EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 1/25/2013 4:04:01 AM

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Men News

*****************************************************
  ABA   



Darrel Parker & Nate Barnes combine for 75 pts but Cleveland falss to Lima 152 to 130 - by Vance Marbury

In a game where Cleveland led at the end of the first quarter 24 to 22. Cleveland could not hold the Lima Explosion off in the end.

The Lima Explosion had a great crowd in attendance, several young student athletes, fans, and family members packed the gym to see an exciting game.

Cleveland Nate Barnes (5'10''-G-90) led Cleveland with 43 pts, 18 of which came in the first quarter. Lima Explosion Kyle Meyer (6'6''-F-88, college: Ohio Northern)continues to be the anchor that Lima leans on to get them going. Kyle Meyer (6'6''-F-88, college: Ohio Northern) dropped in 35 pts.

During the second quarter Lemar Pughsley (6'3''-G-88) shot 8 free throws which gave Lima a chance to set up there defense, and slowly creep back in the game and take the lead.

The third quarter Lima took complete control of the game with 2 three-d conversion and Willie Tisdale (5'9''-G-85, college: Cameron) catching fire to the tune of 25 pts.

Before the 4th quarter started several Lima Explosion fans put there coats on and left because Lima was up 24 pts at the end of the 3rd quarter, and they assumed the game was over, which it wasn't. Darrell Parker (6'2''-G-87), Eric McPherson (6'3''-G-86, college: Lindsey Wilson) and Vincent Maxwell (6'5''-F-86) led the charge. With Parker, Mcpherson, and Maxwell chipping in 32 pts, 20 pts, and 17pts respectively.

Cleveland cut the lead to 7 pts with 7 minutes remaining and that is when Lima went to the free throw line pretty much every possession down the stretch.

Rounding out the scoring for Lima Kyle Gillette (6'8''-F-86, college: NW Ohio) 28 pts, Lemar Pughsley (6'3''-G-88) 23 pts.

In the end Lima defeated Cleveland 152 to 130.

This has turned into a very friendly rivalry between Cleveland and Lima. Lewis Shine Lima GM continues to improve the Lima Explosion fan base, game day operations and coaching staff. Cleveland head coach Melanie Sweeney (5'9''-G/F, college: Cleveland St.) also continues to improve Cleveland's team performance.


*****************************************************
  AUSTRIA   


Pearson moves to Vienna - by Stefan Heinrich

The Frstenfeld Panthers just announced that Maurice Pearson (206-F/C-89, college: Georgetown, KY) left the team to finish this season with the BC Zepter Vienna. The rookie Insideplayer played 17 games for the Panthers and he was responsible for 19.8ppg and 12.5rpg and he should help BC Vienna to fullfil their high goals for this season. Currently he is the only player in the Austrian Bundesliga who is averaging a double-double. It is expected that Pearson will already suit up for the Cup Final4 this weekend in Oberwart.


*****************************************************
  BAHRAIN   

Standings

Premier League Standings
 1. Muharraq 8-0 
 2. Al Hala 7-1 
 3. Al Ahli 6-1 
 4. Al Manama 6-2 
 5. Issa Town 4-3 
 6. Sitra 4-3 
 7. Hidd 4-3 
 8. Bahrain Club 2-5 
 9. Nuwaidrat 2-5 
 10. Al Ittihad 1-7 
 11. Al Najma 0-7 
 12. Samaheej 0-7 

Regular Season: Round 8

Jan. 23: Muharraq - Al Hala 85-65
Jan. 23: Al Ittihad - Al Manama 59-84
Jan. 24: Issa Town - Sitra
Jan. 24: Nuwaidrat - Al Ahli
Jan. 25: Al Najma - Samaheej
Jan. 25: Hidd - Bahrain Club



*****************************************************
  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 2-0 
 2. Rudupis 2-0 
 3. Jelgava 0-2 
 4. Naglis Palangos 0-2 
Group G
 1. Tarvas 3-0 
 2. Juventus 2-0 
 3. Pieno Zvaigzdes 1-1 
 4. Barsy Atyrau 0-5 
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 4

Jan. 24: Juventus - Barsy Atyrau 89-70
Jan. 25: Barons kvartals - Lietkabelis
Jan. 25: Parnu - Ventspils
Jan. 25: TU/Rock - Valmiera
Jan. 26: Naglis Palangos - Jelgava
Jan. 26: Pieno Zvaigzdes - Barsy Atyrau
Jan. 26: Kalev/Cramo - Rudupis


Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Rain RAADIK
  Parnu
  (208-C-89)
  Avg: 18.9
 1. Raadik, Parnu18.9 
 2. Gulbis, Barons k.18.5 
 3. Tamm, Tarvas17.9 
 4. Okoye, Tln Kalev17.4 
 5. Orelikas, Rudupis17.1 
 6. Akenparg, TTU15.9 
 7. Berzins, Valmiera14.9 
 8. Wilkinson, Kalev/C.14.3 
 9. Leonard, Juventus13.8 
 10. Umbrasko, Tarvas13.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Rain RAADIK
  Parnu
  (208-C-89)
  Avg: 12
 1. Raadik, Parnu12.0 
 2. Okoye, Tln Kalev9.9 
 3. Berzins, Valmiera8.0 
 4. Zelionis, Barsy A.7.4 
 5. Cipruss, Lietkabel.7.2 
 6. Fall, Kalev/Cramo7.2 
 7. Keedus, TTU7.1 
 8. Matyukevych, Bars.7.0 
 9. Bishop, Nevezis6.9 
 10. Timma, Ventspils6.9 
Assists Per Game
 Zygimantas JANAVICIUS
  Rudupis
  (192-G-89)
  Avg: 5.7
 1. Janavicius, Rudupis5.7 
 2. Peciukeviciu., Par.5.5 
 3. Campbell, Tln Kalev5.0 
 4. Maceina, Pieno Z.4.8 
 5. Gintvainis, Sakalai4.8 
 6. Tamm, Tarvas4.4 
 7. Viskontas, Juvent.4.3 
 8. Cunda, Valga4.2 
 9. Leonard, Juventus3.8 
 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. Janavicius, Rudupis2.1 
 3. Brown, Naglis P.2.1 
 4. Laane, Rapla2.1 
 5. Tamm, Tarvas1.9 
 6. Kanbergs, Jelgava1.9 
 7. Berzins, Valmiera1.9 
 8. Sims, Ventspils1.8 
 9. Leppik, TU/Rock1.8 
 10. McLeod, Kalev/Cr.1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Bamba FALL
  Kalev/Cramo
  (217-C-86)
  Avg: 2.6
 1. Fall, Kalev/Cramo2.6 
 2. Petrukonis, Juven.1.8 
 3. Silinskis, Nevezis1.6 
 4. Rozitis, Barons k.1.6 
 5. Kupsas, Lietkabelis1.4 
 6. Meiers, Ventspils0.9 
 7. Gates, Pieno Z.0.9 
 8. Zyle, Nevezis0.9 
 9. Valeika, Rudupis0.9 
 10. Ramasauskas, Sak.0.8 


Elegar's double-double lands him (Top 16) Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News

26-year old center Frank Elegar (208-C-86) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for second-ranked Kalev/Cramo and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 3 (Top 16).
He had a double-double of 18 points and 11 rebounds, while his team outclassed Jelgava (#3, 0-2) with 40-point margin 105-65. The game was between two of the league's top four teams. Kalev/Cramo maintains the 2nd position in Baltic League . They maintain perfect record without any lost game in the league. But it's just the very beginning of the Top 16 and Kalev/Cramo won both games without losing any. It's too early to say anything as the standings can be changed completely after next round. Elegar turned to be Kalev/Cramo's top player in his first season with the team. Frank Elegar averages this season 13.1ppg and 8.7rpg.

Second best performed player last round was Tyler Cain (203-F-88) of top-ranked Barons kvartals. He is American forward in his first season at Barons kvartals. In the last game Cain recorded impressive double-double of 18 points and 19 rebounds. Of course Barons kvartals cruised to a 61-52 relatively comfortable win over Parnu (0-2). His team has extremely good start of the Top 16. They won both games so far. However the Top 16 is at the beginning, so everything can happen. They still may lose their high position in the standings. Cain is a newcomer at Barons kvartals and quickly became one of team's most reliable players.

Third place about best performers goes to another Kalev/Cramo's star - guard Ty Abbott (192-G-88). Abbott scored 28 points. He was another key player of Kalev/Cramo, helping his team with a 105-65 easy win against #3 ranked Jelgava in a game of the week. Kalev/Cramo has a very good start of the Top 16. But there were just 2 games played, so it's too early to judge them at this stage. Abbott also has a very good start of the Top 16 with very strong stats. Abbott has a very solid season. In 7 games in Baltic League he scored 4.9ppg.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Reimo Tamm (185-PG-84) of Tarvas - 22 points, 4 rebounds and 7 assists
5. Aurimas Kieza (202-PF-82) of Siauliai - 22 points and 13 rebounds
6. A.J. Stewart (205-F-88) of Tarvas - 19 points and 7 rebounds
7. Bamba Fall (217-C-86) of Kalev/Cramo - 15 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists
8. Gert Dorbek (193-SG-85) of Kalev/Cramo - 20 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists
9. Brandis Raley-Ross (188-G-87) of Tarvas - 21 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists
10. Rannar Raap (188-G/F-92) of Parnu - 20 points and 6 rebounds

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)


*****************************************************
  BOSNIA   

Standings - D2 Leagues

Division Standings
1.Liga RS
 1. HEO 10-0 
 2. Bratunac 6-4 
 3. Gacko 6-4 
 4. Gradanski 5-3 
 5. Drina Birac 5-5 
 6. Feniks 5-5 
 7. Prijedor 5-5 
 8. Sutjeska 4-6 
 9. Rogatica 2-6 
 10. Rudar 2-6 
 11. Jahorina 2-8 
A1 Liga
 1. Spars Sarajevo 12-1 
 2. Sloboda Tuzla 11-2 
 3. Play Off 10-3 
 4. Gradina S. 7-6 
 5. Celik 7-6 
 6. Student 6-7 
 7. Bosnjak 6-7 
 8. Brcko 6-7 
 9. Spars Mostar 5-8 
 10. Limometal 3-10 
 11. Orlovik 3-10 
 12. Donji Vakuf 2-11 
Liga Herceg-Bosne
 1. Vitez 8-0 
 2. Brotnjo 6-2 
 3. Student M. 5-3 
 4. Siroki II 4-4 
 5. Busovaca 4-4 
 6. Kiseljak 3-5 
 7. Livno 3-5 
 8. Grude 2-6 
 9. Rama 1-7 



*****************************************************
  BURUNDI   


Burundian National Team 2013 - by Eurobasket Center

4 Jean Hakizamana Burundi NT Burundi
5 Sudi Cumahiro Burundi NT Burundi
6 Guy Habarugira Burundi NT Burundi
7 Brion Kawakure Burundi NT Burundi
8 Elvis Hakizmana Burundi NT Burundi
9 Regis Gatogato Burundi NT Burundi
10 Blaise Nikobahoze 88 Burundi NT Burundi
11 Francis Sokoroza Burundi NT Burundi
12 Yves Nzeyimana Burundi NT Burundi
13 Auguste Ndayiregije Burundi NT Burundi
14 Jean Ntagunduka Burundi NT Burundi
15 Desire Mucu Burundi NT Burundi



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

CIS Standings

CIS Standings
Atlantic
 1. Cape Breton 12-0 
 2. UPEI 8-2 
 3. Acadia 7-3 
 4. Dalhousie 5-6 
 5. St.Francis X. 5-6 
 6. New Brunsw. 4-7 
 7. St.Mary's 3-8 
 8. Memorial 0-12 
CanWest Pacific Division
 1. UBC 12-2 
 2. Victoria 9-5 
 3. UFV 7-7 
 4. TRU 6-9 
 5. UNBC 5-9 
 6. TWU 5-9 
 7. Mount Royal 2-11 
 8. UBC Okanagan 2-13 
CanWest Prairie Division
 1. Alberta 12-2 
 2. Winnipeg 11-4 
 3. Saskatchewan 10-4 
 4. Manitoba 10-5 
 5. Calgary 7-7 
 6. Lethbridge 7-7 
 7. Regina 5-9 
 8. Brandon 3-11 
OUA East
 1. Carleton 13-1 
 2. Ryerson 11-2 
 3. Ottawa 11-3 
 4. Queen's 9-5 
 5. Laurentian 7-6 
 6. York 5-8 
 7. Toronto Univ. 2-11 
 8. RMC 0-0 
OUA West
 1. Windsor 11-3 
 2. Lakehead 8-5 
 3. McMaster 7-7 
 4. Guelph 5-9 
 5. Brock 5-9 
 6. Laurier 4-9 
 7. Waterloo 3-11 
 8. Western 1-13 
Quebec League
 1. McGill 6-2 
 2. Bishop's 6-3 
 3. Concordia 5-3 
 4. UQAM 3-7 
 5. Laval 2-7 

Regular Season: Round 24

Jan. 23: Waterloo - Guelph 85-74
Jan. 23: Bishop''s - UQAM 84-60
Jan. 23: Brock - Western 83-78
Jan. 23: Windsor - McMaster 80-73
Jan. 23: Carleton - Ottawa 63-58
Jan. 24: Concordia - McGill
Jan. 24: Winnipeg - Calgary


Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Stephon LAMAR
  Saskatch.
  (185-G-)
  Avg: 25
 1. Lamar, Saskatch.25.0 
 2. Allin, Laurier23.3 
 3. Perrin, TWU21.5 
 4. Freeman, UFV21.1 
 5. Hill, Toronto Univ.20.9 
 6. Dorsey, Cape Bret.20.5 
 7. Scrubb, Carleton20.0 
 8. Faulkner, Queen''s19.9 
 9. Ogungbemi-J., Calg.19.9 
 10. Dunn, St.Francis19.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Brylle KAMEN
  UBC
  (201-F-)
  Avg: 11.8
 1. Kamen, UBC11.8 
 2. Ezenibe, St.Mary''s11.8 
 3. Waldner, Lethb.10.7 
 4. Allin, Laurier10.4 
 5. Phillip, Windsor10.2 
 6. Salhia, Lakehead9.6 
 7. Burns, Saskatch.9.4 
 8. Dufort, McGill8.9 
 9. Eyitayo, Concordia8.9 
 10. Iko, Winnipeg8.5 
Assists Per Game
 Andrew CUNNINGHAM
  Winnipeg
  (186-G-)
  Avg: 7.6
 1. Cunningham, Winnip.7.6 
 2. Hebert, Regina5.2 
 3. Walton, Manitoba5.0 
 4. Dorsey, Cape Bret.4.9 
 5. York, UFV4.9 
 6. Pasquale, Laure.4.8 
 7. Lamar, Saskatch.4.7 
 8. Bonhomme, Brandon4.6 
 9. Collins, Windsor4.6 
 10. Jones, Ryerson4.6 
Steals Per Game
 Jimmy DORSEY
  Cape Breton
  (188-G-)
  Avg: 3.9
 1. Dorsey, Cape Bret.3.9 
 2. Evans, Victoria3.2 
 3. Daley, New Brunsw.3.0 
 4. Walton, Manitoba2.9 
 5. Hunter, Bishop''s2.8 
 6. Baker, Alberta2.7 
 7. Parchment, UFV2.7 
 8. Donkoh, St.Franc.2.6 
 9. Baker, Saskatch.2.6 
 10. Perrin, TWU2.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Mike ANDREWS
  Bishop''s
  (208-C-)
  Avg: 2
 1. Andrews, Bishop''s2.0 
 2. O''Brien, New B.1.9 
 3. Duke, UPEI1.8 
 4. Moses, Calgary1.8 
 5. Chesson, Laurier1.8 
 6. Salhia, Lakehead1.6 
 7. Aubertin, UNBC1.5 
 8. Eyitayo, Concordia1.5 
 9. Dewar, Alberta1.5 
 10. Luby, Brock1.4 


Bonneau Raises Game - by John Gary

courtesy oursportscentral.com The Windsor Express will begin a crtical two game road trip in the Maritimes tonight armed with another outside scoring threat. Rookie guard Stefan Bonneau had two breakout games for the Express recently and gives the expansion club in the National Basketball League of Canada another vakluable guard option along with Darren Duncan and Mike Helms. Bonneau who signed with the Express in early December scored a season high 19 points in last weekends 101-96 loss to London and then had 16 more in a 98-94 loss to Halifax last friday. Prior to that Bonneau had yet to hit double figures in his 13 previous games for Windsor.


*****************************************************
  CHINA   


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

25-year old power forward Jianlian Yi (212-PF-87) had an amazing evening in the last round for league's best team Guangdong ST and receives a Asia-basket.com Player of the Week award for round 26.
He had a double-double of 42 points and 13 rebounds, while his team beat Foshan LL (#12, 10-15) 127-114. It allowed Guangdong ST to consolidate first place in the Chinese league. Guangdong ST have a solid 21-3 record. In the team's last game Yi had a remarkable 76.5% from 2-point range. He turned to be Guangdong ST's top player in his first season with the team. Jianlian Yi averages this season 27.1ppg and 10.6rpg.

Second best performed player last round was Marcus Haislip (208-F-80) of DongGuan L.. He is American forward in his first season at DongGuan L.. In the last game Haislip recorded impressive 43 points and 6 rebounds. Of course DongGuan L. cruised to a 118-107 relatively comfortable win over slightly lower-ranked Bayi R. (#10, 11-14). This victory allowed DongGuan L. to move up to 8th position in the standings. His team lost some distance to top teams. But 13-11 record is not bad and everything may still change. Haislip is a newcomer at DongGuan L. and quickly became one of team's most reliable players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 28.9ppg (#8). He also registered 6.1 boards per game.

Third place about best performers goes to guard Pooh Jeter (180-PG-83) of league's second-best Shandong FB. Jeter got into 30-points club by scoring 38 points in the last round. He went also for six rebounds and eight assists. He was a key player of Shandong FB, leading his team to a 106-99 win against the lower-ranked Qingdao E. (#17, 7-18). Shandong FB needs these victories very badly if they think about taking over top position in the standings. Their record at this point is 17 victories and 7 lost games. Jeter has a great season in China. After 23 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in assists with 5.7apg (2nd best). He also has 2.4spg and and 3PT: 40.2%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Mike Harris (198-F-83) of Jiangsu D. - 35 points and 12 rebounds
5. Charles Gaines (201-F-81) of Shanxi Zh. - 33 points and 12 rebounds
6. Dewarick Spencer (193-G-82) of Jilin NE T. - 25 points, 17 rebounds and 5 assists
7. Tracy McGrady (203-G/F-79) of Qingdao E. - 38 points, 14 rebounds and 2 assists
8. Li Yi (203-SF-85) of Jiangsu D. - 30 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists
9. Stephon Marbury (188-G-77) of Beijing Ducks - 36 points, 3 rebounds and 6 assists
10. Quincy Douby (191-G-84) of Zhejiang CB - 41 points, 4 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)


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


Jerel Blassingame joins Cibona - by Darko Hudina

Jerel Blassingame (175-PG-81, college: UNLV) player left his club Asseco Prokom Gdynia and joins KK Cibona VIP Zagreb who had big problems with playmakers and he is 5th player who play on this position in this year. Jerel Blassingame record in this season for Asseco Prokom Gdynia in Euroleauge was:11,2 ppg and 5,1apg for 28minutes average, while in Poland championship he recorded 14,5 pppg and 5,4 apg for 30minutes average. So far Jerel Blassingame playing in Maccabi Rishon Le-Zion, Lappeenranta NMKY, BC Odessa and Energa Czarni Slupsk.


*****************************************************
  DENMARK   

Standings - Basketligaen

Ligaen Standings
 1. Svendborg 19-2 
 2. Horsens IC 16-5 
 3. Bakken 15-5 
 4. SISU 12-8 
 5. Naestved 11-10 
 6. Randers 9-11 
 7. Horsholm 6-13 
 8. Vaerlose 6-14 
 9. Aarhus BC 5-15 
 10. Aalborg 1-17 

Regular Season: Round 24

Jan. 23: Randers - Aalborg 99-78
Jan. 24: Horsens IC - Horsholm 82-90
Jan. 24: Naestved - Svendborg 66-99
Jan. 26: Aarhus BC - Horsholm
Jan. 26: Randers - SISU
Jan. 27: Bakken - Vaerlose
Jan. 27: Horsens IC - Aalborg


Stats Leaders - Basketligaen

Points Per Game
 Bonell COLAS
  Randers
  (205-F-82)
  Avg: 24.5
 1. Colas, Randers24.5 
 2. Rutherford, Svend.23.4 
 3. Jukic, Horsens IC21.6 
 4. Ocana, Randers20.2 
 5. Willen, Aalborg20.2 
 6. Bowlin, Horsens IC20.1 
 7. Delk, Vaerlose19.5 
 8. Walker, Naestved19.0 
 9. Darboe, Svendborg18.8 
 10. Tomko, Bakken18.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Bonell COLAS
  Randers
  (205-F-82)
  Avg: 14.7
 1. Colas, Randers14.7 
 2. Rutherford, Svend.9.9 
 3. Jukic, Horsens IC9.6 
 4. Dezouvre, Aarhus9.2 
 5. Baker, Vaerlose8.0 
 6. Washington, Svend.8.0 
 7. Walker, Naestved8.0 
 8. Willen, Aalborg7.7 
 9. Iversen, Bakken7.5 
 10. Moritz, SISU7.4 
Assists Per Game
 Miguel ORTEGA
  Randers
  (188-PG-91)
  Avg: 7.3
 1. Ortega, Randers7.3 
 2. Bowlin, Horsens IC7.0 
 3. Darboe, Svendborg5.8 
 4. Nielsen, SISU5.0 
 5. Murphy, Naestved4.8 
 6. Tomko, Bakken4.5 
 7. Plannthin, Svend.4.4 
 8. Nielsen, Randers4.3 
 9. Jonsson, Aarhus BC4.0 
 10. Jakobsen, Bakken3.9 
Steals Per Game
 Skyler BOWLIN
  Horsens IC
  (190-G-89)
  Avg: 3.1
 1. Bowlin, Horsens IC3.1 
 2. Tomko, Bakken2.4 
 3. Nielsen, SISU2.4 
 4. Delk, Vaerlose2.3 
 5. Ortega, Randers2.0 
 6. Jukic, Horsens IC2.0 
 7. Darboe, Svendborg2.0 
 8. Walker, Naestved1.9 
 9. Dennis, SISU1.7 
 10. Rungby, Horsens1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Gregory WASHINGTON
  Svend.
  (208-C/F-84)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Washington, Svend.2.8 
 2. Colas, Randers2.4 
 3. Marinkovic, Horsho.1.7 
 4. Jukic, Horsens IC1.3 
 5. Jukic, Horsholm1.1 
 6. Christoffers., Bak.1.1 
 7. Smith, SISU1.0 
 8. Delk, Vaerlose0.9 
 9. Frandsen, Naestved0.9 
 10. Thomann, Horse.0.9 



*****************************************************
  D-LEAGUE   

Standings

D-League Standings
East Conference
 1. Maine RC 16-9 
 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. 7-15 
 8. Iowa E. 6-16 
West Conference
 1. Bakersfield J. 16-7 
 2. Rio Grande VV 14-8 
 3. Austin T. 12-10 
 4. Tulsa 66ers 11-11 
 5. Texas L. 11-12 
 6. Reno B. 8-11 
 7. Los Angeles D. 7-14 
 8. Idaho S. 6-16 

Regular Season: Round 32

Jan. 23: Rio Grande VV - Texas L. 126-109
Jan. 24: Springfield A. - Maine RC 123-115
Jan. 22: Iowa E. - Tulsa 66ers 106-111
Jan. 23: Los Angeles D. - Bakersfield J. 101-107

Regular Season: Round 33

Jan. 25: Erie Bay H. - Ft.Wayne MA
Jan. 25: Maine RC - Santa Cruz W.
Jan. 25: Tulsa 66ers - Los Angeles D.
Jan. 25: Iowa E. - Canton C.
Jan. 25: Texas L. - Sioux Falls S.
Jan. 25: Austin T. - Idaho S.
Jan. 25: Bakersfield J. - Reno B.


Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Darius JOHNSON-ODOM
  Los A.
  (187-PG-89)
  Avg: 21
 1. Johnson-Odom, Los21.0 
 2. Joseph, Austin T.20.7 
 3. Mack, Maine RC20.5 
 4. Goudelock, Sioux F.20.3 
 5. Almond, Iowa E.20.1 
 6. Summers, Maine RC19.8 
 7. Fortson, Los A.19.0 
 8. Kennedy, Erie B.18.3 
 9. Howard, Ft.Wayne.18.2 
 10. Downs, Maine RC18.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Arinze ONUAKU
  Canton C.
  (206-F-87)
  Avg: 11.5
 1. Onuaku, Canton C.11.5 
 2. Butch, Bakersfi.10.4 
 3. Mays, Springfield10.3 
 4. Harris, Iowa E.9.7 
 5. Evans, Idaho S.9.4 
 6. Jackson, Austin T.9.4 
 7. Wilkerson, Austin9.3 
 8. Johnson, Ft.Wayne.8.9 
 9. Summers, Maine RC8.5 
 10. Kennedy, Erie B.8.4 
Assists Per Game
 Shelvin MACK
  Maine RC
  (190-G-90)
  Avg: 8
 1. Mack, Maine RC8.0 
 2. Wright, Iowa E.7.5 
 3. Fortson, Los A.6.6 
 4. Singletary, Texas6.4 
 5. Karl, Idaho S.5.5 
 6. Uzoh, Springfield5.3 
 7. Kennedy, Erie B.5.2 
 8. Johnson-Odom, Los5.2 
 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 RC2.2 
 3. Sutton, Tulsa 66e.2.0 
 4. Wright, Maine RC2.0 
 5. Gutierrez, Canton2.0 
 6. McNeal, Bakersfi.2.0 
 7. Wright, Iowa E.1.9 
 8. Tyndale, Sioux F.1.9 
 9. Hannah, Santa C.1.9 
 10. Johnson, Rio G.1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Fabricio MELO
  Maine RC
  (212-C-90)
  Avg: 3.7
 1. Melo, Maine RC3.7 
 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 66ers2.0 
 8. Flowers, Los A.1.9 
 9. Eric, Canton C.1.9 
 10. Reed, Springfield1.8 


Latest wins for Armor, Vipers, 66ers and Jam - by Eurobasket News

Los Angeles D. - Bakersfield J. 101-107
he Bakersfield Jam defeated the Los Angeles D-Fenders 107-101 Wednesday night at the Toyota Sports Center. Damion James (6'7''-F-87, agency: Priority Sports, college: Texas) led the Jam with 25 points and nine rebounds. Bakersfield outscored Los Angeles by six points in each of the first two quarters, building a 12 point lead at halftime (58-46). In that first half, the Jam shot 44% to D-Fenders 34% and made 8-of-20 three-pointers to Los Angeles' 0-of-7. Bakersfield continued to display good effort, energy and ball movement in the second half and ultimately earned a road victory against their division rival. The Jam have now won five straight games and improve to a 16-7 record, while the D-Fenders fall to 7-14. Jerel McNeal (6'3''-G-87, college: Marquette) had 20 points while James Nunnally scored 16 points off the bench. Diante Garrett tallied 14 points and had a team-high seven assists. Renaldo Major finished with 10 points off the bench. The D-Fenders were paced by Elijah Millsap who scored 25 points and grabbed nine rebounds. Ronald DuPree (6'7''-F/G-81, agency: Priority Sports, college: LSU) had 23 points while Gary Flowers scored 22 points. Courtney Fortson recorded a double-double of 18 points and 12 assists. Bakersfield will head back home for a pair of home games against the Reno Bighorns on Friday, January 25 and Saturday, January 26. Both game set to tip-off at 7 p.m. PT. Courtesy of: oursportscentral.com

Iowa E. - Tulsa 66ers 106-111
Oklahoma City Thunder assignee Jeremy Lamb (6'5''-G/F-92, college: Connecticut) posted 30 points, nine rebounds and eight assists as the Tulsa 66ers held off the Iowa Energy, 111-106, on Tuesday night inside Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines, Iowa. Fellow Thunder assignee Daniel Orton (6'10''-F-90, college: Kentucky) scored 19 points with 13 rebounds and five blocked shots. NBA veteran Rasual Butler (6'7''-F-79, college: La Salle) totaled 26 points with four rebounds and four blocks. As a team, the 66ers recorded 14 blocked shots - a franchise record. The previous franchise-best was 13 against the Austin Toros in 2010. The 66ers tied a season-high as they brought down 50 rebounds, including 17 on offense. Tulsa shot 47 percent from the field, led by Lamb's 12-for-18 shooting. The rookie out of Connecticut made five 3-point baskets on six attempts. Tulsa (11-11) got off to a strong start, outscoring Iowa (6-16) 23-13 in the opening quarter. Coming out of a 53-39 66ers lead at halftime, the Energy fought back into the game by outscoring Tulsa, 40-22, in the third period. Iowa led the 66ers, 82-75, early in the fourth before a 12-4 run put Tulsa back in the game. With just over two minutes remaining and the game tied 99-99, Tulsa took a one-point lead on a free throw from Dominique Sutton. The 66ers forced an Iowa shot clock violation on the next possession and capitalized with a banked-in 3-pointer by Lamb on the other end with 1:21 left. The Energy forced the 66ers to earn the victory from the free throw stripe, where Tulsa went 6-for-8 in the game's final 32 seconds. Courtesy of: ktul.com

Rio Grande VV - Texas L. 126-109
The focused Rio Grande Valley Vipers team that came out blazing against the Texas Legends was nowhere to be found when the second half started Wednesday at State Farm Arena. Luckily, for the Vipers, they regained their focus and saved themselves from the indignity of blowing a 28-point lead by using a fourth-quarter run to fuel a 126-109 victory at State Farm Arena. 'We got lackadaisical after the first half,' Vipers guard Andrew Goudelock (6'3''-G-88, college: Charleston) said. 'They came out and really punched us in the mouth the first five minutes (of the third quarter). We just have to do a better job of staying focused for the whole 48 minutes.' The Vipers (14-8) won their sixth-straight game (tying their franchise best winning streak) and their eighth in the last nine games. They also improved to 8-1 at home. The Vipers were in cruise control in the first half as they led 70-49 at halftime. The Legends came out with a half-court press in the second half, and that's when the problems started for the Vipers. After committing just six turnovers in the first half, the Vipers had nine in the first seven minutes of the third quarter. The Legends pulled to within 95-90 entering the final quarter. 'They came out and attacked us and had us on our heels,' Vipers guard-forward Terrel Harris said. 'That team has a lot of scorers, and they can fill it up real quick. Once they got us on our heels, they had a hit-first mentality, and they caught us.' Well, almost. The Legends pulled to within 95-92 in the first minute of the fourth quarter. The Vipers then went on a 20-3 run over the next 5:20 to take a 115-95 lead. In that time, Legends coach Eduardo Najera was assessed two technical fouls after Vernon Macklin had a dunk on a follow-up. 'They got into our passing lanes and sped us up,' Goudelock said. 'We just had to adjust to it, regroup and figure out a way to beat it.' Vipers coach Nick Nurse said they were able to beat it by going Donatas Motiejunas (7'0''-F/C-90, agency: Interperformances), who was assigned from the Houston Rockets to the Vipers on Tuesday, on a pick-and-roll. It worked. Motiejunas sparked the run with three-straight baskets followed by another by Goudelock. That 8-point spurt was enough to send the Vipers on their way to victory. It also sent the crowd home happy. Because the Vipers scored more than 120 points, each person in attendance can cash their ticket in for a free taco at a local restaurant. It was a fact that was not lost on Motiejunas, who had 19 points and nine rebounds. 'The team is playing good,' Motiejunas said. 'I didn't want to disrupt the chemistry. The most important thing is we won. We scored 120 points, and everyone got tacos. Everyone is happy.' Harris led the Vipers with 22 points and 15 rebounds. Goudelock had 21 points. Guard Maalik Wayns (6'2''-PG-91, college: Villanova) had 24 points. The Legends (11-12), who lost for the seventh-straight time, were led by Darius Rice (6'10''-F-82, college: Miami, FL)'s 30 points. Rice was 10 of 29 from the field, including 7 of 21 from the 3-point arc. Justin Dentmon had 26 points and 10 assists. The Vipers increased the lead to 1 1/2 games over Sioux Falls in the NBA Development League Central Division standings. The Vipers welcome Sioux Falls Saturday at home. Courtesy of: themonitor.com

Springfield A. - Maine RC 123-115
The Springfield Armor would like to have Tornike Shengelia (6'8''-PF-91) for the whole season. The last time the Brooklyn Nets assigned Shengelia to Springfield he had a triple-double. Thursday the 6-foot-8 forward tied a franchise record with 39 points to lead the Armor to a 123-115 win over the Maine Red Claws at the MassMutual Center. Shengelia tied the mark set by Morris Almond in the second month of the team's existence. He shot 17 for 21 from the floor, had seven dunks and added 18 rebounds andf six assists. "He's a very very complete player and you see what happens when you play with a guy like that you get better shots," Armor coach Bob MacKinnon said. "We shot 56 percent because we got better shots and I think he's the reason why." Considering he had no points and three fouls after the first six minutes of play, Shengelia's performance was even more impressive. It was the most points scored agianst the Red Claws this season and led to the end of their six-game win streak. The Armor's bid to snap a four-game losing streak to the Red Claws got off to a very shaky start. It seemed as if the Armor trailed by double figures before the National Anthem was over. Maine came out gunning and Springfield was in a giving mood, dishing out nine turnovers before the first quarter was done. The Armor dug themselves a 17-point hole before the light came on and they got into the game. The two Brooklyn Nets assignees started the run that eventually led to the Armor going into the half with a 60-58 lead. It all started with a 9-0 run to end the first quarter as Shengelia went coast-to-coast for a one-handed jam. Tyshawn Taylor (6'3''-G-90, college: Kansas) (21 points, 10 assists) followed with a basket at the rim then Ben Uzoh scored on a drive.Carleton Scott cleaned up the run with a 3-pointer that cut the deficit to eight. A 13-0 run in the second quarter led to the Armor pulling ahead of the first-place Red Claws, Willie Reed and Shengelia scoring all but two of the points in the run that kept the Armor from trailing the rest of the half. DaJuan Summers (6'8''-F-88, college: Georgetown) (34 points) kept Maine from falling too far behind, scoring 10 of his team-high 18 first-half points in the second quarter. Besides cutting down on the turnovers, the Armor sharpened their aim, hitting 14 of 20 field goals in the second quarter. Of course, when the shots come in the paint, and 42 of their 60 did, the percentages usually go up. Maine stayed in the game on second-chance points, pulling down 21 offensive rebounds. It was still a tight game in the fourth quarter when Shengelia went on a 6-0 run that gave Springfield a 97-92 lead with 7:43 to play. After a Summer basket, the Armor went on another 6-0 run then never let the Red Claws back in the game. "We started out really slow but we ended up putting the pieces together," Armor forward James Mays ( (21 points) said. "We got a little chemistry going and Toko went off and everybody basically fed off that." Courtesy of: masslive.com


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


Interview: Nick Calathes, Lokomotiv Kuban Krasnodar - by Diamadis Farmakis

Nick Calathes (198-PG-89, college: Florida), is the leader of Lokomotiv Kuban. He joined Lokomotiv this summer after three years with Panathinaikos to which he helped to win the Euroleague title in 2011 and he targets now to conquer Eurocup with his new team. The Greek international player spoke to the official site of Eurocup Basketball, about the season he is having in Russia and about his team.

Lokomotiv won its regular season group and grabbed a big road win in St Petersburg, but has it been as easy as it looked?

"No, not at all and I think we didn't play well in the beginning but got new players that came to help us. We had some big wins and a tough loss against Galatasaray. We are playing well in the Eurocup and we want to keep the momentum going after the win against Spartak. We have to play in the VTB League, too. The Eurocup is the most important competition for us. It is our goal this season - to win the competition and go to the Euroleague. We have to keep playing well and I think we can do that - play better and better. This team has never been to the Euroleague and want to do this. It is one of the reasons I came to this team - to help Lokomotiv to reach that goal, and hopefully we can achieve it."

Your next game is against Stelmet Zielona Gora. Their best player, Walter Hodge, was your college teammate at Florida for two years. Are you looking forward to seeing him and playing against him?

"Walter is playing very well! He is leading a very tough team. We have to protect our home court but playing against him will be exciting. We know that every game from the Last 16 until the end of the season will be really tough. It will be great to see Walter - we haven't seen each other since we were in college. We will probably have dinner together and stuff like this. Hopefully I will be able to see his family and kids in Poland."

You are seeing more playing time than ever in your professional career. Did you need any kind of adjustment to that?

"No, not at all, I am used to it. I have played this kind of playing time for the best part of my life. I know coming in that I would have a much bigger role in this team. Panathinaikos is one of the best teams in Europe and I was playing behind Dimitris Diamantidis. I am excited to have a bigger role even when I would never take anything out of the years I had with Panathinaikos. This is a new beginning, a new start for me. I had a solid year so far and hopefully I can keep helping this team."

Not a lot of people in Europe know about Lokomotiv and the city of Krasnodar. What can you tell us about it?

"The city is not Athens, but there are things to do. It it just a different city. I have great teammates, which is great. That's always the best part - playing with great teammates. The gym is very nice, I think it holds around 7,000 people. The fans are more calm than in Athens. Overall, it is a different atmosphere than in Panathinaikos, some in a good way. We have good friends, a great organization and a great place. The president wants us to win and that is always interesting. He is doing everything he can to make it happen. It is all you can ask for a club."

Not many players have won the Euroleague and the Eurocup. What would it mean for you to join that list and lead Lokomotiv to the Eurocup title?

"It would be huge - that is our main goal. It would be great for the organization and hopefully we can do it. We can win the Eurocup, go to the Euroleague and play the best competition. We have the team to challenge for the title even when we have to keep getting better and build on each win. We have the players and the coach to do it."


Eurocup Final heads back to Charleroi - by Diamadis Farmakis

Euroleague Basketball has announced that the crowning event of both the 2012-13 and 2013-14 Eurocup seasons, the Eurocup Final, will return to Belgium as the city of Charleroi will again crown the competitions champion for two years in a row. The newest Eurocup champion will lift the trophy at the 6,000-seat RTL Spiroudome, the homecourt of Belgacom Spirou.

The Eurocup Final returns this season to a single-game final format, as it was in the editions played from 2004 to 2007

The finals in those years were also played in Charleroi when the competition was called the ULEB Cup. The Eurocup will celebrate its 11th final on April, 13, 2013 in the most emblematic basketball venue in Belgium, the RTL Spiroudome, after having had successful experiences in Torino, Vitoria, Treviso and Khimki over recent years.

This two-year agreement between Euroleague Basketball and Belgacom Spirou will bring to six the number of finals that will have been played at the emblematic RTL Spiroudome by the end of the 2013-14 season. Previously, four iconic clubs Hapoel Migdal Jerusalem in 2004, Lietuvos Rytas in 2005, Dynamo Moscow in 2006 and Real Madrid in 2007 were crowned Eurocup champions on the RTL Spiroudome floor. Tickets for the Eurocup Finals will go on sale later in this season.

The RTL Spiroudome was opened in 2002. Besides hosting Belgacom Spirou home games in both the Eurocup and the Turkish Airlines Euroleague, it is also a multifunctional venue where top-level events such as concerts, the Paris-Dakar presentation and womens tennis competitions have also been celebrated.

The Eurocup Final will also be broadcasted this season through the Eurocup television partner, Eurosport 2, following the great coverage they are developing during the whole competition.

A press conference to mark the official signing of the agreement will be held next Wednesday, January 30, 2013 at the RTL Spiroudome (Rue de Olympiades,22, Charleroi) at 12:30 local time with the attendance of Mr. Jordi Bertomeu, Euroleague Basketball President and CEO. All media will be more than welcome.


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

Standings

Euroleague Standings
Group E
 1. CSKA 4-0 
 2. Real Madrid 4-0 
 3. Anadolu Efes 3-1 
 4. Panathinaikos 3-1 
 5. Zalgiris 1-3 
 6. Unicaja 1-3 
 7. ALBA 1-4 
 8. Brose Bask. 0-5 
Group F
 1. Montepaschi 4-0 
 2. FCB Regal 4-1 
 3. Caja Laboral 4-1 
 4. Khimky 3-2 
 5. Olympiacos 2-3 
 6. Maccabi T-A 1-4 
 7. Fener.Ulker 1-4 
 8. Besiktas 0-4 
Stage One Standings

Top 16: Round 5

E

Jan. 24: ALBA - Brose Bask. 82-63
Jan. 25: Panathinaikos - Real Madrid
Jan. 25: Anadolu Efes - Zalgiris
Jan. 25: CSKA - Unicaja

F

Jan. 24: Fener.Ulker - Khimky 85-82
Jan. 24: Caja Laboral - FCB Regal 79-90
Jan. 24: Maccabi T-A - Olympiacos 77-78
Jan. 25: Montepaschi - Besiktas


Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Bobby BROWN
  Montepaschi
  (188-PG-84)
  Avg: 21
 1. Brown, Montepaschi21.0 
 2. Nachbar, Brose B.17.7 
 3. Langford, EA7 A.17.0 
 4. Spanoulis, Olympia.16.1 
 5. Weems, CSKA15.7 
 6. Schilb, Chalon15.5 
 7. Jerrells, Besiktas14.8 
 8. Bogdanovic, Fener..14.3 
 9. Farmar, Anadolu14.1 
 10. Bourousis, EA7 A.14.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Aron BAYNES
  Un.Olimpija
  (208-C-86)
  Avg: 9.8
 1. Baynes, Un.Olimpija9.8 
 2. Bourousis, EA7 A.8.3 
 3. Williams, Chalon7.6 
 4. Gordon, Partizan7.5 
 5. Khryapa, CSKA7.1 
 6. Mahalbasic, Asseco6.8 
 7. James, Maccabi T-A6.5 
 8. Hines, Olympiacos6.4 
 9. Lasme, Panathin.6.4 
 10. Sanikidze, Montep.6.1 
Assists Per Game
 Dimitris DIAMANTIDIS
  Panath.
  (196-G-80)
  Avg: 5.9
 1. Diamantidis, Panat.5.9 
 2. Planinic, Khimky5.9 
 3. Brown, Montepaschi5.6 
 4. Spanoulis, Olympia.5.3 
 5. Blassingame, Assec.5.1 
 6. Cook, EA7 Armani5.0 
 7. Teodosic, CSKA4.8 
 8. Farmar, Anadolu4.4 
 9. Tabu-Eboma, Cantu4.2 
 10. Westermann, Parti.4.1 
Steals Per Game
 Ibrahim JAABER
  Zalgiris
  (187-PG-84)
  Avg: 1.9
 1. Jaaber, Zalgiris1.9 
 2. Gordon, Anadolu1.9 
 3. Khryapa, CSKA1.8 
 4. Hickman, Maccabi1.8 
 5. Lucic, Partizan1.6 
 6. Green, Cedevita1.6 
 7. McCalebb, Fener.Ul.1.5 
 8. Cook, EA7 Armani1.4 
 9. Teodosic, CSKA1.4 
 10. Djedovic, ALBA1.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Stephane LASME
  Panathin.
  (203-F-82)
  Avg: 2
 1. Lasme, Panathin.2.0 
 2. Tomic, FCB Regal1.5 
 3. James, Maccabi T-A1.5 
 4. Cusin, Cantu1.4 
 5. Vidmar, Besiktas1.3 
 6. Ress, Montepaschi1.3 
 7. Gordon, Partizan1.1 
 8. Khryapa, CSKA1.1 
 9. Slaughter, Real M.1.1 
 10. Falker, Besiktas1.1 


Interview with Dimitris Itoudis - What is the secret behind 5 Euroleague Championships ? - by Ugur Turker

We have talked with one of the most talented coach in Europe, Dimitris Itoudis. London journey with Pistons, working with Zjeliko Obradovic and headcoaching career that waiting for him...

Ugur Turker : Hello Coach Itoudis, you were in London last week, invited to watch the NBA game played there?
Dimitris Itoudis : Yes, I was invited from Pistons organization ,Joe Dumars specifically and his assistant George David ,to spend with them some days in London and have the opportunity, like this summer, to exchange ideas about basketball.

Ugur Turker : As an expert in Euroleague, how do you see the comparison between the two leagues and could they be combined in any way in the future?

Dimitris Itoudis : First of all I believe that on the organization part the NBA is far ahead from teams in Europe. Of course there are some teams that try to do the best and they have to be the example,but the NBA has match bigger amount of money that invest in order to be all very but very organized.
On the other hand ,regarding basketball as a game, there are differences,but Europe positively has been influential to many NBA teams. I want to say that Basketball ,like Joe Dumars use to say is Universal.
Now, I do see in the future that the two leagues will have a lot of common things. I do really believe that Euroleague 's future is to have a close league like in NBA. This will be the first step. There many other steps to be done ,like the rules for instance or the dimension of the court and some other really important things. I am sure and I know that Mr Bertomeu and his assosiets are thinking how to make the game more interesting and in the future will see this for sure.

Ugur Turker : How do you think top Euroleague teams would perform in the NBA? Is there a way for them to be competitive if they increase their budget by more revenues?

Dimitris Itoudis : Without any question, the Top Euroleague teams could perform well, but they need to support this with the other things we just mention before,regarding the organization.

Ugur Turker : How was the past summer for you? You were approached to head coach by some organizations but you preferred not to accept the offers ?

Dimitris Itoudis : Yes it is true I had some offers, but after 13 very successful years with Panathinaikos ! the way of the approach was not what I was expecting and I didn't agreed. And I want to be clear, it was not the money the issue, but the vision and the plan. You know when one team approach me, I ask them, what are the expectations and the golds. If we can found the chemistry then we can go together.

Ugur Turker : What are your plans for the present and near future?
Dimitris Itoudis : As you probably know I am analyzing Euroleague games officially at Euroleague.net and I am trying to give to people the coach approach to the game. Other than that I am watching basketball ,at different leagues. But also I do have more time to be with my family,that miss me during the season. You know this is my first year I don't work after 22 years continuously. Some times it is good to stay out and watch the things from a different angle.

Ugur Turker : If your plan is to be head coach a Euroleague organization, how would you feel if you had to face up Zjeliko Obradovic as an opponent? What would you tell him before the game?

Dimitris Itoudis : Yes I do plan to be a Head Coach ,but as I said before on a team that have vision and expectations. Now if I am going to face Zeljko ,that will be very strange ,but it will be only during the game, because before and after we will have some good dinners and talks. You know that Zeljko is my Best man and the relation we have is build with very strong bridges.

Ugur Turker : You have won 5 Euroleague championships, what would you say is the secret to go all the way in these championships?

Dimitris Itoudis : Dedication, knowledge, believe, plan,organization,collaboration. All this and one more is hard work with your players, and your staff . The very first thing is that the summer,after you and the management put the targets on the table, to BUILD a winning team. A team that can compete. A team that has players that have golds in their life. That's the first step and it's the most important. After that there are many other details that you have to consider as well.

Ugur Turker : Do you believe that basketball in the court has changed over the last few years with all the changes that happened?

Dimitris Itoudis : Yes and I really hope it will be changed a lot more in order to have better and more exiting games.

Ugur Turker : Can you describe the ideal team for you in terms of the style of basketball and the philosophy it would have?

Dimitris Itoudis : My friend all the teams I was part of and spend hours and hours on the court with, are the ideal teams and ideal players. I was privileged to work with a lot of Top players.

Ugur Turker : Have you followed the Turlkish championship? What do you think is the reason that there have not been any Turkish Club with final four presence in Euroleague in the recent past that Turkish teams havemade so big investements in basketball?

Dimitris Itoudis : Obviously i do follow Turkish league.Turkey last years really invest in Basketball. Has made very good steps ahead. People love basketball like sport. The Turkish league is among the best three leagues in Europe.
I know that the mentality of Turkish people is similar with my country and they want immediate results. I don't blame them ,because this kind of pressure they put is that makes you want to be better. Obviously going to Final Four is not an easy think and definitely at final four they don't go only the teams that invest the more money or they are favourites.



Independent disciplinary judge confirms Olympacos vs. Montepaschi Siena result - by Diamadis Farmakis

Euroleague Basketball's independent disciplinary judge has dismissed the protest concerning a clock malfunction during the final plays of the Turkish Airlines Euroleague Top 16 Week 4 game between Olympiacos Piraeus and Montepaschi Siena on Friday, January 18. The protest was filed by Olympiacos. After having evaluated all the necessary information, the independent judge states in his final decision:

After careful review of the facts, the Disciplinary Judge is of the opinion that, until the final whistle, both teams were unaware of the game clock malfunction and played accordingly

Both teams made use of the advantage given to them by the game clock malfunction.On the one hand, Olympiacos Piraeus had more time to put in place its offensive play, which could have paid off, had Mr Kyle Hines not missed from close range. Olympiacos Piraeus was also granted a time-out (within the litigious time-extension) and could have shot a winning basket. On the other hand, Mr Bobby Brown had more time to adjust his lay-up. In other words, the game clock malfunction was not to the only benefit of one team.

The Disciplinary Judge finds that there are no sporting reasons to order the replay of the game. It would otherwise lead to the unreasonable consequence that, because Olympiacos Piraeus missed its two opportunities to score during the last 10 seconds of the game, it would be given one more chance to change the outcome of the evening.

Such a result would be even less fair as a) it would be achieved through a protest (and not on the playing ground) and b) it was provoked by the defective equipment of Olympiacos Piraeus' own arena.

The very essence of sport is that competition is fair. Its attraction to spectators is the unpredictability of its outcome. In the case at hand and in spite of the game clock malfunction, those requirements are met. None of the teams enjoyed an unfair advantage over the other and the situation was uncertain as Mr Kyle Hines could have scored, Mr Bobby Brown could have missed and/or Olympiacos Piraeus could have successfully shot the last three-pointer.

As a result, the Disciplinary Judge considers that the score registered on the scoresheet is not abnormal and that his intervention in the present matter is not justified, either on factual or legal grounds.

It follows that the protest must be dismissed without any further consideration. This conclusion makes it unnecessary for the Disciplinary Judge to consider the other submissions filed by the parties. Accordingly, all other prayers for relief are rejected.

The Independent Judge also states in his decision the significant differences between this case and the precedent cited by Olympiacos Piraeus, a 2010-11 Eurocup game between BG Goettingen and Besiktas JK Cola Turka, in its official protest :


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

Standings - Korisliiga

Korisliiga Standings
 1. Nilan Bisons 19-5 
 2. Pyrinto 19-6 
 3. KTP 19-6 
 4. Kataja 18-5 
 5. Kauhajoki 15-9 
 6. Kouvot 12-13 
 7. LrNMKY 12-13 
 8. Korihait 8-17 
 9. Lapua 8-17 
 10. Salon Vilpas 7-18 
 11. FoKoPo 6-19 
 12. Namika Lahti 5-20 

Regular Season: Round 26

Jan. 23: KTP - Salon Vilpas 97-82
Jan. 23: Korihait - LrNMKY 91-88
Jan. 23: Nilan Bisons - Kouvot 82-77
Jan. 23: Lapua - FoKoPo 82-73
Jan. 23: Namika Lahti - Pyrinto 61-96
Jan. 25: Kataja - Kauhajoki


Stats Leaders - Korisliiga

Points Per Game
 Jason CONLEY
  LrNM.
  (196-G-81)
  Avg: 22.2
 1. Conley, LrNM.22.2 
 2. Zeno, Nilan Bisons22.2 
 3. Gibson, LrNM.21.6 
 4. Clavell, Kouvot19.8 
 5. Logins, LrNM.18.1 
 6. Haanpaa, Lapua17.8 
 7. Bullock, Kauhajoki17.2 
 8. Flowers, Kataja16.9 
 9. Holloway, Namika L.16.7 
 10. Tolbert, Lapua16.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Ryan MCDADE
  Nilan B.
  (201-F-80)
  Avg: 10.2
 1. McDade, Nilan B.10.2 
 2. Conley, LrNM.9.6 
 3. Ford, Kauhajoki8.4 
 4. Thornton, FoKoPo8.4 
 5. Giles, KTP8.4 
 6. Williams, Pyrinto8.3 
 7. Johnson, Namika L.8.1 
 8. Thorpe, FoKoPo8.0 
 9. Logins, LrNM.8.0 
 10. Dyer, Korihait7.8 
Assists Per Game
 Damon WILLIAMS
  Pyrinto
  (201-F-73)
  Avg: 7.9
 1. Williams, Pyrinto7.9 
 2. Coleman, Lapua5.3 
 3. Smith, Kataja5.1 
 4. Ivey, Nilan Bisons5.0 
 5. Zeno, Nilan Bisons4.7 
 6. Watson, Kauhajoki4.4 
 7. Nikkarinen, Kouvot4.4 
 8. Gibson, LrNM.4.3 
 9. Burgess, FoKoPo4.1 
 10. Virtanen, Kataja3.5 
Steals Per Game
 Jonte FLOWERS
  Kataja
  (196-F/G-85)
  Avg: 2.7
 1. Flowers, Kataja2.7 
 2. Smith, Kataja2.6 
 3. Coleman, Lapua2.6 
 4. Gibson, LrNM.1.9 
 5. Vuori, Kauhajoki1.8 
 6. Williams, Pyrinto1.8 
 7. Holloway, Namika L.1.8 
 8. Conley, LrNM.1.8 
 9. Ulmer, Pyrinto1.7 
 10. Barrett, KTP1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Sefton BARRETT
  KTP
  (196-SF-83)
  Avg: 1.6
 1. Barrett, KTP1.6 
 2. McDade, Nilan B.1.0 
 3. Zeno, Nilan Bisons1.0 
 4. Ford, Kauhajoki1.0 
 5. Ahvenniemi, Pyrinto1.0 
 6. Jones, LrNM.1.0 
 7. Dyer, Korihait0.9 
 8. Giles, KTP0.9 
 9. Hampton, Lapua0.9 
 10. Williams, Pyrinto0.9 


1.DIVISION: New American players in Division 1 - by Rauno Hurmalainen

Division 1 A teams Huima (Aanekoski) and Riento (Saynatsalo) have signed new American players, who are already in Finland. Huima is replacing Kent Tribbett (204-F-86, agency: Prossin Sports Management, college: Drexel) (9,5 ppg - 8,0 rpg) and the newcomer is Cory Abercrombie (201-PF-85, college: Independence CC). Abercrombie has played earlier several seasons (2008-10, 2011-13) in Germany (ProA) and one season (2010-11) in Luxembourg. Tribbett will stay in Finland and has joined BC Jyvaskyla (Division 1 B) roster.
Riento from Saynatsalo has finally three American players. New G Shaquille Johnson (190-G-90, college: Marshall) started last week well, when scoring 26 pts and giving six assists in his first game. Johnson will replace PG C.J. Collins (180-G-88, college: McNeese St.) (17,8 ppg - 3,7 rpg - 1,3 apg). Team's new Big man is Rolando Little (206-F-86, college: Idaho St.), who has played 1,5 seasons (2010-11) in Germany (Regionalliga) and half a season in Kosovo 2012. Little will replace Nicholas Pederson (203-F-85) (22,6 ppg - 9,3 rpg).


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


Rudy Etilopy is a newcomer at Boncourt - by Greg

BC Boncourt Red Team (LNA) strengthened their roster with addition of 25-year old French power forward Rudy Etilopy (208-88). He played recently at Mersey Tigers in British BBL league. In 6 games this season he recorded 14.7ppg, 10.0rpg, 1.0apg, 1.5spg and 1.0bpg. He was on tryouts at Lugano Tigers earlier that season.
Etilopy represented France at the World Championships U19 in Novi Sad (Serbia) six years ago. His team won Bronze and his stats at that event were 9 games: 1.0ppg.
Etilopy has played also professionally in France (teams like Paris-Levallois, ASVEL Lyon-Villeurbanne Basket and JL Bourg) amd Belgium (BC Carnieres).

By Eurobasket Data Center


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


EuroLeague: Alba Berlin battled Brose Baskets Bamberg for the initial success - by Eurobasket News

Alba Berlin - Brose Baskets Bamberg 82:63

Alba Berlin battled Brose Baskets Bamberg for the initial success in EuroLeague Top 16. Alba won 82:63 and improved to 1-4 record in Group E. Brose Baskets Bamberg remained winless at this stage.
Alba Berlin opened the game with 26-14 at the Arena O2 WORLD. Brose Baskets Bamberg meanwhile looked better in the second frame and reduced to 36:34 at the halftime. The third quarter became decisive in the game and brought 28-13 burst for the home side. Alba Berlin added 18-16 in the last stanza for the final success.
Nihad Djedovic (198-F-90, agency: Beo Basket) top-scored for the winners with 20 points and Yassin Idbihi (209-C-83, college: Buffalo) netted 11. DaShaun Wood (185-PG-85, college: Wright St.) and Zach Morley (203-F-83, college: Wisconsin) followed them with 10 points each in a win. Bostjan Nachbar (207-PF-80) replied with 15 points in defeat, whilst Casey Jacobsen (198-G/F-81, college: Stanford) poured in 13. Philipp Neumann (209-C-92) scored 8 and Maik Zirbes (208-C-90) had 7.

Alba Berlin: Nihad Djedovic 20, Yassin Idbihi 11, DaShaun Wood 10, Zach Morley 10
Brose Baskets Bamberg: Bostjan Nachbar 15, Casey Jacobsen 13, Philipp Neumann 8, Maik Zirbes 7


Eric Boateng (New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig) There Are So Many Ways How To Help Effect A Game - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

Eric Boateng (208-C-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Arizona St.) is a 27 year old 208cm center from London England that is playing his third professional season and first in Germany in the Beko BBL with the New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig. He started his basketball career at Duke in 2005-2006. He then transferred to Arizona State in 2006 and played there until 2010. In his senior year, he played : 33 games: 8.8ppg, 7.2rpg, FGP: 66.5%, FT: 54.2%. In 2010-2011, he turned professional playing for the Idaho Stampede (D-League): 17 games: 5.2ppg, 4.9rpg, FGP: 46.1%, FT: 52.9%, in Feb.''11 moved to Austin Toros (D-League): 22 games: 4.9ppg, 4.9rpg. Last season, he played for DASH Peristeri GS Athens (Greece-A1, starting five), left in Jan.''12 because of injury: 7 games: 8.4ppg, 4.1rpg, FGP: 65.7%, FT: 46.4%. He is a member of the british national team and played European Championships in Lithuania -11: 4 games: 1.5ppg, 2.0rpg and at the Olympic Games in London (United Kingdon) -12: 3 games: 4.0ppg, 2.7rpg. He spoke to eurobasket about basketball.

You came very late to the New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig. Were you surprised that it took so long for you to find a team?

No not really. I just took what I got. The Phantoms were interested in my services and I just want to give my best.

You come form London. How have you been getting used to the smaller city of Braunschweig?

It is taking some time. I havent had much time to see my surroundings since It has been going to the gym and back to the apartment. But it is a nice environment in Brausncwehig.

The New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig have had a slow start losing some close games. What have been the reasons for the slow start?

We have had problems executing and sustaining the maximum effort for the whole time in a game and in practice.

What is the first thing that comes to mind when you look up to Nick Schneiders?

That he is tall and is a big presence under the basket.

How would you describe your game?

I just try to do what it takes to help the team win games. I just try to defend hard, rebound and making winning plays.

What is the biggest strength in your game?

There are so many ways how to help effect a game. I just give my all in each game.

What do you like most about the game of Dennis Schroeder?

Dennis has so much talent. He works so hard and just competes each day. This is something that I appreciate when I see a young guy like him doing it.

How do you make Immanuel Mcelroy laugh?

I didnt know that he didnt laugh. He is a very friendly guy and has made me feel very welcome.

What was your childhood like in England?

I had a great childhood in south west London. I really appreciate having my family around and was lucky to have them.

Who were your NBA idols as a kid?

I like to study the game of basketball. I like watching past and present players like Steve Nash, Kevin Mchale, Akeem Olajuhan, and Tim Duncan. There are really so many great players to watch.

What were you able to learn from NBA player Josh Mcroberts from the Orlando Magic?

He always worked hard and continues to do so and that is something I appreciated.

After a year at Duke, you went three years to Arizona State. Why didnt the team ever go far in the NCAA tournament?

We made it to the tournament. And when you look at our record, we won many games my time there.

What will you never forget from the 2012 opening ceremony at the Olympics in London?

Just seeing all the emotions. I am proud of being there and thanks all the coaches and my family for helping get there and experience it.

Who was the greatest athlete that you met there?

I was surrounded by so many incredible athletes. It wasnt only basketball players, but also from other sports like track and field.

Who would win a one on one you or Luol Deng?

I am not sure, but it would be a good game.

What were the most free throws that you made in a row with missing?

My goal after practice is to always make 10-15 in a row.

What has been your most crazy shot in a game that went in?

I always try to finish strong in every game no matter what and try to dunk.

Who was the best opponent that you played against in the NCAA that is in the NBA now?

James Harden was my teammate.

What was the last DVD movie that you watched?

I dont watch many DVDs. I like to read and am currently reading the Steven Jobs autobiography.

Thanks Eric for the chat.



The Artland Dragons Haul In Ex Skyliner Brad Buckman - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

It didnt take 2008 Beko BBL cup winner Artland Dragons long to find a replacement for departed ex NBA player Ryan Gommes by hauling in ex Skyliner Bradley Buckman (203-F-84, college: Texas). Buckman is a 29 year old 203cm forward from Austin, Texas that is playing his seventh professional season and recieved a contract until the end of the season. It is funny that Buckman played his last game for Frankfurt against Artland in 2010 after Gordon herbert chose Joe Dabbert over the American and now Buckman will play his first game as a Dragon against his ex team. Buckman had a strong season in Turkey last season and was promoted this season to the best league in Europe the ACB in Spain and played for Cajasol Banca Civica Sevilla playing five games averaging 5,0ppg and 6,2rpg in 24 minutes per game. "Brad has alot of experience in good leagues in Europe. He can play with his face or back to the basket. We hope that he will give us stability and improve our rebound", expressed Artland Dragons head coach Stefan Koch. Last season he played for Tofas Bursa (Turkey-TBL): 31 games: 13.7ppg, 7.6rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 55.3%, 3PT: 35.4%, FT: 70.7%.

Buckman started his basketball career at Texas in 2002 playing there until 2006 playing a total of 129 NCAA games. In his senior year he played 33 games: 9.5ppg, 7.0rpg, 1.4apg, 1.7bpg, FGP: 43.7%, 3PT: 30.3%, FT: 76.6%. In 2006-2007, he started his professional basketball career for Austin Toros (D-League): 42 games: 6.6ppg, 4.3rpg, FGP: 38%, 3PT: 27.5%, FT: 71.2%. In 2007-2008, he played for Univ Mobitelco Cluj Napoca (Romania-Div.A, starting five): 5 games: 16.0ppg, 7.4rpg, 1.4apg, Blocks-1 (2.6bpg). In 2008-2009, he played for Keravnos Strovolou (Cyprus-Division A): EuroChallenge: 4 games: 4.8ppg, 3.8rpg; Cypriot League: 9.2ppg, 4.5rpg, left team in Dec.'08, in Jan.'09 moved to Altshuler Saham Galil Gilboa (Israel-Premier League): 16 games: 7.3ppg, 4.6rpg, FGP: 52.5%, 3PT: 31.0%, FT: 51.9%. In 2009-2001, he played for Kepez Bld Antalya (Turkey-TBL, starting five): 25 games: 10.3ppg, 6.0rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 59.8%, 3PT: 34.6%, FT: 68.8%. In 2010-2011, he played for Deutsche Bank Skyliners Frankfurt (Germany-1.Bundesliga): German League: 6 games: 8.3ppg, 5.3rpg, FGP: 57.1%, 3PT: 28.6%, FT: 56.0%; EuroCup Qualifying Round: 1 game: 2pts, 1reb, parted ways in Oct.'10, in Jan.'11 moved to Antalya Buyuksehir Belediye (Turkey-TBL): 13 games: 19.6ppg, 9.0rpg, FGP: 56.8%, 3PT: 45.2%, FT: 78.7%. Awards/Achievements in his basketball career have been NCAA Final Four -03, Big 12 Conf. All-Freshman Team -03, Big 12 Regular Season Runner-Up -03, 04, Big 12 Tournament Finalist -04, 06, NCAA Sweet 16 -04, NABC All-NCAA District 9 2nd Team -05
All-Big 12 2nd Team -05, Big 12 Regular Season Champion -06, All-Big 12 3rd Team -06, NCAA Sweet 8 -06, Eurobasket.com All-Romanian League 2nd Team -08, Romanian League Finalist -08, Israeli Premier League Semifinals -09, and Turkish League All-Star Game -12.

Source: Artland Dragons


NBC Welcome Michael Nunnally - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

PRO A team NBC have picked up Michael Nunnally (203-F-86, college: Pacific). Nunnally is a 26 year old 203cm, 103 kilo power forward from Stockton, California. This will be the second time that the American has played in Germany. He played at Pacific (NCAA) and in hiss enior year played 35 games: 7.6ppg, 4.3rpg, FGP: 53.8%, FT: 51.0%. In 2010-2011, he was a rookie and played for UBC Hannover Tigers (Germany-ProA): 30 games: 8.9ppg, 5.2rpg, FGP: 58.8%, FT: 65.8%. Last season he played for Takamatsu Five Arrows (Japan-BJ League, starting five): 31 games: 10.8ppg, 8.9rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 45.7%, FT: 64.4%; in Mar.'12 moved to Nilan Bisons Loimaa (Finland-Korisliiga): 10 games: 8.2ppg, 4.7rpg, FGP: 54.1%, FT: 44.4%. This season he played for Ciclista Juninense (Argentina-TNA): only pre-season, in Nov.'12 signed at Sioux Falls Skyforce (D-League). Awards/Achievements in his career have been HS: all-area honors 03,04, JUCO: co-player of the year in men's basketball-07, Big West Tournament Semifinals -08, 10, Big West Regular Season Co-Champion -10, Finnish League Regular Season Runner-Up -12, and Finnish League Champion -12

Source: NBC


*****************************************************
  GREECE   

Stats Leaders - A1

Points Per Game
 Nikos PAPPAS
  Panionios
  (195-G-90)
  Avg: 18.8
 1. Pappas, Panionios18.8 
 2. Liakopoulos, Panel.17.5 
 3. Gagaloudis, Kavala17.4 
 4. Kiritsis, Ikaros17.1 
 5. Dendy, Kolossos15.6 
 6. Printezis, Olympia.15.2 
 7. McGrath, PA.14.4 
 8. McCollum, Apollo.13.9 
 9. Gibson, Ikaros13.5 
 10. Grant, Apollon13.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 Kevin PALMER
  KAOD
  (198-G/F-87)
  Avg: 9
 1. Palmer, KAOD9.0 
 2. Faye, Ikaros7.9 
 3. Papadopoulos, PAOK7.2 
 4. Jankovic, Panionios7.2 
 5. Michel, KAOD6.8 
 6. Haritopoulos, PAOK6.5 
 7. Asimakopoulo., Aris6.2 
 8. Jones, Ilysiakos6.2 
 9. Kanonidis, Periste.6.2 
 10. Dendy, Kolossos6.1 
Assists Per Game
 Vassilis SPANOULIS
  Olympiacos
  (193-G-82)
  Avg: 5.1
 1. Spanoulis, Olympia.5.1 
 2. Diamantidis, Panat.5.1 
 3. Petroulas, Periste.5.1 
 4. Liakopoulos, Panel.4.8 
 5. Gagaloudis, Kavala4.3 
 6. Grundy, Kavala3.9 
 7. Hatten, Kolossos3.7 
 8. McGrath, PA.3.5 
 9. Pappas, Panionios3.4 
 10. Gibson, Ikaros3.3 
Steals Per Game
 Anthony GRUNDY
  Kavala
  (189-PG-79)
  Avg: 2.6
 1. Grundy, Kavala2.6 
 2. Palmer, KAOD2.4 
 3. Grant, Apollon2.3 
 4. Pappas, Panionios2.0 
 5. Klaiber, Apollon1.7 
 6. Petway, AGOR1.7 
 7. Papanikolaou, Olym.1.6 
 8. Mantzaris, Olympia.1.5 
 9. Pelekanos, Aris1.5 
 10. McCollum, Apollo.1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Brent PETWAY
  AGOR
  (204-F-85)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Petway, AGOR2.5 
 2. Coleman, Kavala1.8 
 3. Michel, KAOD1.8 
 4. Faye, Ikaros1.5 
 5. Lasme, Panathin.1.3 
 6. Scott, Ilysiakos1.2 
 7. Powell, Olympiacos1.1 
 8. Papadopoulos, PAOK1.0 
 9. Charissis, Aris0.9 
 10. Turner, Apollon0.9 


EuroLeague: Vassilis Spanoulis leads Olympiacos to victory in Tel-Aviv - by Eurobasket News

Maccabi Tel-Aviv - Olympiacos 77:78

Vassilis Spanoulis (193-G-82, agency: Beo Basket) hit a jumper with under a minute to go in regulation to put Olympiacos in front 78:77 against Maccabi in Tel-Aviv. The fans then witnessed two misses from Ohayon and one from Devin Smith (196-G/F-83, college: Virginia) as the Reds got away with a dramatic road win. The victory propelled Olympiacos at 2-3 record in Group F. Maccabi continued with their downfall as they slipped at 1-4.
Olympiacos opened the game with five points in a row and dominated throughout the first frame. They gained a 19:9 lead midway through the first quarter. Sloukas made it 30:16 for the visitors late in the term. Maccabi struggled to cut the deficit in the second term. The visitors stayed comfortably on top heading into the dressing room ahead by 11 points 44:33. Maccabi opened the second half with a 7:2 run to narrow the distance. The hosts quickly got within striking distance and shortly after Ohayon put Maccabi in front 56:55. The Israeli team posted a 62:57 lead at the third break. Vassilis Spanoulis and Sloukas opened the fourth frame with back-to-back three-pointers to turn things the Reds way. But not for long as Maccabi regained the lead 74:68 midway through the period. Maccabi entered the final two minutes of regulation up by three points 77:74. But Kyle Hines (198-F-86) converted a layup and then Vassilis Spanoulis followed with a jumper to seal the victory for the Hellenes. Vassilis Spanoulis accounted for 24 points, while Georgios Printezis (206-F-85, agency: FCM) added 16 points and 6 boards for the winning team. Devin Smith answered with 17 points for Maccabi Tel-Aviv. David Logan (185-G-82, college: Indianapolis) chipped in 15 points in the loss.

Maccabi Tel-Aviv: Devin Smith 17, David Logan 15
Olympiacos: Vassilis Spanoulis 24, Georgios Printezis 16, Kyle Hines 9


Independent disciplinary judge confirms Olympacos vs. Montepaschi Siena result - by Diamadis Farmakis

Euroleague Basketball's independent disciplinary judge has dismissed the protest concerning a clock malfunction during the final plays of the Turkish Airlines Euroleague Top 16 Week 4 game between Olympiacos Piraeus and Montepaschi Siena on Friday, January 18. The protest was filed by Olympiacos. After having evaluated all the necessary information, the independent judge states in his final decision:

After careful review of the facts, the Disciplinary Judge is of the opinion that, until the final whistle, both teams were unaware of the game clock malfunction and played accordingly

Both teams made use of the advantage given to them by the game clock malfunction.On the one hand, Olympiacos Piraeus had more time to put in place its offensive play, which could have paid off, had Mr Kyle Hines not missed from close range. Olympiacos Piraeus was also granted a time-out (within the litigious time-extension) and could have shot a winning basket. On the other hand, Mr Bobby Brown had more time to adjust his lay-up. In other words, the game clock malfunction was not to the only benefit of one team.

The Disciplinary Judge finds that there are no sporting reasons to order the replay of the game. It would otherwise lead to the unreasonable consequence that, because Olympiacos Piraeus missed its two opportunities to score during the last 10 seconds of the game, it would be given one more chance to change the outcome of the evening.

Such a result would be even less fair as a) it would be achieved through a protest (and not on the playing ground) and b) it was provoked by the defective equipment of Olympiacos Piraeus' own arena.

The very essence of sport is that competition is fair. Its attraction to spectators is the unpredictability of its outcome. In the case at hand and in spite of the game clock malfunction, those requirements are met. None of the teams enjoyed an unfair advantage over the other and the situation was uncertain as Mr Kyle Hines could have scored, Mr Bobby Brown could have missed and/or Olympiacos Piraeus could have successfully shot the last three-pointer.

As a result, the Disciplinary Judge considers that the score registered on the scoresheet is not abnormal and that his intervention in the present matter is not justified, either on factual or legal grounds.

It follows that the protest must be dismissed without any further consideration. This conclusion makes it unnecessary for the Disciplinary Judge to consider the other submissions filed by the parties. Accordingly, all other prayers for relief are rejected.

The Independent Judge also states in his decision the significant differences between this case and the precedent cited by Olympiacos Piraeus, a 2010-11 Eurocup game between BG Goettingen and Besiktas JK Cola Turka, in its official protest :


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


Former LSU center Geert Hammink named 2013 SEC Legend - by Fred Roggen

BATON ROUGE All-Southeastern Conference center Geert Hammink (212-C-69, agency: Court Side, college: LSU) will represent LSU as part of the 2013 Allstate SEC Basketball Legends that will be honored at the SEC Men's Basketball Tournament March 13-17 at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Tenn.

"The Allstate SEC Basketball Legends Program allows us to honor our past and show everyone why the SEC is one of the nation's premier basketball conferences," said SEC Commissioner Mike Slive.

The 2013 class includes Wimp Sanderson, Alabama; Jerry Carlton, Arkansas; Ronnie Battle, Auburn; Bill Koss, Florida; Tim Bassett, Georgia; Jamal Mashburn, Kentucky; Geert Hammink, LSU; Rahim Lockhart, Ole Miss; Horatio Webster, Mississippi State; Norm Stewart, Missouri; Eddie Fogler, South Carolina; Len Kosmalski, Tennessee; John Beasley, Texas A&M; Mike Rhoades, Vanderbilt.

Each SEC Basketball Legend will be recognized at halftime of his institution's first game at the tournament.

Highlighting the schedule of events at the Sunkist Soda SEC FanFare will be appearances by selected legends. FanFare will be open Thursday-Saturday, March 14-16.

This marks the 15th year of the SEC Basketball Legends program.

Hammink played the 1988-89 season at LSU; redshirted in 1990 and then played 1991-93. The 7-footer from the Netherlands took over the starting center position as a senior after Shaquille O'Neal left for the NBA. Hammink averaged a double double (15.2 ppg, 10.2 rpg) and earned consensus first-team All-SEC honors. Hammink also led the team in field goals made (190) and free throws made (108).

Hammink's son, Shane, is a freshman on the 2012-13 LSU men's basketball team.

LSU's list of legends since the program started in 1999:
1999 Bob Pettit
2000 Durand "Rudy" Macklin
2001 Joe Dean
2002 Ricky Blanton
2003 Pete Maravich
2004 Dale Brown
2005 Bobby Lowther
2006 Collis Temple, Jr.
2007 Dick Maile
2008 Frank Brian
2009 Ethan Martin
2010 Ned Clark
2011 Howard Carter
2012 Kenny Higgs
2013 Geert Hammink

Courtesy: LSUsports.net Courtesy: LSUsports.net


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


U15 Powerhouses at Budapest - by Balazs Radics

After the traditional Vasas Intesa Cup, a new international tournament will be launched by Vasas Academy of Budapest for kids borned 1998 or later. The "MKB Euroleasing International Tournament U15" will be held from January 26 to 28 at Pasaret Sportshall, where five elite teams will play round games with each other: the Serbian Partizan Beograd, KK Podgorica of Montenegro, the Italian AJ Milano, and Stellazzurra Academy of Roma will be hosted by the Hungarian champion. Surely having high level of basketball in the program, so the hosts are waiting with love for all the visitors at Pasaret, Budapest!

program schedule:

january 26.
10:00 KK Podgorica - Vasas Akadmia
12:00 Partizan - Roma
15:30 AJ Milano - KK Podgorica
17:30 Roma - Vasas Akadmia
19:30 Partizan - AJ Milano

january 27.
13:00 Partizan - KK Podgorica
15:00 Vasas Akadmia - AJ Milano
17:00 Roma - KK Podgorica

january 28.
10:00 Partizan - Vasas Akadmia
12:00 Roma - AJ Milano
14:30 Closing Ceremony

The MKB-Euroleasing International Tournament will be followed with another round next week when 1999 borned (U14) players will visit Pasaret.


*****************************************************
  ICELAND   


Jakob Sigurdarson selected the top Icelandic playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

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

Jakob Sigurdarson
Jakob Sigurdarson
   #1. This week's number one is an international point guard Jakob Sigurdarson (192-82, college: Birm.Southern, currently plays in Sweden). He was the major contributor in a Sundsvall Dragons' victory against the fifth-ranked Solna Vikings (15-9) 101-87 in the Swedish Basketligan in Tuesday night's game. Sigurdarson scored 23 points and grabbed 5 rebounds in 38 minutes on the court. Sundsvall Dragons (20-3) is placed first in the Basketligan. It was his team's fourth consecutive victory in a row. It's Sigurdarson's fourth season with the team. He is ranked fifth on the list of the top scorers in the league with 18.0ppg. Sigurdarson also averaged so far 3.0rpg, 3.0apg, 1.1spg, 2FGP: 51.0%, 3FGP: 38.3% and FT: 92.3%(96-104) in the 22 games he played so far. He is currently a member of the Icelandic senior national team.

Hlynur Baeringsson
Hlynur Baeringsson
   #2. Second place goes to an international forward Hlynur Baeringsson (200-82, currently plays in Sweden) is a teammate of previously mentioned Jakob Sigurdarson and both played together in the last Swedish Basketligan game. Baeringsson led Sundsvall Dragons to a victory against the fifth-ranked Solna Vikings (15-9) 101-87. He scored 17 points, grabbed 5 rebounds and dished 5 assists. Baeringsson is currently second on the list of best rebounders. He has very reliable stats this season: 14.5ppg, 10.1rpg, 3.5apg, 1.3spg, 2FGP: 57.2%(99-173), 3FGP: 37.8% and FT: 76.8%. Baeringsson is in the roster of the Icelandic senior national team.

Pavel Ermolinskij
Pavel Ermolinskij
   #3. The Icelandic player who performed third best last week abroad was an international guard Pavel Ermolinskij (202-87, agency: I.D.S. Law, currently plays in Sweden). He contributed to a 1-point Norrkoping Dolphins' victory against one of league's weakest teams Eco Orebro (5-18) 83-82 in the Swedish Basketligan on Friday night. Ermolinskij had a double-double by scoring 12 points and getting 11 rebounds. He also added 8 assists and 3 steals in 31 minutes. Norrkoping Dolphins (16-2) is placed second in the Basketligan. It was his team's fourth consecutive victory in a row. It's Ermolinskij's first season with the team. Ermolinskij is currently third on the list of best passers with 4.8apg. This year his other stats are: 10.7ppg, 6.7rpg, 1.3spg, 2FGP: 52.7%, 3FGP: 35.2% and FT: 80.6% in the 19 games. Ermolinskij is also a member of the Icelandic senior national team.

Axel Karason
Axel Karason
   #4. Small forward Axel Karason (194-83, currently plays in Denmark), who plays in the Danish Ligaen could not help Vaerlose (7-8) in their last game on Wednesday. Despite his very good performance Vaerlose was badly defeated 95-75 at home by the second-ranked Horsens IC. Karason was the top scorer with 20 points. He also added 5 rebounds. Karason has relatively good stats this season: 11.1ppg, 7.1rpg and 1.7apg. He is also Icelandic national team player.

Logi Gunnarsson
Logi Gunnarsson
   #5. International shooting guard Logi Gunnarsson (192-81, currently plays in France), who plays in the French NM1 (third division) was not able to help Angers BC 49 (5-10) in their last game. Despite Gunnarsson's good performance Angers BC 49 was crushed 88-65 on the road by the leading Orchesien BC. He was the second best scorer with 12 points in 31 minutes. It was Angers BC 49's third consecutive loss in a row. This year Gunnarsson has relatively solid stats: 12.2ppg, 2.7rpg and 2.6apg in the 15 games. He plays currently for the Icelandic national team.

Haukur Palsson
Haukur Palsson
   #6. Small forward Haukur Palsson (197-92, college: Maryland, currently plays in Spain) managed to help Assignia Manresa to win against the tenth-ranked Blusens Monbus (9-9) 83-69 in the Spanish ACB on Sunday night. Palsson scored only 2 points. Assignia Manresa (3-15) is placed second from the bottom (#17) in the ACB. They ended the series of four consecutive loses. This season Palsson averages: 1.5ppg and 1.1rpg. He is an international player who is currently on the senior Icelandic National Team roster.

Arnar Jonsson
Arnar Jonsson
   #7. Former international guard Arnar Jonsson (183-83, currently plays in Denmark) was not able to secure a victory for Aarhus BC (5-15) in their game against Bakken (15-5) in the Danish Ligaen. Jonsson recorded only 4 points and added 5 passes in 24 minutes. Aarhus BC lost 65-74 in a derby game to the higher-ranked (#3) Bakken. It was Aarhus BC's eighth consecutive loss in a row. This year Jonsson's overall stats are: 6.4ppg, 2.5rpg, 4.0apg and 1.1spg in the 17 games. He used to play for the Icelandic national team seven years ago.

Gudni Valentinusson
Gudni Valentinusson
   #8. Center Gudni Valentinusson (204-85, currently plays in Denmark) is a teammate of previously mentioned Arnar Jonsson and both played together in the last Danish Ligaen game. Valentinusson couldn't help Aarhus BC (5-15) in their game against Bakken (15-5). He recorded only 4 points. Aarhus BC was defeated 74-65 in a derby game by the higher-ranked Bakken (#3). Valentinusson's total stats this season are: 3.9ppg and 2.1rpg. He used to play for the Icelandic U20 national team back in 2005.

Other top Icelandic players, who play abroad:

Jon Stefansson (196-G-82) plays for CAI Zaragoza in Spanish ACB
Hoerdur Vilhjalmsson (194-PG-88) plays for Mitteldeutscher BC in German BBL
Aske Thorsteinsson (185-SG-86) plays for Aalborg in Danish Ligaen


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  IRAN   

Standings - Superleague

Superleague Standings
 1. Petrochimi 15-1 
 2. Foolad Mahan 13-3 
 3. Mahram 12-3 
 4. Zanjan 9-7 
 5. Azad 7-8 
 6. Gorgan 6-10 
 7. Petrochimi Mahshahr 5-11 
 8. Al Badr 5-11 
 9. Esteghlal 4-12 
 10. Naft Sepahan 3-13 

Regular Season: Round 16

Jan. 24: Mahram - Petrochimi 84-87
Jan. 24: Esteghlal - Al Badr 84-80
Jan. 24: Naft Sepahan - Foolad Mahan 78-102
Jan. 24: Azad - Zanjan 66-67
Jan. 24: Petrochimi Mahshahr - Gorgan 64-74

Regular Season: Round 17

Jan. 28: Gorgan - Al Badr
Jan. 28: Foolad Mahan - Petrochimi Mahshahr
Jan. 28: Zanjan - Esteghlal
Jan. 28: Petrochimi - Azad
Jan. 28: Naft Sepahan - Mahram


BENNY KOOCHOIE comes back to Iran - by Mohammad Amin Maghsoodlou

Azad University Tehran added Iranian-American gaurd Koochoie Benny (190-G-86, college: CS Stanislaus) to help them to end loosing strike , but they lost an other match last night. Azad University Tehran had lost last 5 matches and now thier position at 5th place of the leage is threatened by Shahrdari Gorgan Municipality.
Koochoie Benny had started this season with Jiangsu Nangang Dragons Nanjing (China-CBA) where he got released only after 4 games. Benny averaged 4.5 ppg there.
Benny scored 12points in 34mins in his first match for Azad University Tehran against Zanjan last night when they had lost to Zanjan 67-66.
Koochoie Benny Awards/Achievements:
Team Leading Scorer -01-04
All Central California Conf. 1st Team Selection -02-04
Modesto Bee 2nd Team All Stanislaus District -04
All Central California Conference First Team All-Conference Selection -04
Turlock High School Boys Basketball Team MVP -01-04
Modesto Bee Player of the Week -06
69th Annual Modesto Junior College Basketball Tournament- All Tournament Selection -06
Central Valley Conference Leading Scorer in Conference play. 19ppg -07
All Central Valley Conference First Team All-Conference Selection -07
Team MVP -07
NAIA D1 Sweet 16 -08
CCAA Warrior of the Week (Nov., Jan.) -08
Iranian National Team -09
Iranian University National Team -09
World University Games in Belgrade (Serbia) -09: 6 games: 8.2ppg, 5.2rpg, 1.5apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 40.0%, 3PT: 25.9%, FT: 48.0%
Iranian Superleague Semifinals -10, 11
Iranian Superleague Finalist -12 <<>><<>>


*****************************************************
  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, Moycullen23.5 
 2. Townes, B.Gais N.22.2 
 3. Galvin, UCD Marian21.8 
 4. Taylor, UL Eagles20.7 
 5. Walker, UCC Demons20.1 
 6. Killeen, UL Eagles16.2 
 7. Glover, DCU Saints15.5 
 8. Coughlan, UCC D.13.8 
 9. O''Sullivan, UCC D.13.5 
 10. Summers, Killester13.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 John GALVIN
  UCD Marian
  (203-F-88)
  Avg: 17.4
 1. Galvin, UCD Marian17.4 
 2. Walker, UCC Demons12.8 
 3. Townes, B.Gais N.11.8 
 4. Killeen, UL Eagles11.6 
 5. Sullivan, Moycullen11.5 
 6. Noonan, B.Gais N.8.9 
 7. Quill, DCU Saints7.8 
 8. Foley, UCD Marian7.5 
 9. Tummon, Moycullen7.2 
 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. Coughlan, UCC D.4.8 
 3. Kinevane, UL Eagl.4.5 
 4. Taylor, UL Eagles4.4 
 5. Walsh, B.Gais N.3.9 
 6. Donnelly, DCU S.3.5 
 7. O''Sullivan, UCC D.3.3 
 8. O''Reilly, UCC D.3.0 
 9. McGinn, B.Gais N.2.8 
 10. Anderson, DCU S.2.8 
Steals Per Game
 Robert TAYLOR
  UL Eagles
  (188-G-83)
  Avg: 2.6
 1. Taylor, UL Eagles2.6 
 2. McGinn, B.Gais N.2.5 
 3. Anderson, DCU S.2.2 
 4. Summers, Killester2.1 
 5. Drumm, UCD Marian2.0 
 6. Townes, B.Gais N.1.9 
 7. Donnelly, DCU S.1.9 
 8. Kinevane, UL Eagl.1.9 
 9. Noonan, B.Gais N.1.9 
 10. McLoughlin, B.Gai.1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 John GALVIN
  UCD Marian
  (203-F-88)
  Avg: 2.9
 1. Galvin, UCD Marian2.9 
 2. Walker, UCC Demons2.5 
 3. Stapleton, B.Gais2.1 
 4. Rudak, B.Gais N.1.9 
 5. Townes, B.Gais N.1.7 
 6. Trimmer, DCU S.1.7 
 7. Killeen, UL Eagles1.4 
 8. O''Brien, Killester0.9 
 9. Quigley, UL Eagles0.9 
 10. Sullivan, Moycull.0.6 


Donnie McGrath selected the top Irish playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

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

Donnie McGrath
Donnie McGrath
   #1. This week's number one is former international guard Donnie McGrath (193-84, college: Providence, currently plays in Greece), who plays in the Greek A1. He could not help PAOK (9-4) in their last game. Despite McGrath's good performance PAOK lost 61-71 on the road to the second-ranked Panathinaikos. He recorded 10 points and added 5 assists in 37 minutes on the court. McGrath has relatively good stats this year: 14.4ppg, 2.5rpg, 3.5apg, 2FGP: 60.3%(38-63), 3FGP: 37.7% and FT: 80.5% in the 13 games he played so far. He is a naturalized American. McGrath played for the Irish senior national team five years ago. Strangely he has never played in Ireland.

Colin O'Reilly
Colin O'Reilly
   #2. Second place goes to former international forward Colin O'Reilly (200-84, college: Post, currently plays in United Kingdom). O'Reilly led Plymouth Raiders to a victory against the ninth-ranked Manchester Giants (7-13) 119-115 in the British BBL last Saturday. He recorded a double-double by scoring 17 points and getting 11 rebounds. O'Reilly also added 4 assists. UCP Marjon Plymouth Raiders (12-5) is placed fourth in the BBL. It was his team's fourth consecutive victory in a row. It's O'Reilly's first season with the team. This year he has relatively solid stats: 14.5ppg, 7.1rpg, 3.1apg, 2FGP: 58.0%(69-119), 3FGP: 37.0% and FT: 77.8%. O'Reilly played for the Irish national team in 2009.

Bryan Mullins
Bryan Mullins
   #3. The Irish player who performed third best last week abroad was former international point guard Bryan Mullins (185-87, college: S.Illinois, currently plays in France). He managed to help Chalons-Reims in a victory against the closely-ranked Olympique Antibes (13-6) 82-75 in the French ProB (second division) in Friday night's game. Mullins recorded only 2 points and added 3 assists in 33 minutes. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. Chalons-Reims (14-5) is placed third in the ProB. It was his team's fifth consecutive victory in a row. This year Mullins' overall stats are: 7.7ppg, 2.6rpg, 4.3apg, 1.8spg, 2FGP: 48.1%, 3FGP: 34.7% and FT: 66.7% in the 19 games. He is a naturalized American. Mullins played for the Irish national team four years ago. Apparently he has never played in Ireland.

Sean McCarthy
Sean McCarthy
   #4. Center Sean McCarthy (208-93, currently plays college basketball in the States) was not able to help the NJIT (2-0) in their game against the University of New Orleans (0-0) in the NCAA. He scored only 4 points and grabbed 10 rebounds in 25 minutes. The NJIT was edged in a triple overtime (!!!) 96-94 in New Orleans, LA by the University of New Orleans. This year McCarthy averages just 1.4ppg in the eight games. He used to play for the Irish U16 national team back in 2009.

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

   #1. Levon Kendall (209-F-84, college: Pittsburgh, currently plays in Spain), who plays in the Spanish ACB could not help Blusens Monbus (9-9) to beat Assignia Manresa (3-15). He scored only 4 points, had 10 rebounds and dished 3 assists in 25 minutes. Blusens Monbus lost 69-83 on the road to the one of league's weakest teams (#17) Assignia Manresa. Kendall has reliable stats this year: 12.9ppg, 5.8rpg, 1.8apg and 1.2spg in the 18 games he played so far. He has a dual citizenship: Canadian and Irish.

   #2. Will Hanley (200-G/F-90, agency: Duran International, college: Bowdoin, currently plays in Spain) led Oviedo CB to a victory over one of league's weakest teams Palma (4-9) 83-74 in the Spanish LEB Silver (third division) in Saturday night's game. Hanley was MVP of the game. He scored 15 points and grabbed 9 rebounds; quite an impressive performance considering it's only Hanley's third season in pro basketball. Oviedo Club Baloncesto (9-3) is placed second in the LEB Silver. It was his team's sixth consecutive victory in a row. Hanley is currently first on the league's list of top scorers and also on the list of best rebounders (first place). He has individually a very good season with high stats. Hanley averages: 18.6ppg, 11.2rpg and 1.3spg. He is a naturalized American. Apparently Hanley has never played in Ireland.

   #3. Andrew James Ogilvy (211-C-88, college: Vanderbilt, currently plays in Euroleague) was not able to help Brose Baskets Bamberg (0-4) in their game against Anadolu Efes (3-1) in the Euroleague. He did not have that impressive stats last Thursday. Ogilvy recorded only 2 points in 7 minutes on the court. The seventh-placed Brose Baskets Bamberg was badly defeated 94-76 in Istanbul by the higher-ranked (#3) Anadolu Efes in the group E of Euroleague. So far Brose Baskets Bamberg lost all four games in the Top 16. This year Ogilvy's overall stats are: 4.7ppg and 2.2rpg in the six games. He is another player who holds two passports: Australian and Irish.

   #4. Experienced Tony McCrory (199-G/F-77, college: Simon Fraser, currently plays in Switzerland), who plays in the Swiss LNA was not able to secure a victory for Starwings (3-12) in their last game on Saturday. Despite McCrory's very good performance the bottom-ranked Starwings was crushed 104-52 in Geneve by the second-ranked Lions. He was the top scorer with 16 points. McCrory also added 5 rebounds. There are only three games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be critical. McCrory is one of the most experienced players in a team as it's his fifth year in Starwings' roster. He has reliable stats this season: 12.8ppg, 3.3rpg and 2.7apg. McCrory has both Canadian and Irish nationalities.

   #5. Ben Altit (208-PF-93, agency: Avi Zilberman, college: Bryant, currently plays in Israel) couldn't help Bnei Hasharon (6-8) in their game against Maccabi Ashdod (14-0) in the Israeli Winner League. Altit cannot count Monday's game as one of the best ones. He scored only 2 points. Bnei Hasharon was defeated 86-76 at home by the leading Maccabi Ashdod. This season Altit averages: 1.4ppg.


*****************************************************
  ISRAEL   

Standings - National League

National League Standings
 1. Ironi Nes-Ziona 12-2 
 2. Ironi Nahariya 11-3 
 3. Hapoel Afula 10-4 
 4. Elitzur Yavne 10-4 
 5. Hod Hasharon 10-4 
 6. Ironi K-A 9-5 
 7. Ironi Ramat Gan 8-6 
 8. Hapoel Kazrin 6-8 
 9. Hapoel K/S 5-9 
 10. Macc.B.Yaakov 5-9 
 11. Elitzur Ramla 4-10 
 12. Kiryat Tivon 4-10 
 13. Maccabi K/G 3-11 
 14. Maccabi K/B 1-13 

Regular Season: Round 14

Jan. 23: Hod Hasharon - Maccabi K/G 98-75
Jan. 23: Elitzur Yavne - Kiryat Tivon 92-76
Jan. 23: Ironi K-A - Macc.B.Yaakov 80-68
Jan. 23: Hapoel K/S - Ironi Nahariya 72-99
Jan. 23: Elitzur Ramla - Hapoel Afula 72-68
Jan. 24: Ironi Nes-Ziona - Ironi Ramat Gan 61-60
Jan. 23: Hapoel Kazrin - Maccabi K/B 114-108

Regular Season: Round 15

Jan. 29: Elitzur Yavne - Hapoel K/S
Jan. 29: Maccabi K/B - Elitzur Ramla
Jan. 29: Hapoel Afula - Ironi K-A
Jan. 29: Macc.B.Yaakov - Ironi Nes-Ziona
Jan. 29: Ironi Ramat Gan - Hod Hasharon
Jan. 29: Maccabi K/G - Ironi Nahariya
Jan. 29: Kiryat Tivon - Hapoel Kazrin


Stats Leaders - National League

Points Per Game
 Allen DURHAM
  Hapoel A.
  (198-F-88)
  Avg: 21.8
 1. Durham, Hapoel A.21.8 
 2. Murray, Kiryat T.21.5 
 3. Westbrook, Hapoel21.2 
 4. Odiakosa, Hod H.20.5 
 5. Laing, Macc.B.Y.20.5 
 6. Benn, Ironi N.19.2 
 7. Iram, Macc.B.Y.19.0 
 8. Johnson, Hapoel K.19.0 
 9. Govens, Ironi K-A19.0 
 10. Tamir, Ironi R.19.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Chukwudinma ODIAKOSA
  Hod H.
  (203-F/C-85)
  Avg: 14.8
 1. Odiakosa, Hod H.14.8 
 2. Durham, Hapoel A.13.3 
 3. Jefferson, Elitzu.12.6 
 4. Ramsey, Ironi R.10.8 
 5. Joyner, Maccabi10.1 
 6. Benn, Ironi N.9.5 
 7. Constantine, Hapoe.9.5 
 8. McGhee, Elitzur9.4 
 9. Kazarnovski, Hapoe.9.1 
 10. Clemente, Ironi N.8.9 
Assists Per Game
 Brandon BROOKS
  Hapoel K/S
  (188-G-87)
  Avg: 6.8
 1. Brooks, Hapoel K/S6.8 
 2. Nanikashvili, Iron.6.4 
 3. Fisher, Hapoel Afu.6.3 
 4. Golan, Ironi Nahar.5.3 
 5. Gordon, Hapoel K.4.8 
 6. Grinboim, Ironi R.4.6 
 7. Eliyahu, Macc.B.Y.4.5 
 8. Ber-Aven, Kiryat T.4.5 
 9. Benn, Ironi N.4.3 
 10. Govens, Ironi K-A4.3 
Steals Per Game
 Tomer BER-AVEN
  Kiryat T.
  (196-F/G-92)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Ber-Aven, Kiryat T.2.8 
 2. Benn, Ironi N.2.5 
 3. Ramsey, Ironi R.2.4 
 4. Gordon, Hapoel K.2.3 
 5. McGhee, Elitzur2.1 
 6. Eliyahu, Macc.B.Y.2.1 
 7. Hofman, Elitzur2.1 
 8. Zelkovits, Ironi N.2.1 
 9. Laing, Macc.B.Y.2.0 
 10. Paelay, Elitzur Y.1.9 
Blocks Per Game
 Johndre JEFFERSON
  Elitzu.
  (207-F-88)
  Avg: 3.6
 1. Jefferson, Elitzu.3.6 
 2. Blair, Ironi N.1.7 
 3. Clark, Ironi K-A1.7 
 4. Buchman, Kiryat T.1.4 
 5. Constantine, Hapoe.1.4 
 6. Ramsey, Ironi R.1.2 
 7. Odiakosa, Hod H.1.1 
 8. Durham, Hapoel A.1.0 
 9. Tamir, Ironi R.0.9 
 10. Blayzer, Hapoel A.0.9 


Laing comes back to Elitzur Yavne - by Eurobasket Center

Elitzur Yavne (National League) strengthened their roster with addition of 28-year old American swingman Brian Laing (195-102kg-85, college: Seton Hall, agency: I.D.S. Law). Its actually his comeback to Elitzur Yavne as he played here before. Laing just played at Macc.B.Yaakov (National League). The last season he played for Beer Yaakov (National League). In 13 games this season he recorded very impressive stats: 20.5ppg, 5.2rpg, 2.5apg and 2.0spg. The last season Laing played at Elitzur Yavne. In 25 National League games last year he averaged impressive 21.1ppg, 6.2rpg, 1.5apg and 1.0spg. He helped them to make it to the semifinals. Great season indeed as he was voted to Eurobasket.com All-Israeli National League 1st Team and All-Imports Team.
The previous (10-11) season Laing played at Matrixx Magixx Wijchen (Eredivisie) in Dutch Eredivisie. In 40 games that season he averaged 14.7ppg, 4.2rpg, 1.7apg and 1.2spg. He contributed to his team making it to the semifinals. A very good season in his career as he was voted to Eurobasket.com All-Dutch Eredivisie Honorable Mention.
Laing played in the final of Uruguay LUB in 2010.
He has played also professionally in France (STB Le Havre), Uruguay (Malvin) and D-League (Reno Bighorns).
Laing attended Seton Hall University until 2008 and it will be his fifth season as a professional player.

By Eurobasket Data Center


EuroLeague: Vassilis Spanoulis leads Olympiacos to victory in Tel-Aviv - by Eurobasket News

Maccabi Tel-Aviv - Olympiacos 77:78

Vassilis Spanoulis (193-G-82, agency: Beo Basket) hit a jumper with under a minute to go in regulation to put Olympiacos in front 78:77 against Maccabi in Tel-Aviv. The fans then witnessed two misses from Ohayon and one from Devin Smith (196-G/F-83, college: Virginia) as the Reds got away with a dramatic road win. The victory propelled Olympiacos at 2-3 record in Group F. Maccabi continued with their downfall as they slipped at 1-4.
Olympiacos opened the game with five points in a row and dominated throughout the first frame. They gained a 19:9 lead midway through the first quarter. Sloukas made it 30:16 for the visitors late in the term. Maccabi struggled to cut the deficit in the second term. The visitors stayed comfortably on top heading into the dressing room ahead by 11 points 44:33. Maccabi opened the second half with a 7:2 run to narrow the distance. The hosts quickly got within striking distance and shortly after Ohayon put Maccabi in front 56:55. The Israeli team posted a 62:57 lead at the third break. Vassilis Spanoulis and Sloukas opened the fourth frame with back-to-back three-pointers to turn things the Reds way. But not for long as Maccabi regained the lead 74:68 midway through the period. Maccabi entered the final two minutes of regulation up by three points 77:74. But Kyle Hines (198-F-86) converted a layup and then Vassilis Spanoulis followed with a jumper to seal the victory for the Hellenes. Vassilis Spanoulis accounted for 24 points, while Georgios Printezis (206-F-85, agency: FCM) added 16 points and 6 boards for the winning team. Devin Smith answered with 17 points for Maccabi Tel-Aviv. David Logan (185-G-82, college: Indianapolis) chipped in 15 points in the loss.

Maccabi Tel-Aviv: Devin Smith 17, David Logan 15
Olympiacos: Vassilis Spanoulis 24, Georgios Printezis 16, Kyle Hines 9


Alex Tyus selected the top Israeli playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

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

Alex Tyus
Alex Tyus
   #1. This week's number one is an international center Alex Tyus (205-88, college: Florida, currently plays in Italy), who plays in the Italian SerieA. He could not help Cantu (11-5) in their last game. Despite Tyus' very good performance Cantu lost 79-83 on the road to the lower-ranked (#7) Umana Venezia. He was the top scorer with 15 points. Tyus also added 5 rebounds in 26 minutes on the court; quite an impressive performance considering it's only his second season in pro basketball. It was Cantu's first loss after five consecutive victories. It's Tyus' first year with the team. Tyus has relatively good stats this season: 10.1ppg, 4.8rpg, 1.1bpg, 2FGP: 75.8%(69-91) and FT: 61.5% in the 16 games he played so far. He is a naturalized American. Tyus is currently a member of the Israeli senior national team. He used to play for Maccabi Ashdod in Israeli league.

Yuval Naimy
Yuval Naimy
   #2. Second place goes to an international point guard Yuval Naimy (188-85, currently plays in Eurocup), who plays in Russia. Naimy was not able to help Triumph Lyubertsy (0-3) in their last game on Wednesday. Despite his very good performance the fourth-placed Triumph Lyubertsy was defeated 86-79 in Balikesir by the second-ranked Banvit BK in the group I of Eurocup. Naimy was the second best scorer with 20 points. He also added 3 assists. There are only three games left until the end of the Eurocup Top 16. So now every game will be critical. This season Naimy has relatively solid stats: 10.3ppg, 1.7rpg, 2.1apg, 2FGP: 35.3%. He is in the roster of the Israeli senior national team.

Robert Rothbart
Robert Rothbart
   #3. The Israeli player who performed third best last week abroad was an international center Robert Rothbart (217-86, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group, currently plays in Poland), who plays in the Polish TBL. Rothbart was not able to secure a victory for Start Gdynia (5-12) in their last game. Despite his very good performance Start Gdynia lost 67-80 in Zielona Gora to the second-ranked Stelmet ZG. Rothbart was the top scorer with 21 points. He also added 9 rebounds and made 2 blocks in 26 minutes. Rothbart has reliable stats this year: 13.4ppg, 7.3rpg, 2FGP: 56.1%(87-155) and FT: 62.5% in the 16 games. He has a dual citizenship: Bosnia and Herzegovina and Israeli. Ex-Hapoel Galil Elyon player is also a member of the Israeli senior national team.

Oded Brandwein
Oded Brandwein
   #4. Guard Oded Brandwein (186-88, agency: N.E.T., currently plays in Poland) contributed to an easy victory against the closely-ranked Siarka Jezioro (6-11) crushing them 89-69 in the Polish TBL in Saturday night's game. Brandwein scored 7 points, made 9 passes and 3 steals. Energa Czarni Slupsk (9-8) is placed seventh in the TBL. They ended the series of four consecutive loses. Brandwein's overall stats this season are: 8.4ppg and 3.4apg. He is another player who holds two passports: Israeli and Polish. Brandwein used to play for the Israeli U20 national team back in 2008.

Omri Casspi
Omri Casspi
   #5. International small forward Omri Casspi (204-88, currently plays in NBA) managed to help Cleveland Cavaliers to win against the Boston Celtics (20-21) 95-90 in the NBA on Tuesday night. He scored only 2 points. The Cleveland Cavaliers have not so impressive 11-32 record this season. This year Casspi averages: 4.4ppg and 2.4rpg. He plays currently for the Israeli national team.

Jeremiah Kreisberg
Jeremiah Kreisberg
   #6. Center Jeremiah Kreisberg (208-92, currently plays college basketball in the States) couldn't help the Yale (0-1) in their game against the Brown University (1-0) in the NCAA. Kreisberg recorded 6 points and grabbed 6 rebounds in 22 minutes. The Yale lost 51-65 in Providence, RI to the Brown University. This year Kreisberg's overall stats are: 4.4ppg and 2.4rpg in the 26 games. He is a naturalized American. Kreisberg is a former U20 international player as he played for the Israeli team two years ago. Strangely he has never played in Israel.

Tom Maayan
Tom Maayan
   #7. Former U18 international point guard Tom Maayan (185-93, currently studies in the States) couldn't help the Seton Hall (2-4) in their game against the Marquette University (3-1) in the NCAA. He recorded 5 points and added 3 assists. The Seton Hall was defeated 69-62 in Milwaukee, WI by the Marquette University. It was Seton Hall's fourth consecutive loss in a row. Maayan's total stats this season are: 1.4ppg, 1.9rpg and 1.3apg. He used to play for the Israeli U18 national team two years ago.

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

   #1. Jason Thomas (191-G-82, college: American, currently plays in Sweden) led Boras Basket to an easy victory against the league outsider Nassjo (3-20) 101-83 in the Swedish Basketligan last Thursday. He recorded 13 points and grabbed 7 rebounds in 31 minutes. Boras Basket (16-7) is placed third in the Basketligan. Thomas' stats this year are: 12.5ppg, 6.9rpg and 2.2apg in the 23 games he played so far. He is a naturalized American. Thomas used to play for Ironi Kfar Hamaccabia Ramat Gan in Israeli league.

   #2. Guy Aud (188-G-89, currently plays in Germany), who plays in the German ProA (second division) could not help Finke Baskets (7-11) to beat Cuxhaven BasCats (12-6). He cannot count Friday's game as one of the best ones. Aud scored only 3 points and added 3 passes. Finke Baskets was crushed 103-79 on the road by the much higher-ranked Cuxhaven BasCats (#3). It's Aud's first season with the team. Aud is currently second on the league's list of best passers. He has very reliable stats this season: 10.5ppg, 3.2rpg, 6.3apg and 1.2spg. Aud has a dual citizenship: Israeli and German. Worth to mention Aud played also at Eurobasket Summer League, which helped him get the job in pro basketball.

   #3. Joshua Reisman (188-G-82, college: Gonzaga, currently plays in Mexico) was not able to help Lechugueros (12-28) in their game against Panteras (28-12) in the Mexican LNBP (second division). He cannot count Wednesday's game as one of the best ones. Reisman scored only 2 points in 10 minutes. Lechugueros lost 90-98 in Aguascalientes to the much higher-ranked (#5) Panteras. It was Lechugueros' sixth consecutive loss in a row. This year Reisman's total stats are: 1.4ppg, 1.9rpg and 1.3apg in the seven games. He is a naturalized American. Reisman used to play for Hapoel Holon in Israeli league.


National League Round 14: Ironi Nes-Ziona beats Ironi Ramat Gan by one after a very close game - by Eurobasket News

Seventh-ranked Ironi Ramat Gan (8-6) was very close to win a game against first ranked Ironi Nes-Ziona (12-2) in Nes Ziyona on Thursday. Ironi Nes-Ziona managed to secure only one-point victory 61-60. However their fans expected much easier game. Ironi Nes-Ziona maintains first position with 12-2 record. Ironi Ramat Gan at the other side keeps the seventh place with six games lost. Ironi Nes-Ziona are looking forward to face Beer Yaakov (#10) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Ironi Ramat Gan will play against Hod Hasharon and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Very important is a road loss of second ranked Hapoel Afula (10-4) against twelfth ranked Elitzur Ramla (4-10) on Wednesday night. Visiting Hapoel Afula was defeated by Elitzur Ramla in a tough game in Ramla 68-72. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Hapoel Afula. American players dominated the game. Guard Vernon Teel (193-87, college: Loyola Mary, agency: FCM) had a double-double by scoring 22 points, 16 rebounds and 5 assists to lead the charge for the winners and Johndre Jefferson chipped in 10 points and 11 rebounds during the contest. Forward Allen Durham (198-88, college: Grace Bible) responded with a double-double by scoring 16 points and 11 rebounds. Elitzur Ramla moved-up to eleventh place, which they share with Kiryat Tivon. Hapoel Afula at the other side dropped to the third position with four games lost. They share it with Hod Hasharon and Elitzur Yavne. Elitzur Ramla will play against bottom-ranked Maccabi Kiryat Bialik (#14) on the road in the next round. Hapoel Afula will play against Ironi Kiryat Ata (#6) and hopes to get back on the winning track.
The game in Kfar Saba supposed to be also quite interesting. Third ranked Ironi Nahariya (11-3) played at the court of 8th ranked Hapoel Kfar Saba (5-9). Ironi Nahariya smashed Hapoel Kfar Saba 99-72 on Wednesday. Aviram Zelkovits notched 22 points and 6 rebounds (on 10-of-12 shooting from the field) to lead the effort. Even 21 points, 5 assists and 4 steals by Adir Harush did not help to save the game for Hapoel Kfar Saba. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Ironi Nahariya have an impressive six-game winning streak. They moved-up to second place. Hapoel Kfar Saba lost third consecutive game. They dropped to the ninth position with nine games lost. They share it with Macc.B.Yaakov. Ironi Nahariya will meet Maccabi K/G (#13) in the next round which should be another easy win for them. Hapoel Kfar Saba will play against Elitzur Yavne (#4) and hope to secure a win.

There were no big surprises in other games of round 14: Macc.B.Yaakov was beaten by Ironi K-A on the road 80-68. Hod Hasharon destroyed Maccabi K/G on its own court 98-75. Kiryat Tivon unfortunately lost to Elitzur Yavne in a road game 76-92. Hapoel Kazrin managed to beat Maccabi K/B at home 114-108.
The most impressive performance of 14th round was 35 points (!!!) and 17 rebounds by Gary Johnson of Hapoel Kazrin.

Ironi Nes-Ziona - Ironi Ramat Gan 61-60

Seventh-ranked Ironi Ramat Gan (8-6) was very close to win a game against first ranked Ironi Nes-Ziona (12-2) in Nes Ziyona on Thursday. Ironi Nes-Ziona managed to secure only one-point victory 61-60. However their fans expected much easier game. Ironi Nes-Ziona maintains first position with 12-2 record. Ironi Ramat Gan at the other side keeps the seventh place with six games lost. Ironi Nes-Ziona are looking forward to face Beer Yaakov (#10) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Ironi Ramat Gan will play against Hod Hasharon and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
gschID: 197837


Elitzur Ramla - Hapoel Afula 72-68

Very important is a road loss of second ranked Hapoel Afula (10-4) against twelfth ranked Elitzur Ramla (4-10) on Wednesday night. Visiting Hapoel Afula was defeated by Elitzur Ramla in a tough game in Ramla 68-72. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Hapoel Afula. The hosts started the game with a very strong first quarter 23-11. But Hapoel Afula won second period 18-15. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. American players dominated the game. Guard Vernon Teel (193-87, college: Loyola Mary, agency: FCM) had a double-double by scoring 22 points, 16 rebounds and 5 assists to lead the charge for the winners and forward Johndre Jefferson (207-88, college: S.Carolina) chipped in 10 points and 11 rebounds during the contest. Forward Allen Durham (198-88, college: Grace Bible) responded with a double-double by scoring 16 points and 11 rebounds and guard Anthony Fisher (191-86, agency: Pro One Sports) scored 20 points and 5 assists. Elitzur Ramla moved-up to eleventh place, which they share with Kiryat Tivon. Hapoel Afula at the other side dropped to the third position with four games lost. They share it with Hod Hasharon and Elitzur Yavne. Elitzur Ramla will play against bottom-ranked Maccabi Kiryat Bialik (#14) on the road in the next round. Hapoel Afula will play against Ironi Kiryat Ata (#6) and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Elitzur Ramla: V.Teel 22+16reb+5ast, A.Fisher 13+2reb, J.Jefferson 10+11reb+3ast, I.Rejwan 8+3reb+1ast, T.Simchony 7+1reb, O.Cohen 5+4reb+1ast
Hapoel Afula: A.Fisher 20+4reb+5ast, O.Blayzer 18+3reb+2ast, A.Durham 16+11reb+3ast, S.Brener 7+6reb+2ast, E.Eliyah 7+8reb+2ast, S.Mor-Yosef 0
gschID: 197839


Ironi K-A - Macc.B.Yaakov 80-68

No shocking result in a game when sixth ranked Ironi Kiryat Ata (9-5) beat at home 10th ranked Beer Yaakov (5-9) 80-68 on Wednesday. The game was mostly controlled by Ironi Kiryat Ata. Beer Yaakov managed to win second period 28-24. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Ironi Kiryat Ata dominated down low during the game scoring 52 of its points in the paint compared to Beer Yaakov's 32. Ironi Kiryat Ata forced 22 Beer Yaakov turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists comparing to just 8 passes made by Beer Yaakov's players. American point guard Darrin Govens (185-88, college: St.Joseph's) notched 23 points and 6 assists to lead the effort and the former international power forward Chris Watson (200-75, college: Niagara) supported him with 19 points. Even 21 points and 9 rebounds by American guard Joshua Alexander (193-87, college: SF Austin) did not help to save the game for Beer Yaakov. Naturalized Russian guard Igor Simin (197-84, agency: Avi Zilberman) added 19 points and 5 rebounds for the guests. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Ironi Kiryat Ata have a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain sixth position with 9-5 record. Loser Beer Yaakov dropped to the ninth place with nine games lost. They share the position with Hapoel K/S. Ironi Kiryat Ata will meet higher ranked Hapoel Afula (#3) on the road in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Beer Yaakov will play against the league's leader Ironi Nes-Ziona (#1) in Nes Ziyona and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Ironi K-A: D.Govens 23+3reb+6ast, C.Watson 19+2reb, A.Nanikashvili 9+1reb, K.Izik 9+1reb+3ast, I.Nanikashvili 8+3reb+7ast, G.Halamish 4+4reb+1ast
Macc.B.Yaakov: J.Alexander 21+9reb+1ast, I.Simin 19+5reb+1ast, J.Hall 10+5reb, A.Eliyahu 7+3reb+1ast, S.Kleinmintz 4+2ast, L.Hason 3
gschID: 197838


Hod Hasharon - Maccabi K/G 98-75

Very expected game when 13th ranked Maccabi K/G (3-11) was smashed on the road by fifth ranked Hod Hasharon (10-4) 98-75 on Wednesday. The game was mostly controlled by Hod Hasharon. Maccabi K/G managed to win fourth quarter 27-24. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded Maccabi K/G 44-32 including 32 on the defensive glass. Nigerian power forward Chukwudinma Odiakosa (203-85, college: Illinois St., agency: N.E.T.) notched a double-double by scoring 29 points and 15 rebounds (perfect from the field making all fourteen shots !!!) to lead the effort and forward Offir Hover (198-90) supported him with 14 points and 7 rebounds. Four Hod Hasharon players scored in double figures. Hod Hasharon's coach Roy Hagai felt very confident that he used entire bench which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Even a double-double of 21 points and 13 rebounds by American forward Lenny Daniel (203-87, college: CS Northridge) did not help to save the game for Maccabi K/G. His fellow American import swingman Muhammad El Amin (196-87, college: Stony Brook, agency: Two Points) added 24 points for the guests. Hod Hasharon moved-up to third place, which they share with Elitzur Yavne and Hapoel Afula. Maccabi K/G lost fifth consecutive game. Newly promoted team keeps the thirteenth position with 11 games lost. Hod Hasharon will meet Ironi Ramat Gan (#7) on the road in the next round. Maccabi K/G will play against the league's second-placed Ironi Nahariya (#2) and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Hod Hasharon: C.Odiakosa 29+15reb, B.Walker 15+4reb+2ast, O.Hover 14+7reb+3ast, G.Gendel 11+4reb+3ast, G.Dotan 10+4reb+3ast, E.Asante Asare 9+2reb+3ast
Maccabi K/G: M.El Amin 24+4reb, L.Daniel 21+13reb, Y.Shtarkman 12+3reb+3ast, H.Gonshor 8+2reb+1ast, E.Knafo 4+3reb, D.Peterson 2+4reb
gschID: 197836


Hapoel K/S - Ironi Nahariya 72-99

The game in Kfar Saba supposed to be also quite interesting. Third ranked Ironi Nahariya (11-3) played at the court of 8th ranked Hapoel Kfar Saba (5-9). Ironi Nahariya smashed Hapoel Kfar Saba 99-72 on Wednesday. The game without a history. Ironi Nahariya led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Ironi Nahariya outrebounded Hapoel Kfar Saba 52-23 including a 34-15 advantage in defensive rebounds. Guard Aviram Zelkovits (193-89) notched 22 points and 6 rebounds (on 10-of-12 shooting from the field) to lead the effort and Raviv Pitshon (202-89, agency: Ronsport) supported him with 14 points and 17 rebounds. Four Ironi Nahariya players scored in double figures. Even 21 points, 5 assists and 4 steals by forward Adir Harush (187-90) did not help to save the game for Hapoel Kfar Saba. Guard Raz Elbaz (187-86) added 13 points for the hosts. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Ironi Nahariya have an impressive six-game winning streak. They moved-up to second place. Hapoel Kfar Saba lost third consecutive game. They dropped to the ninth position with nine games lost. They share it with Macc.B.Yaakov. Ironi Nahariya will meet Maccabi K/G (#13) in the next round which should be another easy win for them. Hapoel Kfar Saba will play against Elitzur Yavne (#4) and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Ironi Nahariya: A.Zelkovits 22+6reb+3ast, R.Clemente 22+7reb, N.Miller 15+8reb+4ast, R.Pitshon 14+17reb, Y.Deri 8+3reb+4ast, N.Golan 6+1reb+2ast
Hapoel K/S: A.Harush 21+2reb+5ast, R.Elbaz 13+2reb, O.Cohen 9+2ast, A.Constantine 9+5reb, E.Rotemberg 6, H.Karni 5+3reb+1ast
gschID: 197835


Elitzur Yavne - Kiryat Tivon 92-76

Very predictable result when fourth ranked Elitzur Yavne (10-4) won against at home 11th ranked Kiryat Tivon (4-10) 92-76 on Wednesday. The game was mostly controlled by Elitzur Yavne. Kiryat Tivon managed to win fourth quarter 22-17. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded Kiryat Tivon 52-40 including a 41-28 advantage in defensive rebounds. Naturalized Ukrainian power forward Igor Nesterenko (201-90) notched 25 points and 8 rebounds to lead the effort and American forward Monta McGhee (198-79, college: Lewis, agency: I.D.S. Law) supported him with 13 points, 12 rebounds and 5 assists. Even 29 points and 6 rebounds by American forward Greg Murray (195-89, college: Point Loma) did not help to save the game for Kiryat Tivon. His fellow American import forward Taylor Darby (203, college: Pepperdine) added 21 points and 9 rebounds for the guests. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Elitzur Yavne moved-up to third place, which they share with Hod Hasharon and Hapoel Afula. Loser Kiryat Tivon keeps the eleventh position with ten games lost. They share it with Elitzur Ramla. Elitzur Yavne will meet at home Hapoel Kfar Saba (#9) in the next round where they are favorite. Kiryat Tivon will play against Hapoel Kazrin and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Elitzur Yavne: I.Nesterenko 25+8reb, B.Laing 14+5reb+3ast, O.Farchi 13+6reb+6ast, M.McGhee 13+12reb+5ast, E.Hofman 11+5reb+3ast, Y.Lioutrine 8+9reb
Kiryat Tivon: G.Murray 29+6reb+1ast, T.Darby 21+9reb+1ast, T.Ber-Aven 12+7reb+3ast, S.Farine 10+4reb+6ast, B.Elaph 2, I.Buchman 2+12reb+2ast
gschID: 197834


Hapoel Kazrin - Maccabi K/B 114-108

Not a big story in a game when 14th ranked Maccabi Kiryat Bialik (1-13) lost on the road to ninth ranked Hapoel Kazrin (6-8) 114-108 on Wednesday. However just six-point win is not that big difference and the fans of host team counted on more convincing victory. Hapoel Kazrin made 23-of-28 free shots (82.1 percent) during the game. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 28 assists. American forward Gary Johnson (198-88, college: Texas) notched a double-double by scoring 35 points (!!!) and 17 rebounds to lead the effort and the other American import guard Lawrence Westbrook (183-88, college: Minnesota) supported him with 32 points, 6 rebounds and 8 assists. Even a double-double of 26 points and 10 rebounds by American forward Dallis Joyner (201-90, college: Stony Brook) did not help to save the game for Maccabi Kiryat Bialik. Guard Ziv Tavor (182-75) added 20 points, 7 rebounds and 9 assists for the guests. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Maccabi Kiryat Bialik's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Hapoel Kazrin moved-up to eighth place. Maccabi Kiryat Bialik lost seventh consecutive game. They stay at the bottom position with 13 games lost. Hapoel Kazrin will meet Kiryat Tivon (#12) in the next round. Maccabi Kiryat Bialik will play against Elitzur Ramla.
Top scorers:
Hapoel Kazrin: G.Johnson 35+17reb+3ast, L.Westbrook 32+6reb+8ast, A.Kazarnovski 24+10reb+5ast, A.Gordon 17+6reb+5ast, L.Saraf 5+2reb, L.Schwartzwalt 1+6ast
Maccabi K/B: D.Joyner 26+10reb+3ast, T.Parselani 23+2reb+5ast, S.Labanowski 22+10reb, Z.Tavor 20+7reb+9ast, M.Shamis 7+2reb+4ast, A.Barak 4+1reb
gschID: 197840



Macc.B.Yaakov inks Joshua Alexander, ex RTV 21 - by Eurobasket News

Maccabi Beer Yaakov (National League) agreed terms with 26-year old American guard Joshua Alexander (193-87, college: SF Austin). He just played at KB RTV 21 in Kosovan Liga e pare. The most of last season Alexander spent at Bakken (Ligaen) in Danish Ligaen. In 25 games last year he had very impressive stats: 21.6ppg, 7.0rpg, 1.7apg and 1.8spg. He helped them to win the league title and they also made it to the cup final. Quite impressive season as he was voted Eurobasket.com All-Danish Ligaen Player of the Year, Import Player of the Year and Guard of the Year. Alexander also played at Trefl Sopot (TBL) in Polish TBL earlier that season. But in 25 games he recorded only 0.0ppg, 7.0rpg and 1.7apg.
The list of the past achievements is quite long as he was voted All-Southland Conf. Player of the Year back in 2008 at his college time.
Alexander has played also professionally in Poland (Polonia W-wa).
He attended Stephen F. Austin State University until 2009 and it will be his fourth season as a professional player.

By Eurobasket Data Center


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  IVORY COAST   


Souleyman Diabate's double-double lands him Player of the Week award among Ivorians playing currently abroad - by Eurobasket Center

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

Souleyman Diabate
Souleyman Diabate
   #1. This week's number one is an international point guard Souleyman Diabate (183-87, agency: Beo Basket, currently plays in France), who plays in the French ProA. He could not help Sluc Nancy (7-9) in their last game. Despite Diabate's good performance Sluc Nancy lost 62-72 on the road to the higher-ranked (#8) JDA Dijon. He had a double-double by scoring 10 points and getting the same number of rebounds. Diabate also added 8 assists in 40 minutes on the court. It's Diabate's first season with the team. Diabate is currently first on the list of best passers and also on the list of most steals (first place). He has very reliable stats this year: 14.4ppg, 4.9rpg, 6.5apg, 2.1spg, 2FGP: 48.6%, 3FGP: 30.4% and FT: 83.1% in the 16 games he played so far. Diabate has a dual citizenship: Ivorian and French. He is currently a member of the Ivorian senior national team.

Adjehi Baru
Adjehi Baru
   #2. Second place goes to an international power forward Adjehi Baru (206-91, currently plays college basketball in the States), who plays in the NCAA. Baru was not able to help the Charleston (4-3) in their last game. Despite his good performance the Charleston (#2) lost 68-77 in Davidson, NC to the Davidson College. Baru recorded 13 points and blocked 2 shots in 24 minutes. This year Baru averages: 7.3ppg, 3.8rpg, 2FGP: 56.6%(47-83) and FT: 75.9% in the 16 games. He is in the roster of the Ivorian senior national team.

Errick Craven
Errick Craven
   #3. The Ivorian player who performed third best last week abroad was former international guard Errick Craven (188-83, college: USC, currently plays in France). Craven was not able to secure a victory for Saint Vallier (7-12) in their game against Aix-Maurienne (10-9) in the French ProB (second division). Despite his very good performance in Saturday night's game He was the top scorer with 16 points. Craven also added 4 rebounds and 7 assists. Craven is the league's best passer and also on the list of most steals (second place). This season he has very good stats: 15.0ppg, 5.1rpg, 7.0apg, 2.5spg, 2FGP: 52.9%, 3FGP: 31.7% and FT: 73.3%. Craven is another player who holds two passports: Ivorian and American. He played for the Ivorian national team two years ago.

Pape-Philippe Amagou
Pape-Philippe Amagou
   #4. Guard Pape-Philippe Amagou (185-85, also represented by Beo Basket, currently plays in France) couldn't help Chorale de Roanne (7-9) in their game against Chalon/Saor (10-6) in the French ProA, despite his good performance last Saturday. Amagou was the top scorer with 10 points in 32 minutes. But Chorale de Roanne lost 53-65 on the opponent's court to the much higher-ranked (#4) Chalon/Saor. Amagou has relatively good stats this year: 12.1ppg, 2.1rpg and 3.1apg in the 16 games. He has both Ivorian and French nationalities. Despite Amagou played previously for the French U20 national team, he is currently in the Ivorian national team roster.

Guy Landry Edi
Guy Landry Edi
   #5. International forward Guy Landry Edi (198-86, currently studies 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 7 points. The Gonzaga University has 4-0 conference record this season. So far his team won all four games in the conference. This season Edi has relatively solid stats: 11.3ppg, 8.9rpg and 1.5bpg. He plays currently for the Ivorian national team.

Jonathan Kale
Jonathan Kale
   #6. Forward Jonathan Kale (203-85, college: Providence, currently plays in Spain) couldn't help Leyma Basquet (6-9) in their game against Palencia Baloncesto (9-6) in the Spanish LEB Gold (second division). Kale scored 9 points in 28 minutes. But Leyma Basquet lost 63-69 on the opponent's court to the higher-ranked (#4) Palencia_Baloncesto. It was Leyma Basquet's fourth consecutive loss in a row. Kale has reliable stats this year: 11.5ppg and 5.8rpg in the 15 games. He also holds two passports: Ivorian and American. Kale is a former international player as he played for the Ivorian senior team two years ago.

Wilfrid Aka
Wilfrid Aka
   #7. An experienced international swingman Wilfrid Aka (192-79, currently plays in France) couldn't help one of league's weakest teams Blois (8-7) in their game against Monaco (8-7) in the French NM1 (third division). He scored 8 points, grabbed 5 rebounds and dished 3 assists. Blois was defeated 75-67 on the opponent's court by the higher-ranked Monaco (#7). It was Blois' third consecutive loss in a row. Aka's overall stats this season are: 3.8ppg, 2.4rpg and 1.3apg. He is also Ivorian national team player.

Ismael N'Diaye
Ismael N'Diaye
   #8. Forward Ismael N'Diaye (197-82, college: FIU, currently plays in Switzerland) couldn't help Boncourt (6-8) in their game against Lugano Tigers (9-6) in the Swiss LNA, despite his good performance last Saturday. N'Diaye scored 11 points in 26 minutes. But Boncourt lost 78-89 in Lugano to the higher-ranked (#5) Tigers. There are only three games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be critical. This year N'Diaye's overall stats are: 9.9ppg, 3.7rpg, 2.1apg and 1.6spg in the 14 games. He plays currently for the Ivorian national team.

Frejus Zerbo
Frejus Zerbo
   #9. Former international center Frejus Zerbo (205-89, currently plays in France) couldn't help Limoges CSP Elite (3-11) in their game against Gravelines-Dunkerque (11-5) in the French ProA. Zerbo cannot count Saturday's game as one of the best ones. He recorded only 2 points. Limoges CSP Elite was defeated in an overtime 91-80 on the opponent's court by the much higher-ranked Gravelines-Dunkerque (#3). It was Limoges CSP Elite's third consecutive loss in a row. Zerbo's total stats this season are: 3.1ppg and 2.6rpg. He used to play for the Ivorian national team three years ago.

Charles Abouo
Charles Abouo
   #10. Swingman Charles Abouo (195-89, college: BYU, currently plays in Spain) couldn't help Lobe Huesca (6-9) in their game against Ford Burgos (13-2) in the Spanish LEB Gold (second division). Abouo cannot count Saturday's game as one of the best ones. He scored only 3 points in 23 minutes. Lobe Huesca lost 70-79 at home to the leading Ford_Burgos. This year Abouo's total stats are: 8.5ppg, 5.1rpg and 1.7spg in the 15 games. He is a former international player as three years ago he still played for the Ivorian senior national team.

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

   #1. Alain Koffi (207-C-83, agency: Beo Basket, currently plays in France) contributed to a Le Mans' victory against the league outsider Boulazac Basket (4-12) 77-68 in the French ProA last Saturday. Koffi recorded 6 points and grabbed 4 rebounds. Le Mans Sarthe Basket (11-5) is placed second in the ProA. It was his team's fourth consecutive victory in a row. This season Koffi averages: 7.3ppg and 3.8rpg. He has a dual citizenship: Ivorian and French.

   #2. Kafil Eyitayo (201-F, currently plays in Canada) helped Concordia University win their game against the Gaiters (10-6) 82-68 in the Canadian university league CIS on Saturday night. Eyitayo recorded 8 points, 10 rebounds and 3 blocks. The Concordia University has a solid 5-3 record this season. Eyitayo is one of the most experienced players in a team as it's his fifth year in Concordia University's roster. This season he has relatively solid stats: 11.3ppg, 8.9rpg and 1.5bpg.

   #3. Patrick Konan (198-F-90, currently plays college basketball in the States), who plays in the NCAA could not help the New Hampshire (0-5) in their last game. Despite Konan's good performance the New Hampshire lost 62-68 at home to the University at Albany. He recorded 13 points and grabbed 8 rebounds in 37 minutes. So far New Hampshire lost all five games in the conference This year Konan has relatively solid stats: 11.3ppg, 8.9rpg and 1.5bpg in the eight games he played so far.

   #4. Mohamed Toure (190-G-92, agency: Players Group, currently plays in Italy) managed to help Paffoni Omegna to win against the second-ranked Matera (13-5) 61-44 in the Italian Nazionale A (third division) last Saturday. Toure scored only 1 points. Paffoni Omegna (10-8) is placed eighth in the Nazionale A. It was his team's third consecutive victory in a row. Toure has averaged so far 8.6ppg, 2.1rpg and 1.7apg. He is another player who holds two passports: Ivorian and Italian.

   #5. Rolic Medenouvo (194-F-90, currently plays in France) was not able to help Vendee Challans (5-10) in their game against La Rochelle (9-6) in the French NM1 (third division). Medenouvo cannot count Saturday's game as one of the best ones. He scored only 2 points in 3 minutes on the court. Vendee Challans lost 69-83 on the road to the much higher-ranked (#6) La Rochelle. Medenouvo has averaged so far 3.1ppg and 1.7rpg in the 15 games. He has both Ivorian and French nationalities.


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  JAMAICA   


Roy Hibbert selected the top Jamaican playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

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

Roy Hibbert
Roy Hibbert
   #1. This week's number one is former international center Roy Hibbert (218-86, college: Georgetown, currently plays in NBA). He led Indiana Pacers to a victory against the Houston Rockets (22-22) 105-95 in the NBA in Friday night's game. Hibbert recorded 12 points, 9 rebounds, 3 assists and made 4 blocks in 25 minutes on the court. The Indiana Pacers have a solid 26-17 record this season. It's Hibbert's fifth year with the team. He is ranked fourth on the list of the best blockers in the league with 2.7bpg. Hibbert also averaged so far 9.7ppg, 8.1rpg, 1.4apg, 2FGP: 41.6% and FT: 68.0% in the 43 games he played so far. He is a naturalized American. Hibbert played for the Jamaican senior national team three years ago.

Akeem Scott
Akeem Scott
   #2. Second place goes to an international point guard Akeem Scott (186-83, college: High Point, currently plays in Mexico). He was the major contributor in Pioneros' victory against the 11th-ranked Correcaminos (16-24) 93-87 in the Mexican LNBP (second division) on Wednesday night. Scott scored 15 points, grabbed 5 rebounds and dished 3 assists in 28 minutes. Pioneros de Quintana Roo-Cancun (11-11) is placed fifth in the LNBP. It's Scott's first season with the team. He has relatively good stats this year: 12.6ppg, 3.0rpg, 3.2apg, 1.5spg, 2FGP: 54.8%, 3FGP: 32.8% and FT: 73.8% in the 38 games. Scott is a naturalized American. Worth to mention Scott played also at Eurobasket Summer League, which helped him get the job in pro basketball. He is in the roster of the Jamaican senior national team.

Patrick Ewing Jr.
Patrick Ewing Jr.
   #3. The Jamaican player who performed third best last week abroad was an international forward Patrick Ewing Jr. (203-84, college: Georgetown, currently plays in Spain), who plays in the Spanish ACB. He could not help Blancos de Rueda (7-11) to beat Regal FC Barcelona (10-8). Ewing Jr. scored 7 points in only 11 minutes. Blancos de Rueda lost 82-88 on the road to the much higher-ranked (#6) Regal FC Barcelona. This year Ewing Jr. averages: 3.5ppg in the two games. He is a naturalized American. Ewing Jr. is also a member of the Jamaican senior national team.

Ryan Reid
Ryan Reid
   #4. Power forward Ryan Reid (203-86, college: Florida St., currently plays in France) was not able to help Chorale de Roanne (7-9) in their game against Chalon/Saor (10-6) in the French ProA. He recorded 5 points and grabbed 6 rebounds. Chorale de Roanne was defeated 65-53 on the opponent's court by the much higher-ranked Chalon/Saor (#4). Reid's overall stats this season are: 5.2ppg and 3.5rpg. He is a naturalized American. Reid used to play for the Jamaican national team back in 2011.

Ronald Yates
Ronald Yates
   #5. Former international forward Ronald Yates (201-83, college: St.Peter's, currently plays in Switzerland) managed to help Benetton Fribourg Olympic in a victory against the eighth-ranked BBC Nyon (3-12) crushing them 99-74 in the Swiss LNA in Saturday night's game. Yates scored only 4 points and grabbed 4 rebounds in 11 minutes. Benetton Fribourg Olympic (13-2) is placed first in the LNA. There are only three games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be critical. This year Yates has relatively solid stats: 12.4ppg, 5.7rpg and 2.4apg in the 15 games. He is a naturalized American. Yates used to play for the Jamaican national team three years ago.

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

   #1. Experienced Corey Williams (191-G-77, college: Alabama St., currently plays in Lebanon), who plays in the Lebanese Division A could not help Bejjeh (4-8) in their last game on Wednesday. Despite his very good performance Bejjeh was crushed 107-85 on the road by the higher-ranked Champville (#3). Williams was the top scorer with 28 points. He also added 5 rebounds and 9 assists. The Regular Season already ended. Williams belongs to league's top scorers (ranked #7) and also on the list of most steals (first place). He has individually a very good season with high stats. Williams averages: 23.4ppg, 7.2rpg, 5.3apg and 2.8spg. He is a naturalized American.

   #2. McHugh Mattis (198-F-84, college: S.Florida, currently plays in Mexico) was the major contributor in Abejas' victory against the closely-ranked Huracanes (22-18) 75-57 in the Mexican LNBP (second division) in Friday night's game. Mattis recorded a double-double by scoring 17 points and getting 16 rebounds. He also added 4 assists and 2 blocks. Abejas de Guanajuato (19-21) is placed ninth in the LNBP. Mattis belongs to league's best rebounders (ranked #3) and also on the list of best blockers (second place). This season he has very high stats. Mattis averages: 17.2ppg, 9.1rpg, 1.3apg, 1.6bpg and 1.3spg. He is a naturalized American.

   #3. Garry Gallimore (192-G-84, currently plays in Romania) led Timisoara to a victory against the ninth-ranked Rovinari (9-9) 94-87 in the Romanian Liga Nationala last Saturday. Gallimore scored 12 points and added 4 passes in 31 minutes. BC Timisoara (13-5) is placed third in the Liga Nationala. His team will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And that game will be critical. This year Gallimore averages: 8.8ppg, 2.5rpg and 2.5apg in the four games he played so far. He has a dual citizenship: Jamaican and Canadian. Despite Gallimore's Jamaican passport, he previously played for the Canadian university national team and is probably not eligible to play for the Jamaican team.

   #4. Adrian Uter (200-F/C-84, agency: Gross Zeev ISA, college: Hofstra, currently plays in Israel) was not able to help Maccabi Rishon (6-8) in their game against Maccabi T-A (13-1) in the Israeli Winner League. Uter scored 8 points, grabbed 8 rebounds and dished 3 assists. Maccabi Rishon was crushed 72-49 at home by the leading Maccabi T-A. Uter is ranked third on the list of the best blockers in the league. He has very reliable stats this season: 13.9ppg, 9.2rpg, 1.9apg, 1.4bpg and 1.1spg. Uter is a naturalized American.

   #5. Hugh Robinson (202-C-83, currently plays in Sweden) led Brahe Basket to a victory over the tenth-ranked Hogsbo (5-9) 68-60 in the Swedish Basketettan (second division) on Sunday night. He was MVP of the game. Robinson scored 19 points, had 9 rebounds and made 3 blocks in 21 minutes. Brahe Basket Husqvarna (10-4) is placed second in South group. It was his team's third consecutive victory in a row. Robinson is ranked first on the list of the best blockers in the league with 2.3bpg. This year his other stats are: 13.9ppg, 6.8rpg and 1.2spg in the 14 games.

   #6. Geoff McDermott (203-F-87, agency: Interperformances, college: Providence, currently plays in Spain) managed to help Palencia Baloncesto to win against the eighth-ranked Leyma Basquet 69-63 in the Spanish LEB Gold (second division) in Friday night's game. McDermott scored 5 points and grabbed 8 rebounds. McDermott is currently sixth on the list of best rebounders. His overall stats this season are: 9.1ppg, 6.9rpg, 1.7apg and 1.1spg. McDermott is a naturalized American.

   #7. Sebastian Douglas (193-G-91, currently plays college basketball in the States), who plays in the NCAA was not able to secure a victory for the Cleveland St. (2-5) in their last game. Despite his good performance the Cleveland St. lost 57-69 in Milwaukee, WI to the University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee. Douglas scored 10 points and grabbed 4 rebounds in 26 minutes. This year his overall stats are: 9.1ppg, 6.9rpg, 1.7apg and 1.1spg in the 15 games. Douglas is a naturalized American.

   #8. Sherman Gay (201-PF-82, college: Loyola Mary, currently plays in France) contributed to a Le Portel's victory against the ninth-ranked Fos Ouest 73-67 in the French ProB (second division) on Friday night. He recorded 6 points. Gay belongs to league's best blockers and is ranked #2. This season he has very high stats. Gay averages: 16.3ppg, 6.3rpg and 1.7bpg. He is a naturalized American.

   #9. Neveij Walters (198-F, currently studies in the States) couldn't help the Idaho St. in their game against the Northern Arizona University in the NCAA. He recorded 6 points. His team was defeated 60-55. Walters has reliable stats this season: 12.4ppg, 5.7rpg and 2.4apg.

   #10. Alwayne Bigby (196-G/F-90, is currently at the American university) helped Rhode Island edge in an overtime the Saint Louis University 82-80 in the NCAA on Saturday night. He recorded only 2 points in 6 minutes on the court. Bigby has reliable stats this year: 12.4ppg, 5.7rpg and 2.4apg in the 15 games. He is another player who holds two passports: Jamaican and Canadian.


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  LATVIA   

Standings - LBAL

LBL2 Standings
 1. Saldus 15-2 
 2. BK VEF-LSPA 14-3 
 3. Jelgava/LLU 14-4 
 4. RSU 12-6 
 5. VeA 12-7 
 6. Kvele 10-8 
 7. ViA Riga 10-8 
 8. Ogres 9-9 
 9. VEF skola 7-9 
 10. Livani 6-10 
 11. Gulbene 6-11 
 12. DSN 5-13 
 13. Ridzene 4-12 
 14. Liepaja-2 3-12 
 15. Valmiera BSS 3-16 

Regular Season: Round 23

Jan. 21: VEF skola - Liepaja-2 91-69
Jan. 20: BK VEF-LSPA - DSN 80-64
Jan. 24: Valmiera BSS - Ogres 67-79
Jan. 23: RSU - VeA 63-78
Jan. 21: ViA - Ogres 58-71
Jan. 24: ViA - Jelgava/LLU 56-93
Jan. 23: DSN - Kvele 46-72
Jan. 23: Gulbene - Ridzene 106-82
Jan. 25: Livani - BK VEF-LSPA


Best players of Latvian LBL round 23 - by Eurobasket News

American Tyler Cain (203-F-88) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for league's leader Barons kvartals and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 23.
The 24-year old forward had a double-double of 22 points and sixteen rebounds, while his team beat LU (#8, 8-13) 76-63. It allowed Barons kvartals to jump to the first place in the Latvian LBL. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Barons kvartals has a very solid 12-7 record, but they cannot be too comfortable about keeping top position. Cain turned to be Barons kvartals' top player in his first season with the team. Tyler Cain averages this season 15.9ppg and 11.8rpg.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 36-year old Polish center Michal Hlebowicki (204-C-76) of Jekabpils. Hlebowicki impressed basketball fans with a double-double of 16 points and 14 rebounds. Of course he lead Jekabpils to another comfortable win 91-76 over the lower-ranked Jelgava (#6, 9-10) being unquestionably team leader. Jekabpils' 3rd position in the standings has not changed. His team's 12-8 record is not bad at all. Hlebowicki is a newcomer at Jekabpils and despite he is not a team leader yet, every game he becomes more reliable player. Hopefully performances like the last one will happen more often.

The third best performed player last round was Zanis Peiners (204-G-90, agency: Interperformances) of LU (#8). Peiners scored 26 points. Despite Peiners' great performance LU lost 64-74 to slightly lower-ranked Liepaja (#9, 7-13). But his team cannot count on just a single shooter as he also needs help of the other teammates. The chances of LU 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 eight victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Peiners could try to bring LU's a little bit higher in the standings. Peiners has individually a great season in Latvia. After 21 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 19.3ppg (2nd best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. P.J. Hill jr. (182-PG-87) of Jekabpils - 24 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists
5. Salvis Metra (195-G/F-84) of Barons kvartals - 16 points and 10 rebounds
6. Arturs Bricis (196-SG-92) of Liepaja - 12 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists
7. Arnolds Helmanis (200-PF-92) of Liepaja - 10 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists
8. Ingus Jakovics (185-PG-93) of Liepaja - 19 points and 3 rebounds
9. Jurijs Aleksejevs (202-C-85) of Jekabpils - 8 points, 9 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Kristaps Dargais (198-G-90) of LU - 14 points and 6 rebounds

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)


Janis Strelnieks selected the top Latvian playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

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

Janis Strelnieks
Janis Strelnieks
   #1. This week's number one is an international point guard Janis Strelnieks (191-89, currently plays in VTB United League). He contributed to an easy victory against the eighth-ranked Kalev/Cramo (3-9) crushing them 80-59 in the VTB United League in Sunday night's game. Strelnieks scored 9 points and added 3 passes in 22 minutes on the court. Spartak St.Petersburg (9-2) is placed first in group A. It was his team's third consecutive victory in a row. This year Strelnieks averages: 6.1ppg, 1.3rpg, 3.1apg, 2FGP: 38.7%, 3FGP: 35.5% and FT: 76.9% in the 11 games he played so far. He is currently a member of the Latvian senior national team.

Maris Laksa
Maris Laksa
   #2. Second place goes to former international forward Maris Laksa (205-81, college: Providence, currently plays in Baltic League). Laksa was the major contributor in a BC Rakvere's victory against the fourth-ranked Barsy Atyrau (0-5) crushing them 96-75 in the Baltic League last Wednesday. He scored 20 points and grabbed 6 rebounds. BC Rakvere Tarvas (3-0) is placed first in group G. So far his team won all three games in the Top 16. There are only three games left until the end of the Baltic League Top 16. So now every game will be critical. Laksa has relatively good stats this season: 13.5ppg, 4.5rpg, 2FGP: 39.7%, 3FGP: 36.5% and FT: 76.2%. He played for the Latvian national team in 2003.

Armands Skele
Armands Skele
   #3. The Latvian player who performed third best last week abroad was an international guard Armands Skele (192-83, currently plays in Estonia). Skele led Kalev/Cramo to a victory against the closely-ranked Rapla (7-10) 73-60 in the Estonian KML on Wednesday night. He scored 16 points, had 5 rebounds, passed 3 assists and added 2 blocks in 31 minutes. BC Kalev/Cramo Tallinn (10-5) is placed third in the KML. It was his team's fourth consecutive victory in a row. This year Skele's overall stats are: 8.0ppg, 4.5rpg, 2.0apg, 1.3spg, 2FGP: 63.6%(14-22) in the four games. He is also a member of the Latvian senior national team.

Ernests Kalve
Ernests Kalve
   #4. Forward Ernests Kalve (200-87, currently plays in Adriatic League), who plays in Hungary could not help Szolnok (4-14) in their last game on Saturday. Despite Kalve's good performance the bottom-ranked Szolnok was defeated 78-66 at home by the much higher-ranked Radnicki KG (#6). He was the second best scorer with 11 points. Kalve also added 8 rebounds. It's Kalve's first season with the team. His total stats this year are: 9.1ppg, 3.6rpg and 1.1spg. Kalve used to play for the Latvian national team back in 2010.

Davis Bertans
Davis Bertans
   #5. International small forward Davis Bertans (203-92, currently plays in Adriatic League) contributed to Partizan's victory against the closely-ranked Buducnost (10-8) 63-50 in the Adriatic League last Saturday. He scored 8 points in 22 minutes. BC Partizan MT:S Beograd (12-6) is placed third in the Adriatic League. This year Bertans' total stats are: 8.6ppg and 2.6rpg in the 18 games. He plays currently for the Latvian national team.

Juris Umbrasko
Juris Umbrasko
   #6. An experienced swingman Juris Umbrasko (197-79, currently plays in Baltic League) is a teammate of previously mentioned Maris Laksa and both played together in the last Baltic League game. Umbrasko contributed to an easy victory against the fourth-ranked Barsy Atyrau (0-5) crushing them 96-75. He scored 14 points and grabbed 6 rebounds. This season Umbrasko has relatively solid stats: 13.8ppg, 6.1rpg, 1.2apg and 1.2spg. He is a former international player as he played for the Latvian senior team five years ago.

Janis Blums
Janis Blums
   #7. International shooting guard Janis Blums (191-82, currently plays in VTB United League) contributed to a Lietuvos rytas' victory against the fourth-ranked Unics Kazan (8-4) 87-80 in the VTB United League in Sunday night's game. Blums scored 7 points and added 3 passes in only 12 minutes. Lietuvos Rytas Vilnius (6-6) is placed sixth in group A. Blums has reliable stats this year: 10.6ppg, 1.6rpg, 2.1apg and 1.2spg in the 10 games. He is also Latvian national team player.

Mareks Jurevicus
Mareks Jurevicus
   #8. Swingman Mareks Jurevicus (197-85, currently plays in Italy), who plays in the Italian Lega2 (second division) was not able to help Prima Veroli (5-10) in their last game on Sunday. Despite Jurevicus' very good performance Prima Veroli was defeated 84-73 on the road by the higher-ranked LeGamberi Foods Forlì (#9). He was the second best scorer with 15 points. Jurevicus also added 6 rebounds. Jurevicus' stats this season are: 13.4ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.8apg and 1.5spg. He used to play for the Latvian national team back in 2011.

Ojars Silins
Ojars Silins
   #9. U20 international swingman Ojars Silins (202-93, currently plays in Italy), who plays in the Italian SerieA was not able to secure a victory for Trenkwalder RE (8-8) in their last game. Despite Silins' good performance Trenkwalder RE lost 49-64 in Siena to the higher-ranked (#3) Montepaschi. He was the second best scorer with 10 points (made all of his five free throws) in 23 minutes. Silins has averaged so far 2.2ppg and 2.2rpg in the nine games. He is also in the roster of the Latvian U20 national team.

Edgars Cunda
Edgars Cunda
   #10. Guard Edgars Cunda (195-84, currently plays in Estonia), who plays in the Estonian KML couldn't help Valga (8-9) in their last game on Friday. Despite Cunda's very good performance Valga was crushed 97-71 in Tartu by the leading TU/Rock. He was the second best scorer with 15 points. Cunda also added 8 rebounds and dished 3 assists. Cunda is currently fifth on the list of best passers. He has very reliable stats this season: 11.0ppg, 6.8rpg, 3.9apg and 1.3spg. Cunda is a former U18 international player as eleven years ago he still played for the Latvian national team.

   #11. International point guard Edgars Jeromanovs (186-86, currently plays in EuroChallenge) helped his Swedish team Norrkoping Dolphins edge the closely-ranked Tofas 84-82 in the EuroChallenge last Tuesday. He scored 10 points and added 5 passes in 27 minutes. Jeromanovs averaged so far 11.4ppg, 2.1rpg, 4.3apg and 1.8spg in the eight games. He plays currently for the Latvian national team.

   #12. Former international center Kaspars Cipruss (210-82, currently plays in Ukraine) helped BC Odessa edge one of league's weakest teams Dnipro 83-81 in the Ukrainian Superleague on Friday night. Cipruss scored 10 points and grabbed 7 rebounds. He has averaged so far 5.3ppg, 3.5rpg and 1.3spg. Cipruss used to play for the Latvian national team back in 2008.

   #13. Former international guard Kristaps Valters (190-81, currently plays in Spain) helped Baloncesto Fuenlabrada win their game against the third-ranked Valencia Basket 72-69 in the Spanish ACB in Saturday night's game. He scored 7 points in 27 minutes. Valters has averaged so far 8.1ppg, 2.2rpg, 3.0apg and 1.1spg in the nine games. He used to play for the Latvian national team four years ago.

   #14. Former international center Raitis Grafs (208-81, college: Valparaiso, currently plays in Estonia) is a teammate of previously mentioned Edgars Cunda and both played together in the last Estonian KML game. Grafs couldn't help Valga in their game against TU/Rock. He scored 9 points and grabbed 7 rebounds. His team was crushed by 26 points 97-71. Grafs is currently seventh on the list of best rebounders. This season he has very good stats: 10.5ppg, 6.9rpg and 1.4apg. Grafs used to play for the Latvian national team back in 2010.

   #15. International forward Mareks Mejeris (208-91, agency: Players Group, currently plays in Spain), who plays in the Spanish LEB Gold (second division) couldn't help CB Clavijo (6-9) in their last game. Despite his good performance CB Clavijo was crushed 91-70 on the opponent's court by the league outsider (#14) Melilla_Baloncesto. Mejeris scored 11 points in 21 minutes. He has averaged so far 7.7ppg and 4.7rpg in the 15 games. Mejeris is also in the roster of the Latvian national team.

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

   #1. Martins Berkis (198-F-85, currently plays in Hungary) managed to help Marso NYKK in a victory against the fourth-ranked Soproni (10-6) 69-63 in the Hungarian A Division in Thursday night's game. He scored 5 points, grabbed 4 rebounds and dished 5 assists in 36 minutes. Marso NYKK (7-10) is placed ninth in the A Division. Berkis has individually a very good year with high stats. He averages: 16.2ppg, 5.6rpg, 2.5apg and 1.5spg in the 17 games he played so far.

   #2. Matiss Sakne (191-G-91, currently plays in Denmark), who plays in the Danish Ligaen could not help Horsens IC (16-5) to beat Horsholm (8-7). Sakne cannot count Thursday's game as one of the best ones. He scored only 2 points. Horsens IC was defeated 90-82 at home by the lower-ranked Horsholm (#4). It was Horsens IC's first loss after seven consecutive victories. Sakne has averaged so far 3.6ppg, 1.4rpg and 1.2apg.

   #3. Ugis Promolds (190-G-88, currently plays in Denmark) contributed to SISU's victory against the closely-ranked Horsholm (8-7) 79-73 in the Danish Ligaen on Saturday night. He scored only 4 points in 15 minutes. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. SISU Copenhagen (14-0) is placed first in the Ligaen. So far his team won all fourteen games in the Regular Season. Promolds has averaged so far 1.6ppg and 1.3rpg in the 13 games.

   #4. Edmunds Tukiss (200-SF-89, currently plays in Germany) contributed to a Dragons Rhoendorf's victory against the second-ranked Weissenhorn Youngstars (9-6) 73-67 in the German ProB (third division) on Friday night. He scored only 4 points. It was the game of the round between two top 3 ranked teams in Group South. Dragons Rhoendorf (14-1) is placed first. It was his team's third consecutive victory in a row. Tukiss has averaged so far 8.9ppg and 2.6rpg.

   #5. Martins Abele (216-C-90, currently plays college basketball in the States) was not able to help the Duquesne (0-5) in their game against the Saint Louis University (2-2) in the NCAA. He cannot count Wednesday's game as one of the best ones. Abele scored only 2 points in 17 minutes. The Duquesne lost 64-73 on their home court in Pittsburgh, PA to the Saint Louis University. So far Duquesne lost all five games in the conference Abele has averaged so far 8.9ppg and 2.6rpg in the 14 games.


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


Jonas Maciulis selected the top Lithuanian playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

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

Jonas Maciulis
Jonas Maciulis
   #1. This week's number one is an international swingman Jonas Maciulis (199-85, currently plays in Greece). He led Panathinaikos to a victory over the closely-ranked PAOK (9-4) 71-61 in the Greek A1 in Sunday night's game. Maciulis was MVP of the game. He recorded 15 points, 6 rebounds, 3 assists and 3 steals in 34 minutes on the court. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. Panathinaikos Athens (12-1) is placed first in the A1. It was his team's seventh consecutive victory in a row. This year Maciulis averages: 8.5ppg, 4.2rpg, 1.2apg, 2FGP: 66.7%(26-39), 3FGP: 34.9% and FT: 59.1% in the 13 games he played so far. He is currently a member of the Lithuanian senior national team.

Antanas Kavaliauskas
Antanas Kavaliauskas
   #2. Second place goes to an international center Antanas Kavaliauskas (207-84, agency: Interperformances, college: Texas A&M, currently plays in Eurocup). Kavaliauskas was the major contributor in a VEF Riga's victory against the closely-ranked CEZ Nymburk (1-2) 85-80 in the Eurocup last Wednesday. He scored 15 points and grabbed 5 rebounds. VEF Riga (2-1) is placed second in group J. There are only three games left until the end of the Eurocup Top 16. So now every game will be critical. Kavaliauskas' overall stats this season are: 8.9ppg, 3.9rpg, 2FGP: 63.2%(36-57) and FT: 61.5%. He is in the roster of the Lithuanian senior national team.

Michailis Anisimovas
Michailis Anisimovas
   #3. The Lithuanian player who performed third best last week abroad was former University international center Michailis Anisimovas (214-84, currently plays in Eurocup), who plays in Ukraine. Anisimovas could not help Budivelnyk (2-1) in their last game. Despite his very good performance the first-placed Budivelnyk lost 75-79 at home to the lower-ranked (#3) Buducnost in the group I of Eurocup. Anisimovas was the second best scorer with 17 points. He also added 2 blocks in 29 minutes. They ended the series of five consecutive victories. There are only three games left until the end of the Eurocup Top 16. So now every game is very crucial. It's Anisimovas' fourth season with the team. This year Anisimovas' overall stats are: 9.4ppg, 4.9rpg, 1.1apg, 2FGP: 58.7%(37-63) and FT: 64.7% in the nine games. He has a dual citizenship: Lithuanian and Ukrainian. Former BC Siauliai starter played for the Lithuanian university national team six years ago.

Donatas Zavackas
Donatas Zavackas
   #4. An experienced forward Donatas Zavackas (203-80, college: Pittsburgh, currently plays in VTB United League) is a teammate of previously mentioned Antanas Kavaliauskas. But that was another game of his team in VTB United League which we would like to mention. Zavackas, who plays in Latvia was not able to help VEF Riga (8-4) in their last game on Sunday. Despite his very good performance VEF Riga (#3) was defeated 83-75 on the road by the leading CSKA Moscow in the group B of VTB United League. Zavackas was the top scorer with 16 points. He also added 4 rebounds. It's Zavackas' first season with the team. Zavackas has relatively good stats this year: 10.7ppg, 4.8rpg and 1.3apg. He used to play for the Lithuanian U20 national team back in 2000.

Sarunas Jasikevicius
Sarunas Jasikevicius
   #5. International point guard Sarunas Jasikevicius (192-76, college: Maryland, currently plays in Spain) contributed to a Regal FC Barcelona's victory against the 15th-ranked Blancos de Rueda (7-11) 88-82 in the Spanish ACB last Sunday. Jasikevicius scored 10 points in 24 minutes. Regal FC Barcelona (10-8) is placed sixth in the ACB. This year Jasikevicius' total stats are: 5.6ppg and 1.5apg in the 11 games. He plays currently for the Lithuanian national team.

Mantas Kalnietis
Mantas Kalnietis
   #6. Point guard Mantas Kalnietis (195-86, also represented by Interperformances, currently plays in Eurocup) helped his Russian team Lokomotiv win their game against the fourth-ranked Cajasol (0-3) 87-80 in the Eurocup on Wednesday night. Kalnietis scored 15 points. Lokomotiv Kuban (3-0) is placed first in group K. So far his team won all three games in the Top 16. There are only two games left until the end of the Eurocup Top 16. So now every game will be important. This season Kalnietis has relatively solid stats: 15.0ppg, 3.3rpg and 6.0apg. He is an international player who is currently on the senior Lithuanian National Team roster.

Martynas Gecevicius
Martynas Gecevicius
   #7. Former international guard Martynas Gecevicius (193-88, currently plays in Greece) helped Olympiacos win their game against the tenth-ranked Apollon Patras (5-8) 88-69 in the Greek A1 last Monday. He recorded 8 points. Olympiacos S.F.P. Pireus (13-0) is placed first in the A1. So far his team won all thirteen games in the Regular Season. Gecevicius has averaged so far 9.4ppg, 1.5rpg and 1.2apg. He used to play for the Lithuanian national team two years ago.

Tomas Delininkaitis
Tomas Delininkaitis
   #8. Guard Tomas Delininkaitis (190-82, currently plays in Ukraine) was the main contributor in Cherkasy's victory against the closely-ranked BC Donetsk (13-13) 82-67 in the Ukrainian Superleague on Sunday night. Delininkaitis was the best player in that game. He scored 22 points and added 5 assists in 36 minutes. SK Cherkasy Monkeys (13-13) is placed seventh in the Superleague. The Regular Season already ended. Delininkaitis has reliable stats this year: 15.0ppg, 3.1rpg, 3.2apg and 1.2spg in the 13 games. He plays currently for the Lithuanian national team.

Mantas Cesnauskis
Mantas Cesnauskis
   #9. Former U20 international guard Mantas Cesnauskis (191-81, currently plays in Poland) helped Stelmet ZG win their game against one of league's weakest teams Start Gdynia (5-12) 80-67 in the Polish TBL in Saturday night's game. Cesnauskis scored 7 points and added 8 assists. Stelmet Zielona Gora (12-5) is placed second in the TBL. It was his team's third consecutive victory in a row. Cesnauskis has averaged so far 7.3ppg, 1.9rpg and 2.5apg. He used to play for the Lithuanian U20 national team thirteen years ago.

Evaldas Zabas
Evaldas Zabas
   #10. Point guard Evaldas Zabas (188-88, currently plays in Czech Republic), who plays in the Czech Republic NBL was not able to secure a victory for BK Pardubice (14-7) in their last game. Despite Zabas' very good performance BK Pardubice lost 66-81 on their home court in Pardubice to the leading CEZ Nymburk. He was the top scorer with 20 points in 27 minutes. It was BK Pardubice's first loss after seven consecutive victories. There are only two games left until the end of the Regular Season. Zabas is currently third on the league's list of top scorers with 17.9ppg. This year he also averages: 3.6rpg, 3.1apg and 1.3spg in the 20 games. Zabas is a former U20 international player as five years ago he still played for the Lithuanian national team.

   #11. International small forward Simas Jasaitis (202-82, currently plays in Eurocup) is a teammate of previously mentioned Mantas Kalnietis and both played together in the last Eurocup game. Jasaitis helped his Russian team Lokomotiv win their game against the fourth-ranked Cajasol 87-80. He scored 7 points and grabbed 4 rebounds. Jasaitis averaged so far 11.8ppg, 4.9rpg and 1.7apg. He plays currently for the Lithuanian national team.

   #12. International shooting guard Martynas Pocius (196-86, another player represented by Interperformances, college: Duke, currently plays in Euroleague) managed to help Real Madrid in a victory against the sixth-ranked Unicaja Malaga 72-64 in the Euroleague in Thursday night's game. Pocius recorded only 4 points in 2 minutes on the court. This year he averages just 3.3ppg in the 11 games. Pocius is also in the roster of the Lithuanian national team.

   #13. Former University international center Egidijus Dimsa (205-85, currently plays in Estonia) helped TU/Rock win their game against the fifth-ranked Valga crushing them 97-71 in the Estonian KML last Friday. He scored 7 points and grabbed 9 rebounds. Dimsa has averaged so far 7.7ppg and 5.6rpg. He used to play for the Lithuanian university national team four years ago.

   #14. Former University international forward Osvaldas Matulionis (200-91, currently plays in Estonia) helped KK Parnu edge one of league's weakest teams Tln Kalev 92-91 in the Estonian KML last Friday. Matulionis was the top player that evening. He scored 24 points and added 4 assists in 33 minutes. Matulionis is ranked third on the list of the top scorers in the league with 16.1ppg. This year he also averages: 5.3rpg and 2.1apg in the 15 games. Matulionis used to play for the Lithuanian university national team back in 2011.

   #15. Former international guard Mindaugas Lukauskis (198-79, currently plays in EuroChallenge) couldn't help Tofas in their game against Norrkoping Dolphins in the EuroChallenge. He scored 9 points and added 3 passes. His team was edged 84-82. Lukauskis has averaged so far 8.5ppg and 1.5apg. He used to play for the Lithuanian national team two years ago.

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

   #1. Experienced Christopher Young (206-F/C-79, agency: Court Side, college: Michigan, currently plays in EuroChallenge) led his Belgian team Okapi Aalstar to a victory against the closely-ranked Tsmoki-Minsk (0-2) 91-87 in the EuroChallenge in Wednesday night's game. Young had a double-double by scoring 13 points and getting 11 rebounds. He also added 2 blocks in 25 minutes. Generali Okapi Aalstar (1-1) is placed third in group L. There are only four games left until the end of the EuroChallenge Top 16. So now every game will be critical. Young has averaged so far 9.7ppg and 7.4rpg in the seven games he played so far. He is a naturalized American. Strangely Young has never played in Lithuania.

   #2. Arturas Masiulis (210-C-80, currently plays in United Kingdom) contributed to a Worcester Wolves' victory against one of league's weakest teams Durham Wildcats (5-13) 98-91 in the British BBL on Sunday night. Masiulis had a double-double by scoring 17 points and getting 10 rebounds. He also added 3 blocks in 29 minutes. Worcester Wolves (10-8) is placed sixth in the BBL. Masiulis' stats this year are: 12.9ppg, 7.4rpg and 1.4apg in the 17 games.

   #3. Nik Stauskas (198-G-93, currently plays college basketball in the States) helped Michigan win their game against the Purdue University (3-3) 68-53 in the NCAA in Thursday night's game. He scored 12 points. The University of Michigan has quite an impressive 5-1 conference record this season. Stauskas' stats this year are: 12.9ppg, 7.4rpg and 1.4apg. He has a dual citizenship: Canadian and Lithuanian. Despite Stauskas' Lithuanian passport, he previously played for the Canadian U19 national team and is probably not eligible to play for the Lithuanian team.

   #4. Vytautas Kamarunas (179-PG-89, currently plays in Belarus), who plays in the Belarusian Premier League could not help Tsmoki-Minsk II (7-9) in their last game on Tuesday. Despite Kamarunas' very good performance Tsmoki-Minsk II was defeated 84-73 on the road by the leading Grodno-93. He was the top scorer with 26 points. Kamarunas also added 6 rebounds and dished 3 assists. Kamarunas averaged so far 14.3ppg, 2.7rpg, 5.3apg and 4.0spg.

   #5. Deividas Busma (212-C-87, agency: Two Points, college: Idaho St., currently plays in Spain), who plays in the Spanish LEB Gold (second division) was not able to help CB Clavijo (6-9) in their last game on Friday. Despite his very good performance CB Clavijo was crushed 91-70 on the opponent's court by the league outsider Melilla_Baloncesto (#14). Busma was the second best scorer with 16 points. He also added 7 rebounds. Busma has averaged so far 7.3ppg and 3.3rpg.

   #6. Gabas Maldunas (203-F-93, currently studies in the States) helped Dartmouth win their game against the Colby-Sawyer College crushing them 80-42 in the NCAA last Thursday. He scored 14 points, grabbed 9 rebounds and dished 4 assists in 26 minutes. Maldunas has averaged so far 7.3ppg and 3.3rpg in the eight games.

   #7. Zygimantas Jonusas (200-F-82, currently plays in Italy) was not able to secure a victory for Juvecaserta in their game against Armani Milano in the Italian SerieA. He recorded 7 points. His team was defeated 78-69. Jonusas has averaged so far 8.9ppg, 4.3rpg, 1.1apg and 1.4spg.

   #8. Benas Veikalas (192-G-83, college: Metro St., currently plays in EuroChallenge) couldn't help Telekom Baskets in their game against EWE Baskets in the EuroChallenge. He scored 7 points. His team was badly defeated by 17 points 82-65. Veikalas has averaged so far 8.9ppg, 2.5rpg and 1.8apg.

   #9. Gintaras Leonavicius (194-G-83, agency: Players Group, currently plays in Spain) couldn't help Leche Rio Breogan in their game against River Andorra in the Spanish LEB Gold (second division). He scored 9 points and grabbed 7 rebounds. His team was defeated 77-66. Leonavicius has averaged so far 8.0ppg, 2.5rpg and 2.1apg.

   #10. Nerijus Brasas (200-F-85, currently plays in Denmark), who plays in the Danish Ligaen couldn't help Naestved (11-10) in their last game on Thursday. Despite his good performance Naestved was edged 79-76 in Copenhagen by the leading SISU. Brasas recorded 12 points. Brasas has averaged so far 8.0ppg and 3.7rpg.


*****************************************************
  MALTA   

Standings

Powerade League Standings
 1. Athleta 4-1 
 2. Siggiewi 3-2 
 3. Floriana 3-2 
 4. Bupa 3-2 
 5. Depiro 2-3 
 6. Loyola 0-5 



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


LNBP Round 1 of Quarter-Finals - by Eurobasket News

Soles - Panteras 102-73

Soles pulled ahead in the quarterfinal series versus Panteras. The game without a history. Soles led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 62 of its points in the paint compared to Panteras' 40. Soles forced 19 Panteras turnovers and outrebounded them 40-26 including a 32-21 advantage in defensive rebounds. Panamanian forward Jamelle Horne (200-88, college: Arizona) fired 20 points for the winners. Naturalized American swingman Justin Griffin (194-83, college: Hawaii-Hilo) chipped in 16 points and 4 assists. Griffin is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. Four Soles players scored in double figures. Puerto Rican swingman David Huertas (195-87, college: Mississippi) produced 19 points and Panamanian power forward Antonio Garcia (203-76, college: Ky Wesleyan) added 4 points and 14 rebounds respectively for lost side. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games.
Top scorers:
Soles: J.Horne 20+4reb+2ast, C.Elliott 18+1reb+1ast, J.Griffin 16+4reb+4ast, J.Luis Bucio 12+3reb+1ast, R.Martinez 9+5reb+1ast, K.Gransberry 9+8reb
Panteras: D.Huertas 19+3reb+1ast, F.Verdugo 13+3reb+1ast, K.Malpica 12+1reb+2ast, J.Alfredo Casillas 9, R.Melendez 6+1ast, E.Ayileke 5+3reb+2ast
gschID: 231924


Toros - Pioneros 86-80

Toros opened win count against Pioneros. They claimed victory in the first game at home court. The hosts trailed by 11 points after first quarter, but they rallied back and won the game by 6 points. It was a great shooting night for Toros especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 60.0 percentage. American forward Adrian Henning (203-82, college: Austin Peay St.) fired 17 points and 4 assists for the winners. American-Nigerian forward Ike Ofoegbu (205-85, college: SMU) chipped in 20 points. American point guard Jeremiah Dominguez (168-85, college: Portland St.) produced 13 points and 5 rebounds and Jamaican-American point guard Akeem Scott (186-83, college: High Point) added 12 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists respectively for lost side. Five Pioneros players scored in double figures. Pioneros' coach Josep Claros rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help.
Top scorers:
Toros: I.Ofoegbu 20+3reb+1ast, A.Henning 17+4reb+4ast, W.Pagan 14+4reb+4ast, J.Lopez 11+2reb+1ast, B.Angley 9+2reb+3ast, L.Ellis Vasquez 6+1reb+1ast
Pioneros: H.Hernandez 14+2reb, F.Fisher 13+2reb+4ast, J.Dominguez 13+5reb+3ast, A.Scott 12+5reb+4ast, M.Robertson 10+2reb+2ast, M.Williams 8+5reb+1ast
gschID: 231923


Halc.Rojos - Fuerza Regia 72-58

Halcones Rojos are now 1-0 up on Fuerza Regia in the LNBP quarterfinal best-of-severn series. The hosts trailed by 4 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 2-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 72-58. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Halcones Rojos made 7 blocks. Venezuelan power forward Luis Bethelmy (200-86) fired 23 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. American guard Curtis Stinson (191-83, college: Iowa St.) chipped in 18 points and 5 rebounds. Halcones Rojos' coach Eddie Casiano used entire bench which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. American forward Mo Charlo (201-83, college: Nevada) produced 15 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists and the other American import guard Mario West (195-84, college: Georgia Tech) added 13 points and 5 rebounds respectively for lost side.
Top scorers:
Halc.Rojos: L.Bethelmy 23+8reb+3ast, C.Stinson 18+5reb, L.Davis 9+2reb+1ast, F.Cruz 8+7reb+4ast, D.Pinnock 4+8reb+2ast, I.Gutierrez 3+1reb
Fuerza Regia: M.Charlo 15+7reb+4ast, M.West 13+5reb+2ast, A.Izaguirre 8+9reb+1ast, E.Little 8+5reb+1ast, L.Allred 7+7reb, G.Giron 3+1reb
gschID: 231922


Halc.Xalapa - Abejas 107-82

Halcones Xalapa had little problems en route the win in the opener versus Abejas. The game without a history. Halcones UV Xalapa led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Halcones UV Xalapa outrebounded Abejas 49-35 including a 24-12 advantage in offensive rebounds. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 34 assists comparing to just 21 passes made by Abejas' players. American guard LeRoy Hickerson (196-82, college: Cumberlands) fired 18 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists for the winners. His fellow American import forward Devon Pearson (198-84, college: SMU) chipped in 19 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists. American forward Eugene Phelps (198, college: Long Beach St.) produced a double-double by scoring 34 points (!!!), 11 rebounds and 5 assists and American-Jamaican forward McHugh Mattis (198-84, college: S.Florida) added 14 points and 8 rebounds respectively for lost side. Five Halcones UV Xalapa and four Abejas players scored in double figures. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games.
Top scorers:
Halc.Xalapa: D.Pearson 19+9reb+4ast, L.Hickerson 18+8reb+6ast, O.Mendez-Valdez 14+1reb+4ast, L.Mata 13+7reb+1ast, K.Sowell 13+4reb+4ast, F.Harris 8+1reb+2ast
Abejas: E.Phelps 34+11reb+5ast, S.Pettigrew 15+5reb+4ast, M.Mattis 14+8reb+2ast, C.Castillo 11+2reb+2ast, V.Buelna 2+3reb+5ast, E.Abdu 2+3reb+1ast
gschID: 231921



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  NBA   

Standings

NBA Standings
Eastern Conference
Atlantic Div.
 1. New York K. 26-14 
 2. Brooklyn N. 26-16 
 3. Boston C. 20-22 
 4. Philadelph.76 17-25 
 5. Toronto R. 16-27 
Central Div.
 1. Indiana P. 26-17 
 2. Chicago B. 25-16 
 3. Milwaukee B. 22-18 
 4. Detroit P. 16-26 
 5. Cleveland C. 11-32 
Southeast Div.
 1. Miami Heat 27-12 
 2. Atlanta H. 24-18 
 3. Orlando M. 14-28 
 4. Charlotte B. 10-32 
 5. Washington W. 9-31 
Western Conference
Northwest Div.
 1. Oklah.City T. 33-10 
 2. Denver N. 26-18 
 3. Utah Jazz 23-19 
 4. Portland TB 21-21 
 5. Minnesota T. 17-22 
Pacific Div.
 1. LA Clippers 32-12 
 2. Golden St.W. 26-15 
 3. LA Lakers 17-25 
 4. Sacramento K. 16-27 
 5. Phoenix Suns 15-28 
Southwest Div.
 1. San Antonio S. 34-11 
 2. Memphis G. 27-14 
 3. Houston R. 22-22 
 4. Dallas M. 18-24 
 5. N.Orleans H. 14-28 

Regular Season: Round 85

Jan. 24: Orlando M. - Toronto R. 95-97
Jan. 24: Phoenix Suns - LA Clippers 93-88
Jan. 24: Boston C. - New York K. 86-89

Regular Season: Round 86

Jan. 25: Washington W. - Minnesota T.
Jan. 25: Atlanta H. - Boston C.
Jan. 25: Miami Heat - Detroit P.
Jan. 25: Cleveland C. - Milwaukee B.
Jan. 25: Chicago B. - Golden St.W.
Jan. 25: Memphis G. - Brooklyn N.
Jan. 25: N.Orleans H. - Houston R.
Jan. 25: Dallas M. - San Antonio S.
Jan. 25: Sacramento K. - Oklah.City T.
Jan. 25: LA Lakers - Utah Jazz


Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Kevin DURANT
  Oklah.Ci.
  (206-SF-88)
  Avg: 29.6
 1. Durant, Oklah.Ci.29.6 
 2. Bryant, LA Lakers29.2 
 3. Anthony, New Y.29.1 
 4. James, Miami Heat26.5 
 5. Harden, Houston R.25.8 
 6. Irving, Cleveland23.7 
 7. Westbrook, Oklah..22.7 
 8. Curry, Golden S.20.9 
 9. Aldridge, Portland.20.7 
 10. Wade, Miami Heat20.5 
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 Lakers12.0 
 4. Randolph, Memph.11.6 
 5. Vucevic, Orlan.11.1 
 6. Asik, Houston R.11.0 
 7. Chandler, New Y.10.9 
 8. Hickson, Portland.10.9 
 9. Noah, Chicago B.10.9 
 10. Lee, Golden St.W.10.8 
Assists Per Game
 Rajon RONDO
  Boston C.
  (185-PG-86)
  Avg: 11
 1. Rondo, Boston C.11.0 
 2. Paul, LA Clippers9.7 
 3. Vasquez, N.Orlean.9.2 
 4. Holiday, Philadel.9.0 
 5. Nash, LA Lakers8.6 
 6. Westbrook, Oklah..8.1 
 7. Williams, Brooklyn7.8 
 8. Calderon, Toron.7.5 
 9. Parker, San A.7.4 
 10. Nelson, Orlando M.7.3 
Steals Per Game
 Chris PAUL
  LA Clippers
  (183-PG-85)
  Avg: 2.6
 1. Paul, LA Clippers2.6 
 2. Conley, Memphis G.2.3 
 3. Jennings, Milwauke.2.0 
 4. Lin, Houston R.1.9 
 5. Harden, Houston R.1.9 
 6. Rondo, Boston C.1.9 
 7. Kidd, New York K.1.9 
 8. Westbrook, Oklah..1.9 
 9. Walker, Charlott.1.9 
 10. World Peace, LA L.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. Duncan, San A.2.7 
 4. Hibbert, Indiana P.2.7 
 5. Howard, LA Lakers2.5 
 6. Smith, Atlanta H.2.3 
 7. Lopez, Brooklyn N.2.1 
 8. Noah, Chicago B.2.1 
 9. Gortat, Phoenix1.9 
 10. McGee, Denver N.1.9 


2013 NBA All-Star Reserves Announced - by Eurobasket News

The NBA has announced the reserves for the 2013 All-Star Game in Houston.

Western Conference Reserves
Tony Parker (6'2''-PG-82)
James Harden (6'5''-SG-89, college: Arizona St.)
LaMarcus Aldridge (6'11''-F/C-85, college: Texas)
David Lee (6'9''-F-83, agency: Priority Sports, college: Florida)
Zach Randolph (6'9''-C-81, college: Michigan St.)
Tim Duncan (6'11''-F/C-76, college: Wake Forest)
Russell Westbrook (6'3''-PG-88, college: UCLA)

Eastern Conference Reserves
Paul George (6'9''-G/F-90, college: Fresno St.)
Jrue Holiday (6'3''-PG-90, college: UCLA)
Tyson Chandler (7'1''-C-82)
Chris Bosh (6'11''-F-84, college: Georgia Tech)
Joakim Noah (6'11''-F/C-85, college: Florida)
Luol Deng (6'9''-F-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Duke)
Kyrie Irving (6'3''-G-92, college: Duke)

Fifteen teams have at least one All-Star (Knicks, Heat, Celtics, Bulls, Pacers, 76ers, Blazers, Spurs, Rockets, Warriors and Grizzlies), while 15 teams do not have a representative (Hawks, Nets, Bobcats, Mavericks, Nuggets, Pistons, Bucks, Wolves, Hornets, Magic, Suns, Kings, Raptors, Jazz and Wizards). The 76ers and Cavaliers each sent a Coaches Vote All-Star despite a losing record, while the Lakers and Celtics have two starters despite a sub-.500 record. The Nets, Hawks, Bucks, Nuggets and Jazz all have a record over .500 and no All-Stars. The All-Star starters are LeBron James, Carmelo Anthony, Kevin Garnett, Dwyane Wade, Rajon Rondo, Kobe Bryant, Kevin Durant, Blake Griffin, Dwight Howard and Chris Paul.
Courtesy of: basketball.realgm.com


Raptors, Suns and Knicks with wins on Thursday - by Eurobasket News

Phoenix Suns - LA Clippers 93-88
Goran Dragic scored 19 of his 24 points in the first half and the Phoenix Suns held on to beat the Los Angeles Clippers 93-88 on Thursday night, improving to 2-0 under interim coach Lindsey Hunter. Marcin Gortat (6'11''-C-84) added 15 points, including two free throws with 23.3 seconds left. Luis Scola and Markieff Morris had 14 apiece for the Suns, who had not won two in a row since a season-high, four-game winning streak ended on Dec. 19. Dragic also had eight assists. The Clippers, who lost their third straight, were without Chris Paul for the fifth time in seven games because of a bruised right kneecap. The team is 3-2 without him. Jamal Crawford (6'5''-G-80, college: Michigan) led Los Angeles with 21 points. Eric Bledsoe (6'1''-PG-89, college: Kentucky) scored 15 for Los Angeles and Blake Griffin 12. With the victory, Phoenix pulled out of the cellar in the Western Conference at 15-28 to New Orleans' 14-28. The Clippers slipped to 32-12, 1 1/2 games behind West leaders Oklahoma City and San Antonio. The three-game losing streak is Los Angeles' second-longest of the season. The Suns, who won at Sacramento on Wednesday night, scored six in a row to go up 86-79 on Gortat's layup on a pass from Dragic with three minutes left. But the Clippers reeled off the next six. Bledsoe blocked Dragic's shot and Crawford sank a 3-pointer from the corner to cut the lead to 86-85 with 26 seconds remaining. After Gortat's two free throws with 23 seconds left put Phoenix up 88-85, Crawford was fouled on a drive to the basket, narrowly missing a chance at a game-tying, three-point play. Instead, Crawford, an 88 per cent free throw this season, missed one of two free throws and the Suns led 88-86. Phoenix got the inbounds pass to Shannon Brown, who was fouled on what officials ruled was a clear path to the basket. Brown made both free throws to make it 90-86 with 15.4 seconds left and the Suns retained possession. One free throw by Morris and two by Dragic wrapped up the scoring. Hunter became the fourth coach in Suns history to win his first two games. The other three - Gentry, Scott Skiles and Jerry Colangelo - also did it as midseason replacements. The wins came despite a rocky change of power. Earlier in the day, Elston Turner confirmed he has left the organization after being passed over to replace the fired Alvin Gentry in favour of Hunter, who was director of player development and had never coached before. Dan Majerle also left as an assistant coach after being passed over for the interim job. Dragic scored the final nine Suns points in the first half, the last two on free throws after Clippers coach Vinny Del Negro and Crawford were called for technicals with .3 seconds left to put the Suns up 50-46 at the break. Crawford scored seven straight points, the last two on a drive, to put Los Angeles ahead 62-59 with 4:17 left in the third quarter. Phoenix finished the quarter with a 6-2 spurt to lead 68-66 entering the fourth. Courtesy of: timescolonist.com

Boston C. - New York K. 86-89
BOSTON - There was more passion, more fire, more of everything that Doc Rivers has been imploring the Boston Celtics to bring to the floor for weeks. Sadly, it still wasn't enough as the New York Knicks pulled away in the second half for a 89-86 win. New York pulled ahead 80-70 in the fourth, looking as though they were ready to put the C's away and the Celtics at that point, seemed more than willing to oblige. But the Celtics started making shots, which as we've seen, is usually followed by better defense. It shouldn't be that way, but it is what it is. With Rajon Rondo (6'1''-PG-86, college: Kentucky) leading the way, the C's went on a 12-4 run to come within two points. A tip-in by New York's Tyson Chandler (7'1''-C-82) made it a four-point game, only for Rondo to come back with a pair of free throws to cut New York's lead to 86-84. Rondo was getting it done on the defensive end as well, drawing an offensive foul against Carmelo Carmelo Anthony (6'8''-SF-84, college: Syracuse) with 1:53 to play. The C's couldn't capitalize on the turnover, as the Knicks eventually got a 3-pointer from J.R. Smith with 1:11 to play to lead, 89-84. Smith's shot was huge, but the hero for New York was Carmelo Anthony, who just used and abused the Celtics defenders most of the night with either the pull-up jumper or driving to the basket before finishing with a game-high 28 points. Even with Carmelo Anthony having a big game, Boston had its chances afterward. A Rondo jumper followed by a Jason Kidd miss, gave the Celtics a chance to tie the game with 13.1 seconds to play. Following a Celtics timeout, Paul Pierce lost the ball out of bounds with 7.1 seconds to play. Making matters worse, the C's could not get close enough to any of the Knicks players as time expired, a sequence that reinforced the fact that the C's continue to fail at executing effectively in late-game situations. Pierce led the C's with 22 points -- only 3 in the second half -- while Rondo collected his 27th career triple-double with 23 points, 10 rebounds and 11 assists. Boston (20-22) has now lost five straight for the first time this season, and just the third time (twice last season) since the 2008 title run. With so much attention paid to the post-game events in their Jan. 7 matchup involving Carmelo Anthony and Kevin Garnett, it took much of the attention off what was a game that both teams desperately needed for different Knicks. New York (26-14) came in atop the Atlantic Division by half a game, with the Brooklyn Nets nipping at their heels. The Celtics came in having lost four in a row and were looking to avoid a five-game losing skid. Both teams delivered the kind of high intensity play that kept the game relatively close in the first quarter which ended with the Celtics ahead 24-20. One of the keys to Boston's slim lead was what turned out to be a near-perfect quarter with the C's committing zero turnovers. The second quarter did not go quite as well for the Celtics, with the Knicks going almost exclusively with multiple zone coverages. Rather than attacking the interior of the zone, the C's relied on what they have relied on all season -- jumpers. And has been the case often this season, those shots were off the mark which allowed the Knicks to spend a good chunk of the second quarter with a lead. Boston eventually snapped out of his jump-shooting trance and began to try and score around the basket, or penetrate and kick out for what were open shots. That was hit and miss for the C's, but the driving to the basket led to a surprisingly high number of free throw attempts. But it was New York's work from the free throw line that proved to be the difference in the half, which ended with three made free throws by the Knicks which put them ahead, 50-48, at the half. For Boston, Pierce was having a big night with 19 points in the first half, which was more points scored by the Captain than he had in each of the C's previous four games - all losses. Boston pulled ahead 66-65 on a Jeff Green 3-pointer in the third quarter, but the Knicks closed out the third with a 7-0 run and the C's spent the rest of the game playing from behind. Courtesy of: http://www.csnne.com

Orlando M. - Toronto R. 95-97
The conditions were right for the Orlando Magic to pick up a rare win, but they fell short once again on Thursday, this time to the Toronto Raptors, by a 97-95 final as Demar DeRozan (6'7''-F/G-89, college: USC) drilled a long, fading two-pointer over the defense of Arron Afflalo (6'5''-G-85, college: UCLA) and Glen Davis as time expired. Toronto was playing the second night of a back-to-back following an overtime loss to the Miami Heat on Wednesday, whereas the Magic had the benefit of a day of rest. In addition, Toronto had lost five of its last six. But the Raptors, using a balanced offense and accurate shooting, would take control in the second half and fend off a late Magic rally to complete their four-game sweep of Orlando, their first since the 2006/07 season. The Magic yielded 50 percent shooting, while DeRozan led six Raptors in double-figure scoring with 22 points, including 14 in the fourth. A small, unconventional lineup, featuring Davis at center alongside four guards, helped Orlando turn the tide in the third quarter. A three-point play by Davis brought Orlando within a point at 81-80 with 6:50 to play. Moments later, E'Twaun Moore scooped up a loose ball, and though Jameer Nelson's first shot attempt missed, Davis recovered the offensive rebound and hit a cutting Nelson for a layup to give Orlando an 84-83 lead, its first since the 1:26 mark of the second quarter. A mental error cost Orlando one key possession with 3:04 to play. Under Toronto's basket after a timeout, Moore failed to inbound the ball within five seconds, resulting in a turnover. DeRozan responded with a fading jumper on Toronto's next trip to give the visitors a three-point lead. After a Davis miss, Alan Anderson (6'6''-G/F-82, agency: Priority Sports, college: Michigan St.) scored an easy driving layup to put Toronto up five with 2:09 to go. A four-point play by J.J. Redick (6'4''-G-84, college: Duke) tied the score at 93 with 53 seconds to play, but DeRozan answered with another fading jumper. Moore knotted the score again with a put-back of an Afflalo miss, giving Toronto possession with 20.9 seconds to play. Toronto scored on its first six possessions of the third quarter to build a 62-55 lead. Nearly four minutes elapsed before a short-rimmed Jose Calderon jumper gave the Magic their first defensive stop of the half. One third-quarter play typified the Magic's energy level on the night: off an out-of-bounds play, Amir Johnson launched a long two-pointer with six-tenths of a second remaining on the shot clock. As the shot was in the air, Johnson and three other Raptors retreated to get back defensively. The rebound landed between Magic players Maurice Harkless, Jameer Nelson, and Nikola Vuevi, but Ed Davis--the lone Raptor not sprinting back in transition--came up with the loose ball to keep the possession alive. Toronto was the team on the second night of a back-to-back, but one wouldn't know it based on its energy and approach. A long three-pointer by rookie Terrence Ross, off the dribble with the shot-clock winding down, gave the Raptors a 10-point lead, their largest of the night, with 1:16 to go in the third. A free throw by Vuevi marked the only scoring for either team for the remainder of the period, giving Toronto a nine-point edge. The officials changed Ross' basket to a three-pointer after a video review between the third and fourth quarters. The game was close, if not exciting, in the first half: the Raptors led by just one point at halftime, 48-47, and the game featured 10 lead changes and seven ties to that point. Nikola Vuevi had 14 points on 7-of-10 shooting despite hardly having any plays called for him: he went 5-of-6 on tip-ins and layups in the half. Moore, too, made his presence felt: the second-year player drove to the basket and drew three fouls, setting a new career-high with six free-throw attempts in the half alone. But, in a familiar story, Orlando's defense suffered because it failed to force turnovers or wall off the paint. Like Vuevi, Johnson feasted as a finisher inside, scoring 14 of his own on 6-of-10 shooting. Coming off a miserable night against the Detroit Pistons on Tuesday, some of Glen Davis' fortunes changed against the Raptors. He shot 3-of-5 before halftime for six points and he snared three rebounds as well, but he also picked up three fouls and drew a technical foul, his third of the season, for getting physical with Raptors center Aaron Gray. After referees whistled Davis for his third foul, the veteran big man tossed his hands into the air and walked away, muttering to himself, before approaching official David Jones to discuss the play. Later in the quarter, Davis lingered on Orlando's bench while his teammates huddled with coach Jacque Vaughn during a timeout. Davis did eventually join the huddle, but his frustration was plain to see. Davis' night soured just 43 seconds into the second half, when he picked up another foul trying to take a charge against Johnson. To make matters worse, Johnson made the shot, leading to an and-one situation. Vaughn kept Davis in the game. Courtesy of: http://www.orlandopinstripedpost.com


Champion Miami Heat scheduled to visit Obama - by Diamadis Farmakis

The Miami Heat will be in suits and ties when they visit the White House on Monday. Unless, of course, someone invites them to play some ball. After all, President Barack Obama does enjoy some pickup games. "Everybody will bring their shoes -- just in case," Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said.

The basketball-fan-in-chief will be providing his personal congratulations to the Heat on Monday, when the team picks up one of the traditional perks of winning a championship

Miami will fly to Washington after playing in Boston on Sunday night, then remain in the city for parts of two days before heading back north for a game in Brooklyn on Wednesday night

"I've never been to the White House," Heat forward Mike Miller said. "It'll definitely be an interesting experience that I've always wanted to do."

The White House says Obama also will recognize the franchise's support of military members. The Heat will meet with wounded soldiers during their trip to Washington.
Honoring soldiers who have served in Iraq and Afghanistan has been a pregame tradition at Heat home games for several years, part of team president Pat Riley's program called "Home Strong."

"It's the pinnacle of the things that we've been able to experience together," Spoelstra said of the White House visit. "Thankfully we have the majority of the team back. I think it's a great experience and a culmination of that year for our organization."

When the Heat last visited the White House after winning the 2006 title, then-President George W. Bush attempted to dribble a ball that Heat players had signed. Problem was, the ball wasn't exactly inflated - and fell to the floor with a thud.

"It's always cool to be able to go," Heat guard Dwyane Wade said. "It's special any time you get invited to the White House, but especially to go as champions, it doesn't get any better than that."

Several members of the Heat organization, including Wade and LeBron James (6'8''-SF-84), openly voiced support for Obama's re-election campaign last year.


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

NBLC Standings

NBL Canada Standings
 1. London L. 22-3 
 2. Summerside S. 16-10 
 3. Oshawa P. 16-11 
 4. Moncton M. 15-16 
 5. Halifax R. 13-14 
 6. St.John M.R. 12-15 
 7. Windsor Exp. 10-15 
 8. Montreal J. 2-22 

Regular Season: Round 24

Jan. 24: St.John M.R. - Moncton M. 133-122 OT
Jan. 23: Oshawa P. - Montreal J. 127-102
Jan. 24: Summerside S. - London L. 116-97
Jan. 24: Halifax R. - Windsor Exp. 110-82

Regular Season: Round 25

Jan. 25: Montreal J. - Oshawa P.
Jan. 25: Summerside S. - Halifax R.
Jan. 25: St.John M.R. - Windsor Exp.
Jan. 25: Moncton M. - London L.


Recap of latest games in the League - by Eurobasket News

Summerside S. - London L. 116-97
The Storm posted a 116-97 victory over the National Basketball League of Canada-leading London Lightning, who came into Summerside with an overall record of 23-2 (won-lost) and a 9-0 resume on the road. 'I'm very pleased,' said Storm head coach Joe Salerno. 'This was going to be a measuring stick for us, playing the best team in the league.' The Atlantic Division-leading Storm improved to 16-10 in what can be described as a bounce-back game before an announced crowd 1,353 fans. It was the Storm's first game since allowing a 20-point halftime lead to evaporate in a 117-114 home-court loss to the Oshawa Power on Sunday afternoon. 'We had 31 assists, we were moving the ball,' said Salerno in assessing his team's play against London. 'I thought Brandon Robinson (6'6''-F-89, college: Clayton St.) played one of the best games he's played for us all season. 'He had 36 points, 12 rebounds, six assists and just hit tough shots. We had a steady production out of our starting five, and we extended their minutes a little more tonight (Thursday). 'We didn't go to the bench quite as much tonight, but when we did I thought the bench came in and played well also. 'We wanted to push the tempo, and I thought we were very good in transition. I thought we made good decisions, and most of that started on the glass.' Omari Johnson (6'9''-F-89, college: Oregon St.) (24), Greg Plummer (22) and Antonio Ballard (14) were the other leading scorers for the Storm. Johnson hauled in 10 rebounds to also notch a double-double. Tim Ellis (6'4''-G-81, college: Kansas St.) (25), Rodney Buford (6'5''-G-77, college: Creighton) (14), Elvin Mims (13) and Jeremy Williams (13) were London's top point-getters. Josiah Turner made his Storm debut after signing with the team earlier this week. Turner shot 1-for-5 from the field, was 0-for-2 from beyond the arc, chipped in with eight assists and had one defensive rebound in approximately six minutes of playing time. Salerno liked what he saw in the 20-year-old, especially his vision on the court. After the Lightning jumped out to an early 6-2 lead, the Storm went on to build a 13-point lead, 33-20, late in the first quarter, which ended with the Storm in front 33-22. The Lightning scored the first six points of the second quarter, and although they closed to within 45-44 London never led in the period. Brandon Robinson banked a buzzer-beating three-pointer off the glass to send the Storm into halftime in front 54-47. The Storm came out of the locker room on fire, scoring the first 13 points of the third quarter to go up 67-47. After Buford scored the Lightning's first basket of the quarter to make it 67-49, Plummer hit from downtown to give Storm 70-49 advantage. However, the veteran Lightning did not panic and went on a 23-6 run to cut the Storm lead to 76-72. The Storm answered back with two clutch free throws by Robinson and a dunk by Johnson to take a 80-72 cushion into the final 12-minute period. The Lightning was within striking distance, down 94-87 with just under five minutes remaining, but Robinson continued to deliver key shots as he sank his first of two three-pointers down the stretch to make it a 10-point game. 'We said in the third quarter, Listen, this team is 23-2 for a reason, and they are going to make a run at us and we have to withstand that run,'' said Salerno. 'We knew they were going to make it, and we had to punch back. 'Last Sunday was a real tough loss for the guys, and they weren't going to let that happen. London threw a lot of punches at us, and we punched back.' The Storm had very little time to celebrate Thursday night's win. That's because the Storm is right back on the court at Eastlink Arena this evening (Friday), hosting the Halifax Rainmen in the opening game of a home-and-home series between the two Atlantic Division teams at 7 p.m. The teams meet again at the Halifax Metro Centre on Sunday. The Storm brings a 16-10 (won-lost) record into the game while Halifax, which is coming off a 110-82 win over the Windsor Express on Thursday night, is 13-14. Courtesy of: journalpioneer.com

St.John M.R. - Moncton M. 133-122 OT
The Saint John Mill Rats presented by Rogers, battled out for a huge overtime win over the Moncton Miracles at Harbour Station on Thursday night in front of 2, 875 fans with a final score of 133-122. The Miracles got an early lead in the first but the Mill Rats were able to tie it up, 17-17 with 5 minutes left. After some clutch baskets from Steve DeLuca (6'6''-G/F-86, college: Brandeis) and a great play from Anthony Anderson (5'11''-G-81, college: Massachusetts) out to Mike Anderson for a three, the Mill Rats jumped ahead of the Miracles, closing the first, 35-25. The Miracles battled back in the second quarter to close the spread but still were not able to edge out the Mill Rats before half. By half time, Mill Rats Deluca had already drained 17 points, contributing to the 54-50 lead for Saint John. The third quarter, the Miracles came out blazing, outscoring the Mill Rats 42-29. Just over 3 minutes into the third, the Miracles were able to take back the lead. The Miracles started the quarter down by 4 points but were able to widen their lead and close the third, 83-92. A few minutes into the fourth quarter, it looked as though the Mill Rats were going to lose the battle as the Miracles pulled into a double digit lead. With 5 minutes left in play, Taneiko Robinson pumped some life into the game, dropping a three pointer, closing the spread 98-106. After a three from Jerice Crouch and a basket from Cavell Johnson, the Mill Rats slowly chipped away at the Miracle's lead. With 2:16 to go, a lay-up from Johnson and three points from Kenny Jones (6'6''-PF-84, agency: Dream Team Management, college: Kentucky St.)' And 1 play, made it a three point ball game, 110-113. With 10.5 seconds to go, Kenny Jones got the ball down low, pretended to make the play in towards the basket but passed off to Cavell at the top of the key for a basket that tied the game, 115-115, bringing it into overtime. In overtime play, the Mill Rats were able to drain their shots but hold the Miracles off from getting more than one shot off at the other end. They outscored the Miracles in overtime, 18-7. A dunk from Johnson at the end, solidified the win at home for Saint John, 133-122. For his debut game with the Mill Rats, Kenny Jones led the team in scoring with 25 points. Anthony Anderson played a huge game, getting a double double with 20 points and 14 assists while Steve DeLuca contributed 20 points. Leading the Miracles was Oliver McNally (6'3''-G, college: Harvard) with 28 while Devin Sweetney had 26. Head Coach David Cooper comments on the debut of Kenny Jones in tonight's game: "Kenny Jones brought a lot to us tonight. He can score down low and give us a low post presence. He opens up the floor which can make a lot of things happen for us." This win comes after a losing stretch for the Mill Rats and the pressure is on. Coach Cooper needs to make a couple of cuts this week. "I'm really proud with the effort they put in tonight - the guys have been working hard in practice. Taneiko Robinson came out to play and Kenny Jones - what can I say about him - he came here for one reason. That kid's a beast." The Mill Rats are back in action tomorrow night to host the Windsor Express at Harbour Station. Courtesy of: oursportscentral.com

Halifax R. - Windsor Exp. 110-82
On Thursday night the Halifax Rainmen got back to their winning ways, beating the Express 110-82 in front of a crowd of 1737 at the Metro Centre. In the first quarter the Rainmen went on a 14-0 run to give them a 20-10 lead midway through the quarter and continued their torrid pace, as the finished the 1st leading 34-19 on 60% from the field and 80% from 3 in the quarter, led by Quinnel Brown (6'6''-F-83, college: Auburn) with 11 points. The Express narrowed the score to 37-29 but the Rainmen went on a 25-13 run to finish the quarter, and led 62-42 at the half. The Rainmen won the 3rd quarter 27-19 and took a 89-61 lead into the fourth quarter led by Quinnel Brown with 24 points. In the fourth quarter the bench took care of business, as the Rainmen were able to secure the 110-82 win, and improve to 13-14 on the season. The Rainmen were paced by a balanced effort, as every player scored and they had 6 players score in double figures, led by Brown with 24 points, Trayvon Lathan (6'7''-G-84, agency: Elite Talent Exchange, college: Chowan) with 15 and 10 rebounds, Antoine Tisby with 13 and 10 rebounds, Joey Haywood with 13, Cedric Moodie with 11, and Hillary Haley with 10. The Express were led by Kevin Loiselle (6'6''-F) with 15 points and 8 rebounds, Lester Prosper (6'10''-F/C-88, college: Old Westbury) with 14 points and 18 rebounds and Mike Helms finished with 14 points. Courtesy of: oursportscentral.com

Oshawa P. - Montreal J. 127-102
The Oshawa Power went wire-to-wire for a win over the Montreal Jazz Wednesday night at the General Motors Centre. Oshawa built up a seven-point lead after one quarter and was ahead by 31 after three en route to cruising to a 127-102 victory over the visiting Jazz. Mark Gomillia (6'5''-F-87, college: SF Austin) led the offence for the Power, scoring a team-high 29 points, while five other players scored in double figures. William 'Bo' Harris has 19 points along with eight assists, while second-string point guard Larry Diamond shone with an 18-point, seven-assist and seven-rebound effort in the win. Reigning NBL Canada player of the week Nick Okorie (6'1''-PG-88, college: Texas Tech) added 14 points and five assists, while Oshawa native Courtney Small dropped in 12 points on an efficient six-for-eight shooting from the floor. Pickering's Papa Oppong chipped in with 10 points and seven rebounds. On the glass, both Shamus Ferguson and Jushay Rockett were impressive, with Ferguson hauling down 12 rebounds and Rockett a game-high 14. As a team, the Power distributed the ball well, finishing with 31 assists. Montreal, as a team, had just eight. The two teams will meet again this weekend, but in Montreal as the 2-23 Jazz host the 16-11 Power Friday night. Following Friday's game the Power is off until Feb. 6 when they will pay a visit to the Windsor Express. Courtesy of: durhamregion.com


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

Top 25 - Men

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

Regular Season: Round 74

Jan. 23: Arkansas - Mississippi St. 96-70
Jan. 23: High Point - VMI 96-69
Jan. 23: Dayton - Fordham 96-51
Jan. 23: Colgate - Army 93-90 OT
Jan. 23: Miami, FL - Duke 90-63
Jan. 23: Air Force - New Orleans 90-48
Jan. 23: UAB - E.Carolina 85-91
Jan. 23: Albany - Boston U. 80-85 OT
Jan. 23: N.Carolina - Georgia Tech 79-63
Jan. 23: Cent.Florida - Rice 78-67
Jan. 23: Temple - Pennsylvania 76-69
Jan. 23: Drake - Creighton 74-69
Jan. 23: Boise St. - Fresno St. 74-67
Jan. 23: Vanderbilt - Auburn 73-61
Jan. 23: Valparaiso - Green Bay 73-61
Jan. 23: Houston - Tulsa 72-87
Jan. 23: Indiana - Penn St. 72-49
Jan. 23: American - Navy 72-49
Jan. 23: W.Virginia - TCU 71-50
Jan. 23: Bowling Green - Kent St. 70-55
Jan. 23: Campbell - Radford 69-60
Jan. 23: Youngstown St. - Wright St. 68-61
Jan. 23: N.Mexico - Colorado St. 66-61
Jan. 23: Evansville - Bradley 66-56
Jan. 23: Santa Clara - CSU Bakersfield 66-36
Jan. 23: Rhode Island - G.Washington 65-66
Jan. 23: Duquesne - St.Louis 64-73
Jan. 23: St.Joseph''s - St.Bonaventure 64-73
Jan. 23: Ball St. - Buffalo 63-66
Jan. 23: NC-Asheville - Co.Carolina 63-60
Jan. 23: W.Michigan - E.Michigan 63-59
Jan. 23: Charlotte - Xavier 63-57
Jan. 23: Lafayette - Holy Cross 63-53
Jan. 23: Delaware St. - Howard 63-46
Jan. 23: Miami, OH - Ohio 62-74
Jan. 23: Bucknell - Lehigh 62-65
Jan. 23: Cent.Michigan - N.Illinois 61-74
Jan. 23: Winthrop - Gardner-Webb 61-55
Jan. 23: Rutgers - St.John''s 60-72
Jan. 23: UMBC - Stony Brook 60-67
Jan. 23: Illinois St. - Indiana St. 60-58
Jan. 23: Ill.-Chicago - Wisc.-Milwaukee 60-50
Jan. 23: Presbyterian - Charleston So. 59-79
Jan. 23: LSU - Texas A&M 58-54
Jan. 23: N.Iowa - S.Illinois 58-45
Jan. 23: Nevada - San Diego St. 57-78
Jan. 23: Toledo - Akron 56-71
Jan. 23: Texas Tech - Iowa St. 56-51
Jan. 23: Cleveland St. - Loyola, IL 55-67
Jan. 23: Northwestern - Minnesota 55-48
Jan. 23: Seton Hall - S.Florida 55-47
Jan. 23: La Salle - Butler 54-53
Jan. 23: N.Mexico St. - Denver 53-42
Jan. 23: Missouri St. - Wichita St. 52-62
Jan. 23: Georgia - Florida 47-64
Jan. 23: S.Mississippi - Marshall 102-46
Jan. 23: Northeastern - William & Mary 95-91 OT
Jan. 23: Georgia St. - NC-Wilmington 81-63
Jan. 23: Oregon St. - Washington 74-66
Jan. 23: Oregon - Washington St. 68-61
Jan. 23: Towson - George Mason 67-77
Jan. 23: JMU - Delaware 64-50
Jan. 23: Hofstra - Drexel 52-55

Regular Season: Round 76

Jan. 25: Siena - Niagara
Jan. 25: Rider - Canisius
Jan. 25: Manhattan - Loyola, MD
Jan. 25: Iona - St.Peter's
Jan. 25: Florida Gulf Coast - Stetson
Jan. 25: Wisc.-Milwaukee - Green Bay


Stats Leaders - NCAA1

Points Per Game
 Erick GREEN
  Virginia Tech
  (190-PG-91)
  Avg: 25.2
 1. Green, Virginia Te.25.2 
 2. Plumlee, Duke17.3 
 3. Curry, Duke15.9 
 4. Anderson, Boston15.6 
 5. Harris, Virginia15.3 
 6. McKie, Wake Forest15.3 
 7. Leslie, N.Caroli.15.3 
 8. McAdoo, N.Carolina14.7 
 9. Scott, Miami, FL14.6 
 10. Harris, Wake F.14.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Mason PLUMLEE
  Duke
  (208-F-90)
  Avg: 11.5
 1. Plumlee, Duke11.5 
 2. Howell, N.Caroli.10.9 
 3. Anderson, Boston9.7 
 4. Mitchell, Virginia9.0 
 5. McKie, Wake Forest8.2 
 6. McAdoo, N.Carolina8.2 
 7. Len, Maryland8.2 
 8. Booker, Clemson7.6 
 9. Thomas, Wake F.7.3 
 10. Kadji, Miami, FL7.2 
Assists Per Game
 Lorenzo BROWN
  N.Caroli.
  (196-G-)
  Avg: 6.9
 1. Brown, N.Caroli.6.9 
 2. Cook, Duke5.9 
 3. Howard, Maryland4.6 
 4. Paige, N.Carolina4.4 
 5. Green, Virginia Te.4.3 
 6. Strickland, N.Car.4.0 
 7. Larkin, Miami, FL3.9 
 8. Hall, Clemson3.6 
 9. Rahon, Boston Coll.3.4 
 10. Wells, Maryland3.1 
Steals Per Game
 Shane LARKIN
  Miami, FL
  (180-PG-92)
  Avg: 2.2
 1. Larkin, Miami, FL2.2 
 2. Brown, N.Caroli.2.1 
 3. Scott, Miami, FL1.9 
 4. Cook, Duke1.9 
 5. Strickland, N.Car.1.7 
 6. McKie, Wake Forest1.6 
 7. Thornton, Duke1.5 
 8. Shannon, Florida1.4 
 9. Green, Virginia Te.1.4 
 10. McAdoo, N.Carolina1.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Daniel MILLER
  Georgia Tech
  (211-C-91)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Miller, Georgia Te.2.4 
 2. McDaniels, Clemson2.2 
 3. Len, Maryland1.9 
 4. Plumlee, Duke1.7 
 5. Atkins, Virginia1.6 
 6. Gamble, Miami, FL1.6 
 7. Kadji, Miami, FL1.6 
 8. White, Florida St.1.4 
 9. Thomas, Wake F.1.4 
 10. Kelly, Duke1.4 


Gators' Second Half Outburst Keys Season Sweep of Georgia - by Eurobasket News

ATHENS, Ga. -- Over and over and over the past few days, Florida coach Billy Donovan told his team -- promised it, actually -- that Wednesday night's game at Georgia was going to be drastically different than when the Gators ripped the Bulldogs by 33 just two weeks earlier.

Donovan told his players to put themselves in Georgia's place and think about how they would react to a second crack against a highly ranked, hotshot opponent paying a visit to their gym with those ugly images of that embarrassment only 14 days old.

"He told us they were going to come out and play harder than us ... and they did," senior forward Erik Murphy said. "Then he told us we had to pick it up in the second half ... and we did."

There's a reason the guy's won 400-plus games.

Down by nine early and by three at halftime, the eighth-ranked Gators found a second-half second wind and blew past the Bulldogs on the way to a 64-47 victory before a Stegeman Coliseum crowd of 6,793, a huge chunk of which was wearing (and cheering) orange and blue.

Junior point guard Scottie Wilbekin (6'2''-PG-92) kept his sluggish teammates in the game by scoring 13 of his career high-tying 17 points in the first half. Out of the locker room, though, it was Murphy and senior guard Kenny Boynton combining to make five of their seven 3-point shots, UF scoring 21 of the second period's first 25 points and the Gators (15-2, 5-0) throwing water on the hot-shooting Bulldogs (7-11, 1-4) for a seventh straight win.

Boynton finished with 14 points. Murphy, held scoreless in the first half, checked in with 13. Junior forward Will Yeguete (6'7''-F-91) came off the bench to score seven points, grab a game-high 11 rebounds, pull off four steals and help lead a defensive charge that limited the Dawgs to just six second-half field goals at 31.6-percent shooting.

UF is unbeaten through five SEC games for only the fourth time in school history, with its margin of victory in those wins -- which actually dropped with the 17-point outcome -- now at 24.8 points.

This one marked the toughest conference test to date.

"We knew they were going to come out with a lot of passion and play hard," said Wilbekin, who went 7-for-9 from the floor, including 2-for-3 from the arc, to go with three assists. "I don't think we did a good job of handling it in the first half, but in the second half we were more focused and able to deal with them."

Georgia had won three of the previous four in the series on its home floor and set out with the look of team ready to make it four of five.

The Bulldogs scored the game's first six points, jumped to an 11-2 lead, and eight minutes into the game had as many points (15) as they had in the entire first half of UF's 77-44 thrashing in Gainesville on Jan. 9. Florida, in fact, was fortunate to be hanging around, thanks to forcing nine first-half turnovers that led to nine points.

The score was tied at 21 when UGA forward Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (16 points, 7 rebounds) swished a 3-pointer from 28 feet at the first-half buzzer to give the Bulldogs a 27-24 lead.

For the half, Georgia shot 50 percent from the floor and 54.5 (6-for-11) from the arc against the Southeastern Conference's No. 1 scoring and defensive field-goal percentage team, albeit with Murphy (8 minutes) and center Patric Young (12 minutes) saddled with two fouls.

UF, meanwhile, was shooting at 40.7 clip and bricked eight of nine treys (11.1 percent).

"Some things just didn't go well for us in the first half," Donovan said.

"Sometimes you don't hit shots," Murphy said.

Things changed after intermission.

Wilbekin opened the second half with a 3-pointer to tie the game. Then Mike Rosario hit another from the corner. And then Young followed a Wilbekin driving rimmer with a slam-dunk.

Just like that, the Gators were up five and Georgia had turned it over on three straight possessions. It was the start of a 21-4 run that turned a 3-point deficit at the break into a 45-31 edge nearly 11 minutes into the second half. By the time Georgia scored its 13th point of the second half, Murphy had 13 of his own.

"Shots started to fall for us," Murphy said.

And stopped falling for the Bulldogs. A lot of the ones they got in the first half just weren't there in the second.

"A tale of two halves," Georgia coach Mark Fox said. "We didn't start the second half well at all. We just couldn't stabilize our defense and couldn't find a way to get stops in the second half."

Or the same shots they were getting before the break. UF fixed that.

"We had some defensive lapses in the first half," Boynton said. "Especially around the 3-point line."

In the second half, UF extended its defense toward the distance marker. Georgia may have managed to hit a sizzling 100 percent from the arc, but on 1-for-1 shooting. Caldwell-Pope hit a meaningless trey with 2:20 to go and Florida leading by 19.

That was it.

"I knew it was going to be a grind-it-out, physical game," Donovan said. "I give our guys credit. We made some adjustments."

Overcame some adversity along the way, too. On the road. In the SEC. Those wins should never been taken for granted.

Certainly never assumed.
Courtesy of: http://www.gatorzone.com


Oladipo Leads No. 7/8 Indiana Past Penn State, 72-49 - by Eurobasket News

BLOOMINGTON, Ind. - Junior Victor Oladipo (6'5''-G-92) 's 19 points led four Hoosiers in double-digits as the No. 7/8 Indiana men's basketball team beat Penn State, 72-49, in Assembly Hall on Wednesday, Jan. 23.

The Hoosiers (17-2, 5-1) used staunch defense to keep the Nittany Lions under 50 points, including 19 in the first half - the second straight game IU has held a team under 20 in a half.

"The thing that I look at with our team is that they are really trying to put themselves in a place where they can hang their hat on the defensive end, and we're getting there," said head coach Tom Crean. "The other day, we told them that there are two teams in the country in the top 10 in field goal percentage defense and field goal percentage offense, and we're one of them. We want to stay in that position. Right now, the biggest thing we can work on is making sure that we are getting better as individual defenders, collective defenders, that our rebounding continues to improve, and that we keep turning defense into offense."

Indiana also posted a potent offense, sinking 55 percent (11-of-20) from 3 and 45.5 percent (20-of-44) from the field in the game. Oladipo's 19 points came by way of 4-of-7 shooting from the field, including 2 3-pointers. He also made 9-of-12 from the free throw line, to go along with six rebounds, five assists and three steals. Freshman Kevin (Yogi) Ferrell netted 15 points and junior Will Sheehey (6'7''-F-92) added 12 points off the bench. Senior Christian Watford (6'9''-F-91) also reached double-digits with 10 points, to go along with nine rebounds.

The Hoosiers jumped out a quick 7-0 lead by way of a layup from Watford and back-to-back 3's from Ferrell to force the Nittany Lions (8-11, 0-7) into an early timeout. Penn State answered to cut IU's lead to three, but that was the closest it got as the Hoosiers outscored PSU, 24-15, to take a 33-19 lead into the break.

A 3 from Ferrell just eight seconds into the start of the second half ignited an 8-0 run to give the Hoosiers a 41-19 lead with 18:55 on the clock. Indiana led by as many as 25 en route to the 72-49 win.

"Yogi did an excellent job tonight shooting the ball," said Crean. "You could see it yesterday. We walked through on Monday, and we probably had the shortest practice of the year yesterday. Outside of weightlifting, we were probably on the court for about an hour and five minutes. So we lost a lot of our rhythm. It got us a little tonight. We have a hard stretch coming up. Next week is three games. Its Sunday, Wednesday, and Saturday."

The Hoosiers won the battle on the boards, 39-32, and scored 15 points off of 18 Penn State turnovers. Indiana also held the Nittany Lions to just 13.3 percent (2-of-15) shooting from beyond the arc, and 33.3 percent (17-of-51) from the field on the game.

Sophomore Cody Zeller tallied eight rebounds, three assists, three blocks, two points and one steal. Senior Jordan Hulls netted eight points and added five rebounds, an assist and a steal. Freshman Jeremy Hollowell registered four points and three rebounds in nine minutes off the bench.

"Every game is going to be an absolute battle," Crean added. "I knew we might be giving up a little bit in execution to make sure that we had really good energy and build it over the long hall. But at the same time, those guys spent a lot of extra time shooting the ball. I thought Will shot the ball extremely well. We made 11 3's. I think that's really positive."

Indiana returns to action on Sunday when it takes on No. 13/11 Michigan State in Assembly Hall at 1 p.m. ET on CBS.
Courtesy of: http://www.iuhoosiers.com


No. 25 MBB Upsets No.1 Duke, 90-63 - by Eurobasket News

CORAL GABLES, Fla. (AP) - With a steady din coming from the sea of orange behind the visitors' basket, No. 1-ranked Duke had a tough time making a shot.

The Blue Devils went more than 8 minutes without a field goal in the first half Wednesday night, and a sellout became a blowout for No. 25 Miami, which delighted a boisterous crowd with a 90-63 victory.

The defeat was the third-worst ever for a No. 1 team, and Duke's worst in nearly five years.

Durand Scott (6'5''-G-90) scored a season-high 25 points for the Hurricanes, and Kenny Kadji added a season-high 22. Shane Larkin had 18 points, 10 rebounds and five assists, and Durham, N.C. native Julian Gamble had 10 rebounds and four blocked shots.

Miami (14-3, 5-0 Atlantic Coast Conference) beat a No. 1 team for the first time, taking control with a stunning 25-1 run midway through the opening half. The Blue Devils missed 13 consecutive shots despite numerous good looks, while four Hurricanes hit 3-pointers during the run that transformed a 14-13 deficit into a 38-15 lead.

Duke (16-2, 3-2) fell to 0-2 when playing on an opponent's court. The Blue Devils' other loss came at North Carolina State, a defeat cost them the No. 1 ranking.

They regained the top spot this week but seemed rattled by the capacity crowd, only the 10th in 10 years at Miami's on-campus arena. Students began lining up for seats outside the arena almost 24 hours before tipoff, a rarity for the attendance-challenged Hurricanes.

But South Florida loves a winner, and the Hurricanes are alone atop the league standings. They won their sixth consecutive game and beat Duke for the second straight time - but only the fourth time in the 19-game series.

Miami had been 0-6 against No. 1 teams. Coach Jim Larranaga also beat a No. 1 team for the first time.

Seth Curry, Tyler Thornton and Quinn Cook went a combined 1 for 29 for the Blue Devils, who shot a season-low 30 percent. Rasheed Sulaimon led them with 16 points.

Duke went 4 for 23 from 3-point range, while Miami went 9 for 19 and shot 57 percent overall.

Miami senior center Reggie Johnson (6'10''-C-89) came off the bench in his first action since being sidelined with a broken left thumb Dec. 18. He had two points and five rebounds in 16 minutes.

Kadji made two 3s during the Hurricanes' first-half spurt, then capped it with a three-point play. Duke shot 22 percent in the first half, including two for 11 on 3-pointers, and trailed 42-19 at halftime.

There was no letup by the Hurricanes to start the second half. They scored the first seven points to lead 49-19.

A Duke mistake early in the second half had coach Mike Krzyzewski red-faced and on the court, screaming at his team. But he couldn't inspire a turnaround.

''Over-rated,'' the fans chanted with 3 minutes left. When the game ended, they poured onto the court and mobbed their team.

Miami, ranked this week for the first time in three years, improved to 8-0 at home.

Season tickets, mini-plans and non-coference single-game tickets are on sale now, and can be purchase at CanesTix.com or by calling the BankUnited Center Ticket Office at 305.284.2263. The ticket office is open Monday-Friday from 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Game Notes

The attendance for tonights game was 7,972, which is the highest ever for a UM basketball game at the BankUnited Center.

Miami is on a five-game home ACC winning streak, dating back to last season. The Canes have defeated Wake Forest, Florida State, Boston College, Maryland and Duke at the BankUnited Center in that span. Miamis last home ACC loss was Feb. 15, 2012, when North Carolina defeated the Canes 73-64.

Miami moves to 4-15 in the all-time series against Duke, having won the last two contests. The Canes are 3-6 against the Blue Devils at home, 0-2 at neutral sites and 1-7 on the road.

The only No. 1 teams to lose by more than Dukes 27 points against the Hurricanes are St. John's (1951 vs. Kentucky, 41 points) and Houston (1968 vs. UCLA, 32 points).

Miami is the first team to beat a No. 1 team by 20+ points in the 21st century.

This is Coach Larranagas first win over a No. 1 team and the first time in UMs history that the Canes have defeated a first-ranked opponent. Miami improves to 1-6 against No. 1 teams.

Duke shot only 29.7 percent from the field. The Canes have held 30 opponents to less than 41 percent from the field under Coach Larranaga, including 13 of 17 this season.

Miami shot 56.9 percent from the field, and has shot better than 45 percent from the field in its seven of its eight home games this season.

The Canes went on a 26-5 run in the last 9:42 of the first half, building a 25-point lead with less than a minute remaining. The Canes led 42-19 at the half, which is the largest margin since Dec. 18, 2012, when the Hurricanes led UCF by 16 at halftime.

Miami built its lead to 30 points with 18:25 remaining in the game, scoring the first five points of the second half. The Canes led by over 30 points numerous times, getting it up to 34 with 1:40 remaining. This was the Canes largest lead of the 2012-13 season, beating the previous high of 31 against Charlotte on Dec. 14, 2012.

Shane Larkin finished with 18 points and 10 rebounds for his first career double-double.

Durand Scott scored 25 points, besting his previous season high of 20, which he scored on Dec. 22, 2012 at Hawaii.

Kenny Kadji, who finished the game with 22 points, has had double digit scoring in 14 of the 17 games this season, including the last eight games.

The last time two Canes scored 20 points was against NC State on Jan. 23, 2011.

Julian Gamble made the Canes first basket of the night, a dunk with 19:29 remaining in the first half. He finished with five points and 10 rebounds.

He also tied his career high with four blocks, previously set on Jan. 13, 2013 at Maryland.

Reggie Johnson played in his first game since Dec. 18, 2012. Johnson finished the game with two points and five rebounds in 16 minutes of playing time.
Courtesy of: http://www.hurricanesports.com


Explorers Take Down #9/9 Butler, 54-53, On Galloway's Late Layup - by Eurobasket News

PHILADELPHIA Ramon Galloway (6'3''-G) hit a layup at the 2.7 second mark and a half court heave from Butler's Roosevelt Jones drew unfriendly iron, as the La Salle men's basketball team (13-5, 3-2 A-10) took down #9/9 Butler in front of a sold out crowd at Tom Gola Arena Wednesday evening.

The Explorers led 52-51 until Butler's Andrew Smith converted a nifty layup with 8.4 seconds left, giving the Bulldogs a one point advantage. La Salle advanced the ball quickly to its trusty leader, who was not to be denied, beating his defender off the dribble for an acrobatic finish.

It's the greatest feeling ever, Galloway said post-game. It's one of the greatest wins ever in my life. I know it is for my teammates too.

We beat a team that is objectively a great team, head coach Dr. John Giannini said. We have to feel tremendous about getting a hard earned victory over a special opponent like that.

Just four days after Roosevelt Jones hit a floater at the buzzer to knock off then #8 Gonzaga, the sophomore could not have come closer to another dagger - this time from 50 feet. However, the Explorer Entourage had other ideas and gold-rushed the floor upon the unanswered prayer.

Much to their dismay, the hysterical fans were asked to clear the floor as the referees reviewed the clock on the monitor to ensure an accurate finish. When they made their decisive signal, the Entourage once again avalanched onto the court, this time for good.

There was no way we were losing this game, not after what we just went through, Duren said when asked if he was concerned about the end-game charade.

The first half undoubtedly belonged the visitors, who fell to 16-3, 3-1 A-10 with the loss. The Bulldogs shot 52 percent from the field in the first period, but maintained only a 28-23 lead over the Explorers at intermission.

La Salle took the lead for the first time at the 9:50 mark in the second half on a Tyreek Duren (6'0''-PG) layup, a lead they would not relinquish until trailing 51-50 in the waning minutes.

The Explorers used a 13-3 run midway through the period, seeing a 37-30 defecit disappear and a 43-40 advantage result.

When asked what the biggest key was to his team's victory, Coach Giannini simply said fighting.

Duren likened the victory to a fight as well.

We just kept up our defense, he said. Nobody gave up. They hit us in the first half but we came back striking. I think from there, it was blow for blow. We just gutted it out.

Duren posted 16 points, six assists, five rebounds, three steals, and two blocks on the evening and blanketed the Bulldog ball handlers in 35 minutes. Sam Mills added 11 points, five helpers, and four assists. Nine of his 11 points came in the second frame, most notably a floater which put the Explorers up 52-51.

Galloway, who entered the contest averaging over 17 points/game, hibernated for most of the night before peeking his head out at the most crucial moment in the game. The senior finished with six points (3-10 FG, 0-4 3PT), two of which will never be forgotten.

My teammates keep telling me to keep playing when my shots weren't falling, Galloway said. They were telling me I was going to win the game.

As a team, the Explorers shot 41 percent (23-56) from the floor, 27 percent (4-15) from three point range, and 67 percent (4-6) from the free throw line.

Butler converted at 49 percent (23-47) from the field, 38 percent (3-8) from three, and 57 percent (4-7) from the charity stripe.

The Bulldogs were paced by Andrew Smith (16 pts; 7-10 FG, 2-4 FT), who added eight rebounds. Kellen Dunham (15 pts; 6-11 FG, 3-4 3PT) and Roosevelt Jones (14 pts; 6-14 FG, 0-1 3P, 2-3 FT) joined the double digit scoring column for Butler as well.

La Salle's steady back court fumbled only eight turnovers in the game, and forced 13. The Explorers were credited with 18 points off turnovers and 12 fast break points.

The Explorers will look to strike gold again on Saturday, when they take on #19/16 VCU in Richmond.
Courtesy of: http://www.goexplorers.com


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


Adrian Wins Third in a Row over Albion - by Eurobasket News

ALBION, Mich. The road can be a tough place but when you bring a top-level defense on the floor it proves to be the great equalizer. Adrian men's basketball held their opponent under 40 percent shooting for the 11th time this season and broke a close game open with a 17-6 run in the final 7:24 as they improved to 15-3 overall and 4-3 in the MIAA with a 63-49 win at Albion.

Adrian also held its opponent under 50 points for the fifth time this season winning for the third straight time after starting the MIAA at 1-3. Adrian led 26-22 at halftime as both teams struggled to find offense. The Bulldogs shot 37 percent from the floor while Albion connected on just 32 percent.

Albion's final lead of the game came with 4:32 left in the first half. The Bulldogs took control of the game midway through the second half leading 42-33 with 10:51 to go. The Britons cut the lead down to three at 46-43 with 7:24 remaining and then Adrian's defense kicked it up a notch allowing just six points for the rest of the game.

Adrian got scoring contributions from two guys who broke out offensively. Junior Drew Torey scored a career-high 10 points coming into the game with just 51 career points. Torey went 4-of-8 from the floor in 26 minutes and committed no turnovers at the point guard spot. Freshman Rickey Jackson scored a career-high 12 points off the bench and also grabbed six rebounds. Jackson went 4-of-6 from the floor including 2-of-4 from the arc in 23 minutes.

Sophomore Eric Lewis led Adrian with 18 points on 6-of-11 shooting and is shooting 54.2 percent from the floor over the last four games. Lewis connected on 6-of-8 from the free throw line and also made three steals increasing his MIAA-leading total to 58. Adrian shot 55 percent (11-of-20) in the second half and Albion shot 40 percent and just 50 percent at the free throw line. Sophomore Adam Meier (6'5''-F-93) added 12 points and five rebounds. The Bulldogs shot 76 percent (19-of-25) from the free throw line which was five percentage points higher than their season average.
Courtesy of: http://d3hoops.com


Strong Second Half Leads Johns Hopkins Past Washington College, 63-49 - by Eurobasket News

CHESTERTOWN, MD The Johns Hopkins men's basketball team turned the game around with a 30-5 second half run as the Blue Jays beat the host Washington College Shoremen 63-49 on Wednesday night in Centennial Conference action. The Blue Jays move to 11-7 on the season and 7-4 in the conference with their third win in their last four outings. The Shoremen fall to 2-16 overall and 2-9 in conference action.



Trailing 33-21 after five quick points to start the second half by the Shoremen, sophomore Jimmy Hammer drained a three to ignite a 30-5 run that would span a little more than 12 minutes. Senior Mike Rhoads hit a pair of free throws at the 14:10 mark to tie the game and then freshman Gene Williams hit a triple to give the Blue Jays their first lead since 12:09 in the first half. The Blue Jays would not trail again.



Hopkins pushed its lead to double digits on a fast-break layup from sophomore George Bugarinovic. Rhoads then put the punctuation on the run with a pull-up jumper at 6:06 to stake the Blue Jays to a 13-point advantage at 51-38. The Shoremen pulled within eight with a 9-4 spurt, capped off by a three-pointer in the corner from Sean Brooks. But Hopkins answered with an Adam Spengler layup followed by four straight free throws from the senior to push the lead to 14 with 1:02 to play. Kevin Cunningham got a fast-break layup with 22 seconds on the clock but junior Connor McIntyre would close out the scoring with a bucket on the other end.



Despite arriving to the Cain Athletic Center more than an hour late due to heavy traffic, Hopkins got off to a good start and led by as many as five in the opening six minutes. Hopkins went 6-of-9 from the field and led 13-8 after a Hammer layup at 14:04. Washington College took over from there, using a 17-3 run to take a 25-16 lead by the four-minute mark. John Weston tied the game with a fast-break layup at 11:45 and Pat Morgan hit back-to-back three-pointers to put the Shoremen up 19-13. Junior Aleksandar Nikolic hit a bucket in the paint and McIntyre hit one of two free throws to make it a three-point game with 7:52 to go in the half.



Morgan hit another three-pointer, his third in four possessions, followed by a Cunningham layup and the lead was eight. Stephen Poarch and Spengler traded trips to the free throw line before a Sean Flanigan layup put WC up 27-17. McIntyre then sandwiched buckets around a free throw from Charlie McShane and Washington College led 28-21 at the half. Brooks would open the second-half scoring with a three-pointer, followed by a Cunningham fast-break bucket and the home team led 33-21. It would be all Hopkins from there.



McIntyre posted his first career double-double with 13 points (6-8 FG) and a career-high 13 rebounds. Spengler led all scorers with 15 points for the Blue Jays while also handing out five assists. Hammer finished in double figures as well, chipping in 11 points while grabbing seven boards. Cunningham and Morgan each knocked down 12 points to pace the Shoremen.



Hopkins returns to action and wraps up its three-game road swing on Saturday as the Blue Jays travel to Allentown, PA to take on the Muhlenberg Mules. Tip off from Memorial Hall is set for 4:00 pm.
Courtesy of: http://d3hoops.com


Endicott 79, Salve Regina 90; Gulls suffer seventh straight loss on the road - by Eurobasket News

NEWPORT, R.I. Facing an 11-point halftime deficit, the Endicott men's basketball battled CCC rival Salve Regina in the second half and took the lead with 3:35 remaining in regulation but the Seahawks regained control of the game and beat the Gulls 90-79, handing the Blue and Green their seventh straight defeat on the 2012-13 season.

Endicott (7-10, 2-8 CCC) plays one more road game on Saturday, January 26th at 3:00 pm at Roger Williams before returning home on Tuesday. Salve Regina improved to 10-7 (6-4 CCC) with the win.

The Gulls were led by 17 points apiece by senior guard Lance Greene (Dorchester, Mass.) and sophomore guard John Henault (Lunenburg, Mass.). Greene did much of his damage in the second half, hitting 6-of-8 field goal attempts including two three pointers to help the Gulls get back in the game. Henault was a first half threat, sinking 6-of-9 shots from the floor including 2-of-3 from three-point range, but drained a critical three-pointer with 3:35 left in the game to give the Gulls a 75-74 lead in the second half.

Salve Regina got 21 points from starters William Smiley (Saunderstown, R.I.) and Joshua Hohlfelder (Noank, Conn.) as well as 19 points off the bench from Patrick Dinneen (Medfield, Mass.) to lead the Seahawks to back-to-back wins in conference play.

With the Gulls trailing 72-67 with 6:24 remaining in the game, the Gulls made one final bid to take the lead and after a three-pointer by Greene, a layup by the Seahawks, a jumper by sophomore Andre Makris (Southbury, Conn.) and deep three by Henault Endicott took the lead at 75-74 with 3:35 to go.

Free throws by Dinneen put Salve Regina back on top 76-75. After another jumper by Greene gave Endicott the 77-76 advantage with just 3:09 left, the Seahawks took control of the game and scored 14-of the 18 points in the waning moments of the game.

Dinneen was clutch down the stretch with back-to-back three-pointers and a perfect 4-of-4 at the free throw line.

Endicott finished at 46.7% from the field as a team, including a stunning 61.1% (11-of-18) from beyond the arc. Along with Greene and Henault, junior Lachlan Magee (Melbourne, Australia) finished in double figures with 11 points on 5-of-12 from the floor. Junior forward Tell White (New Castle, N.H.) finished with a team-high five rebounds.

Smiley for Salve Regina led all players with 13 rebounds, including four on the offensive glass. Jeff Bielefeld was the fourth player from the Seahawks to score at least 10 points, scoring on 5-of-8 field goal attempts with seven rebounds.
Courtesy of: http://d3hoops.com


*****************************************************
  NEW ZEALAND   

Standings Men

NBL Standings
 1. Bay Hawks 0-0 
 2. Hub Jets 0-0 
 3. Nelson G. 0-0 
 4. OceanaGold N. 0-0 
 5. Southland S. 0-0 
 6. Taranaki MA 0-0 
 7. Waikato P. 0-0 
 8. Waitakere R. 0-0 
 9. Wellington S. 0-0 



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


The 2013 Super Kung Sheung Cup Day 3: Gilas Devours Malaysia - by Enzo Flojo

Gilas Pilipinas swept the competition in the group stage of their campaign in the 2013 Super Kung Sheung Cup by handing out a 119-46 beating to the hapless Malaysian team.

Former Ateneo Blue Eagle big man Greg Slaughter returned from a bout with allergies to dump 27 points on the young and inexperienced Malaysians. Slaughter made all but 2 of his 14 field goal attempts in only 23 minutes of play.

Kevin Alas and RR Garcia also did well, scoring 18 points each to backstop Slaughters dominating performance. Alas rounded out his brilliant play with 8 assists, 5 rebounds, and 2 steals. Fil-American Justin Melton and super swingman KG Caaleta scored 14 markers each to further underscore the Pinoys supremacy. Nobody scored more than 8 points for the Malaysians.

Gilas advances to the crossover semifinals where they are set to face the dangerous Changsha Park Lane Snow Wolves.

Other matches:

Hong Kong Xinlibao beat Thailand, 97-70, thanks to the hot shooting of Zhao Anan. Anan made 8 of his 14 three-point attempts to finish with 28 points. Yu Xiaohang and Liu Jiulong scored 16 and 17 points respectively for support. The Thais were led by Thotsaphit Langsui and Nattakarn Muangboon, who scored 10 points eachs.

The Hong Kong National Team (sans some key players) defeated Indonesia, 96-48. The inside-outside combo of Tsoi Lung Tak and Heung Chun Keung combined for 29 points to pace Hong Kong. Tsoi, a 68 center, added 8 rebounds and blocked 3 shots, while Heung, a pint-sized guard, dished out 5 assists. 61 swingman Kaleb Ramot Gemilang exploded with 27 points to lead the Indons losing cause.

Defending champions SCFA (Southern California Fukienese Association) trounced the Changsha Park Lane Snow Wolves, 96-84. The Americans stood out once again, with Robert Curtis and Trayvonte Britt pairing up for 41 points to spearhead the SCFA charge. The Snow Wolves were led by 611 Jia Cheng, who scored 22 points on 9-of-11 FG shooting.

Source: Hoopnut.blogspot.com


*****************************************************
  POLAND   

Stats Leaders - 1Liga

Points Per Game
 Mateusz BIERWAGEN
  Astori.
  (194-G-88)
  Avg: 18
 1. Bierwagen, Astori.18.0 
 2. Celej, Start Lublin16.2 
 3. Wilczek, Start Lub.15.9 
 4. Pacocha, AZS Radex15.4 
 5. Dluski, AZS Kutno15.2 
 6. Kukielka, Polonia14.8 
 7. Kikowski, Slask W.14.6 
 8. Stepien, Spojnia14.4 
 9. Szymanski, Znicz B.14.4 
 10. Salamonik, MOSiR13.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Adam METELSKI
  AZS P.
  (208-C-83)
  Avg: 11.8
 1. Metelski, AZS P.11.8 
 2. Wilczek, Start Lub.11.3 
 3. Zurawski, Stal O.9.6 
 4. Dluski, AZS Kutno8.5 
 5. Lisewski, P.Cuk.8.1 
 6. Szymanski, Znicz B.7.3 
 7. Diduszko, Slask W.7.3 
 8. Wyka, Polonia7.2 
 9. Luszczewski, Start6.9 
 10. Mielczarek, AZS R.6.8 
Assists Per Game
 Grzegorz GROCHOWSKI
  MKS D.
  (178-PG-93)
  Avg: 6.7
 1. Grochowski, MKS D.6.7 
 2. Laczynski, MOSiR K.6.4 
 3. Wilczek, Start Lub.6.2 
 4. Hybiak, AZS P.5.5 
 5. Lewandowski, Astor.5.3 
 6. Baran, Sokol Lanc.5.1 
 7. Szumelda-K., Stal4.9 
 8. Basinski, SKK S.4.7 
 9. Pacocha, AZS Radex4.3 
 10. Brek, AZS Kutno4.3 
Steals Per Game
 Grzegorz GROCHOWSKI
  MKS D.
  (178-PG-93)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Grochowski, MKS D.2.8 
 2. Hybiak, AZS P.2.8 
 3. Klima, Sokol Lancut2.1 
 4. Baran, Sokol Lanc.2.1 
 5. Basinski, SKK S.2.1 
 6. Szymanski, Znicz B.2.0 
 7. Lewandowski, Astor.1.9 
 8. Laczynski, MOSiR K.1.8 
 9. Salamonik, MOSiR K.1.8 
 10. Wilczek, Start Lu.1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Dariusz WYKA
  Polonia
  (207-C-91)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Wyka, Polonia1.8 
 2. Szymanski, Znicz B.1.4 
 3. Grudzinski, Spojnia1.3 
 4. Metelski, AZS P.1.3 
 5. Lisewski, P.Cuk.1.3 
 6. Wrobel, UMKS K.1.1 
 7. Glabas, AZS Kutno1.0 
 8. Kukielka, Polonia0.9 
 9. Klima, Sokol Lancut0.9 
 10. Diduszko, Slask W.0.8 



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

Standings - Superleague B

Superleague Standings
 1. Univ.Surgut 14-2 
 2. Novosybirsk 12-4 
 3. Ural Ekaterinb. 11-3 
 4. Ataman 10-6 
 5. Ruskon-Mord. 10-6 
 6. Rjazan 9-7 
 7. AltajBasket 9-7 
 8. Dynamo MO 8-8 
 9. TEMP-SUMZ 8-8 
 10. Avtodor 7-8 
 11. Planeta-Univ. 6-10 
 12. Volgograd 4-11 
 13. Severstal 4-12 
 14. Sojuz Zaretchny 3-13 
 15. Spartak V. 3-13 

Regular Season: Round 18

Jan. 25: Ataman - Spartak V.
Jan. 26: Avtodor - Ural Ekaterinb.
Jan. 26: TEMP-SUMZ - Ruskon-Mord.
Jan. 26: Sojuz Zaretchny - Severstal
Jan. 26: Rjazan - Planeta-Univ.
Jan. 26: Univ.Surgut - AltajBasket
Jan. 26: Volgograd - Dynamo MO


Stats Leaders - Superleague B

Points Per Game
 Sergey CHERNOV
  AltajBas.
  (187-G-86)
  Avg: 17.6
 1. Chernov, AltajBas.17.6 
 2. Monroe, Ural E.16.8 
 3. Makshantsev, Novo.16.8 
 4. Pushkin, Sojuz Z.15.9 
 5. Boyko, Volgograd15.4 
 6. Loubeau, Planeta-.14.8 
 7. Morgunov, Dynamo14.7 
 8. McGhee, Ural E.14.3 
 9. Kuznetsov, Ruskon.14.3 
 10. James, Planeta-.14.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Aleksandr SAVENKOV
  Univ.Sur.
  (205-F-82)
  Avg: 8.8
 1. Savenkov, Univ.Sur.8.8 
 2. Varlamov, AltajBas.8.2 
 3. Makshantsev, Novo.8.2 
 4. Vzdykhalkin, Rjazan7.6 
 5. Denison, Ataman7.6 
 6. Pavlov, Ataman7.5 
 7. Zinchenko, Sever.7.4 
 8. Podkolzin, Novosyb.7.3 
 9. Loubeau, Planeta-.7.1 
 10. Pavlov, Ataman7.0 
Assists Per Game
 Anton GLAZUNOV
  Ural E.
  (182-G-86)
  Avg: 5.9
 1. Glazunov, Ural E.5.9 
 2. Lekavicius, Univ.S.5.4 
 3. Chernov, AltajBas.5.0 
 4. Tokarev, Novosybi.4.9 
 5. Amirkhanov, Ataman4.6 
 6. Aleksandrov, Ata.4.3 
 7. Filin, Avtodor4.1 
 8. Mateyunas, Avtodor4.1 
 9. Korchagin, Dynamo4.1 
 10. Urazmanov, Dynam.3.9 
Steals Per Game
 Artur URAZMANOV
  Dynamo M.
  (186-G-87)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Urazmanov, Dynamo2.3 
 2. Savenkov, Univ.Sur.1.9 
 3. Mateyunas, Avtodor1.8 
 4. Monroe, Ural E.1.6 
 5. Lekavicius, Univ.S.1.6 
 6. Chernov, AltajBas.1.6 
 7. Toropov, Avtodor1.6 
 8. Zagnoyko, Ataman1.6 
 9. Zakharov, Severstal1.5 
 10. Lunev, AltajBask.1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Dmitriy PONOSOV
  AltajBas.
  (220-C-84)
  Avg: 1.4
 1. Ponosov, AltajBas.1.4 
 2. Rindin, Univ.Surgut1.3 
 3. Kondrashin, Sever.1.1 
 4. Varlamov, AltajBas.1.0 
 5. Gresev, Ruskon-M.1.0 
 6. Klimenko, Avtodor1.0 
 7. Denison, Ataman1.0 
 8. Tsvetkov, TE.0.9 
 9. Kurtsevich, Ataman0.9 
 10. Sayapin, Novosybi.0.9 


EuroLeague: Fenerbahce open win count in Top 16 - by Eurobasket News

Fenerbahce - Khimky 85:82

Fenerbahce recorded the initial victory in EuroLeague Top 16 round. They held off visiting Khimky for 1-4 record in Group F. Bojan Bogdanovic (203-SG-89) delivered 26 points to pace the winners.
Khimky enjoyed a slightly better start to the game. They led by two points after ten minutes of action 19:17. The visitors maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. Khimky posted a 40:36 halftime advantage. The margin grew at 7-point mark early in the third term. However Fenerbahce gradually turned things around. They capped the period with a 6:2 run to spur ahead 56:54. The teams went neck and neck for some time in the final quarter. However David Andersen (212-C-80) and Kaya Peker gave Fenerbahce a 77:72 lead with under two minutes remaining in regulation. Zoran Planinic (198-G-82) and Bo McCalebb (178-PG-85, college: New Orleans) exchanged free throws but then Zoran Planinic followed with four points in a row to cut the deficit to a single point. However Uros Tripkovic went perfect from the stripe in the dying seconds to seal the initial win for the hosts at this stage of the tournament. David Andersen notched 18 points, while Bo McCalebb added 16 points for the winners. Zoran Planinic answered with 25 points, 6 rebounds, 6 assists and 4 steals for Khimky. Paul Davis (211-C-84, college: Michigan St.) provided 12 points in the loss.

Fenerbahce: Bojan Bogdanovic 26, David Andersen 18, Bo McCalebb 16
Khimky: Zoran Planinic 25, Paul Davis 12


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


Partizan gets best of Cup draw - by Ivan Milenkovic

Final tournament of Radivoj Korac Cup will be played from 7th to 10th of February in Kragujevac. Eight Serbian teams will try to win first trophy in 2012/2013 season.
Draw was lucky for Partizan as "black and whites" can't play against other two Adriatic League teams before the final. Defending champions will play against Sloboda from Uzice in quarterfinals and then (if they don't suffer shock defeat) against winner of game between Mega Vizura and Vrsac.
Other two favourites, Crvena zvezda and Radnicki, should face in semifinals. Previously, "red and whites" will have to eliminate Vojvodina, while hosts will play against Metalac from Valjevo in quarterfinals.

Radivoj Korac Cup schedule
Thursday: (1) Mega Vizura - Vrsac at 18:30
(2) Partizan - Sloboda at 21:00

Friday: (3) Radnicki Kragujevac - Metalac at 18:30
(4) Crvena zvezda Telekom - Vojvodina at 21:00

Saturday: Winner (1) - Winner (2) at 18:30
Winner (3) - Winner (4) at 21:00

Sunday: Final at 21:00


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


Acker number one in Slovakia for round 25 - by Eurobasket News

American point guard Maurice Acker (178-PG-87) had a very impressive game in the last round for Nova Ves, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 25.
The 25-year old player got a double-double of 31 points and 11 assists, while his team beat Inter Bratislava (#7, 10-13) in overtime 92-87. Nova Ves maintains the 4th position in Slovakian Extraliga. Nova Ves is a typical solid league team placed somewhere in the middle or a little bit lower in the standings. They need more victories to improve their 12-11 record. In the team's last game Acker had a remarkable five three-pointers out of 11 attempts. He turned to be Nova Ves' top player in his first season with the team. Former Marquette University star has very solid stats this year. Acker. Acker is in league's top in points (2nd best: 25.3ppg).

The second best player in last round's games was 23-year old American Kevin Thompson (205-F-89) of league's leader Komarno. Thompson had a very good evening with a double-double of 21 points and 19 rebounds. Of course Komarno cruised to a 91-82 relatively comfortable win over the lower-ranked Handlova (#8, 6-15). Of course Komarno still keep the league's top spot. His team has currently 17-5 record. Thompson is a newcomer at Komarno, but is already one of team's top players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 16.4ppg (#6). He also registered 11.0 boards per game.

Third on the list of top players last round was American center Zack Crimmins (213-C-89) of Handlova (#8). Crimmins scored 26 points and grabbed ten rebounds. Despite Crimmins' great performance Handlova lost 82-91 to the higher-ranked Komarno (#1, 17-5). But his team cannot count on just a single shooter as he also needs help of the other teammates. Handlova can only dream about fighting for top spots in the league. They have rather bad season and 6-15 record places them close to the bottom of the standings. Too bad for Crimmins he does not play for a better team. But maybe if he did, his season stats would not be that high. Crimmins has a very solid season. In 18 games in Slovakia he scored 15.1ppg. He also has 5.8rpg and FGP: 50.6%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Ravone George (193-G-83) of Svit - 24 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists
5. Deremy Geiger (180-PG-90) of Nitra - 24 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists
6. Martin Rancik (204-F/C-78) of Inter Bratislava - 23 points, 8 rebounds and 3 assists
7. Willie Kemp (188-G-87) of Levice - 20 points, 3 rebounds and 5 assists
8. Sven Smajlagic (193-G-90) of B.Bystrica - 20 points, 2 rebounds and 2 assists
9. Jeremy Simmons (204-F-89) of Levice - 14 points and 5 rebounds
10. Brandon Fields (193-G-88) of Levice - 19 points, 4 rebounds and 4 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)


David Kyles continues his Slovak mission in Bratislava - by Michal Duchovic

BK Inter Bratislava has played yesterday against Spiska Nova Ves and the suprising name on Bratislavas roster was David Kyles (190-G-89, college: Wichita St.). The american guard has started his season in Levice, where he played both in Slovak and Czech league. Kyles has averaged over 10 points and 3 rebounds in both leagues, but then he was released because of the not so good performances after the return from injury. Kyles has scored in his first match for Bratislava 18 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists, but this was not enough to secure the win, they lost to Spisska Nova Ves 87:92 after the overtime.


Pane exits Banska Bystrica - by Michal Duchovic

Another american player has ended in Slovakia. Brockeith Pane (188-PG-88, college: Utah St.) was also at the start of the season a member of Levice. But after 7 games in two leagues he was released due to a exchange between SKP Banska Bystrica and Levice, Grznar has moved to Levice and Pane the another way. In SKP Banska Bystrica the american guard started in 9 games, where he averaged 14.1 ppg, 3.6 apg and 3.1 rpg. Pane has not play much minutes in last games, because on his position has Bystrica engaged Enique Clemons (180-G-80, college: Missouri).


*****************************************************
  SLOVENIA   


Cup Spar 2013 - final draw of tournament - by Zeljko Zule

Celje will be hosting 2013 Slovenian Cup Final Eight in February 7-10. The draw for quarterfinals has seen defending champion Union Olimpija with League two side Sencur..
Quarterfinals (07&08/02): Plama Pur (D3)-Krka, Helios Splosna plovba Portoroz (D2), Tajfun-Maribor Messer, Union Olimpija-Sencur GGD (D2).
Semifinals (09/02): Plama Pur/Krka-Helios/Splosna plovba Portoroz, Tajfun/Maribor Messer-Union Olimpija/Sencur GGD.
Finals (10/02).


*****************************************************
  SOUTH KOREA   

Standings

KBL Standings
 1. SK Knights 28-7 
 2. Mobis Phoebus 24-11 
 3. ET Land 21-13 
 4. Anyang KGC 19-16 
 5. Dongbu Promy 16-19 
 6. Sonic Boom KT 16-19 
 7. Goyang Orions 15-19 
 8. LG Sakers 15-20 
 9. Samsung Th. 13-22 
 10. KCC Egis 7-28 

Regular Season: Round 27

Jan. 22: Dongbu Promy - LG Sakers 79-71
Jan. 24: Sonic Boom KT - KCC Egis 67-81
Jan. 24: ET Land - Mobis Phoebus 67-65
Jan. 23: Samsung Th. - SK Knights 60-81
Jan. 23: Goyang Orions - Anyang KGC 60-73

Regular Season: Round 28

Jan. 30: LG Sakers - ET Land
Jan. 30: Goyang Orions - KCC Egis
Jan. 31: Dongbu Promy - SK Knights
Jan. 31: Mobis Phoebus - Sonic Boom KT
Feb. 1: Goyang Orions - ET Land
Feb. 1: Samsung Th. - Anyang KGC



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


EuroLeague: FC Barcelona Regal wins the Spanish clash at Fernando Buesa Arena - by Eurobasket News

Caja Laboral - FC Barcelona Regal 79:90

FC Barcelona Regal wins the Spanish clash at Fernando Buesa Arena in EuroLeague. Regal overcame Caja Laboral 90:79 and handed them their first loss in Top 16. Both teams are now with 4-1 records in Group F.
Caja Laboral started the game better and led 15:8 early in the first period. FC Barcelona Regal scored some important baskets later in the frame and reduced to 28:27. In the second period the guests took control and finished the half with 3-point advantage. The third quarter was decisive in the game and allowed the guests to taste 13-point deficit. Caja Laboral cut it to 7 points, while Sarunas Jasikevicius (192-PG-76, college: Maryland) closed the frame at 69:60. Maciej Lampe (211-F/C-85) closed an 8-0 run for 69:68 early in the fourth period, but Barcelona later replied with a 7-0 run and never looked behind. Due to 21-19 in the period the guests reached an important 90:79 victory.
Pete Mickeal (199-F-78, college: Cincinnati) top-scored for the winners with 23 points and Joe Ingles (203-SF-87, agency: Priority Sports) netted 12. Ante Tomic (217-C-87) and Juan Carlos Navarro (192-G-80) delivered 11 points each. Maciej Lampe answered with 21 points and 11 rebounds in defeat, while San Emeterio Fernando notched 14. Nemanja Bjelica (209-F/C-88, agency: Interperformances) scored 11 and Andres Nocioni (199-SF-79) added 9.

Caja Laboral: Maciej Lampe 21+11 rebs, Fernando San Emeterio (198-F/G-84) 14, Nemanja Bjelica 11, Andres Nocioni 9
FC Barcelona Regal: Pete Mickeal 23, Joe Ingles 12, Ante Tomic 11, Juan Carlos Navarro 11


*****************************************************
  SWITZERLAND   

Standings - LNA

LNA Standings
 1. Fribourg 13-2 
 2. Geneve Lions 11-4 
 3. Monthey 10-5 
 4. SAV Vacallo 10-5 
 5. Lugano Tigers 9-6 
 6. Neuchatel 7-8 
 7. Boncourt 6-9 
 8. BBC Nyon 3-12 
 9. SAM Massagno 3-12 
 10. Starwings 3-12 

Regular Season: Round 15

Jan. 19: Fribourg - BBC Nyon 99-74
Jan. 19: Lugano Tigers - Boncourt 89-78
Jan. 19: Monthey - SAM Massagno 76-80
Jan. 18: Neuchatel - SAV Vacallo 71-60
Jan. 19: Geneve Lions - Starwings 104-52

Round 13

Jan. 22: SAV Vacallo - Boncourt 98-64

Regular Season: Round 16

Jan. 26: Lugano Tigers - Geneve Lions
Jan. 26: Boncourt - Fribourg
Jan. 26: BBC Nyon - Neuchatel
Jan. 26: Starwings - SAM Massagno
Jan. 26: SAV Vacallo - Monthey


Stats Leaders LNA

Points Per Game
 Justin RUTTY
  BBC Nyon
  (200-F-89)
  Avg: 21.3
 1. Rutty, BBC Nyon21.3 
 2. Mladjan, Lugano T.20.4 
 3. Owens, BBC Nyon20.4 
 4. Chapman, SAM M.19.9 
 5. Ely, Boncourt17.6 
 6. Kuburovic, SAV V.17.5 
 7. Burrows, Starwings17.3 
 8. Hodzic, Monthey17.2 
 9. O''Bannon, SAV V.16.7 
 10. Dobbins, Starwings16.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Justin RUTTY
  BBC Nyon
  (200-F-89)
  Avg: 13
 1. Rutty, BBC Nyon13.0 
 2. Barber, Lugano T.9.7 
 3. Burrows, Starwings9.0 
 4. Chapman, SAM M.8.3 
 5. Kakiouzis, SAV V.7.8 
 6. Reid, Fribourg7.5 
 7. Garrett, Fribourg7.5 
 8. Volcy, BBC Nyon7.1 
 9. Dos Santos, Bonco.7.1 
 10. Kuburovic, SAV V.7.1 
Assists Per Game
 Jamelle BARRETT
  SAM M.
  (180-PG-88)
  Avg: 8.1
 1. Barrett, SAM M.8.1 
 2. Gibson, SAV Vacallo6.6 
 3. Parker, Geneve L.5.8 
 4. Jenkins, Starwings5.2 
 5. Ewing, Lugano T.5.1 
 6. Kojadinovic, Month.4.6 
 7. Draughan, Fribourg3.9 
 8. Neitzel, Monthey3.7 
 9. Stimac, Geneve L.3.6 
 10. Zivkovic, BBC Ny.3.6 
Steals Per Game
 Jamelle BARRETT
  SAM M.
  (180-PG-88)
  Avg: 2.9
 1. Barrett, SAM M.2.9 
 2. Gibson, SAV Vacallo2.6 
 3. Ely, Boncourt2.2 
 4. Jenkins, Starwings2.1 
 5. Petkovic, SAV V.2.1 
 6. Owens, BBC Nyon2.0 
 7. Kakiouzis, SAV V.2.0 
 8. James, Geneve L.1.9 
 9. Ferguson, Boncourt1.7 
 10. Zivkovic, BBC Ny.1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Clint CHAPMAN
  SAM M.
  (208-F/C-89)
  Avg: 2.9
 1. Chapman, SAM M.2.9 
 2. Garrett, Fribourg2.8 
 3. Matter, Starwings1.6 
 4. Burrows, Starwings1.6 
 5. Toure, Geneve Lio.1.5 
 6. Dobbins, Starwings1.5 
 7. Badji, Neuchatel1.2 
 8. Barber, Lugano T.1.1 
 9. Owens, BBC Nyon0.9 
 10. Jenkins, Starwings0.7 


Rudy Etilopy is a newcomer at Boncourt - by Eurobasket Center

BC Boncourt Red Team (LNA) strengthened their roster with addition of 25-year old French power forward Rudy Etilopy (208-88). He played recently at Mersey Tigers in British BBL league. In 6 games this season he recorded 14.7ppg, 10.0rpg, 1.0apg, 1.5spg and 1.0bpg. He was on tryouts at Lugano Tigers earlier that season.
Etilopy represented France at the World Championships U19 in Novi Sad (Serbia) six years ago. His team won Bronze and his stats at that event were 9 games: 1.0ppg.
Etilopy has played also professionally in France (teams like Paris-Levallois, ASVEL Lyon-Villeurbanne Basket and JL Bourg) amd Belgium (BC Carnieres).

By Eurobasket Data Center


*****************************************************
  TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO   


Mills guide La Salle to win over Butler! - by Albert-Lee Young

6-2 point guard Sam Mills (200lbs) added 11 pts, 5rebs, 4 assists and 2 steals on 23 January as La Salle University took down #9 ranked Butler University in front of a sold out home crowd at Tom Gola Arena, Philadelphia. Nine of his 11 points came in the second frame, most notably a floater which put the Explorers up 52-51.

The Explorers held the lead until Butler's Andrew Smith converted a nifty layup with 8.4 seconds left, giving the Bulldogs a one point advantage. La Salle advanced the ball quickly and Ramon Galloway hit a layup at the 2.7 second mark and a half court heave from Butler's Roosevelt Jones drew unfriendly iron, as the La Salle stole the win.

And in the NCAA D2, 7Rundell Mauge (270lbs) nearly finished with a double-double of 9pts and a team-high 9 rebs on 16 January. He also added 3 blocked shots and 2 assists in the game as Fort Hays State University defeated Southwest Baptist 74-59.

With the win, the Fort Hays State men's basketball team moved to 10-4 overall and 4-2 in the MIAA conference. In addition the Tigers moved into a tie for second place in the conference and gave head coach Mark Johnson his 236th win at Fort Hays State, passing Bill Morse for sole possession of second place on the all-time wins list at FHSU.

Meanwhile in the NJCAA, 6-5 Tyler Washington (216lbs) had 14ps and 7rebs as Hostos Community College scored a convincing 103-67 victory over Ulster County Community College on 22 January in the Region 15 action. Ranked 9th Nationally the Caimans are now 16-2 overall and sit in second place in Region 15 with a 12-1 Region record and first in the CUNY Conference with a 5-0 record.

In a previous game on 17 January, Tyler Washington finished with 9 points as Hostos Community College defeated NJCAA Regional XV foe Dutchess Community College 102-52. And earlier on 15 January, Washington chipped in with 13pts as the Caimans registered a hard fought 66-62 road win against The Borough of Manhattan Community College Panthers.


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


Pi Koleji brings Kambala to Ankara - by Selman Baydar

TB2L side Pi Koleji Ankara (#17, 3-14) is very close to a final agreement with legendary Latvian center Kaspars Kambala (206-C-78, agency: Alti Sport, college: UNLV). He will help the club strive against relegation if he signs in a couple of days. Pi Koleji will probably be KAS' fifth station in Turkey after Efes Pilsen (2001-2003), Fenerbahce Ulker (2005-2007), Aliaga Petkim (2011) and Turk Telekom (2011-2012). In his last season, with another Ankara team Turk Telekom, he played with 21,4 mpg, 10,8 ppg and 4,7 rpg in 30 games. Pi Koleji will face Izmir Buyuksehir Belediyesi (#18, 1-16) on the road at 18th round of Turkish Basketball Second League.

Kambala is used to success in Turkey where he won 2001-02, 2002-03 league titles, 2002 Turkish National Cup and Turkish President Cup with Efes Pilsen, won 2006-07 title with Fenerbahce Ulker and played in the 2006 Turkish All Star Game. He still holds Euroleague single game scoring record with 41 points in a four way tie along with Carlton Myers, Alphonso Ford and Bobby Brown.


Trabzonspor tabs Onder Kulcebas - by Selman Baydar

On their way back to TBL again, Trabzonspor Basketbol adds another experienced name to their front court. Adnan Onder Kulcebas (207-C/F-81, agency: 1x1 Sports) who had joined Hacettepe in 2011 played in 15 games there at first half of this season averaging 23.6 minutes per game, 5.7 points per game and 5.1 rebounds per game.
Hasan Ozmeric's squad will host Balikesir at 18th round of TB2L this weekend and Onder Kulcebas is expected to be on court.


EuroLeague: Fenerbahce open win count in Top 16 - by Eurobasket News

Fenerbahce - Khimky 85:82

Fenerbahce recorded the initial victory in EuroLeague Top 16 round. They held off visiting Khimky for 1-4 record in Group F. Bojan Bogdanovic (203-SG-89) delivered 26 points to pace the winners.
Khimky enjoyed a slightly better start to the game. They led by two points after ten minutes of action 19:17. The visitors maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. Khimky posted a 40:36 halftime advantage. The margin grew at 7-point mark early in the third term. However Fenerbahce gradually turned things around. They capped the period with a 6:2 run to spur ahead 56:54. The teams went neck and neck for some time in the final quarter. However David Andersen (212-C-80) and Kaya Peker gave Fenerbahce a 77:72 lead with under two minutes remaining in regulation. Zoran Planinic (198-G-82) and Bo McCalebb (178-PG-85, college: New Orleans) exchanged free throws but then Zoran Planinic followed with four points in a row to cut the deficit to a single point. However Uros Tripkovic went perfect from the stripe in the dying seconds to seal the initial win for the hosts at this stage of the tournament. David Andersen notched 18 points, while Bo McCalebb added 16 points for the winners. Zoran Planinic answered with 25 points, 6 rebounds, 6 assists and 4 steals for Khimky. Paul Davis (211-C-84, college: Michigan St.) provided 12 points in the loss.

Fenerbahce: Bojan Bogdanovic 26, David Andersen 18, Bo McCalebb 16
Khimky: Zoran Planinic 25, Paul Davis 12


Interview with Dimitris Itoudis - What is the secret behind 5 Euroleague Championships ? - by Ugur Turker

We have talked with one of the most talented coach in Europe, Dimitris Itoudis. London journey with Pistons, working with Zjeliko Obradovic and headcoaching career that waiting for him...

Ugur Turker : Hello Coach Itoudis, you were in London last week, invited to watch the NBA game played there?
Dimitris Itoudis : Yes, I was invited from Pistons organization ,Joe Dumars specifically and his assistant George David ,to spend with them some days in London and have the opportunity, like this summer, to exchange ideas about basketball.

Ugur Turker : As an expert in Euroleague, how do you see the comparison between the two leagues and could they be combined in any way in the future?

Dimitris Itoudis : First of all I believe that on the organization part the NBA is far ahead from teams in Europe. Of course there are some teams that try to do the best and they have to be the example,but the NBA has match bigger amount of money that invest in order to be all very but very organized.
On the other hand ,regarding basketball as a game, there are differences,but Europe positively has been influential to many NBA teams. I want to say that Basketball ,like Joe Dumars use to say is Universal.
Now, I do see in the future that the two leagues will have a lot of common things. I do really believe that Euroleague 's future is to have a close league like in NBA. This will be the first step. There many other steps to be done ,like the rules for instance or the dimension of the court and some other really important things. I am sure and I know that Mr Bertomeu and his assosiets are thinking how to make the game more interesting and in the future will see this for sure.

Ugur Turker : How do you think top Euroleague teams would perform in the NBA? Is there a way for them to be competitive if they increase their budget by more revenues?

Dimitris Itoudis : Without any question, the Top Euroleague teams could perform well, but they need to support this with the other things we just mention before,regarding the organization.

Ugur Turker : How was the past summer for you? You were approached to head coach by some organizations but you preferred not to accept the offers ?

Dimitris Itoudis : Yes it is true I had some offers, but after 13 very successful years with Panathinaikos ! the way of the approach was not what I was expecting and I didn't agreed. And I want to be clear, it was not the money the issue, but the vision and the plan. You know when one team approach me, I ask them, what are the expectations and the golds. If we can found the chemistry then we can go together.

Ugur Turker : What are your plans for the present and near future?
Dimitris Itoudis : As you probably know I am analyzing Euroleague games officially at Euroleague.net and I am trying to give to people the coach approach to the game. Other than that I am watching basketball ,at different leagues. But also I do have more time to be with my family,that miss me during the season. You know this is my first year I don't work after 22 years continuously. Some times it is good to stay out and watch the things from a different angle.

Ugur Turker : If your plan is to be head coach a Euroleague organization, how would you feel if you had to face up Zjeliko Obradovic as an opponent? What would you tell him before the game?

Dimitris Itoudis : Yes I do plan to be a Head Coach ,but as I said before on a team that have vision and expectations. Now if I am going to face Zeljko ,that will be very strange ,but it will be only during the game, because before and after we will have some good dinners and talks. You know that Zeljko is my Best man and the relation we have is build with very strong bridges.

Ugur Turker : You have won 5 Euroleague championships, what would you say is the secret to go all the way in these championships?

Dimitris Itoudis : Dedication, knowledge, believe, plan,organization,collaboration. All this and one more is hard work with your players, and your staff . The very first thing is that the summer,after you and the management put the targets on the table, to BUILD a winning team. A team that can compete. A team that has players that have golds in their life. That's the first step and it's the most important. After that there are many other details that you have to consider as well.

Ugur Turker : Do you believe that basketball in the court has changed over the last few years with all the changes that happened?

Dimitris Itoudis : Yes and I really hope it will be changed a lot more in order to have better and more exiting games.

Ugur Turker : Can you describe the ideal team for you in terms of the style of basketball and the philosophy it would have?

Dimitris Itoudis : My friend all the teams I was part of and spend hours and hours on the court with, are the ideal teams and ideal players. I was privileged to work with a lot of Top players.

Ugur Turker : Have you followed the Turlkish championship? What do you think is the reason that there have not been any Turkish Club with final four presence in Euroleague in the recent past that Turkish teams havemade so big investements in basketball?

Dimitris Itoudis : Obviously i do follow Turkish league.Turkey last years really invest in Basketball. Has made very good steps ahead. People love basketball like sport. The Turkish league is among the best three leagues in Europe.
I know that the mentality of Turkish people is similar with my country and they want immediate results. I don't blame them ,because this kind of pressure they put is that makes you want to be better. Obviously going to Final Four is not an easy think and definitely at final four they don't go only the teams that invest the more money or they are favourites.



*****************************************************
  U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS   


Walter Hodge selected the top Virgin Islander playing abroad in last week's games - by Eurobasket Center

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

Walter Hodge
Walter Hodge
   #1. This week's number one is an international point guard Walter Hodge (183-86, college: Florida, currently plays in Eurocup), who plays in Poland. He could not help Stelmet ZG (1-2) in their last game on Wednesday. Despite Hodge's good performance the third-placed Stelmet ZG was badly defeated 89-69 at home by the second-ranked Spartak St.Petersburg in the group K of Eurocup. He was the second best scorer with 13 points. Hodge also added 6 assists. There are only three games left until the end of the Eurocup Top 16. So now every game will be critical. Hodge is currently first on the list of top scorers. He has individually a very good season with high stats. Hodge averages: 20.6ppg, 1.7rpg, 5.2apg, 2FGP: 53.8%, 3FGP: 54.3%(19-35). He has a dual citizenship: U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rican. Hodge is currently a member of the U.S. Virgin Islands senior national team.

Frank Elegar
Frank Elegar
   #2. Second place goes to former international center Frank Elegar (208-86, college: Drexel, currently plays in Baltic League). He led his Estonian team Kalev/Cramo to an easy victory against the closely-ranked Jelgava (0-2) crushing them 105-65 in the Baltic League on Wednesday night. Elegar had a double-double by scoring 18 points and getting 11 rebounds. He also added 3 blocks in 27 minutes. BC Kalev/Cramo Tallinn (2-0) is placed second in group F. There are only four games left until the end of the Baltic League Top 16. So now every game is very crucial. Elegar has relatively good stats this year: 13.1ppg, 8.7rpg, 1.4bpg, 1.3spg, 2FGP: 60.3%(35-58) and FT: 55.0% in the seven games he played so far. He played for the U.S. Virgin Islands national team in 2010.

Gregory Washington
Gregory Washington
   #3. The U.S. Virgin Islands player who performed third best last week abroad was an international power forward Gregory Washington (208-84, college: Hofstra, currently plays in Denmark). Washington was the major contributor in Svendborg's victory against the closely-ranked Horsholm (8-7) 85-77 in the Danish Ligaen in Wednesday night's game. He recorded a double-double by scoring 21 points and getting 11 rebounds. Washington also added 3 blocks; quite an impressive performance considering it's only his second season in pro basketball. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. Svendborg Rabbits (18-2) is placed first in the Ligaen. It was his team's third consecutive victory in a row. It's Washington's first year with the team. Washington is currently fifth on the league's list of best rebounders and also on the list of best blockers (first place). This season he has very high stats. Washington averages: 15.3ppg, 8.3rpg, 1.2apg, 2.7bpg, 2FGP: 62.3%(129-207), 3FGP: 24.3% and FT: 58.8%. He is also a member of the U.S. Virgin Islands senior national team.

Ivan Aska
Ivan Aska
   #4. Forward Ivan Aska (200-90, college: Murray St., currently plays in Belgium) led Leuven Bears to a 1-point victory over the closely-ranked Antwerp Giants (6-7) 78-77 in the Belgian Ethias League last Saturday. Aska was MVP of the game. He recorded 21 points in 32 minutes; not bad, considering it's only Aska's third season in pro basketball. Stella Artois Leuven Bears (4-9) is placed second from the bottom (#7) in the Ethias League. They ended the series of four consecutive loses. Aska is currently seventh on the league's list of best rebounders with 6.5rpg. This year he also averages: 14.5ppg, 1.8apg and 1.5spg in the 13 games. Aska is another player who holds two passports: U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rican. He is also U.S. Virgin Islands national team player.

Cuthbert Victor
Cuthbert Victor
   #5. Former international forward Cuthbert Victor (197-83, college: Murray St., currently plays in France) contributed to a Le Mans' victory against the league outsider Boulazac Basket (4-12) 77-68 in the French ProA on Saturday night. Victor recorded 6 points. Le Mans Sarthe Basket (11-5) is placed second in the ProA. It was his team's fourth consecutive victory in a row. It's Victor's first season with the team. His overall stats this year are: 9.4ppg, 3.4rpg and 2.6apg. Victor used to play for the U.S. Virgin Islands national team two years ago.

The list of other players, who all have U.S. Virgin Islands passport but never been selected to any of U.S. Virgin Islands national teams:

   #1. Experienced Tim Duncan (211-F/C-76, college: Wake Forest, currently plays in NBA) led San Antonio Spurs to a victory over the Philadelphia 76ers (17-25) 90-85 in the NBA in Monday night's game. He was MVP of the game. Duncan had a double-double by scoring 24 points and getting 17 rebounds. He also added 5 assists in 34 minutes. The San Antonio Spurs have a very solid 34-11 record this season. It was his team's sixth consecutive victory in a row. It's Duncan's 16th year with the team. Duncan has individually a very good season with high stats. He averages: 17.5ppg, 9.8rpg, 2.8apg and 2.7bpg in the 42 games he played so far. Duncan has a dual citizenship: U.S. Virgin Islands and American.

   #2. Antonin Galaya (196-G, currently plays college basketball in the States) contributed to an easy victory against the Howard University (1-6) crushing them 71-36 in the NCAA in Monday night's game. He scored 9 points and grabbed 4 rebounds in 19 minutes. The N.Carolina Central has 4-0 conference record this season. So far his team won all four games in the conference. This year Galaya's overall stats are: 9.4ppg, 3.4rpg and 2.6apg in the 16 games. He is another player who holds two passports: U.S. Virgin Islands and French.

   #3. Rakeem Christmas (206-F/C-91, currently studies in the States) managed to help Syracuse University to win against the University of Cincinnati (3-3) 57-55 in the NCAA last Monday. Christmas scored only 2 points. The Syracuse University has quite an impressive 6-0 conference record this season. So far his team won all six games in the conference. Christmas' overall stats this season are: 9.4ppg, 3.4rpg and 2.6apg.

Other top U.S. Virgin Islands players, who play abroad:

Raja Bell (196-F/G-76) plays for Utah Jazz in the NBA
Julius Hodge (201-G-83) plays for Paris-Levallois in French ProA
Dane Rawlins (193-G/F-87) plays for Tampa Bay Rain in the ABA
Jason Edwin (197-G/F-81) plays for Nacional in Uruguayan LUB
Jerome Gumbs (194-F-82) plays for Cheshire Phoenix in British BBL


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


North Texas Fresh franchise makes Crowley Middle Home Gym - by Gianni Pascucci

The Fresh are back, and this time, the minor league professional basketball will be in Crowley with some familiar faces in uniform for the Universal Basketball Association.
The North Texas Fresh, which has been existence since 2009, will relocate from playing at Birdville Coliseum to playing its home games at Crowley Middle School. The Fresh are (1-1) this season so far and will face the Metroplex Lightning in its first home game for the season on Saturday, January 26th at 6 p.m.
Crowley area spectators will get the opportunity to see A'Daeron Duncan (6'7''-F-87, college: N.Kentucky) and Jay Bowdy (6'6''-F/G-83, college: W.Georgia) perform for the Fresh; two impactful individuals in regards to the Crowley area.
A'Daeron Duncan, guard forward wearing #13, is a Crowley Middle School and North Crowley High School alumni. Duncan was an intricate part in the district title winning team for Crowley Middle and one of Coach Tommy Brackels key guys in the 2004 2005 season for North Crowley High School; which fell short of a 5A championship. Duncan went on to play at Merced Junior College and finished at Northern Kentucky. After ending his collegiate career, he has continued with the North Texas Fresh and waiting for the opportunity for a chance to play overseas. Duncan is the career points leader in the history of the North Texas Fresh and 2nd in highest career point per game total with a 17.3 mark. Duncan is currently averaging 20 points, 6.5 rebounds, 4.5 assist, and 3 steals per contest.
Jay Bowdy, guard forward wearing #23, is a Crowley ISD employee and Crowley Middle/Mary Harris Intermediate coach. Bowdy is a graduate from Trimble Tech H.S. and was part of the Bulldog team to lose by one point to Keith Langford & North Crowley at North Crowley in the 1998 1999 season. Bowdy went on to play at Southwestern Christian Junior College and finished at University of West Georgia.After ending his collegiate career, Bowdy healed from two previous knee surgeries and was part of the NBA D Leagues Austin Toros camp roster and also played for the Texas Fuel and West Texas Whirlwinds before joining the Fresh. He has many accolades; including, former All ABA Team Selectee, All Southwest Division Selectee, and an ABA All Star.
Bowdy comes into this season 2nd in career points for the Fresh and 1st in career point per game total with an 18.8 ppg mark. Bowdy is currently averaging 24 points, 11.5 rebounds, 4.5 assist, along with 3 steals per contest this season. With both Bowdy and Duncan on the court, it has been a nightmare for teams to defend them. Both look to bring some excitement to the Crowley area.



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Women News


Africabasket.com All-African U18 Championships - by Greg

Best Player: Yacine Diop
Best Scorer: Hamrouni Houda
Best Rebounder: Hamrouni Houda
Best 3-point Shooter: Mariam Kone

1st Team
Soraya Deghady
Mariam Kone
Aminata Traore
Yacine Diop
Hamrouni Houda


*****************************************************
  AUSTRIA   

Standings - AWBL

AWBL Standings
 1. Fl.Foxes 12-0 
 2. BK Duchess 9-3 
 3. BC Vienna 4-7 
 4. Basket Flames 3-8 
 5. UBI Graz 1-11 

Regular Season: Round 16

Feb. 3: BC Vienna - UBI Graz
Feb. 3: Fl.Foxes - Basket Flames



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

Standings - Women

Premier League Standings
 1. Olimpia 11-0 
 2. Tsmoki-Minsk 10-2 
 3. Gorizont 8-4 
 4. Sozh Gomel 5-7 
 5. Berezina 4-7 
 6. Victoria 3-9 
 7. BrGU 0-12 

Regular Season: Round 14

Jan. 23: Tsmoki-Minsk - Berezina 65-46
Jan. 23: Gorizont - Olimpia 60-77
Jan. 23: Sozh Gomel - BrGU 112-49


Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Olga KOPYLOVA
  Sozh G.
  (187-F-82)
  Avg: 19.1
 1. Kopylova, Sozh G.19.1 
 2. Anufryienka, Goriz.16.7 
 3. Filonchyk, Olimpia15.4 
 4. Kiriyenko, Sozh Go.15.4 
 5. Adamik, BrGU15.0 
 6. Likhtarovich, Gori.14.8 
 7. Shapochkina, Olimp.14.3 
 8. Papova, Olimpia14.1 
 9. Chubkavets, Berez.13.4 
 10. Alyoshkina, Olimp.11.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Lyubov ALYOSHKINA
  Olimpia
  (203-C-81)
  Avg: 11
 1. Alyoshkina, Olimpia11.0 
 2. Kiriyenko, Sozh Go.10.0 
 3. Khomenchuk, Goriz.9.7 
 4. Kopylova, Sozh G.8.8 
 5. Kress, Gorizont8.1 
 6. Haponava, Berezina7.9 
 7. Papova, Olimpia7.3 
 8. Iordan, Tsmoki-M.7.2 
 9. Filonchyk, Olimpia6.8 
 10. Chubkavets, Bere.6.5 
Assists Per Game
 Nadzeya DROZD
  Olimpia
  (174-G-83)
  Avg: 6
 1. Drozd, Olimpia6.0 
 2. Likhtarovich, Gori.3.8 
 3. Valko, Gorizont3.4 
 4. Rannaveski, Olimpia2.7 
 5. Anufryienka, Goriz.2.6 
 6. Papova, Olimpia2.4 
 7. Tsiruleva, Tsmoki-.2.2 
 8. Kopylova, Sozh G.2.1 
 9. Kakhanskaya, BrGU2.1 
 10. Turomsha, Berezina2.0 
Steals Per Game
 Natalia RUSAK
  BrGU
  (180-F-84)
  Avg: 4.1
 1. Rusak, BrGU4.1 
 2. Drozd, Olimpia3.2 
 3. Anufryienka, Goriz.3.0 
 4. Likhtarovich, Gori.2.9 
 5. Shapochkina, Olimp.2.7 
 6. Turomsha, Berezina2.5 
 7. Voishal, Victoria2.4 
 8. Papova, Olimpia2.2 
 9. Tsiruleva, Tsmoki-.2.0 
 10. Kalikh, Berezina2.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Darya LIPINSKAYA
  Gorizont
  (180-SG-93)
  Avg: 0
 1. Lipinskaya, Gorizo.0.0 
 2. Adamik, BrGU0.0 
 3. Likhtarovich, Gori.0.0 
 4. Voishal, Victoria0.0 
 5. Lednik, Berezina0.0 
 6. Valeuskaya, BrGU0.0 
 7. Lalovich, Tsmoki-M.0.0 
 8. Turomsha, Berezina0.0 
 9. Kress, Gorizont0.0 
 10. Tsarevich, Victor.0.0 


Premier League Round 14: Olimpia GrGAU defeats Gorizont in the game between Top 4 teams - by Eurobasket News

An interesting game for Olimpia GrGAU (11-0) which played road game in Minsk against 3rd ranked Gorizont (8-4). Top-ranked Olimpia GrGAU had an easy win 77-60. The guests trailed by 2 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 5-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 77-60. Olimpia GrGAU made 19-of-22 free shots (86.4 percent) during the game. Maryia Papova (186-94) orchestrated the victory by scoring 15 points and 9 rebounds. The former international guard Nadzeya Drozd (174-83) contributed with 13 points and 7 assists for the winners. International guard Natalia Anufryienka (174-85, agency: LBM Management) replied with 31 points and 6 rebounds for Gorizont. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Undefeated Olimpia GrGAU have an impressive 11-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 11-0 record. Defending champion Gorizont keeps the third place with four games lost.
An interesting game for Tsmoki-Minsk (10-2) which hosted in Minsk 4th ranked Berezina-RCOR (4-7). Second ranked Tsmoki-Minsk had an easy win 65-46. Ukrainian center Alina Iordan (190-88) scored 22 points and 7 rebounds (on 9-of-11 shooting from the field) to lead the charge for the winners and Viktoryia Pantsiukh chipped in 11 points and 5 rebounds during the contest. Swingman Katsiaryna Pratasevich (178-94) responded with 13 points and 7 rebounds. Tsmoki-Minsk maintains second position with 10-2 record behind leader Olimpia. Berezina-RCOR lost third consecutive game. They dropped to the fifth place with seven games lost.
Bottom-ranked BrGU COR Victoria is still unable to win any game. This time they lost on the road their 12th consecutive match to fifth ranked Sozh Gomel (5-7) 112-49 on Wednesday evening. Anna Kiriyenko notched a double-double by scoring 19 points and 16 rebounds to lead the effort. Even 11 points and 7 rebounds by Veranika Adamik did not help to save the game for BrGU COR Victoria. Sozh Gomel moved-up to fourth place. BrGU COR Victoria at the other side still closes the standings with 12 games lost.

The most impressive performance of 14th round was 23 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists by Olga Kopylova of Sozh Gomel.

Gorizont - Olimpia 60-77

An interesting game for Olimpia GrGAU (11-0) which played road game in Minsk against 3rd ranked Gorizont (8-4). Top-ranked Olimpia GrGAU had an easy win 77-60. The guests trailed by 2 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 5-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 77-60. Olimpia GrGAU made 19-of-22 free shots (86.4 percent) during the game. Maryia Papova (186-94) orchestrated the victory by scoring 15 points and 9 rebounds. The former international guard Nadzeya Drozd (174-83) contributed with 13 points and 7 assists for the winners. Five Olimpia GrGAU players scored in double figures. International guard Natalia Anufryienka (174-85, agency: LBM Management) replied with 31 points and 6 rebounds and forward Nadzeya Nadzezhka (180-87) added 13 points and 6 rebounds in the effort for Gorizont. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Olimpia GrGAU have an impressive 11-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 11-0 record. Defending champion Gorizont keeps the third place with four games lost.
Top scorers:
Olimpia: T.Shapochkina 17+4reb+1ast, M.Papova 15+9reb+1ast, M.Filonchyk 14+7reb, N.Drozd 13+2reb+7ast, L.Alyoshkina 10+7reb+2ast, N.Kozun 4
Gorizont: N.Anufryienka 31+6reb+2ast, N.Nadzezhka 13+6reb, D.Lipinskaya 3, T.Khatsko 3+1reb, M.Kress 3+9reb+3ast, M.Ivashchanka 2+3reb
gschID: 204812


Sozh Gomel - BrGU 112-49

Bottom-ranked BrGU COR Victoria is still unable to win any game. This time they lost on the road their 12th consecutive match to fifth ranked Sozh Gomel (5-7) 112-49 on Wednesday evening. The game without a history. Sozh Gomel led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 70 of its points in the paint compared to BrGU COR Victoria's 32. Sozh Gomel forced 25 BrGU COR Victoria turnovers and outrebounded them 54-32 including a 35-18 advantage in defensive rebounds. Sozh Gomel looked well-organized offensively handing out 25 assists comparing to just 9 passes made by BrGU COR Victoria's players. Ukrainian center Anna Kiriyenko (190-93) notched a double-double by scoring 19 points and 16 rebounds to lead the effort and forward Olga Kopylova (187-82) supported her with 23 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists. Five Sozh Gomel players scored in double figures. Even 11 points and 7 rebounds by forward Veranika Adamik (181-90) did not help to save the game for BrGU COR Victoria. Inga Shakalei (175-89) added 4 points and 9 rebounds for the guests. Sozh Gomel moved-up to fourth place. BrGU COR Victoria at the other side still closes the standings with 12 games lost.
Top scorers:
Sozh Gomel: O.Kopylova 23+8reb+5ast, E.Gorelikova 23+3reb+1ast, A.Kiriyenko 19+16reb+3ast, E.Charikova 17+6reb+4ast, E.Staschuk 13+4reb, T.Ilkovich 11+9reb+3ast
BrGU: V.Adamik 11+7reb+2ast, D.Panasyuk 10+1reb+1ast, D.Sizonova 8+1ast, E.Shestilovskaya 7+2reb+1ast, V.Valeuskaya 4+5reb+1ast, I.Shakalei 4+9reb+2ast
gschID: 204810


Tsmoki-Minsk - Berezina 65-46

An interesting game for Tsmoki-Minsk (10-2) which hosted in Minsk 4th ranked Berezina-RCOR (4-7). Second ranked Tsmoki-Minsk had an easy win 65-46. Tsmoki-Minsk outrebounded Berezina-RCOR 31-20 including 22 on the defensive glass. Ukrainian center Alina Iordan (190-88) scored 22 points and 7 rebounds (on 9-of-11 shooting from the field) to lead the charge for the winners and the former international forward Viktoryia Pantsiukh (185-87) chipped in 11 points and 5 rebounds during the contest. Swingman Katsiaryna Pratasevich (178-94) responded with 13 points and 7 rebounds and forward Yuliya Haponava (187-94) scored 8 points and 9 rebounds. Tsmoki-Minsk maintains second position with 10-2 record behind leader Olimpia. Berezina-RCOR lost third consecutive game. They dropped to the fifth place with seven games lost.
Top scorers:
Tsmoki-Minsk: A.Iordan 22+7reb+1ast, V.Pantsiukh 11+5reb+3ast, V.Istseliatsova 11+5reb+1ast, Y.Panevina 8+3reb, N.Yakovits 4+4reb, K.Urbanovich 4+2reb
Berezina: K.Pratasevich 13+7reb, K.Turomsha 9+3reb+3ast, Y.Haponava 8+9reb+2ast, V.Lednik 6, Y.Styapanava 5+1ast, H.Kalikh 4+1reb
gschID: 204811



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

CIS Standings

CIS Standings
AUS
 1. St.Mary's 11-0 
 2. Acadia 8-2 
 3. Dalhousie 8-3 
 4. St.Francis X. 6-5 
 5. Memorial 5-7 
 6. Cape Breton 3-9 
 7. New Brunsw. 2-9 
 8. UPEI 1-9 
CanWest Pacific Division
 1. UFV 11-3 
 2. UBC 11-4 
 3. TRU 10-4 
 4. Victoria 10-4 
 5. UNBC 6-8 
 6. UBC Okanagan 5-9 
 7. Mount Royal 5-9 
 8. TWU 3-11 
CanWest Prairie Division
 1. Calgary 12-2 
 2. Regina 12-2 
 3. Alberta 8-6 
 4. Saskatchewan 8-6 
 5. Lethbridge 6-8 
 6. Winnipeg 5-10 
 7. Manitoba 2-13 
 8. Brandon 0-14 
QSSF
 1. UQAM 7-3 
 2. McGill 6-2 
 3. Concordia 6-2 
 4. Laval 3-6 
 5. Bishop's 0-9 
UOA East
 1. Carleton 11-3 
 2. Ottawa 10-4 
 3. Toronto Univ. 6-6 
 4. Queen's 6-8 
 5. Laurentian 5-8 
 6. Ryerson 4-9 
 7. York 2-11 
 8. RMC 0-0 
UOA West
 1. Brock 14-0 
 2. Windsor 14-0 
 3. Western 7-7 
 4. Lakehead 6-7 
 5. Laurier 6-7 
 6. McMaster 6-8 
 7. Guelph 5-9 
 8. Waterloo 0-14 

Regular Season: Round 23

Jan. 20: St.Mary''s - St.Francis X. 94-57
Jan. 23: Windsor - McMaster 74-56
Jan. 20: Memorial - Dalhousie 68-83
Jan. 23: Carleton - Ottawa 68-50
Jan. 23: Brock - Western 65-57
Jan. 23: Waterloo - Guelph 61-82
Jan. 20: Cape Breton - Acadia 59-71
Jan. 23: Bishop''s - UQAM 43-60
Jan. 24: Concordia - McGill
Jan. 24: Winnipeg - Calgary


CIS Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Justine COLLEY
  St.Mary''s
  (175-G-91)
  Avg: 28.9
 1. Colley, St.Mary''s28.9 
 2. Polishchuk, Laure.22.5 
 3. Vaughan, Western20.1 
 4. Moore, Acadia19.9 
 5. Brown, Dalhousie19.4 
 6. Schuetze, TRU19.4 
 7. Young, UBC18.5 
 8. Yeboah, Victoria18.4 
 9. Emmerson, Saskatc.18.4 
 10. Clemencon, Windsor17.9 
Rebounds Per Game
 Diane SCHUETZE
  TRU
  (191-C-)
  Avg: 12.3
 1. Schuetze, TRU12.3 
 2. Stephen, Ottawa11.9 
 3. Nadeau, Laval10.6 
 4. Milligan, McMaster10.1 
 5. Rosenkranz, Brock9.3 
 6. Sylla, McGill9.1 
 7. Von Maltzahn, Dalh.9.1 
 8. Smith, St.Mary''s9.0 
 9. Read, Regina9.0 
 10. Wierks, UFV8.9 
Assists Per Game
 Cassandra GOODIS
  Victoria
  (170-G-)
  Avg: 6.8
 1. Goodis, Victoria6.8 
 2. Duxbury, TRU5.9 
 3. Langlois, Windsor5.6 
 4. Boag, Queen''s4.6 
 5. Polishchuk, Laure.4.6 
 6. Luyken, UFV4.4 
 7. Clarke, Regina4.3 
 8. Young, UBC4.3 
 9. Ring, Ottawa4.2 
 10. Colley, St.Mary''s4.2 
Steals Per Game
 Justine COLLEY
  St.Mary''s
  (175-G-91)
  Avg: 4.1
 1. Colley, St.Mary''s4.1 
 2. Polishchuk, Laure.3.5 
 3. Langlois, Windsor3.4 
 4. Jarrett, Calgary3.0 
 5. Duxbury, TRU3.0 
 6. Clarke, Regina2.9 
 7. Cameron, Lethb.2.8 
 8. Nofuente, Ryerson2.8 
 9. Gregoire, Concordia2.8 
 10. Van Koughnet., U.2.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Marie-Pascale NADEAU
  Laval
  (188-C-89)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Nadeau, Laval2.8 
 2. Schuetze, TRU1.9 
 3. Clemencon, Windsor1.9 
 4. Duinker, Acadia1.7 
 5. Cole, Calgary1.6 
 6. Rosenkranz, Brock1.4 
 7. Strom, TWU1.4 
 8. Emmerson, Saskatc.1.4 
 9. Ellenor, Laurier1.3 
 10. Milligan, McMaster1.2 



*****************************************************
  CHINA   

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Maya MOORE
  Shanxi
  (183-SG-89)
  Avg: 38.1
 1. Moore, Shanxi38.1 
 2. Cambage, Zhejiang35.3 
 3. Appel, Henan26.9 
 4. Ji, Heilongjiang26.5 
 5. Catchings, Guang.25.1 
 6. Miao, Shenyang24.7 
 7. Little, Shanghai24.7 
 8. Taylor, Yunnan24.3 
 9. Shi, Shanghai19.9 
 10. Chen, Bayi18.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Jayne APPEL
  Henan
  (193-F/C-88)
  Avg: 15.4
 1. Appel, Henan15.4 
 2. Thomas, Jiangsu14.1 
 3. Taylor, Yunnan12.3 
 4. Moore, Shanxi12.1 
 5. Cambage, Zhejiang10.8 
 6. Leuchanka, Liaoni.10.3 
 7. Young, Beijing10.2 
 8. Little, Shanghai9.5 
 9. Chen, Bayi8.3 
 10. Catchings, Guang.8.1 
Assists Per Game
 LiJie MIAO
  Shenyang
  (178-F-81)
  Avg: 7.2
 1. Miao, Shenyang7.2 
 2. Ma, Heilongjiang6.9 
 3. Bian, Zhejiang5.3 
 4. Chen, Jiangsu4.8 
 5. Ji, Heilongjiang4.5 
 6. Wu, Shanxi4.1 
 7. Moore, Shanxi4.0 
 8. Liu, Yunnan3.9 
 9. Song, Bayi3.4 
 10. Kim, Beijing3.4 
Steals Per Game
 Tamika CATCHINGS
  Guang.
  (186-SF-79)
  Avg: 3.3
 1. Catchings, Guang.3.3 
 2. Moore, Shanxi3.3 
 3. Young, Beijing2.4 
 4. Little, Shanghai2.3 
 5. Liu, Yunnan2.0 
 6. Song, Bayi1.9 
 7. Appel, Henan1.9 
 8. Bian, Zhejiang1.9 
 9. Huang, Shanghai1.8 
 10. Kim, Beijing1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Elizabeth CAMBAGE
  Zhejiang
  (203-C-91)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Cambage, Zhejiang2.5 
 2. Appel, Henan2.0 
 3. Taylor, Yunnan1.9 
 4. Moore, Shanxi1.3 
 5. Wei, Guangdong1.1 
 6. Zhang, Beijing1.0 
 7. Catchings, Guang.0.9 
 8. Nuo, Jiangsu0.9 
 9. Zhao, Beijing0.8 
 10. Chen, Bayi0.7 


WCBA Round 2 of Semi-Finals - by Eurobasket News

Shanxi - Beijing 76-54 (1-1)

The game was mostly controlled by Shanxi. Beijing Great Wall managed to win fourth quarter 15-12. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Shanxi dominated down low during the game scoring 62 of its points in the paint compared to Beijing Great Wall's 38. Shanxi forced 19 Beijing Great Wall turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. The best player for the winners was American Maya Moore (183-89, college: Connecticut) who had a double-double by scoring 19 points, 13 rebounds and 7 assists. Center Dong Yu (195-93) chipped in 22 points and 4 assists (on 11-of-14 shooting from the field). Four Shanxi players scored in double figures. The former international center Lin Zhang (193-83) produced 17 points (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) and American forward Sophia Young (186-83, college: Baylor) added 10 points and 6 rebounds respectively for the guests.
Top scorers:
Shanxi: Y.Dong 22+4reb+4ast, M.Maya 19+13reb+7ast, M.XueYa 14+6reb+1ast, W.Jinzhu 11+4reb+6ast, Z.Xianmin 8+4reb+2ast, Q.Fang 2
Beijing: Z.Lin 17+2reb+1ast, Z.Fan 11+1reb+2ast, Y.Sophia 10+6reb+1ast, Z.Hui 6+3reb+1ast, K.Yeong-Ok 5+1reb+4ast, Q.Site 3+2ast
gschID: 231917


Zhejiang - Shenyang 103-79 (2-0)

The game without a history. Zhejiang Far East led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They made 50-of-57 free shots (87.7 percent) during the game, while Shenyang Golden Lions only scored twenty four points from the stripe. They outrebounded Shenyang Golden Lions 48-28 including a 31-20 advantage in defensive rebounds. 41 personal fouls committed by Shenyang Golden Lions helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was Australian center Elizabeth Cambage (203-91) who had a double-double by scoring 45 points (!!!), 17 rebounds and 5 blocks. The former international swingman Lan Bian (185-86) chipped in 22 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists (was perfect 10-for-10 from the free throw line !!!). International forward LiJie Miao (178-81) produced 20 points and 5 assists and the former international center Dan Liu (194-87) added 13 points respectively for the guests. Four Shenyang Golden Lions players scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Zhejiang: C.Elizabeth 45+17reb, B.Lan 22+7reb+7ast, D.XueMei 10+8reb, G.Jun 6+3reb, J.Xiao 6+6reb, S.Yi 6
Shenyang: M.LiJie 20+4reb+5ast, L.Dan 13+3reb, S.Liwei 12+3reb, L.Meng 10+2reb+2ast, Z.Shuang 9+2reb+1ast, H.Nan 5+4reb+1ast
gschID: 231918



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

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Jolene ANDERSON
  Antakya
  (175-SG-86)
  Avg: 23
 1. Anderson, Antakya23.0 
 2. Maltsi, Kayseri20.4 
 3. Zellous, Mersin20.0 
 4. Paris, Botas19.3 
 5. Langhorne, Dynamo18.2 
 6. Dabovic, TED Anka.17.5 
 7. Johnson, Chevakata17.4 
 8. Dabovic, Partizan17.0 
 9. Dotson, VS Praha16.5 
 10. Papova, Olimpia15.9 
Rebounds Per Game
 Erlana LARKINS
  Mersin
  (185-F-86)
  Avg: 16
 1. Larkins, Mersin16.0 
 2. Paris, Botas13.2 
 3. Johnson, Chevakata12.5 
 4. Malone, SISU12.0 
 5. Alyoshkina, Olimpia11.5 
 6. Sissoko, Belfius10.8 
 7. Khomenchuk, Goriz.10.3 
 8. Cannon, Wasserburg10.0 
 9. Robinson, Tarbes9.9 
 10. Alikina, Gorizont9.7 
Assists Per Game
 Temeka JOHNSON
  Dynamo K.
  (160-PG-82)
  Avg: 6
 1. Johnson, Dynamo K.6.0 
 2. Toliver, Dynamo M.4.9 
 3. Aubert, Nantes4.7 
 4. Mincikova, MBK R.4.5 
 5. Blands, SISU4.5 
 6. Bartakova, VS Pra.4.4 
 7. Anderson, Antakya4.2 
 8. Turner, Dy.4.0 
 9. Tarasava, VS Praha4.0 
 10. Dabovic, Partizan4.0 
Steals Per Game
 Nadzeya DROZD
  Olimpia
  (174-G-83)
  Avg: 2.9
 1. Drozd, Olimpia2.9 
 2. Maltsi, Kayseri2.8 
 3. Cernakova, MBK R.2.6 
 4. Michel, Nantes2.5 
 5. Butulija, Partizan2.5 
 6. Robert, Lattes M.2.5 
 7. Johnson, Chevakata2.4 
 8. Prince, Dynamo K.2.4 
 9. Holmes, MBK R.2.3 
 10. Vesela, Antakya2.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Aleksandra KHOMENCHUK
  Goriz.
  (202-C-89)
  Avg: 2.7
 1. Khomenchuk, Goriz.2.7 
 2. Alyoshkina, Olimpia2.6 
 3. Lisina, Dynamo K.2.5 
 4. Popovic, Spartak N.2.0 
 5. Myasoedova, Dynam.1.6 
 6. Reisingerova, VS P.1.3 
 7. Vidmer, Dynamo M.1.3 
 8. Alikina, Gorizont1.2 
 9. Sanders, Kayseri1.0 
 10. Vodopiyanova, Dy.1.0 


MBK Ruzomberok, Kayseri, Chevakata and Dynamo Moscow reach semis - by Eurobasket News

Nantes - MBK Ruzomb. 57-79
MBK Ruzomberok became the first team to reach EuroCup semifinals. They fired past Nantes Reze in France tonight to overcome a six-point deficit after the first leg of the quarterfinal series. Nadia Parker (191-C-87, college: USC) came up with impressive 28 points to lead MBK Ruzomberok to a decisive victory. Nantes Reze seemed in control of their fate in the opening stage of the game. The hosts gained a 20:15 lead after the starting quarter and an 11-point advantage on aggregate. But the things started to turn MBK Ruzomberok way in the second quarter. The visitors went on a 26:14 run to secure a 41:34 halftime lead. The Slovakian team stretched the lead in the third term. The visitors held Nantes to 8 points in the period to secure a massive 19-point lead heading into the fourth frame. MBK Ruzomberok limited the hosts to 15 points in the final quarter and sealed a comprehensive win at the end. Katarina Tetemondova (188-F-88) delivered 13 points for the winners. Marielle Amant (190-F/C-89) answered with 16 points and 10 rebounds for Nantes Reze. Yuliya Andreyeva chipped in 11 points in the losing case.

Dynamo K. - Kayseri 77-64 OT
Kayseri and Dynamo Kursk came up with a thrilling clash in Russia tonight to decide on the second semifinalists of EuroCup. Kayseri needed to protect their 15-point victory in Turkey to advance. Dynamo gained a 15-point advantage at the end of regulation to level things up on aggregate. The teams headed into overtime where Kayseri celebrated a two-point victory and advanced into the next round. Zoi Dimitrakou (188-F-87, agency: Josep and Nicolas) knocked down 21 points and grabbed 7 rebounds to lead the winners. Kayseri looked well in control of their fate in the opening quarter. Having entered the game with a 15-point buffer from the first leg the Turkish team quickly stretched it to as many as 24 following a 23:14 rally. But Dynamo refused to surrender. The Kursk outfit went on a 21:8 run in the second quarter to surge ahead. Dynamo ignited a 22:7 rally in the third quarter to enjoy a 6-point lead on aggregate before the fourth term. Kayseri needed some late heroics from Zoi Dimitrakou to stay in the fight. She notched five points in a row to cap the regulation sending the game into overtime. LaToya Sanders and Zoi Dimitrakou teamed up for six points in the extra period to seal the victory for Kayseri. Evanthia Maltsi and LaToya Sanders had 12 points each for the winners. Michelle Snow (196-C-80, agency: LBM Management, college: Tennessee) answered with 19 points and 15 rebounds for Dynamo Kursk. Ekaterina Lisina netted 16 points in defeat.

Lattes Montp. - Dynamo M. 84-86
Dynamo Moscow claimed their EuroCup semifinal ticket in style beating Lattes Montpellier on the road. It was the second straight win for Dynamo in the quarterfinal series as they reached the next stage of the tournament. Dynamo entered the return leg of the series enjoying a 22-point advantage after the home success. They made it quite clear who were the favourites silencing the crowd in Lattes with a 29:13 run in the first term. Montpellier showed character as they answered with a 26:16 run in the second quarter. Montpellier cut the deficit at 5-point mark heading into the fourth frame. Montpellier fired 24 points in the fourth frame cutting the deficit but Dynamo hung on to celebrate a narrow win at the end. Crystal Langhorne (188-F/C-86, college: Maryland) netted 26 points and pulled down 8 rebounds for Dynamo. Kristi Toliver (170-PG-87, college: Maryland) contributed 15 points for the winners. Ana Lelas (183-G/F-83) answered with 19 points for Lattes Montpellier. Geraldine Robert had 16 points in the loss.

Union Hainaut - Chevakata 45-66
Chevakata posted the second consecutive win over Union Hainaut and sealed their EuroCup semifinal appearance. Glory Johnson (190-F-90, college: Tennessee) scored 21 points and grabbed 14 rebounds to pace the Vologda team to a convincing victory in France tonight. Chevakata held to a comfortable 28-point lead after the home game. They did not waste too much time consolidating it even further. The Russian team limited Union Hainaut to 7 points in the opening frame to take a 4-point lead. The visitors went on a deadly 24:9 run in the second quarter to clear off. Union Hainaut struggled to get any closer in the next two periods. Chevakata dominated in every facet of the game and raced to a confident win at the end. Katerina Snytsina (188-F-85) finished with 19 points, while Elena Volkova added 9 points for the winners. Laura Garcia (176-G-81, agency: Josep and Nicolas) answered with 14 points for Union Hainaut. Ify Ibekwe chipped in 9 points in the loss.


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

Standings (Women)

Euroleague Standings
Group A
 1. Spartak V MR 9-2 
 2. Bourges 7-3 
 3. Rivas Ecopolis 6-4 
 4. Wisla Can-Pak 5-5 
 5. UNI Gyor 5-6 
 6. Tarsus Bld 2-8 
 7. IMOS Brno 2-8 
Group B
 1. Fenerbahce 8-2 
 2. Good Angels 8-2 
 3. Familia Schio 7-4 
 4. Nadezhda O. 6-4 
 5. Targoviste 3-7 
 6. UNIQA Eurol. 3-8 
 7. Arras 1-9 
Group C
 1. UMMC 10-0 
 2. Galatasaray 9-2 
 3. CCC Polkowice 5-6 
 4. Mondeville 4-6 
 5. USK Praha 4-6 
 6. Perfumerias 3-7 
 7. Novi Zagreb 1-9 

Regular Season: Round 12

A

Jan. 23: Spartak V MR - Wisla Can-Pak 89-63
Jan. 23: Tarsus Bld - UNI Gyor 81-70
Jan. 23: Rivas Ecopolis - IMOS Brno 67-50

B

Jan. 23: Fenerbahce - Arras 81-75
Jan. 24: Familia Schio - Good Angels 67-78
Jan. 23: Targoviste - UNIQA Eurol. 57-65

C

Jan. 23: UMMC - Mondeville 79-58
Jan. 23: Galatasaray - Perfumerias 68-56
Jan. 23: Novi Zagreb - CCC Polkowice 55-76

Regular Season: Round 13

A

Jan. 30: Wisla Can-Pak - Rivas Ecopolis
Jan. 30: Tarsus Bld - IMOS Brno
Jan. 31: UNI Gyor - Bourges

B

Jan. 30: UNIQA Eurol. - Nadezhda O.
Jan. 30: Good Angels - Fenerbahce
Jan. 30: Arras - Targoviste

C

Jan. 30: USK Praha - CCC Polkowice
Jan. 30: Mondeville - Novi Zagreb
Jan. 30: Perfumerias - UMMC


Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Tina CHARLES
  Wisla C.
  (193-C-88)
  Avg: 25.8
 1. Charles, Wisla C.25.8 
 2. Milovanovic, UNIQA18.5 
 3. Lavender, Familia18.0 
 4. Johnson, UNIQA E.18.0 
 5. Marginean, Targo.17.7 
 6. Ogwumike, CCC P.17.5 
 7. Parker, UMMC16.6 
 8. Taurasi, UMMC16.4 
 9. Quigley, Good Ange.16.3 
 10. Bonner, Nadezhda16.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 Tina CHARLES
  Wisla C.
  (193-C-88)
  Avg: 12.3
 1. Charles, Wisla C.12.3 
 2. Bonner, Nadezhda10.7 
 3. Henry, Rivas Ecopo.9.5 
 4. Parker, UMMC9.4 
 5. Teilane-T., Nadezh.8.7 
 6. Vaughn, USK Praha8.4 
 7. Godin, Familia Sch.8.4 
 8. Can, Tarsus Bld8.2 
 9. Lavender, Familia8.1 
 10. Johnson, UNIQA E.8.0 
Assists Per Game
 Laia PALAU
  CCC P.
  (176-G-79)
  Avg: 6.5
 1. Palau, CCC P.6.5 
 2. Skerovic, USK Praha6.4 
 3. Bojovic, Good A.6.3 
 4. Dominguez, UMMC5.7 
 5. Taurasi, UMMC5.4 
 6. Doron, Tarsus Bld5.3 
 7. Ouvina, Wisla C.4.9 
 8. Hurst, UNI Gyor4.7 
 9. Sottana, Familia4.4 
 10. Vardarli, Fener.4.3 
Steals Per Game
 Anna CRUZ
  Rivas Ecopolis
  (173-PG-86)
  Avg: 3.2
 1. Cruz, Rivas Ecopol.3.2 
 2. Horakova, IMOS B.2.7 
 3. Bojovic, Good A.2.7 
 4. Lyttle, Galatasaray2.5 
 5. Ouvina, Wisla C.2.4 
 6. Gomis, Arras2.4 
 7. Robinson, Tarsus B.2.4 
 8. Fernandez, Perfume.2.3 
 9. Valdemoro, Tarsus2.3 
 10. McCoughtry, Fener.2.2 
Blocks Per Game
 Anastasiya VEREMEENKO
  Fener.
  (194-C-87)
  Avg: 2.2
 1. Veremeenko, Fener.2.2 
 2. Godin, Familia Sch.1.5 
 3. Lassiter, Mondevil.1.4 
 4. Majewska, CCC P.1.4 
 5. Parker, UMMC1.3 
 6. Gruda, UMMC1.1 
 7. Bonner, Nadezhda1.1 
 8. Vaughn, USK Praha1.0 
 9. Teilane-T., Nadezh.1.0 
 10. Vieru, Spartak1.0 


Results and Stats from Regular Season Round 12 - by Eurobasket News

Group A
Tarsus Bld - UNI Gyor 81-70
Tarsus tastes a rare success in EuroLeague and celebrated only their second win. The Turkish team overcame UNI Gyor 81:70 for 2-8 record. The game was mostly controlled by Tarsus Bld. UNI Gyor managed to win fourth quarter 22-11. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The winners were led by Delisha Milton-Jones (186-PF-74, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Florida) who had that evening a double-double by scoring 24 points and 11 rebounds and Melisa Can supported her with 24 points and 12 rebounds. Even a double-double of 26 points, 11 rebounds and 5 assists by Natalie Hurst (164-PG-83) did not help to save the game for UNI Gyor. Anna Lakloth (181-G-88) added 11 points and 5 rebounds. Defending Hungarian champion UNI Gyor dropped to the fifth position with six games lost. Tarsus Bld will meet at home bottom-ranked IMOS Brno in the next round. UNI Gyor will play against Bourges and hope to secure a win.

Rivas Ecopolis - IMOS Brno 67-50
Rivas Ecopolis climbs to the third place in Group A after the win over IMOS Brno in Spain. The hosts won 67:50 and took 6-4 record. It was a very close game until the last quarter, when Rivas Ecopolis's pressure prevailed and they won that period 19-8 extending their advantage to 17 points. Rivas Ecopolis forced 28 IMOS Brno turnovers. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Rivas Ecopolis made 8 blocks. It was a good game for Anna Cruz who led her team to a victory with 21 points and 5 steals. Aneika Henry (193-C-86, college: Florida) contributed with 15 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Tereza Peckova (189-F-87) replied with 13 points and 8 rebounds and Nicole Ohlde added 8 points and 8 rebounds in the effort for IMOS Brno. IMOS Brno lost third consecutive game. They dropped to the bottom place with eight games lost. Rivas Ecopolis will face Wisla Can-Pak in Krakow in the next round. IMOS Brno will play on the road against Tarsus Bld in Mersin and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

Spartak V MR - Wisla Can-Pak 89-63
Spartak Moscow Region has no mercy for Wisla in the start of Round 12 in EuroLeague. The Russian team improved to 9-2 record on top of Group A after a confident 89:63 win. Spartak Moscow Region won the first period 25-14 over the Beard-less visitors. They added 20-18 in the second frame and led 45:32 at the halftime. Moreover the hosts did not slow down and dominated also the second half. They posted 22 points in the third and the same number of points in the last stanza for the final result. Wisla fell at 5-5 record in the group. Baric Nika top-scored for the winners with 15 points and Candice Dupree (188-F/C-84, agency: LBM Management, college: Temple) notched 14. Petrovic Sonja delivered 12, while Marina Kuzina (195-C-85) notched 11 and Augustus Seimone scored 10. Tina Charles (193-C-88, agency: LBM Management, college: Connecticut) answered with 22 points in the losing effort and Anke De Mondt scored 11. Ouvina Cristina poured in 9, whilst Pawlak Paulina had 8.

Group B
Targoviste - UNIQA Eurol. 57-65
Jelena Milovanovic (190-F-89) paced MKB Euroleasing over Targoviste in Romania. She scored 15 points as the guests grabbed a 65:57 win. CSM Targoviste trailed by 11 points after 3 quarters before a 17-14 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 57-65 at the end of the game. CSM Targoviste was plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. Amber Holt contributed with 11 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Gabriela Marginean (182-F-87, college: Drexel) replied with 17 points and Ksenia Tikhonenko (193-F/C-93, agency: Stanislav Ryzhov) added 11 points and 9 rebounds in the effort for CSM Targoviste. MKB Euroleasing maintains sixth position in Group B with 3-8 record. CSM Targoviste lost fifth consecutive game. Defending Romanian champion keeps the fifth place with seven games lost. MKB Euroleasing will face Nadezhda at home in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. CSM Targoviste will play against Arras.

Familia Schio - Good Angels 67-78
Good Angels closed the Round with a road win over Familia Schio. The Slovakian side improved to 8-2 record in Group B after 78:67 win. It looked good early as Familia Schio took a 7-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Good Angels had a 26-17 second period charge getting the lead and Familia Schio was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 67-78. Good Angels forced 19 Familia Schio turnovers. Worth to mention a great performance of Plenette Pierson who helped to win the game recording 21 points and 9 rebounds and Natasha Lacy (178-PG-85, agency: Merit Sports, college: UTEP) who added 11 points and 7 assists during the contest. The best for the losing side was Jantel Lavender (190-C-88, college: Ohio St.) with a double-double by scoring 25 points and 10 rebounds and Danielle McCray (186-SG-87, college: Kansas) scored 18 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals. Good Angels have an impressive five-game winning streak. Defending Slovakian champion keeps a position of Group B leader, which they share with Fenerbahce. Familia Schio at the other side keeps the third place with four games lost. Good Angels will play against Fenerbahce in Istanbul in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week.

Fenerbahce - Arras 81-75
Fenerbahce escaped with the win over Arras at the EuroLeague Wednesday action. Fenerbahce added another victory to their record as they beat seventh ranked French Arras in Istanbul 81:75. The hosts trailed by 1 point after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 8-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 81:75. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists comparing to just 8 passes made by Arras' players. It was a good game for Angel McCoughtry (187-SF-86, college: Louisville) who led her team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 17 points and 12 rebounds. Ivana Matovic (197-C-83) contributed with 22 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. Dawn Evans (170-PG-89, agency: LBM Management, college: JMU) replied with 19 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists and Olesia Malashenko added 20 points and 7 rebounds in the effort for Arras. Fenerbahce will face Good Angels in Kosice in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Arras will play at home against CSM Targoviste and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

Group C
Novi Zagreb - CCC Polkowice 55-76
CCC Polkowice demolish Novi Zagreb in Croatia to reach 5-6 record. The Polish side grabbed a 76:55 win and moved to the third place in Group C. The guests trailed by 4 points at the halftime before their 48-23 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. It was a good game for Nnemkadi Ogwumike (189-F/C-90, college: Stanford) who led her team to a victory with 21 points and 9 rebounds. Belinda Snell (181-SF-81) contributed with 19 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists for the winners. Latoya Williams (190-C-87, college: Chipola JC) replied with 12 points and 5 rebounds and Mirna Mazic added 6 points and 6 rebounds in the effort for Lupa Promotion. Lupa Promotion lost fifth consecutive game. They stay at the bottom position with nine games lost. CCC Polkowice will face USK Praha on the road in the next round. Lupa Promotion will play against Mondeville.

Galatasaray - Perfumerias 68-56
Galatasaray sent Perfumerias down the ladder at the Round 12 of EuroLeague. The Turkish team won and improved to 9-2 record, while the Spanish team fell at 3-7 in Group C. Galatasaray opened the game with 17-16 and added 14-10 in the second frame. The third quarter fully belonged to the Turkish team that needed a 23-12 for 16-point lead after three quarters. Perfumerias answered with 18-14 win in the last stanza but was too far to catch up with the favorites. Whalen Lindsay paced all the winners with 19 points and Sancho Lyttle (192-C-83, college: Houston) notched 16. Wauters Ann delivered 12, while Sylvia Fowles (198-C-85, college: LSU) nailed 10. Xargay Casademont Marta ended up with 18 points in defeat and Marta Fernandez (178-G/F-81) scored 13. Willingham Le'Coe collected 11 points and 13 rebounds, whilst Sulciute Egle had 8.

UMMC - Mondeville 79-58
UMMC Ekaterinburg rout USO Mondeville in Round 12 opener. The Russian titan enjoyed a 79:58 home win in front of almost 5000 fans. UMMC Ekaterinburg did not waste time and started with 24-13 in the first period. USO Mondeville managed to win the second frame 17-16 and reduced to 40:30 at the halftime. The second half fully belonged to the Russian team that posted two victories in the third and the last stanzas. UMMC needed 20-16 in the third period and then added 19-12 in the last stanzas. Sandrine Gruda (193-C-87) top-scored for the winners with 20 points and Kobryn Ewelina nailed 19. Maria Stepanova (202-C-79) delivered 10, while Nolan Deanna posted 6. Quinn Noelle ended up with 14 points in defeat and Lassiter Amanda scored 12. Coulibaly Naignouma brought 9, while Kamba Laetitia had 8.


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  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS   

Stats Leaders Div.A (Women)

Points Per Game
 Frida ELDEBRINK
  SWE
  (174-G-88)
  Avg: 20.9
 1. Eldebrink, SWE20.9 
 2. Tuukkanen, FIN19.8 
 3. Marginean, ROM19.6 
 4. Petronyte, LTU18.3 
 5. Doron, ISR16.5 
 6. Twehues, SUI16.4 
 7. Perovanovic, MNT15.6 
 8. Quigley, HUN15.5 
 9. Dubljevic, MNT15.0 
 10. Dabovic, SRB14.4 
Rebounds Per Game
 Taru TUUKKANEN
  FIN
  (190-C-77)
  Avg: 12.4
 1. Tuukkanen, FIN12.4 
 2. Petronyte, LTU11.5 
 3. Teilane-T., LAT