assists Per Game

Andres RODRIGUEZ
  Bluse.
  (184-PG-81)
  Avg: 6.4

1. Rodriguez, Bluse.	6.4
2. Rodriguez, Assigni.	4.8
3. Renfroe, Blancos	4.4
4. Llull, Real Madrid	4.1
5. Satoransky, Cajasol	4.0
6. Huertas, FCB Regal	3.8
7. Rodriguez, Real M.	3.7
8. Williams, Unicaja	3.6
9. Uriz, CB Canarias	3.6
10. Zisis, Gescrap BB	3.6

Steals Per Game

Justin DOELLMAN
  Valencia
  (206-F-85)
  Avg: 2

1. Doellman, Valencia	2.0
2. Rost, CB Canarias	1.8
3. Kirksay, Asefa E.	1.8
4. Fernandez, Real M.	1.7
5. Aguilar, CAI Z.	1.5
6. Gaffney, FIATC J.	1.4
7. Barnes, Asefa E.	1.4
8. Rodriguez, Assigni.	1.4
9. Rodriguez, UCAM M.	1.4
10. Neto, Lagun A.	1.4

Blocks Per Game

Ekenechukwu IBEKWE
  Lagun A.
  (210-F-85)
  Avg: 1.7

1. Ibekwe, Lagun A.	1.7
2. Mejri, Blusens M.	1.4
3. Sene, Mad-Croc	1.3
4. Nogueira, Asefa E.	1.2
5. Vazquez, Unicaja	1.2
6. Zoric, Unicaja	1.1
7. Hunter, Blancos	1.1
8. Begic, Real Madrid	1.1
9. Gaffney, FIATC J.	1.1
10. Tomic, FCB Regal	1.1

Feldeine's 37-point game gives him Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News

24-year old guard James Feldeine (193-G-88) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Mad-Croc and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 18.
He had the game-high 37 points adding four rebounds and five assists for Mad-Croc in his team's victory, helping them to edge out Valencia (#3, 12-6) 72-69. Mad-Croc maintains the 16th position in Spanish league. Too late to salvage the team, which is currently ranked such low. They already lost 13 games and recorded just five victories. In the team's last game Feldeine had a remarkable seven three-pointers out of 10 attempts. He turned to be Mad-Croc's top player in his first season with the team. Quinnipiac College graduate has very impressive stats this year. Feldeine is in league's top in points (2nd best: 17.1ppg).

Second best performed player last round was Marcelinho Huertas (191-PG-83, agency: Edge Sports) of FCB Regal. He is Brazilian-Italian guard in his second season at FCB Regal. In the last game Huertas recorded impressive 16 points, 4 rebounds and 8 assists. It was enough for FCB Regal to edge the lower-ranked Blancos de R. (#15, 7-11) by 6 points 88-82. This victory allowed FCB Regal to move up to 6th position in the standings. His team lost some distance to top teams. But 10-8 record is not bad and everything may still change. Huertas is well-known at FCB Regal and he already established his position as one of the team's leaders.

Third place about best performers goes to forward Pablo Aguilar (203-F/C-89) of CAI Zaragoza (#7). Aguilar scored 21 points and grabbed six rebounds. Despite Aguilar's great performance CAI Zaragoza lost 73-74 to the higher-ranked Caja Laboral (#2, 15-3). But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates. The last thing CAI Zaragoza needs is to lose another game like this one. They lose more and more distance to the top teams. Their record is 10 victories and 8 lost games. Aguilar has a very solid season. In 12 games in Spain he scored 9.1ppg. He also has 4.4rpg and FGP: 54.1%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Carl English (192-G-81) of Asefa Estudian. - 20 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists
5. Luka Zoric (211-C-84) of Unicaja - 20 points, 3 rebounds and 2 assists
6. John Holland (195-G/F-88) of Cajasol - 22 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists
7. Justin Doellman (206-F-85) of Valencia - 19 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists
8. Jose Salvador Arco (194-G-85) of Assignia M. - 16 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assists
9. Blagota Sekulic (209-C-82) of CB Canarias - 12 points, 10 rebounds and 3 assists
10. Pete Mickeal (199-F-78) of FCB Regal - 20 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists

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

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SWEDEN

Standings - Basketligan

Basketligan Standings

1. Sundsvall		20-3
2. Uppsala		17-6
3. Boras		16-7
4. Sodertalje		15-5
5. Solna		15-9
6. Norrkoping		13-8
7. 08		11-12
8. LF Basket		9-13
9. Jamtland		6-16
10. Eagles		5-18
11. Eco Orebro		5-18
12. Nassjo		3-20

Regular Season: Round 23

Jan. 22: Eco Orebro - Eagles 93-79
Jan. 22: Boras - 08 91-80
Jan. 22: Nassjo - Uppsala 76-91
Jan. 22: Sundsvall - Solna 101-87

Regular Season: Round 24

Jan. 25: Eagles - Sundsvall
Jan. 25: Eco Orebro - Nassjo
Jan. 25: Norrkoping - Boras
Jan. 26: Sodertalje - 08

Stats Leaders - Basketligan

Points Per Game

James MILLER
  Boras
  (180-PG-79)
  Avg: 23.3

1. Miller, Boras	23.3
2. Dugat, LF Basket	19.7
3. Wesby, Sundsvall	19.5
4. Palm, Boras	18.0
5. Sigurdarson, Sunds.	18.0
6. Oglesby, Boras	17.8
7. Hudson, Jamtland	16.7
8. Castle, Eco Orebro	16.5
9. Bizaca, Sodertalje	16.4
10. Lewis, Solna	16.3

Rebounds Per Game

Kenneth SIMMS
  Sodertalje
  (203-C-86)
  Avg: 10.4

1. Simms, Sodertalje	10.4
2. Baeringsson, Sunds.	10.1
3. Palm, Boras	9.8
4. Walker, Nassjo	8.5
5. McKnight, Boras	8.2
6. Johnson, Solna	8.0
7. Wright, Uppsala	7.8
8. Toutziarakis, Solna	7.5
9. Igbavboa, LF Bask.	7.4
10. Santee, Eco Oreb.	7.3

Assists Per Game

James MILLER
  Boras
  (180-PG-79)
  Avg: 5.8

1. Miller, Boras	5.8
2. Castle, Eco Orebro	5.5
3. Ermolinskij, Norrk.	4.8
4. Levin, Solna	4.5
5. Ilunga, 08	4.4
6. Dugat, LF Basket	4.2
7. Ahonen, Solna	4.2
8. Jeromanovs, Norrk.	4.2
9. Carter, Uppsala	4.1
10. Stefanovic, Eagl.	4.0

Steals Per Game

Nenad STEFANOVIC
  Eagles
  (193-G-85)
  Avg: 2

1. Stefanovic, Eagles	2.0
2. Dugat, LF Basket	2.0
3. Castle, Eco Orebro	1.9
4. Ruach, Nassjo	1.8
5. McKnight, Boras	1.8
6. Carter, Uppsala	1.8
7. Jackson, Uppsala	1.7
8. Ilunga, 08	1.5
9. Wesby, Sundsvall	1.5
10. Hellgren, Jamtland	1.5

Blocks Per Game

Kenneth SIMMS
  Sodertalje
  (203-C-86)
  Avg: 2

1. Simms, Sodertalje	2.0
2. Augustus, 08	1.8
3. Hughes, Norrkoping	1.6
4. Wright, Uppsala	1.5
5. Palm, Boras	1.4
6. Henderson, LF Ba.	1.3
7. Johnson, Solna	1.0
8. Brown, 08	0.9
9. Nilsson, Sundsvall	0.8
10. Toutziarakis, Sol.	0.8

Basketligan Round 23: Top-ranked Sundsvall Dragons win another game - by Eurobasket News

Basketligan top team - Sundsvall Dragons (20-3) managed to deliver another win on Tuesday. This time they beat fifth ranked Solna Vikings (15-9) 101-87. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Solna Vikings. Sundsvall Dragons made 24-of-27 free shots (88.9 percent) during the game. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. 25 personal fouls committed by Solna Vikings helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. International forward Anton Gaddefors (200-89) orchestrated the victory by scoring 23 points and 4 assists. Icelandic point guard Jakob Sigurdarson (192-82, college: Birm.Southern) contributed with 23 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. American guard Kelvin Lewis (195-88, college: Houston, agency: Pro One Sports) answered with 27 points for Solna Vikings. Sundsvall Dragons have a solid series of four victories in a row. They maintain first place with 20-3 record. Solna Vikings at the other side keep the fifth position with nine games lost. Sundsvall Dragons are looking forward to face White Eagles (#10) in Stockholm in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Solna Vikings will have a break next round.
The game between 12th ranked Nassjo (3-20) and second ranked Uppsala Basket (17-6) in Nassjo ended with biggest points difference. Guests from Uppsala beat Nassjo 91-76. Worth to mention a quality performance of American forward Keith Wright (203-89, college: Harvard) who helped to win the game recording 21 points and 7 rebounds (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field). Axel Nordstrom helped adding 17 points and 8 rebounds. Uppsala Basket's coach Kelly Grant allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. American forward William Walker (200-87, college: Bethel, IN, agency: Warren Sports International) responded with 17 points. Uppsala Basket have a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain second place with 17-6 record having just three points less than leader Sundsvall. Nassjo lost seventh consecutive game. Newly promoted team stay dead last with 20 lost games. Uppsala Basket will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Nassjo will play on the road against Eco Orebro (#11) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

In the last two games of round 23 08 was beaten by Boras on the road 91-80. Eco Orebro won against Eagles on its own court 93-79.
The most impressive performance of 23th round was 28 points and 12 assists by Terell Castle of Eco Orebro.

Boras - 08 91-80

No shocking result in a game when fourth ranked Boras Basket (16-7) beat at home 7th ranked 08 Stockholm (11-12) 91-80. 08 Stockholm was ahead by 2 points at the halftime before a 30-14 third quarter run of Boras Basket. It was a great evening for American point guard James Miller (180-79, college: N.Carolina A&T, agency: Higher Vision Sports) who led his team to a victory scoring 18 points, 8 rebounds and 8 assists. Norwegian-American guard Terrence Oglesby (188-88, college: Clemson) helped adding 24 points. American forward Kodi Augustus (203-87, college: Mississippi St., agency: Two Points) responded with a double-double by scoring 24 points and 12 rebounds and the former international guard Rudy Mbemba (184-87) scored 15 points and 6 assists. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Boras Basket moved-up to third place. 08 Stockholm at the other side keeps the seventh position with 12 games lost. Boras Basket will play against Norrkoping Dolphins (#6) in Norrkoping in the next round. 08 Stockholm will play on the road against Sodertalje Kings and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
08: K.Augustus 24+12reb, R.Mbemba 15+3reb+6ast, J.Blom 13+5reb+2ast, O.Ilunga 12+1reb+5ast, B.Cvilak 9+3reb+3ast, I.Brown 5+6reb+1ast
Boras: T.Oglesby 24+2reb+2ast, M.Palm 20+8reb, J.Miller 18+8reb+8ast, C.McKnight 16+9reb, J.Thomas 6+6reb+3ast, M.Goransson 4+5reb+3ast

Sundsvall - Solna 101-87

Basketligan top team - Sundsvall Dragons (20-3) managed to deliver another win on Tuesday. This time they beat fifth ranked Solna Vikings (15-9) 101-87. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Solna Vikings. Sundsvall Dragons made 24-of-27 free shots (88.9 percent) during the game. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. 25 personal fouls committed by Solna Vikings helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. International forward Anton Gaddefors (200-89) orchestrated the victory by scoring 23 points and 4 assists. Icelandic point guard Jakob Sigurdarson (192-82, college: Birm.Southern) contributed with 23 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. American guard Kelvin Lewis (195-88, college: Houston, agency: Pro One Sports) answered with 27 points and the former international swingman Jim Nystrom (194-82, college: Georgia Tech) added 24 points in the effort for Solna Vikings. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Sundsvall Dragons have a solid series of four victories in a row. They maintain first place with 20-3 record. Solna Vikings at the other side keep the fifth position with nine games lost. Sundsvall Dragons are looking forward to face White Eagles (#10) in Stockholm in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Solna Vikings will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
Solna: K.Lewis 27+4reb+3ast, J.Nystrom 24+4reb, S.Toutziarakis 12+3reb+1ast, D.Johnson 10+8reb+1ast, J.Sedlak 8+4reb+1ast, R.Ahonen 4+5ast
Sundsvall: J.Sigurdarson 23+5reb+2ast, A.Gaddefors 23+4reb+4ast, H.Baeringsson 17+5reb+5ast, W.Gutenius 16+3reb+2ast, D.Eliasson 11+1reb+3ast, T.Liden 6+6reb+5ast

Eco Orebro - Eagles 93-79

We cannot really consider it an upset in the game between close teams when 10th ranked White Eagles (5-18) lost on the road to eleventh ranked Eco Orebro (5-18) 93-79. The game was mostly controlled by Eco Orebro. White Eagles was better in third quarter 21-16. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They made 28-of-33 charity shots (84.8 percent) during the game. Eco Orebro players were unselfish on offense dishing 32 assists. It was a great evening for American-Bosnian point guard Terell Castle (182-72, college: Nicholls St., agency: Court Side) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 28 points and 12 assists. William Magarity (210-93) helped adding 11 points and 11 rebounds. Five Eco Orebro players scored in double figures. Eco Orebro's coach Ivan Stanisak allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. American guard Brendon Lavender (195, college: Arizona) responded with 22 points and 4 assists and Latvian forward Agnis Cavars (196-86) scored 11 points and 6 rebounds. Eco Orebro moved-up to tenth place, which they share with Eagles. White Eagles lost third consecutive game. Eco Orebro will play against bottom-ranked Nassjo (#12) at home in the next round. White Eagles will play against the league's leader Sundsvall Dragons and will have a slim chance for a victory.
Top scorers:
Eagles: B.Lavender 22+4ast, G.Rlley Jr 16+4reb, A.Cavars 11+6reb+2ast, A.Micovic 9+1reb+1ast, M.Latinovic 8+3reb+1ast, S.Inan 6+1reb+7ast
Eco Orebro: T.Castle 28+4reb+12ast, F.Urli 15+4reb+3ast, B.Barton 13+4ast, W.Magarity 11+11reb+3ast, P.McDonald 10+4reb+5ast, F.Larsson 8+3reb+1ast

Nassjo - Uppsala 76-91

The game between 12th ranked Nassjo (3-20) and second ranked Uppsala Basket (17-6) in Nassjo ended with biggest points difference. Guests from Uppsala beat Nassjo 91-76. The game was mostly controlled by Uppsala Basket. Nassjo was better in second period 22-21. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They made 17-of-21 charity shots (81.0 percent) during the game. Worth to mention a quality performance of American forward Keith Wright (203-89, college: Harvard) who helped to win the game recording 21 points and 7 rebounds (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field). Guard Axel Nordstrom (193-91) helped adding 17 points and 8 rebounds. Four Uppsala Basket players scored in double figures. Uppsala Basket's coach Kelly Grant allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. American forward William Walker (200-87, college: Bethel, IN, agency: Warren Sports International) responded with 17 points and Polish center Szymon Lukasiak (208-87, college: Jacksonville) scored 19 points. Uppsala Basket have a solid series of three victories in a row. They maintain second place with 17-6 record having just three points less than leader Sundsvall. Nassjo lost seventh consecutive game. Newly promoted team stay dead last with 20 lost games. Uppsala Basket will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Nassjo will play on the road against Eco Orebro (#11) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Nassjo: S.Lukasiak 19+1reb, W.Walker 17+4reb+2ast, S.Damjanovic 13+1reb+1ast, T.Ruach 8+1reb+5ast, K.Wazzi 5+1reb+1ast, K.Palmqvist 5+2reb+1ast
Uppsala: K.Wright 21+7reb+3ast, R.Eriksson 21+1reb+3ast, T.Jackson 19+6reb+3ast, A.Nordstrom 17+8reb+3ast, S.Grundberg 5+2reb+3ast, O.Lindell 4

EuroChallenge: Norrkoping Dolphins shock visiting Tofas SC - by Eurobasket News

Norrkoping Dolphins- Tofas SC 84:82

Norrkoping Dolphins shock visiting Tofas SC in Group K of EuroChallenge. The Swedish side tied both records at 1-1 after a thrilling 84:82 victory.
The Dolphins started strong and took 24-20 lead at the end of the first period. Tofas SC however replied with 28-21 and grabbed 48:45 advantage at the halftime. The battle was not over in the second half as the host needed a 19-12 surge to take 4-point lead at the end of 30 minutes. The hosts led in the whole last period until the last minute. Inanc Koc (202-F-79) nailed three with 25 seconds to go for 82:80 lead, but Jeromanovs and Mikael Lindquist (193-SG-83, agency: Court Side) ensured the victory for the Swedish team.
Mikael Lindquist top-scored for the winners with 21 points and Christian Maraker (206-PF-82, college: Pacific) nailed 14. Joakim Kjellbom (213-C-79, college: N.Arizona) delivered 13 points and Oladapo Ayuba (198-F-86, college: UMKC) had 11. Chinemelu Elonu (206-F/C-87, college: Texas A&M) finished the game with 17 points and Inanc Koc scored 15 in defeat. Steven Burtt (185-G-84, college: Iona) delivered 13, while Joshua Heytvelt (210-F/C-86, college: Gonzaga) ended up with 11 points.

Norrkoping Dolphins: Mikael Lindquist 21, Christian Maraker 14, Joakim Kjellbom 13, Oladapo Ayuba 11
Tofas SC: Chinemelu Elonu 17, Inanc Koc 15, Steven Burtt 13, Joshua Heytvelt 11

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

TURKEY

EuroChallenge: Norrkoping Dolphins shock visiting Tofas SC - by Eurobasket News

Norrkoping Dolphins- Tofas SC 84:82

Norrkoping Dolphins shock visiting Tofas SC in Group K of EuroChallenge. The Swedish side tied both records at 1-1 after a thrilling 84:82 victory.
The Dolphins started strong and took 24-20 lead at the end of the first period. Tofas SC however replied with 28-21 and grabbed 48:45 advantage at the halftime. The battle was not over in the second half as the host needed a 19-12 surge to take 4-point lead at the end of 30 minutes. The hosts led in the whole last period until the last minute. Inanc Koc (202-F-79) nailed three with 25 seconds to go for 82:80 lead, but Jeromanovs and Mikael Lindquist (193-SG-83, agency: Court Side) ensured the victory for the Swedish team.
Mikael Lindquist top-scored for the winners with 21 points and Christian Maraker (206-PF-82, college: Pacific) nailed 14. Joakim Kjellbom (213-C-79, college: N.Arizona) delivered 13 points and Oladapo Ayuba (198-F-86, college: UMKC) had 11. Chinemelu Elonu (206-F/C-87, college: Texas A&M) finished the game with 17 points and Inanc Koc scored 15 in defeat. Steven Burtt (185-G-84, college: Iona) delivered 13, while Joshua Heytvelt (210-F/C-86, college: Gonzaga) ended up with 11 points.

Norrkoping Dolphins: Mikael Lindquist 21, Christian Maraker 14, Joakim Kjellbom 13, Oladapo Ayuba 11
Tofas SC: Chinemelu Elonu 17, Inanc Koc 15, Steven Burtt 13, Joshua Heytvelt 11

EuroChallenge: Karsiyaka upset Ventspils in Latvia - by Eurobasket News

Ventspils - Karsiyaka 81:86

Karsiyaka upset Ventspils in Latvia in Round 2 of Top 16 of EuroChallenge. The Turkish team grabbed 86:81 win for 2-0 record in Group I. The Latvian side suffered their second loss and dropped at 0-2 record.
Karsiyaka came to Latvia with one victory earlier and started with 21:18. They posted another 21 points in the second frame, but it was enough only to keep 3-point advantage at the halftime. Ventspils replied with 22-18 in the third period and took the lead entering the final stanza. Karsiyaka however replied with 26-20 surge in the last period to seal the victory.
Bobby Dixon (178-PG-83, agency: Beo Basket, college: Troy) paced all the winners with 32 points, while Jon Diebler (198-G-88, college: Ohio St.) had 17. Will Thomas (203-PF-86, agency: Two Points) collected 15 points and 11 boards, whilst Alade Aminu (210-C-87, college: Georgia Tech) had 13. Arturs Berzins (204-PF-88, agency: FCM) ended up with 19 points in defeat and Folarin Campbell (192-G-86, college: George Mason) as well as Sandis Valters (193-G-78) had 14 each. Martins Meiers (208-C-91) followed them with 13 points in a loss.

Ventspils: Arturs Berzins 19, Folarin Campbell 14, Sandis Valters 14, Martins Meiers 13
Karsiyaka: Bobby Dixon 32, Jon Diebler 17, Will Thomas 15+11 rebs, Alade Aminu 13

Ilyasova, Jennings lead Bucks past 76ers, 110-102 - by Eurobasket News

MILWAUKEE Brandon Jennings is trying to take over close games in the fourth quarter.
Jennings was very successful doing that Tuesday night as he scored nine of his 25 points in the final period to lead the Bucks to a 110-102 win over the Philadelphia 76ers. He also added three assists in the quarter.

Jennings said he wants to be the key player late in games and has been focused on it in recent weeks.

"It is something that I've been working on, especially during the (recent) road trip, just trying to take over games," he said. "I'm just trying to get the best possible shot for the team. That's just me growing and learning."

Ersan Ilyasova (207-F-87) also came up big again for Milwaukee as he had 27 points and 16 rebounds.

Milwaukee Bucks' Larry Sanders (8) dunks in front of Philadelphia 76ers' Evan Turner, left, and Spencer Hawes (00) during the first half of an NBA basketball game, Tuesday, Jan. 22, 2013, in Milwaukee. ( (AP Photo/Jeffrey Phelps))He also had 27 points and 14 rebounds in Milwaukee's 110-104 win Saturday over Portland.
"Ersan gots his groove back," said Monta Ellis, who added 18 points and 10 assists for Milwaukee. "He really has been playing well for the last few games and has given us a big boost."

Bucks coach Jim Boylan credited Ersan Ilyasova for being a very active player.

"He has that knack for tipping the ball to himself rebounding and coming up with the basket," he said. "When you look at Ersan, you don't really see a great athlete, but rebounding is just determination. When he's determined to get the ball, he's bound to get it."

Milwaukee has won six of eight games since Boylan replaced former coach Scott Skiles, who parted ways with the
team following a season-worst four-game losing streak.
Jennings said the team has had a lot of success under Boylan because he is letting them "just play."

"Everything is going well right now," Jennings said. "We are playing with lots of confidence. This was a big win for us as in the past when we win a few games, we end up losing to a team we should not lose to."

Evan Turner scored 23 points to lead the 76ers, Spencer Hawes added 21 points and 12 rebounds, and Nick Young

Milwaukee Bucks' Brandon Jennings (3) drives against Philadelphia 76ers' Jrue Holiday (11) during the second half of an NBA basketball game, Tuesday, Jan. 22, 2013, in Milwaukee. ( (AP Photo/Jeffrey Phelps))scored 20 points. Philadelphia lost its fifth straight on the road, and 15th in its last 21 overall.
Young said the 76ers have to figure out a way to win close games.

"Somehow we have to figure it out, come together and stay together as a team," he said. "We know what the problem is. We've been in every game so far and fought back. If we can come out of the gate and get a couple shots to go in, get our blood going a little bit, it'll be a different ball game."

Philadelphia hit just 2 of its first 16 shots, a point not lost on coach Doug Collins.

"First quarter again. We were down 10 so you play uphill the entire game again," he said. "You've got to share the ball, you got to help each other out and you've got to

Philadelphia 76ers' Jrue Holiday (11) shoots against Milwaukee Bucks' Larry Sanders (8) during the first half of an NBA basketball game, Tuesday, Jan. 22, 2013, in Milwaukee. ( (AP Photo/Jeffrey Phelps))talk on defense. We're not good enough to do it ourselves. We've got to do it collectively."
The Sixers used a 17-7 run to start the fourth quarter, cutting the Bucks' lead to 90-86 when Thaddeus Young stole the ball and scored on a breakaway layup with 6:47 remaining.

Ersan Ilyasova made 1 of 2 free throws to extend Milwaukee's lead to 99-92 with 3:56 left. He then hit a jumper with about 2 1/2 minutes to go, stretching the advantage to nine points.

Hawes hit a baseline jumper to trim the lead to 101-94 with 1:39 remaining, but Milwaukee made 4 of 6 free throws in the final minute to seal the win.

Larry Sanders had two blocked shots, giving him at least one in his last 27 games, the second longest streak in the NBA behind Tim Duncan, who has blocked a shot in 29 straight.

NOTES: 76ers guard Royal Ivey made the start in place of Dorell Wright as Collins wanted more speed in his starting lineup to defend Jennings. ... Bucks F Marquis Daniels was sick and inactive for the game. Rookie guard Doron Lamb, who was recalled Monday from the NBA Development League, suffered a sprained ankle and was also inactive. ... 76ers guard Jason Richardson did not travel with the team due to left knee synovitis.
Courtesy of: The Associated Press

EuroCup: Galatasaray better Ratiopharm Ulm in Istanbul - by Eurobasket News

Galatasaray - Ratiopharm Ulm 82:66

Galatasaray claimed a comfortable home win over Ratiopharm Ulm in the third round of EuroCup Last 16. Jamont Gordon (193-G/F-87, college: Mississippi St.) stepped up with 18 points as the hosts improved at 2-1 record in Group L. Ulm in the meantime slipped at 1-2 record in the ladder.
Galatasaray tipped off the game with nine straight points to set the tone. They opened a 21:8 lead midway through the first term. But Ulm managed to narrow the deficit at 5-point mark at the first break 17:22. The visitors got within a single point in the second frame 33:34. John Bryant (208-C-87, college: Santa Clara) finally put Ulm in front 37:36. However Jamont Gordon and Milan Macvan (205-PF-89, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) drained triples to make it 44:37 at halftime. The hosts went on a 10:0 run in the third quarter to ensure a 62:44 advantage. Galatasaray enjoyed a 66:53 lead heading into the fourth frame. The gap grew at 15-point mark midway through the quarter and the hosts never looked back en route to the win. Carlos Arroyo (188-G-79, agency: Interperformances, college: FIU) delivered 15 points, while Milan Macvan added 14 points for the winners. John Bryant answered with 18 points for Ulm.

Galatasaray: Jamont Gordon 18, Carlos Arroyo 15, Milan Macvan 14
Ratiopharm Ulm: John Bryant 18

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U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS

Pemberton key win vs. No. 14 DMACC - by David Edole

CLINTON As Des Moines Area Community College ticked off point after point during a 17-0 run, it seemed as if it would be another one of those nights for both teams.

The Bears, ranked 15th in the NJCAA Division II national mens basketball poll that came out Wednesday, appeared ready to put away another opponent. And it looked as if another game with promise was going to slip away from Clinton Community College.

On the CCC bench, coach Joe Shovlain wasnt buying into those scenarios.

I didnt worry, he said. I believe in these guys.

His players obviously shared their coachs sentiments. After seeing a 39-32 lead become a 49-39 deficit, the Cougars turned things around Wednesday night at WJ Yourd Gymnasium and pulled out a victory that likely was the biggest the program had seen since Bob Walker was the coach. They rallied to defeat DMACC 78-72.

Bob Walker (who watched the win from the back row of the bleachers) says its probably the first time we beat these guys in 13 years, Shovlain said. And we beat them. There was nothing gimmicky about it. Our guys were just determined.

Their determination resulted in a bunch of smiles after the game.

It feels so good that I screamed all the way to the locker room (after the game), CCC sophomore center Charles Pemberton (198-F-92) said.

This is pretty big, Cougars sophomore Richard Hurt said. Theyre a ranked team.

Freshman Xzavion Jones said: It means a lot. DMACC has been beating this program up for a while.

That trio did the bulk of the scoring for CCC Jones scored a game-high 31 points, Hurt tossed in 20 and Pemberton added 14 while spearheading the defensive effort but Shovlain said, This was a total team win.

The Cougars (5-10, 1-3 Iowa Community College Athletic Conference) won it with a closing 16-10 run over the final 4 minutes.

When we got the lead back, I definitely knew we were going to win, Hurt said.

Jones did most of the damage, scoring 11 of the points, but he shared the credit.

We knew I had the hot hand, but Ive got to give credit to the other guys, he said.

Jones buried a 3-pointer from out top with 3 minutes, 59 seconds that snapped a 62-62 tie and put Clinton ahead to stay.

It just happened to be there for me, he said. I had a little space and had to shoot with confidence.

Jake Guenther (13 points) missed down low on an inbounds play for DMACC, and Pemberton blocked his followup shot, then he scored at the other end and CCCs lead never dipped below two after that.

Each time the Bears narrowed the gap, the Cougars responded.

Two free throws by Hurt made it 69-64.

I was kind of nervous, Hurt said. Its a free throw; youve got to knock it down.

Jones and Pemberton worked a give-and-go for a Jones layup and a 71-67 lead.

On that floater, it was not a great pass, but that was huge, Shovlain said.

Then Jones buried a 3-pointer from the left corner to make it 74-69.

It was a big shot, he said. I saw I had space and decided to take it.

Two free throws by Jones made it 76-72 with :40.6 left, and Jones and Hurt sealed the win with a free throw each in the final half-minute.

I was (pretty confident), Jones said about going to the line in those situations. Its just a free throw. Its just a free shot. Youve got to knock it down, especially in that situation.

As important as the points were, so was the defensive effort that included an unofficial count of 14 blocks by Pemberton.

It was amazing, Jones said of his 6-foot-5, 240-pound teammate. Great defense helps a lot when they dont get those easy layups.

Pemberton said he was primed to play defense.

Two days ago, Coach talked about how they were 6-9, 6-11, 6-8, and me, Im 6-5, he said. I had to mentally prepare myself. The mindset was to come out and play the best defense I can. I had blocks, and they kept adding up.

Not only is Pemberton the biggest man on the Clinton roster, he got almost all of the big-man minutes Wednesday because fellow 6-5, 240-pound Virgin Islander BeeJay Caleb was hampered by an injury.

BeeJay rolled an ankle was not able to play much, Pemberton said. I knew it would be a long, hard, tough game. I came out and did what I had to do.

As the final seconds ticked away, the Cougars could exhale and get ready to enjoy the celebration.

I started enjoying it when the final buzzer blew; theyre dangerous until the final tick of the clock, Shovlain said.

It certainly was a win the Cougars had to work for. Although they gained confidence early, when they built a 20-12 advantage, they easily had the opportunity to doubt themselves when the Bears scored the final nine points of the first half to go ahead 41-39, then came out and scored the first eight of the second half. A dunk by Brandon Nazione (11 points) made it a 49-39 lead and appeared to say that the Bears werent done yet.

We just knew we had to work a lot harder to not crumble, Jones said.

They started to score points more, Pemberton said. At a timeout, Coach said weve got to get stops. We had to play hard.

Clinton finally ended the run on a driving layup by Jones with 15:53 remaining.

We just knew we had to come out composed and not do too much, Jones said. We had to let the game flow and work on defense.

Hurt followed with a 3-pointer from the left corner about a minute later, and the lead was down to five.

The Bears (13-5, 2-2) made a couple of counterpunches, pushing the lead back to seven once and six on another occasion, but CCC kept chipping away.

Pemberton broke to the basket on an inbounds play, took the pass, scored and converted the free throw for a three-point play that made it 53-50 with 12:44 left. Jones made a pair of free throws on the next trip down the floor to cut the gap to 53-52. Then, Kimani Stevens found Jones open for a transition jumper from 12 feet with 11:37 left to give Clinton its first lead since late in the first half.

Clinton continued its surge and pushed its lead to 60-53 before DMACC started a comeback. The Bears eventually pulled even at 62-62 on a basket by TJ Davis.

But CCC had the answer, and it resulted with the huge win for the program.

It means a lot, Hurt said. Were tired of being underdogs.

One key component to the victory wasnt even in Yourd Gymnasium.

Shovlains son Steve, his assistant coach, was ejected from Clintons 75-52 loss Saturday at Kirkwood and had to sit out one game as a result.

Steven put the whole game plan together, Joe Shovlain said. He had a lot of these guys scouted to a T.

It was a busy day all around for the Shovlain family. Joes daughter Shannon was inducted into the National Honor Society at Clinton High School, and his mother, Marcella, celebrated her 79th birthday.

Yet, Joe might have had the best celebration of all. And he already was thinking about how to top it.

A few wins like this and well gain confidence, he said. Hopefully, this will be the catalyst to start something out.

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UKRAINE

EuroChallenge: Krasnie Krilya continue the winning streak in Yuzhniy - by Eurobasket News

Khimik - Krasnie Krilya 69:77

Krasnie Krilya continue the winning streak in Yuzhniy as they won over Khimik in Round 2 of EuroChallenge Top 16. The Russian team improved to 2-0 record after a 77:69 win. The Ukrainian side dropped at 0-2 record.
Krasnie Krilya started the game with 23-20 and led 5 points at the halftime after 19-17 rally in the second frame. The third period became decisive in the game the Russian team managed to produce a 24-17 surge to improve to 12 points. Khimik managed to win the last stanza 15-11 but could reduce to only 8 final points.
Chester Simmons (196-G-82, college: Washington) stepped up with 16 points and Aaron Miles (186-G-83, college: Kansas) notched 15. Omar Thomas (196-F-82, college: UTEP) delivered 12, while Nikita Balashov (207-F-91) scored 11. Sava Lesic (205-C/F-88), Vitaliy Kovalenko (203-F-84) and Willie Deane (188-PG-80, agency: Higher Vision Sports, college: Purdue) posted 13 points each in the losing effort. Devoe Joseph (193-G-90, agency: Interperformances, college: Oregon) followed them with 10 and Vernon Goodridge (206-F-84, college: La Salle) delivered 9.

Khimik: Sava Lesic 13, Vitaliy Kovalenko 13, Willie Deane 13+11 rebs, Devoe Joseph 10, Vernon Goodridge 9
Krasnie Krilya: Chester Simmons 16, Aaron Miles 15, Omar Thomas 12, Nikita Balashov 11

David Weaver is a newcomer at DniproAzot, ex Neckar Lburg - by Eurobasket News

SK Dnipro Azot Dniprodzerzhynsk (Superleague) strengthened their roster with addition of 26-year old American center David Weaver (209-113kg-87, college: Wake Forest). He just played at Neckar Lburg in German BBL league. In 18 games this season he recorded 5.5ppg and 3.3rpg. The last season he played at Energa Czarni (TBL) in Polish TBL. In 36 games last year he averaged 9.2ppg and 4.3rpg.
The previous (10-11) season Weaver played at BC Siauliai (LKL) in Lithuanian LKL. The team played in three different competitions (!!!) that year, and he was exposed to basketball on different levels. In 23 LKL games that season he averaged 11.5ppg and 5.5rpg. Great season indeed as he was voted to Lithuanian League All-Star Game and All-Newcomers Team. Weaver also played 6 games in Eurocup where he averaged 11.5ppg, 3.0rpg and 1.5apg. He also played 17 games in Baltic League where he averaged 9.2ppg and 4.0rpg. He helped them to make it to the quarterfinals. Weaver also spent pre-season at Ilysiakos (A1) in Greek A1 earlier that year.
His team was regular season runner-up in ACC in 2009.
Weaver attended Wake Forest University until 2010 and it will be his third season as a professional player.
The scouts decsribe him following way: Versatile big man who possesses a defensive-minded game. An excellent shot blocker and post defender. Powerful dunker who finished with 45 dunks in his NCAA career. Can play at both the power forward and center positions.

By Eurobasket Data Center

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UNITED KINGDOM

BBL Team of the Week - Week 18 - by Paul Nilsen

It was a landmark weekend as one player provided the best performance valuation of the season.

Brice Fantazia (193-G-85, college: Culver Stockton) (Glasgow Rocks)

It's a debut appearance in our line-up for the Rocks' guard after he posted his best performance of what is now his second stint with the Scottish club last weekend. Fantazia was certainly the main man against One Health Sharks Sheffield and helped the Rocks take a victory with a nicely balanced and efficient inside-outside scoring patter