EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 2/1/2013 4:04:01 AM

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Men News

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


Standings

ABA Standings
Atlantic South
 1. Jacksonville G. 19-1 
 2. Albany S. 9-1 
 3. Atlanta A. 6-2 
 4. Gainesville H. 6-3 
 5. Gulf Coast F. 6-3 
 6. Georgia G. 5-5 
 7. Atlanta W. 4-3 
 8. Birmingham B. 3-5 
 9. E.Point Jaguars 1-2 
 10. SW Fellowship 1-11 
 11. Georgia B. 0-0 
 12. Savannah G. 0-3 
California Northwest
 1. Bay Area M. 7-2 
 2. S.Francisco R. 6-2 
 3. Sacramento H. 2-5 
 4. Central Valley T. 1-7 
 5. Port City P. 0-2 
Mid Atlantic
 1. S.Carolina W. 20-1 
 2. Richmond E. 9-2 
 3. Greenville G. 5-2 
 4. Lynchburg L. 5-5 
 5. Seven Cities K. 3-4 
 6. Palmetto SR 3-6 
 7. Fayetteville F. 3-9 
 8. Tennessee Halos 1-1 
 9. Hampton Stallions 0-6 
Mid Central
 1. Lima Explosion 10-5 
 2. Chicago Steam 9-0 
 3. Detroit Hoops 7-2 
 4. Indiana SW 6-2 
 5. Pontiac F. 5-7 
 6. Michiana M. 1-3 
 7. Peoria P. 0-3 
 8. Oakland CC 0-6 
Northeast
 1. Jersey Expr. 6-1 
 2. Staten Island V. 1-2 
 3. Connecticut T. 0-1 
Pacific Northwest
 1. Calgary C. 10-0 
 2. Seattle M. 10-1 
 3. Alaska Q. 8-1 
 4. Salem Sabres 2-1 
 5. Alaska 49ers 2-2 
 6. Olympia Rise 2-5 
 7. Kitsap Adm. 2-11 
 8. Lakewood P. 1-8 
 9. Washington R. 0-2 
Rocky Mountain
 1. Colorado K. 11-2 
 2. Colorado C. 0-2 
South Central
 1. Conway C. 7-2 
 2. Jackson S. 5-2 
 3. Missouri R. 4-3 
 4. Bluff City R. 1-5 
Southeast
 1. Phenix City B. 4-3 
 2. Bahama PS 0-4 
Southern California
 1. Arizona S. 15-1 
 2. San Diego Surf 7-2 
 3. LA Slam 5-2 
 4. Fresno F. 4-3 
 5. Las Vegas Def. 2-5 
 6. Orange County N. 2-9 
 7. Z*Hollywood M. 0-0 
Southwest Central
 1. West Texas W. 11-2 
 2. N.Dallas V. 9-2 
 3. Dallas Impact 3-2 
 4. Texas Fuel 2-2 
 5. Aberdeen Attack 0-0 
 6. Houston X. 0-0 
 7. Louisiana G. 0-1 
 8. Oklahoma S. 0-4 
Touring Team
 1. Electric C.Lions 5-2 
 2. Cleveland Am-Pro 2-6 
 3. Ill City Beast 1-0 
 4. St.Louis S. 1-1 
 5. Shizuoka G. 1-6 
 6. Chicago F. 0-1 
 7. NYC Thunder 0-1 
 8. Little Rock L. 0-2 


An ABA game played at Phillips Arena - by Gianni Pascucci

On Wednesday, January 30th at NBA Atlanta Hawks home venue Phillips Arena the ABA Georgia Gwizzlies played ABA Southwest Fellowship Warriors. the Warriors took a 61-58 win over the Gwizzlies. The game had a running clock and no time-outs for the teams to stay within the allowed time at the Arena. Gwizzlies' Rashad Faust (6'8''-F-87, college: Co.Georgia CC) led all the scores with 22 points, Warriors had nine ballplayers to score.
Tie-breaker ballgame will be on February 10 between the cross town rivals. January 27 the Gwizzlies had defeated the Warriors 94-91 at home. Their record is now is 5-5


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


Goran Out, Najah Milad and Jamal Holden in, Sitra Won !! - by Ahmad Madwar

there is a couple of changes happened in Sitra club during new year holiday .. the club took a decision to fired the Serbian coach Goran Miljevic (agency: Prossin Sports Management ) after 2 L against Al-Hala and the new club in the division 1 Al-Hidd Club .. and 4 W over Bahrain, Ittihad, Al-Manama and Al-Najma and it was the last game for Goran .. they justify that due the bad performance of the team ..
So Sitra management decided to fired Goran and replaced him by the old coach of the team the local coach Najah Milad .. and after they tried out 3 foreign players, Gerald Inman (208-F-87, college: Rutgers), Rashaad Singleton (213-C-87, college: Florida Southern), and Joel Box (205-C-84, college: Quincy) .. they signed with the known player in Bahrainian league Jamal Holden from Samahej club .. those two signing make a big movement in the team performance .. and the biggest proof on that, they beat and undefeated team in the league Muharraq last round by 8 points !!!
the other foreign coach in the club coach Nikola Vasilev the assistant coach of senior and head coach of junior is staying with the team .. he is under 2 years contract with them .. and he is doing good job according to what the management of club say about him ..

We wish all the best for Sitra and for other bahrainain clubs to improve and show good level of basketball specially The Bahrainian league one of the most popular leagues in Arab Gulf Country ..


*****************************************************
  BELGIUM   

Standings - Division I

Ethias League Standings
 1. Oostende 10-4 
 2. M.Hainaut 9-5 
 3. Aalstar 8-6 
 4. Spirou 7-5 
 5. Antwerp 7-7 
 6. Liege 6-9 
 7. Leuven 5-9 
 8. Verviers-Pep. 3-10 

Regular Season: Round 15

Jan. 31: Leuven - Liege 84-76
Feb. 1: Spirou - Aalstar
Feb. 1: Oostende - Verviers-Pep.
Feb. 1: Antwerp - M.Hainaut


Stats Leaders - Division I

Points Per Game
 Wen Boss MUKUBU
  Liege
  (198-F-83)
  Avg: 17.7
 1. Mukubu, Liege17.7 
 2. Walsh, Spirou17.6 
 3. Thompson, Aalstar17.0 
 4. Taylor, M.Hainaut16.5 
 5. Green, Verviers.16.0 
 6. Robinson, Leuven16.0 
 7. Lojeski, Oostende15.7 
 8. Aleksandrov, Vervi.15.6 
 9. Bostic, M.Hainaut15.2 
 10. Clark, Aalstar15.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 Matt WALSH
  Spirou
  (197-F/G-82)
  Avg: 9.3
 1. Walsh, Spirou9.3 
 2. Qvale, M.Hainaut7.5 
 3. Wilkinson, Oostende6.9 
 4. Thondique, Antwerp6.7 
 5. Aska, Leuven6.4 
 6. Wright, Oostende6.4 
 7. Tofi, Aalstar6.3 
 8. Gillet, Liege6.2 
 9. Taylor, M.Hainaut6.0 
 10. Mukubu, Liege6.0 
Assists Per Game
 Jerime ANDERSON
  Verviers.
  (187-PG-89)
  Avg: 5.8
 1. Anderson, Verviers.5.8 
 2. Marnegrave, Leuven5.2 
 3. Bosco, Liege5.1 
 4. Djordjevic, Ooste.4.8 
 5. Walsh, Spirou3.6 
 6. Moors, Antwerp3.4 
 7. Raivio, Aalstar3.3 
 8. Lojeski, Oostende3.3 
 9. Black, Antwerp3.3 
 10. Taylor, M.Hainaut3.1 
Steals Per Game
 Niels MARNEGRAVE
  Leuven
  (191-PG-87)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Marnegrave, Leuven2.5 
 2. Taylor, M.Hainaut2.3 
 3. Mukubu, Liege2.1 
 4. Black, Antwerp2.0 
 5. Hopkins, Antwerp1.8 
 6. Iarochevitch, Liege1.8 
 7. Hanavan, Leuven1.7 
 8. Bostic, M.Hainaut1.7 
 9. Biggs, Antwerp1.6 
 10. Anderson, Aalstar1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Wesley WILKINSON
  Oostende
  (207-PF-84)
  Avg: 1.5
 1. Wilkinson, Oostende1.5 
 2. Ferguson, Verviers.1.3 
 3. Qvale, M.Hainaut1.2 
 4. Riddick, Spirou1.1 
 5. Young, Aalstar0.8 
 6. Dukes, Leuven0.8 
 7. Love, Antwerp0.7 
 8. Thondique, Antwerp0.6 
 9. Aska, Leuven0.6 
 10. Lojeski, Oostende0.5 


Hulsen's High Hopes - by Jeff King

Bottom of The BBL with a 0 -19 record, knocked out of The BBL Cup at the first time of asking and then losing in the 1st round of The BBL Trophy to Worthing Thunder and EBL side one league below who also hadn't won a game all season.

You'd be forgiven if you thought that there was not much joy to be had at Mersey Tigers these days. Less than two seasons after dominating the BBL scene the Liverpool based side have struggled along in the last couple of seasons barely surviving, but surviving they are and they're still in there fighting.

And there is some light for The Tigers in the shape and form of 22-year old Belgian, Gael Hulsen (193-G/F-90, agency: LBM Management). The 6' 4" shooting guard has been one of the few successes in Mersey's troubled season and he currently averages 11.6 points, 1.9 rebounds and 3.2 assists per game as well as shooting almost 40% from beyond the arc.

Having played for Belgium's under-16 and under-20's team and spending time learning his sport in his homeland the affable swingman got the opportunity to play abroad in The BBL this season and decided to take that opportunity. Life has been tough as he aims to make his way in the basketball world but despite the tough season he remains upbeat about the future.

Eurobasket caught up with Hulsen after his sides loss at the home of The BBL Champions Newcastle Eagles and started by asking him his thoughts on the game which ended 121 - 58 in favour of the home side with Hulsen top scoring for The Tigers with 17 points.

"It was a very bad night. This game was very complicated for us. We came with only seven players and our coach wasn't there either. It was not a good situation to go in to the game in. Newcastle are a very good team they had obviously prepared for the game well. Their defence was not what we are used to, they have put a lot of work in to their defence its easy to see that. They were too well prepared for us and we were not ready for them and it showed during the game."

Despite the result and his feelings, Hulsen was one of the few Tigers that did impress as he kept going for the full 40 minutes and added another double-figure night to his resume. So, despite the results he's still managing to put up some decent numbers in The BBL.

"I think I'm making a good job of my first year in The BBL despite the teams results. I think that I give my best every day that I can to be at the top level that I can. I think its a very good league and its a big opportunity for me to show my level. I think I'm on the good way and just need to continue to work hard to get to the best level I can."

"Tonight it was very difficult as immediately the game started Newcastle made a lot of shots and our heads went down a bit. Its very hard to keep going as we are very young and less mature and experienced as other teams so its difficult at times to keep our heads up and work till the end."

"I just try my best to be at my top level all of the time on and off court and I try to push the others but sometimes that's very difficult. We need to keep working. This is a five-year project from my team, we are trying to build something so we have to keep working. We don't need to think about now we need to think about the future, we need to be patient and we need to work more than everybody else."

Positive words from a young man that is not in the most positive of situations and a great credit to Hulsen that he can think that way and remain upbeat. So, how did Hulsen end up at Mersey?

"There was contact to me from the coach who knew me. We talked through the summer and then he proposed that I come across for a trial. I didn't even get to the end of the practise game and the coach called me across and said he was satisfied with what he saw and offered me a job."

"He told the players that I was our new player and I was immediately accepted by all the players. I have a lot of respect for them and they have a lot of respect for me. The fans seem to like me as well as I have a lot of support from them. I feel good with the Mersey Tigers, just trying to get a win and work hard. I'm excited to be with this group and they are very kind and good towards me."

So, what is Hulsen hoping for in the remaining weeks of the season?

"For sure I want to get a win. All the players want to get a win. When you play professional sport you have to try and be competitive all the time. We will try to get a win but we need to work hard and keep our heads up no matter what happens."

And what does the future hold for Gael Hulsen?

"I don't really know what the future holds. I want to continue to do the best job I can this season and the coach has already told me that they think they'd like to sign me for another year. I don't know yet as there may be other teams that might offer me something. I need to talk with my agent and look at the positive things as well as the negative things and consider all parts so I don't really know yet."

"The BBL is a very good league so I think if I can make a good job in the BBL then people can get a view of me and it would be good if I could stay in the BBL so I'll continue to work hard, give my best and hope to stay in the BBL."

Hulsen appears a very level-headed, intelligent young man with the operative word being young. With his attitude, team ethic and hard working commitment he can only get better and there's no doubting thats what he's aiming to do. Look out for him in the future as he has the drive and energy to make it in this sport.


Division II - Round Twenty - by Bert Larsimont

Excelsior Brussels vs. BasKet Tongeren: 89-90 (after OT)

It was a real thriller in Neder-over-Hembeek (a suburb of Brussels) last Sunday... Fans had to hold on to their hat for a great finish in this game. Despite a great presence of Excelsior's Emmanuel Mampuya (200-F/C-79, agency: Promotex), Maxime Depuydt (192-F-92) and Kanefu "Sam" Semijejero (195-PF-77) in rebounding, stealing and scoring, BasKet Tongeren's experienced players like Peter Pipeleers (202-F/C-80), Herbert Baert (204-F-75) and Jeroen Eskens (190-G-81) made the difference in the crucial moments of the game. The visitors could have concluded the game sooner with a win if Martijn Hendrix (183-G-86) had not missed a lay-up on the final buzzer, when the scoreboard showed 81-81. The overtime started well for BK Tongeren but Excelsior Brussels came back into the race at 89-88 with only 28 seconds remaining on the clock. A steal and a last shot hit by former Ethias League player Jeroen Eskens allowed the visitors to enjoy an unexpected triumph away. Excelsior is still in the race for the play-offs but has lost some crucial points lately. Excelsior's injured player Randy Oveneke (201-F-86) should be back in action next week.
Score evolution: 20-22, 42-41, 66-60, 81-81 and 89-90.
Best scorers:
Excelsior: E. Mampuya 12, X. Collette 11, N. Verrept 4, M. Depuydt 11, J. Van Haevermaet 16, G. De Pooter 11, J. De Schepper 8, S. Pelle 2, S. Semijejero 14.
BK Tongeren: J. Van Hoecke 8, M. Hendrix 14, K. Doukmani 9, J. Delva 8, P. Pipeleers 15, H. Baert 16, J. Eskens 20.

Cuva Houthalen vs. Sint-Niklase Condors: 82-68

Cuva Houthalen wins the game with a rather good margin against the Klaasjes and remain in the run for the play-offs. Young talents Hans Vanwijn (197-F-95) and Glenn Camps (201-F/C-95) were missing on the Cuva side. Both represent Belgium at the Nike Junior International Tournament in Lithuania. Free video highlights of the Cuva vs. Condors game on TVL.be: http://www.tvl.be/nl/sport/recente-afleveringen/2013-01-27/cuva-houthalen-sint-niklaas-2013-01-27/#.UQWdRr-qnul.

BBC Haantjes Oudenaarde vs. Port of Antwerp Giants II: 71-79

The Haantjes welcomed the last ranked team of the competition. Before the game, the local press had mentioned that the Haantjes could not lose that game otherwise it would have been a tricky situation for them. Luc Smout and his Giants II have eventually recorded their second win of the season.

Bent Schoenen Waregem vs. CEP Fleurus: 67-61

The visitors were ahead until early in the fourth quarter. With their great duo of brothers Thomas Foucart (195-F-84) and Olivier Foucart (195-G-84), the home team took the lead with 6:29 remaining in the fourth quarter (48-46). On one hand, Ludovic Pourtoit (182-G-88) was disappointing and Amaury Marion (196-F-91) did not score for CEP F last Sunday. On the other hand, Kevin Jonniaux (198-G-83) had a very good second half and Thomas Bauwens (192-F-86) looked particularly fit and well in offense through the whole game for the Yellows. It did not help and the men of coach Sven Declercq finished on top after 40 minutes. Special mention to double-affiliated player Arne Steinbach (182-PG-92, agency: Court Side) who played well with Okapi Aalstar on Friday night and scored 11 points with BS Waregem on Sunday afternoon.
Score evolution: 15-21, 24-28, 40-43 and 67-61.
Best scorers:
BS Waregem: A. Steinbach 11, Destadsbader 4, B. Samaey 6, O. Foucart 11, T. Foucart 24, S. Dhondt 7, A. Gueye 4.
CEP F: K. Jonniaux 9, C. Manzanza 4, T. Bauwens 18, L. Hazard 6, S. Muric 8, C. Ilongo 16.

Gent Dragons vs. Befius Mons Hainaut II : 71-67

So far, the Dragons have played only home games at the Tolhuis in 2013. They hosted Belfius Mons Hainaut II and had a hard time to get rid of the young Foxes led by Loic Schwartz (195-G/F-92) who scored 23 points last Saturday. After a good start at 13-4, the Dragons of coach Kris De Pauw could not avoid a very convincing 0-16 run by the Foxes. Faycal Lait (190-G-88, agency: Promotex) was a key player for the Dragons, especially when he hit a three-pointer on the buzzer at the end of the third quarter to make 47-44. A good defense in the last seconds of the game helped the Dragons keep a small advantage at the end. Final score: 71-67.
Score evolution: 23-23, 34-35, 47-44 and 71-67.
Best scorers:
Dragons: B. Heinle 8, R. Spaens 5, F. Lait 15, T. Van De Vondel 14, M. Van Gelder 16, L. Enobakhare 6, C. Tshimuanga 7.
Mons Hainaut II: E. Lecomte 14, G. Vlamynck 3, L. Schwartz 23, D. Walasiak 8, M. Renard 7, K. Tumba 12.

Sint-Jan Antwerp vs. Essor Charleroi (Spirou B): 100-51

Thanks to an efficient full court press concluded with spectacular plays, the Jantjes of coach Steve Cornelis gave no chance to the young Spirou team of coach Pascal Angilis. Free video highlights of the game on www.atv.be (in Dutch): http://www.atv.be/item/sint-jan-op-kop-na-zevende-overwinning. After seven wins in a row, Sint-Jan has now taken the lead in the Division II competition. Although the whole home team played well, one man deserves a special mention on the SJBA side: Mario Brown (202-F-84, college: Jacksonville) who was particularly proactive at the rebound and in scoring.
Score evolution: 28-10, 53-23, 72-37 and 100-51.
Best scorers:
Sint-Jan: V. Haerbos 11, B. Hartshorne 2, V. Verbeeck 11, B. Raes 4, N. El Khounchar 9, A. Druwez 17, S. Geukens 21, L. Anthonis 2, P. Smulders 4, M. Brown 21.
Essor: Y. Siegwarth 10, T. Lefevre 5, N. Jankovic 12, J. Stas 5, M. Fusek 4, B. Penninck 5, J. Charles 2, M. Steenberghs 4, A. Eyenga 4.

Point Chaud Sprimont vs. Gembo BBC: 77-105

The Gembo guys took a large lead only in the third quarter. Thomas Goethaert (183-G-83) was particularly efficient for Gembo in the last minutes of the game. He scored the 100th point of his team and deserves a special mention this week. Again a good performance in offense for Gaetan Hertay (195-F-88) on the losing side. Free video highlights of this game on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YoI4rnbJQKQ&list=UUoSEPiDqNhOjhQW7eAC-isQ&index=4.
Score evolution: 24-24, 40-44, 60-80 and 77-105.
Best scorers:
PC Sprimont: F. Manset 3, F. Delsaute 13, J.-B. Thome 7, G. Vrancken 14, A. Bousmanne 3, F. Forthomme 5, G. Hertay 20, R. Delhaye 2, G. Donnay 10.
Gembo: N/A




Charleroi Signing - by Peter Buyse

Belgacom Spirou Basket announced the last addition to their roster for the 2012-2013 season with the signing of Devin Green (201-G/F-82, college: Hampton). Green is a true veteran of European basketball having played among other countries in Belgium, Germany, Italy, Greece and Bulgaria. In 05-06 he played briefly for the Los Angeles Lakers (27g); After having been drafted in the D-league by the Los Angeles Defenders he made the move to Europe and played in Germany for Koln during the 06-07 season. At Koln he also played some games in the Euroleague. The 07-08 season started pretty much the same as the previous first playing for the LA Defenders before heading back overseas, this time to Italy where he ended the season at Teramo. During the next season 08-09 he started in Belgium playing for Oostende but moved to Ukraine for the second half of the season.
Next up was Greece for the 09-10 season when he played 9 games for Larissa. In 2010 he also played in Puerto Rico (Isabela) and China (Guangdong. He split the 2010-2011 season between Shanghai in China and Lukoil Academik Sofia in Bulgaria; In late 2011 he moved back to the D-League where he first played for the Erie Bay Hawks and later on for the Idaho Stampede.
He played 13 games in the Bulgarian league and 6 games in the Eurocup during the present season. In Bulgaria he averaged 14.9 ppg and 5.5 rpg. In the 6 Eurocup games he had averages of 10.8 ppg and 5.5 rpg.


*****************************************************
  BRAZIL   

Standings - BNL

NBB Standings
 1. Flamengo 19-0 
 2. Brasilia 14-4 
 3. Uberlandia 13-5 
 4. Bauru 12-6 
 5. Pinheiros/Sky 11-6 
 6. Franca 11-7 
 7. S.Jose/Unimed 10-9 
 8. Limeira 9-9 
 9. Basquete Cearense 9-9 
 10. Minas 9-9 
 11. Paulistano 9-9 
 12. Liga Sorocaba 9-9 
 13. Joinville 8-9 
 14. Mogi das Cruzes 6-12 
 15. Vila Velha 5-13 
 16. Palmeiras 3-15 
 17. Suzano 3-15 
 18. Tijuca TC 2-16 

Regular Season: Round 19

Jan. 31: Flamengo - Vila Velha 96-77
Jan. 31: Brasilia - Franca 93-77
Jan. 31: Limeira - Paulistano 89-68
Jan. 31: Bauru - S.Jose/Unimed 87-82
Jan. 31: Liga Sorocaba - Mogi das Cruzes 81-74
Jan. 31: Suzano - Palmeiras 79-87
Jan. 31: Tijuca TC - Minas 65-75
Jan. 31: Basquete Cearense - Uberlandia 60-72

Round 5

Jan. 28: Brasilia - Bauru 80-60
Jan. 28: Uberlandia - Flamengo 78-87

Regular Season: Round 20

Feb. 2: Joinville - Paulistano
Feb. 2: Tijuca TC - Vila Velha
Feb. 2: Brasilia - Uberlandia
Feb. 2: Flamengo - Minas
Feb. 2: Bauru - Mogi das Cruzes
Feb. 2: Liga Sorocaba - S.Jose/Unimed
Feb. 2: Basquete Cearense - Franca
Feb. 2: Limeira - Pinheiros/Sky


Stats Leaders - BNL

Points Per Game
 Marquinhos VIEIRA
  Flamengo
  (207-F-84)
  Avg: 22.2
 1. Vieira, Flamengo22.2 
 2. Holloway, Liga S.20.6 
 3. Boracini, Pinheiro.20.2 
 4. Simmons, Vila Velha19.9 
 5. Antonio, S.Jose/U.19.5 
 6. Day, Uberlandia18.8 
 7. Giovannoni, Brasil.18.1 
 8. Dos Santos, Brasil.17.6 
 9. Nardi Duarte, Min.17.6 
 10. Smith, Pinheiro.16.9 
Rebounds Per Game
 Olivinha RODRIGUEZ
  Flame.
  (202-F-83)
  Avg: 9.6
 1. Rodriguez, Flame.9.6 
 2. Ribeiro, Basque.9.2 
 3. Araujo, Mogi d.8.8 
 4. Giovannoni, Brasil.8.2 
 5. Agba, Bauru7.8 
 6. Castellar, Limeira7.7 
 7. Antonio, S.Jose/U.7.6 
 8. Costa, S.Jose/U.7.3 
 9. Silveira, Flamengo7.2 
 10. Toyloy, Paulistano6.9 
Assists Per Game
 Fulvio DE ASSIS
  S.Jose/U.
  (187-G-81)
  Avg: 8.4
 1. de Assis, S.Jose/U.8.4 
 2. Dos Santos, Brasil.6.5 
 3. Smith, Pinheiro.5.7 
 4. Boracini, Pinheiro.5.3 
 5. Garcia, Uberlandia5.0 
 6. Pinheiro, Vila Vel.4.9 
 7. Dawkins, Liga S.4.8 
 8. Lima, Limeira4.7 
 9. Taylor, Bauru4.7 
 10. Collum, Uberlandia4.7 
Steals Per Game
 Shamell STALLWORTH
  Pinhei.
  (196-SG-80)
  Avg: 0.2
 1. Stallworth, Pinhei.0.2 
 2. Benite, Flamengo0.2 
 3. Froehlich, Franca0.2 
 4. Boracini, Pinheiro.0.2 
 5. Luz dos Sant., Fra.0.2 
 6. Collum, Uberlandia0.1 
 7. Garcia, Uberlandia0.1 
 8. Lima, Limeira0.1 
 9. Castellar, Limeira0.1 
 10. Machado, Flamengo0.1 
Blocks Per Game
 Arlindo NETO
  Liga Sorocaba
  (187-G-86)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Neto, Liga Soroca.2.3 
 2. Campos, Suzano2.2 
 3. Figueroa, Franca2.1 
 4. Dawkins, Liga S.2.0 
 5. de Assis, S.Jose/U.1.9 
 6. Nardi Duarte, Min.1.9 
 7. Dos Santos, Brasil.1.8 
 8. Boracini, Pinheiro.1.8 
 9. Simmons, Vila Velha1.8 
 10. Lima, Limeira1.7 


Roberto Mafra sign with Fluminense - by Paulo Freire

The Fluminense basketball team is still improving their roster. Head coach Marcio Andrade has now a new force on the forward position. The managers of the team agreed with Roberto Mafra (206-F/C-85, college: San Diego) that early on the season was announced on the Sorocaba team but never end up closing a deal with the club.
Mafra is a talent player from the north of Brazil that really early went to play college basketball in the US. At Fluminense he will have his first chance to prove himself at the brazilian basketball scenario.
Fluminense now is well served on the forward position, with Mafra and Luiz Toledo (203-F-87, college: Idaho) two strong players that came from two good college programs Sand Diego State and Idaho.
With that move coach Marcio Andrade will have the option to play a little small with both players on the court Mafra and Luiz Toledo can bring a fast force on the paint.


NBB Round 19: Uberlandia loses to Flamengo in the game between Top 4 teams - by Eurobasket News

The game between Top Four teams took place in Uberlandia. 3rd placed host Uberlandia (13-5) lost to leader Flamengo (19-0) 87-78. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 23-18. But Uberlandia won second period 22-21. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. It was a great evening for the former international forward Marquinhos Vieira (207-84) who led his team to a victory scoring 23 points and 6 rebounds (made all of his seven free throws). The former international forward Olivinha Rodriguez (202-83) helped adding 11 points and 12 rebounds. At the losing side the former international forward Luis Felipe Gruber (205-85) responded with 25 points and 7 rebounds. Undefeated Flamengo have an impressive series of nineteen victories in a row. They maintain first place with 19-0 record. Uberlandia at the other side keeps the third position with five games lost. Flamengo are looking forward to face Minas (#10) in Belo Horizonte in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Uberlandia will play on the road against the league's second-placed Brasilia (#2) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
NBB top team - Flamengo (19-0) had no problems winning another game. This time they crushed fifteenth ranked Vila Velha (5-13) in Rio de Janeiro 96-77. It was a quality performance for the former international center Caio Silveira (211-87, agency: Interperformances) who led the winners with a double-double by scoring 31 points and 17 rebounds. Marquinhos Vieira accounted for 16 points and 5 assists. Flamengo's coach Jose Neto allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. American guard Benzor Simmons (196-88, college: Tenn-Martin) came up with 23 points for Vila Velha in the defeat. The victory was the nineteenth consecutive win for Flamengo. They maintain first place with 19-0 record. Vila Velha lost their third game in a row. They keep the fifteenth position with 13 games lost. Flamengo will play against Minas (#10) in Belo Horizonte in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Vila Velha will play on the road against Tijuca TC (#18) in Rio de Janeiro and hopes to get back on the winning track.
The game in Aldeota was also quite interesting. Third ranked Uberlandia (13-5) played at the court of 8th ranked SKY/Basquete (9-9). Uberlandia defeated SKY/Basquete 72-60 on Thursday. Lucas Cipolini fired a double-double by scoring 17 points and 13 rebounds for the winners. Felipe Ribeiro produced a double-double by scoring 14 points and 13 rebounds for lost side. Uberlandia maintains third place with 13-5 record having seven points less than leader Flamengo. Loser SKY/Basquete keeps the eighth position with nine games lost. They share it with 4 other teams. Uberlandia will meet league's second-placed Brasilia on the road in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. SKY/Basquete will play against Vivo/Franca (#6) in Sao Paulo and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Eleventh ranked Winner/Limeira (9-9) crushed at home 9th ranked Paulistano (9-9) by 21 points 89-68, which is the biggest margin this round. Worth to mention a great performance of Ronald Ramon who helped to win the game recording 25 points and 5 assists. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. The victory was the third consecutive win for Winner/Limeira. They moved-up to eighth place, which they share with 4 other teams including defeated Paulistano. Winner/Limeira's next round opponent will be higher ranked Pinheiros (#5) in Sao Paolo and it will be quite challenging to get another victory.
Another exciting game was a derby match between two local teams from Sao Paulo: Palmeiras (#17) and Suzano (#16). Suzano was defeated at home 79-87 and even the advantage of their own court did not help. It was a great evening for Caleb Brown who led his team to a victory scoring 17 points, 9 rebounds and 7 assists. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Palmeiras (3-15) moved-up to sixteenth place, which they share with defeated Suzano. Suzano lost their third game in a row. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.

There were no shocking results in the rest of the games of round 19: Minas won against Tijuca TC on the opponent's court 75-65. Liga Sorocaba managed to outperform Mogi das Cruzes in a home game 81-74. S.Jose/Unimed recorded a loss to Bauru on the road 87-82. Brasilia defeated Franca on its own court 93-77. Bauru was smashed by Brasilia in a road game 80-60.

Tijuca TC - Minas 65-75

Very expected game in Rio de Janeiro where 18th ranked Tijuca TC (2-16) was defeated by thirteenth ranked Minas (9-9) 75-65 on Thursday. The game was mostly controlled by Minas. Tijuca TC was better in third quarter 17-12. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded Tijuca TC 44-24 including a 15-3 advantage in offensive rebounds. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Minas made 7 blocks. It was a great evening for the former international swingman Betinho Nardi Duarte (195-88) who led his team to a victory scoring 23 points and 7 rebounds. Center Rafael Mineiro Rodrigues (213-87) helped adding 8 points and 15 rebounds. Minas' coach Raul Filho used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. At the losing side guard Marcellus Camara (190-88) responded with 25 points and 6 assists and center Renan Leichtweis (211-89) scored 12 points and 6 rebounds. Minas moved-up to eighth place, which they share with 4 other teams. Tijuca TC lost their fourth game in a row. They stay at the bottom position with 16 games lost. Minas will face league's leader Flamengo in Rio de Janeiro in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Tijuca TC will play at home against Vila Velha (#15).
Top scorers:
Minas: B.Nardi Duarte 23+7reb, J.Beal 14+1reb+4ast, P.Crosby 9+9reb+1ast, D.Nunes 9+6reb, R.Mineiro Rodrigues 8+15reb, H.Coelho 5+1reb
Tijuca TC: M.Camara 25+4reb+6ast, R.Leichtweis 12+6reb+1ast, C.Araujo 9+8reb, A.Filho 9+1reb, F.Lima 5+1ast, B.Langsdorff 5+3reb+2ast
gschID: 229221


Basquete Cearense - Uberlandia 60-72

The game in Aldeota was also quite interesting. Third ranked Uberlandia (13-5) played at the court of 8th ranked SKY/Basquete (9-9). Uberlandia defeated SKY/Basquete 72-60 on Thursday. The guests trailed by 7 points at the halftime before their 43-24 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. International power forward Lucas Cipolini (206-86, college: BYU-Hawaii) fired a double-double by scoring 17 points and 13 rebounds for the winners. American forward Robert Day (197-82, college: W.Oregon) chipped in 21 points. Four Uberlandia players scored in double figures. The former international forward Felipe Ribeiro (201-79) produced a double-double by scoring 14 points and 13 rebounds (made all of his seven free throws) and the former international power forward William Drudi (206-81) added 20 points and 8 rebounds respectively for lost side. Uberlandia maintains third place with 13-5 record having seven points less than leader Flamengo. Loser SKY/Basquete keeps the eighth position with nine games lost. They share it with 4 other teams. Uberlandia will meet league's second-placed Brasilia on the road in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. SKY/Basquete will play against Vivo/Franca (#6) in Sao Paulo and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Uberlandia: R.Day 21+3reb+3ast, L.Cipolini 17+13reb+1ast, A.Parisotto 12+4reb, L.Felipe Gruber 10+5reb, L.Klassmann 9+5reb, V.Silva 3+1reb+5ast
Basquete Cearense: W.Drudi 20+8reb, M.Costa 16+4reb+5ast, F.Ribeiro 14+13reb+3ast, G.Schneider 6+5reb+4ast, E.de Oliveira 3+2reb, R.Klafke 1+2reb
gschID: 229224


Liga Sorocaba - Mogi das Cruzes 81-74

Rather predictable result in Sorocabana where twelfth ranked Liga Sorocaba (9-9) defeated 14th ranked Mogi (6-12) 81-74 on Thursday. Mogi trailed by 11 points at halftime and as many as 12 after three quarters before a 22-17 last quarter charge cut the deficit to 74-81 at the end of the game. Liga Sorocaba made 18-of-22 free shots (81.8 percent) during the game. Liga Sorocaba outrebounded Mogi 26-15. It was a great evening for American guard Desmond Holloway (190-88, college: Co.Carolina) who led his team to a victory scoring 22 points. His fellow American import guard Kenny Dawkins (175-87, college: Lamar) helped adding 19 points. At the losing side power forward Thomas Gehrke (203-82, college: UTEP) responded with 23 points and swingman Guilherme Filipin (191-83) scored 14 points. Four Mogi players scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Liga Sorocaba moved-up to eighth place, which they share with 4 other teams. Loser Mogi keeps the fourteenth position with 12 games lost. Liga Sorocaba will face higher ranked Sao Jose/Vinac (#7) at home in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Mogi will play against Paschoalotto/Bauru (#4).
Top scorers:
Liga Sorocaba: D.Holloway 22+3reb, K.Dawkins 19+2ast, G.Zilmer 9+4reb+2ast, E.Rodrigues 8+4reb+1ast, A.Neto 6+1reb+1ast, R.de Bem 6+7reb+2ast
Mogi das Cruzes: T.Gehrke 23+4reb+1ast, G.Filipin 14+3reb+1ast, M.Riddick 14+1reb, C.Ranches 14+3ast, G.Lima 4+1reb+3ast, E.Caviglia 2
gschID: 229229


Flamengo - Vila Velha 96-77

NBB top team - Flamengo (19-0) had no problems winning another game. This time they crushed fifteenth ranked Vila Velha (5-13) in Rio de Janeiro 96-77. Vila Velha was tied at the half but could not keep up in last two quarters eventually losing the game. Flamengo made 18-of-23 charity shots (78.3 percent) during the game. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 22 assists comparing to just 5 passes made by Vila Velha's players. Flamengo brought some defensive toughness making 7 blocks. It was a quality performance for the former international center Caio Silveira (211-87, agency: Interperformances) who led the winners with a double-double by scoring 31 points and 17 rebounds (made all of his seven free throws). The former international forward Marquinhos Vieira (207-84) accounted for 16 points and 5 assists for the winning side. Five Flamengo players scored in double figures. Flamengo's coach Jose Neto allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. American guard Benzor Simmons (196-88, college: Tenn-Martin) came up with 23 points and guard Alexandre Pinheiro (185-85) added 11 points and 5 assists respectively for Vila Velha in the defeat. The victory was the nineteenth consecutive win for Flamengo. They maintain first place with 19-0 record. Vila Velha lost their third game in a row. They keep the fifteenth position with 13 games lost. Flamengo will play against Minas (#10) in Belo Horizonte in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Vila Velha will play on the road against Tijuca TC (#18) in Rio de Janeiro and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Flamengo: C.Silveira 31+17reb+2ast, E.Machado 16, O.Rodriguez 16+3reb+1ast, M.Vieira 16+2reb+5ast, V.Benite 11+3reb+3ast, B.Zanotti 6+1reb+3ast
Vila Velha: B.Simmons 23+4reb, J.Parker 12+6reb, A.Pinheiro 11+3reb+5ast, A.Jemmott 9, E.Araujo Gorges 8, D.Costa 6+4reb
gschID: 229228


Limeira - Paulistano 89-68

Eleventh ranked Winner/Limeira (9-9) crushed at home 9th ranked Paulistano (9-9) by 21 points 89-68, which is the biggest margin this round. The game was mostly controlled by Winner/Limeira. Paulistano was better in fourth quarter 25-17. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Winner/Limeira shot 60.4 percent from the field and made 16-of-18 charity shots (88.9 percent) during the game. Strangely Paulistano outrebounded Winner/Limeira 31-18 including a 14-1 advantage in offensive rebounds. They shot the lights out from three nailing 15 long-distance shots on high 60.0 percentage. Winner/Limeira brought some defensive toughness making 11 blocks. Worth to mention a great performance of Dominican-American guard Ronald Ramon (182-86, college: Pittsburgh) who helped to win the game recording 25 points and 5 assists. The former international point guard Helio Vitor Lima (184-81) contributed with 14 points and 6 assists for the winners. Four Winner/Limeira players scored in double figures. Swingman Eddy Carvalho (194-87) answered with 14 points and 5 rebounds and power forward Renato Carbonari (204-87) added 10 points in the effort for Paulistano. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. The victory was the third consecutive win for Winner/Limeira. They moved-up to eighth place, which they share with 4 other teams including defeated Paulistano. Winner/Limeira's next round opponent will be higher ranked Pinheiros (#5) in Sao Paolo and it will be quite challenging to get another victory.
Top scorers:
Limeira: R.Ramon 25+5ast, L.Da Silva 16+2reb, H.Vitor Lima 14+1reb+6ast, O.Carter 10+1reb+2ast, D.Pinheiro 7+2reb+1ast, G.Hubner 5+3reb+1ast
Paulistano: E.Carvalho 14+5reb, R.Carbonari 10+4reb+3ast, A.Oliveira 10+1reb+1ast, J.Munoz 9+3reb+1ast, P.Lima 9+2ast, S.Toyloy 5+8reb
gschID: 229227


Suzano - Palmeiras 79-87

Another exciting game was a derby match between two local teams from Sao Paulo: Palmeiras (#17) and Suzano (#16). Suzano was defeated at home 79-87 and even the advantage of their own court did not help. Suzano trailed by 11 points at halftime and as many as 15 after three quarters before a 29-22 last quarter charge cut the deficit to 79-87 at the end of the game. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Palmeiras made 13 blocks. It was a great evening for American guard Caleb Brown (182-87, college: Austin Peay St.) who led his team to a victory scoring 17 points, 9 rebounds and 7 assists. Swingman Guto Pereira (190-83) helped adding 23 points and 5 blocks. At the losing side point guard Andre Pizzolato (179-92) responded with 22 points and 5 rebounds and guard Paulo Nery (188-81) scored 18 points and 5 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Palmeiras (3-15) moved-up to sixteenth place, which they share with defeated Suzano. Suzano lost their third game in a row. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Palmeiras: G.Pereira 23+3reb+2ast, C.Brown 17+9reb+7ast, M.Vinicius 9+7reb, J.Burger 8+5reb+2ast, A.Pecos 8+1reb+2ast, F.Coloneze 7+3reb
Suzano: A.Pizzolato 22+5reb+1ast, P.Nery 18+5reb+2ast, J.Campos 12+5reb+4ast, R.Gaspar 9+6reb+1ast, A.Passilongo 4+2reb, R.Da Silva 4+2reb
gschID: 229225


Bauru - S.Jose/Unimed 87-82

Not a big story in a game when 7th ranked Sao Jose/Vinac (10-9) was defeated on the road by fifth ranked Paschoalotto/Bauru (12-6) 87-82 on Thursday. The hosts trailed by 4 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 3-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 87-82. Paschoalotto/Bauru made 20-of-21 free shots (95.2 percent) during the game. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Paschoalotto/Bauru made 8 blocks. It was a great evening for international guard Larry Taylor (185-80, college: Missouri Western, agency: Veracity Sports, LLC) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 25 points, 11 rebounds and 5 assists (made all of his ten free throws !!!). Forward Pilar Alves (200-84) helped adding 14 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Five Paschoalotto/Bauru players scored in double figures. At the losing side the former international guard Fulvio de Assis (187-81) responded with 19 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists and center Deivisson Costa (211-80) scored 15 points and 8 rebounds. Paschoalotto/Bauru moved-up to fourth place. Sao Jose/Vinac lost their third game in a row. They keep the seventh position with nine games lost. Paschoalotto/Bauru will face Mogi (#14) in Mogi das Cruzes in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Sao Jose/Vinac will play on the road against Liga Sorocaba (#12) in Sorocabana.
Top scorers:
Bauru: L.Taylor 25+11reb+5ast, P.Alves 14+5reb+4ast, D.Coleman 12+6reb+3ast, J.Agba 12+8reb+1ast, J.Detrick 10+3reb+2ast, G.Pereira 9
S.Jose/Unimed: F.de Assis 19+7reb+5ast, D.Costa 15+8reb+2ast, A.Laws 10+4ast, D.Stefanelli 9+2reb+2ast, A.Calvo 9+4reb+1ast, C.Delben 6+4reb+3ast
gschID: 229223


Brasilia - Franca 93-77

Everything went according to plan when second ranked Brasilia (14-4) beat at home 6th ranked Vivo/Franca (11-7) 93-77 on Thursday. The game was mostly controlled by Brasilia. Vivo/Franca was better in fourth quarter 25-20. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Brasilia shot the lights out from three sinking 13 long-distance shots on high 54.2 percentage. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Brasilia made 13 blocks. Vivo/Franca was plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a great evening for international guard Alex Ribeiro (191-80, agency: Interperformances) who led his team to a victory scoring 23 points and 5 blocks. The former international center Paulo Prestes (210-88) helped adding 12 points and 12 rebounds. Four Brasilia players scored in double figures. At the losing side point guard Jeferson Froehlich (193-91) responded with 16 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists (made all of his ten free throws !!!) and forward Leonardo Meindl (200-93) scored 12 points. Both coaches tested many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. The victory was the fifth consecutive win for Brasilia. Defending champion maintains second place with 14-4 record having six points less than leader Flamengo. Loser Vivo/Franca keeps the sixth position with seven games lost. Brasilia will face Uberlandia (#3) at home in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Vivo/Franca will play against SKY/Basquete in Aldeota.
Top scorers:
Brasilia: A.Ribeiro 23+1reb+3ast, G.Giovannoni 17+5reb, W.Dos Santos 15+7ast, P.Prestes 12+12reb+2ast, F.dos Santos 7, M.Cipriano 7+3reb+2ast
Franca: J.Froehlich 16+6reb+4ast, J.Luz dos Santos 13+1ast, L.Meindl 12+2reb+1ast, G.Teichmann 7+1reb+2ast, C.Borges dos Santos 6+4reb, R.Souza 6+2reb+1ast
gschID: 229222


Round 5
Brasilia - Bauru 80-60

There was no surprise when 5th ranked Paschoalotto/Bauru (12-6) was outplayed on the road by second ranked Brasilia (14-4) 80-60 on Monday. Brasilia dominated on the defensive end, holding Paschoalotto/Bauru to just 7 points in second quarter. They made 23-of-26 free shots (88.5 percent) during the game. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Brasilia made 8 blocks. It was a great evening for the former international point guard Welington Dos Santos (185-81) who led his team to a victory scoring 17 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists. International guard Alex Ribeiro (191-80, agency: Interperformances) helped adding 17 points and 6 rebounds. Four Brasilia players scored in double figures. At the losing side international guard Larry Taylor (185-80, college: Missouri Western, agency: Veracity Sports, LLC) responded with 10 points, 8 rebounds, 7 assists and 4 blocks and American forward DeAndre Coleman (201-86, college: S.Alabama) scored 16 points and 8 rebounds. The victory was the fifth consecutive win for Brasilia. Defending champion maintains second place with 14-4 record having six points less than leader Flamengo. Loser Paschoalotto/Bauru dropped to the fourth position with six games lost. Brasilia will face Uberlandia (#3) at home in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Paschoalotto/Bauru will play against Mogi in Mogi das Cruzes.
Top scorers:
Brasilia: W.Dos Santos 17+7reb+7ast, A.Ribeiro 17+6reb+2ast, G.Giovannoni 12+8reb, R.Reis 11+11reb, I.Goncalves 7+2reb, I.Neto 7+1reb+1ast
Bauru: D.Coleman 16+8reb, L.Taylor 10+8reb+7ast, J.Agba 10+5reb, G.Pereira 9+4reb+1ast, P.Alves 6+4reb, F.Fischer 5
gschID: 229952


Uberlandia - Flamengo 78-87

The game between Top Four teams took place in Uberlandia. 3rd placed host Uberlandia (13-5) lost to leader Flamengo (19-0) 87-78. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning the initial quarter 23-18. But Uberlandia won second period 22-21. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. It was a great evening for the former international forward Marquinhos Vieira (207-84) who led his team to a victory scoring 23 points and 6 rebounds (made all of his seven free throws). The former international forward Olivinha Rodriguez (202-83) helped adding 11 points and 12 rebounds. Five Flamengo players scored in double figures. At the losing side the former international forward Luis Felipe Gruber (205-85) responded with 25 points and 7 rebounds and American forward Robert Day (197-82, college: W.Oregon) scored 14 points and 5 assists. Flamengo have an impressive series of nineteen victories in a row. They maintain first place with 19-0 record. Uberlandia at the other side keeps the third position with five games lost. Flamengo are looking forward to face Minas (#10) in Belo Horizonte in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Uberlandia will play on the road against the league's second-placed Brasilia (#2) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Flamengo: M.Vieira 23+6reb+1ast, V.Benite 12+2reb+2ast, K.Mensah 11+3reb+4ast, C.Silveira 11+9reb+2ast, O.Rodriguez 11+12reb+3ast, E.Machado 8+2ast
Uberlandia: L.Felipe Gruber 25+7reb, R.Day 14+4reb+5ast, J.Estevam Ferreira 10+1reb, H.Garcia 8+1reb, L.Cipolini 7+3reb, A.Parisotto 7+2reb+2ast
gschID: 229953



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

CIS Standings

CIS Standings
Atlantic
 1. Cape Breton 14-0 
 2. Acadia 9-3 
 3. UPEI 8-4 
 4. St.Francis X. 6-7 
 5. Dalhousie 6-8 
 6. St.Mary's 5-9 
 7. New Brunsw. 4-9 
 8. Memorial 1-13 
CanWest Pacific Division
 1. UBC 14-2 
 2. Victoria 11-5 
 3. UFV 9-7 
 4. TWU 8-9 
 5. TRU 6-12 
 6. UNBC 5-11 
 7. Mount Royal 2-13 
 8. UBC Okanagan 2-15 
CanWest Prairie Division
 1. Alberta 13-3 
 2. Manitoba 12-5 
 3. Saskatchewan 11-5 
 4. Winnipeg 11-6 
 5. Calgary 9-7 
 6. Lethbridge 7-9 
 7. Regina 6-10 
 8. Brandon 4-12 
OUA East
 1. Carleton 15-1 
 2. Ryerson 12-2 
 3. Ottawa 12-4 
 4. Queen's 10-6 
 5. Laurentian 8-7 
 6. York 5-10 
 7. Toronto Univ. 2-12 
 8. RMC 0-0 
OUA West
 1. Windsor 13-3 
 2. Lakehead 10-5 
 3. McMaster 9-7 
 4. Brock 6-10 
 5. Guelph 5-10 
 6. Laurier 4-12 
 7. Waterloo 3-13 
 8. Western 2-14 
Quebec League
 1. Bishop's 7-4 
 2. Concordia 6-4 
 3. McGill 6-4 
 4. UQAM 4-7 
 5. Laval 3-7 

Regular Season: Round 27

Jan. 31: TRU - TWU 70-93
Jan. 30: Waterloo - Brock 68-72
Jan. 30: Laurier - McMaster 65-90
Jan. 30: Western - Windsor 61-89
Jan. 30: Dalhousie - St.Mary''s 50-57
Jan. 30: McGill - Bishop''s 42-56

Regular Season: Round 28

Feb. 1: New Brunsw. - Dalhousie
Feb. 1: Cape Breton - UPEI
Feb. 1: Queen''s - Carleton
Feb. 1: Ryerson - York
Feb. 1: McGill - Concordia
Feb. 1: Toronto Univ. - Laurentian
Feb. 1: Guelph - Lakehead
Feb. 1: Calgary - Regina
Feb. 1: Saskatchewan - Winnipeg
Feb. 1: Lethbridge - Brandon
Feb. 1: Alberta - Manitoba
Feb. 1: Victoria - UNBC
Feb. 1: UBC Okanagan - UFV
Feb. 1: TRU - TWU
Feb. 1: UBC - Mount Royal


Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Stephon LAMAR
  Saskatch.
  (185-G-)
  Avg: 23.7
 1. Lamar, Saskatch.23.7 
 2. Allin, Laurier22.4 
 3. Freeman, UFV22.0 
 4. Dorsey, Cape Bret.20.9 
 5. Hill, Toronto Univ.20.3 
 6. Perrin, TWU20.2 
 7. Ogungbemi-J., Calg.20.1 
 8. Faulkner, Queen''s19.9 
 9. Dunn, St.Francis X.19.5 
 10. Scrubb, Carleton19.4 
Rebounds Per Game
 Harry EZENIBE
  St.Mary''s
  (190-G-87)
  Avg: 11.7
 1. Ezenibe, St.Mary''s11.7 
 2. Kamen, UBC11.1 
 3. Waldner, Lethb.10.8 
 4. Phillip, Windsor10.5 
 5. Salhia, Lakehead9.9 
 6. Burns, Saskatch.9.7 
 7. Allin, Laurier9.4 
 8. Eyitayo, Concordia9.3 
 9. Iko, Winnipeg9.1 
 10. Moses, Calgary8.8 
Assists Per Game
 Andrew CUNNINGHAM
  Winnipeg
  (186-G-)
  Avg: 8.1
 1. Cunningham, Winnip.8.1 
 2. Hebert, Regina5.8 
 3. Dorsey, Cape Bret.5.1 
 4. York, UFV5.0 
 5. Walton, Manitoba4.9 
 6. Lamar, Saskatch.4.7 
 7. Bonhomme, Brandon4.7 
 8. Jones, Ryerson4.5 
 9. Collins, Windsor4.5 
 10. Pasquale, Laure.4.4 
Steals Per Game
 Jimmy DORSEY
  Cape Breton
  (188-G-)
  Avg: 3.9
 1. Dorsey, Cape Bret.3.9 
 2. Evans, Victoria3.4 
 3. Walton, Manitoba2.9 
 4. Daley, New Brunsw.2.8 
 5. Parchment, UFV2.7 
 6. Baker, Alberta2.7 
 7. Baker, Saskatch.2.6 
 8. Perrin, TWU2.6 
 9. Smith, TWU2.5 
 10. Hunter, Bishop''s2.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Mike ANDREWS
  Bishop''s
  (208-C-)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Andrews, Bishop''s2.1 
 2. Duke, UPEI1.8 
 3. Dewar, Alberta1.8 
 4. Moses, Calgary1.8 
 5. Eyitayo, Concordia1.6 
 6. O''Brien, New B.1.5 
 7. Chesson, Laurier1.5 
 8. Salhia, Lakehead1.5 
 9. Noel, Manitoba1.3 
 10. Osuntola, Windsor1.3 


CIS Round 27: Leader Redmen loses to Gaiters - by Eurobasket News

What a coincidence that all visitors won their games. The round was rather attractive and full of interesting results. The round ended with loss of the undefeated team, derby games and favorites losing the games.

The most crucial game of the last round was another loss of Redmen (6-4) in Montreal, QC on Wednesday night. Hosts were defeated by Gaiters (7-4) 56-42. It was a key game for the top position in the league as both teams had the same 6-4 record before this meeting. Gaiters keep a position of league leader. Redmen at the other side dropped to the second place with four games lost. They share the position with Concordia. Gaiters will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Redmen's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Montreal, QC Stingers.
Another exciting game was a derby match between two teams from Halifax, NS: Huskies (#7) and Tigers (#4). Tigers were defeated at home 50-57 and even the advantage of their own court did not help. Huskies (5-9) moved-up to sixth place. Tigers at the other side dropped to the fifth position with eight games lost. Huskies will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Tigers will play on the road against Varsity Reds (#7) in Fredericton, NB and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Leader Lancers delivered the thirteenth win on Wednesday night. This time they crushed 8th ranked Mustangs (2-14) 89-61 in London, ON. It was a great evening for Lien Phillip who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 14 rebounds. The best for the losing side was Ryan Higgins with 15 points. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Lancers (13-3) have an impressive series of six victories in a row. They maintain first place, which they share with Alberta. Loser Mustangs keep the eighth position with 14 games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
The game in Kamloops, BC supposed to be also worth to mention about. Fourth ranked Spartans (8-9) played at the court of 5th ranked Wolfpack (6-12). Spartans smashed Wolfpack 93-70. It was an exceptional evening for Tonner Jackson who led the winners and scored 21 points and 6 rebounds. 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. The victory was the third consecutive win for Spartans. They maintain fourth place with 8-9 record. Wolfpack lost their sixth game in a row. They keep the fifth position with 12 games lost. Spartans will have a break next round. Wolfpack will play again at home against Spartans (#4) in Langley, BC and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
The game in Waterloo, ON was also quite interesting. Fifth ranked Badgers (6-10) played at the court of 7th ranked Warriors (3-13). Badgers managed to secure a 4-point victory 72-68 on Wednesday. The best player for the winners was Mark Gibson who had a double-double by scoring 21 points and 11 rebounds. Badgers' coach Brad Rootes used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. Badgers moved-up to fourth place, which they share with Regina. Loser Warriors keep the seventh position with 13 games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.

In the last game of round 27 McMaster crushed Laurier in Hamilton, ON 90-65.
The best stats of 27th round was 27 points, 10 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 steals by Gill Jaspreet of Waterloo.

TRU - TWU 70-93

The game in Kamloops, BC supposed to be also worth to mention about. Fourth ranked Spartans (8-9) played at the court of 5th ranked Wolfpack (6-12). Spartans smashed Wolfpack 93-70. The game without a history. Spartans led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Spartans forced 22 Wolfpack turnovers and outrebounded them 46-33 including 32 on the defensive glass. It was an exceptional evening for guard Tonner Jackson (201) who led the winners and scored 21 points and 6 rebounds. Mark Perrin accounted for 13 points and 10 rebounds for the winning side. Five Spartans players scored in double figures. Blaz Bozinovic came up with a double-double by scoring 10 points and 12 rebounds and guard Kevin Pribilsky (180) added 17 points and 4 assists respectively for Wolfpack in the defeat. 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. The victory was the third consecutive win for Spartans. They maintain fourth place with 8-9 record. Wolfpack lost their sixth game in a row. They keep the fifth position with 12 games lost. Spartans will have a break next round. Wolfpack will play again at home against Spartans (#4) in Langley, BC and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
TRU: K.Pribilsky 17+3reb+4ast, B.Bozinovic 10+12reb+2ast, Z.Usherwood 9+7reb+3ast, W.Ondrik 7+1reb+1ast, A.Pierre 7+5reb+4ast, B.Parker 6
TWU: T.Jackson 21+6reb+2ast, T.Smith 15+3reb+2ast, J.Bakuteka 14+4reb+3ast, M.Perrin 13+10reb+3ast, T.Linttell 10+7reb+1ast, D.McDonald 8+5reb
gschID: 190635


Waterloo - Brock 68-72

The game in Waterloo, ON was also quite interesting. Fifth ranked Badgers (6-10) played at the court of 7th ranked Warriors (3-13). Badgers managed to secure a 4-point victory 72-68 on Wednesday. The guests trailed by 1 point after three quarters before their 26-21 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Badgers forced 19 Warriors turnovers. The best player for the winners was forward Mark Gibson (198) who had a double-double by scoring 21 points and 11 rebounds. American guard Jameson Tipping (201, college: W.Kentucky) chipped in 18 points and 9 rebounds. Badgers' coach Brad Rootes used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. At the other side the best for losing team was Gill Jaspreet who recorded a double-double by scoring 27 points, 10 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 steals and forward Kyrie Coleman added 17 points and 7 rebounds respectively. Badgers moved-up to fourth place, which they share with Regina. Loser Warriors keep the seventh position with 13 games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Waterloo: G.Jaspreet 27+10reb+5ast, K.Coleman 17+7reb+2ast, B.Davis 6+2ast, M.Glibota 4+2reb, B.Smith 4+4reb+1ast, Z.Angelini 3+5reb+1ast
Brock: M.Gibson 21+11reb+1ast, J.Tipping 18+9reb+2ast, T.Kasamba 16+5reb+1ast, M.Luby 7+1reb, C.Smith 5+1reb, B.Nahimana 5+3reb+1ast
gschID: 190633


Laurier - McMaster 65-90

There was no surprise in Waterloo, ON where 6th ranked Golden Hawks (4-12) were crushed by third ranked Marauders (9-7) 90-65 on Wednesday. The game without a history. Marauders led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 60 of its points in the paint compared to Golden Hawks' 38. The best player for the winners was center Taylor Black (201) who scored 28 points and 8 rebounds. Center Nathan Mccarthy (203) chipped in 19 points and 9 rebounds. Four Marauders players scored in double figures. At the other side the best for losing team was guard William Coulthard (188) who recorded 28 points and guard Maxwell Allin (193) added 23 points and 5 rebounds respectively. Golden Hawks' coach gave up on the game allowing to play ten players seeing no chance for a win. Marauders maintains third place with 9-7 record having six points less than leader Bishop's, which they share with Calgary and UFV. Golden Hawks lost their third game in a row. They keep the sixth position with 12 games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Laurier: W.Coulthard 28+4reb, M.Allin 23+5reb+3ast, M.Chesson 4+3reb, B.Hayley 3, A.Obano 2+3reb, J.Smith 2+2reb
McMaster: T.Black 28+8reb, N.Mccarthy 19+9reb, R.Boney 17+3reb+3ast, J.Rocca 14+4reb, A.Presutti 5+4reb+5ast, J.Quiring 3+2reb
gschID: 190632


Western - Windsor 61-89

Leader Lancers delivered the thirteenth win on Wednesday night. This time they crushed 8th ranked Mustangs (2-14) 89-61 in London, ON. The guests trailed by 1 point after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 9-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 89-61. Lancers outrebounded Mustangs 46-26 including 17 on the offensive glass. It was a great evening for the former international forward Lien Phillip (203-89) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 14 rebounds. Forward Ryan Christie (201-90) helped adding 13 points. The best for the losing side was guard Ryan Higgins (193) with 15 points and guard Elliott Dooley scored 11 points and 5 rebounds. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Lancers (13-3) have an impressive series of six victories in a row. They maintain first place, which they share with Alberta. Loser Mustangs keep the eighth position with 14 games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Western: R.Higgins 15+2reb+3ast, P.Scholtes 14+2reb, E.Dooley 11+5reb+2ast, Q.Henderson 9+6reb+2ast, C.Drouin 6+3reb, A.Van Camp 4+2reb+1ast
Windsor: L.Phillip 18+14reb+2ast, R.Christie 13+3reb+2ast, M.Petrella 10+1reb+2ast, I.Seferagic 10+6reb+1ast, J.Malcom 8+3reb, J.Collins 8+3reb+3ast
gschID: 190631


Dalhousie - St.Mary''s 50-57

Another exciting game was a derby match between two teams from Halifax, NS: Huskies (#7) and Tigers (#4). Tigers were defeated at home 50-57 and even the advantage of their own court did not help. Huskies (5-9) moved-up to sixth place. Tigers at the other side dropped to the fifth position with eight games lost. Huskies will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Tigers will play on the road against Varsity Reds (#7) in Fredericton, NB and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
gschID: 190630


McGill - Bishop''s 42-56

The most crucial game of the last round was another loss of Redmen (6-4) in Montreal, QC on Wednesday night. Hosts were defeated by Gaiters (7-4) 56-42. It was a key game for the top position in the league as both teams had the same 6-4 record before this meeting. Gaiters keep a position of league leader. Redmen at the other side dropped to the second place with four games lost. They share the position with Concordia. Gaiters will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Redmen's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Montreal, QC Stingers.
gschID: 190634



*****************************************************
  CHILE   


Spears is back at London Lightning, ex I.P. Virginio - by Eurobasket News

London Lightning (NBL Canada) agreed terms with 27-year old American forward Shamari Spears (198-107kg-86, college: Charlotte). Its actually his comeback to London Lightning as he played here before. Spears just played at I.P. Virginio in Chilean DIMAYOR. He also played at London Lightning earlier that season.
The list of the past achievements is quite long as Spears won NBL Canada championship title in 2012. He was also voted NABC Division I All-District 4 2nd Team back in 2010 at his college time.
Spears graduated from University of North Carolina - Charlotte in 2011 and it is his second season as a professional player.

By Eurobasket Data Center


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


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

29-year old forward Shavlik Randolph (208-F-83) had a great game in the last round for Foshan LL and receives a Asia-basket.com Player of the Week award for round 29.
He had a double-double of 55 points and 15 rebounds, while his team was edged out by Bayi R. (#10, 13-15) 118-114. The game rather meaningless between the teams, which do not have any influence on the top of the standings. Foshan LL maintains the 11th position in Chinese league. Foshan LL is a typical solid league team placed somewhere in the middle or a little bit lower in the standings. But it was their 16th lost game this season out of 27 games. In the team's last game Randolph had a remarkable 75.0% from 2-point range and got four three-pointers out of 7 attempts. He turned to be Foshan LL's top player in his first season with the team. Duke University graduate has very impressive stats this year. Randolph is league's best scorer averaging so far 32.9ppg. Randolph is in league's top in rebounds (3rd best: 13.9rpg) and averages solid 52.3% FGP.

Second best performed player last round was Chris Daniels (211-C-84) of Qingdao E.. He is American center in his first season at Qingdao E.. In the last game Daniels recorded impressive double-double of 40 points and 21 rebounds. It was enough for Qingdao E. to edge the higher-ranked Shanxi Zh. (#7, 15-13) by 5 points 135-130. This victory allowed Qingdao E. to leave bottom place moving a little bit up to 16th position in the standings. 19 lost games are too many comparing to just eight victories Qingdao E. managed to get this year. Daniels is a newcomer at Qingdao E. and quickly became one of team's most reliable players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 29.6ppg (#6). He also registered 11.8 boards per game.

Third place about best performers goes to Eddy Curry (211-C/F-82) of Zhejiang CB (#8). Curry got into 30-points club by scoring 38 points in the last round. He went also for seventeen rebounds . He was a key player of Zhejiang CB, leading his team to a 109-104 win against the higher-ranked Beijing Ducks (#3, 18-9). Zhejiang CB needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 14 victories and 13 lost games. Curry has a very solid season. In 23 games in China he scored 23.7ppg. He also has 11.0rpg and FGP: 60.9%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Garret Siler (213-C-86) of Jiangsu D. - 28 points and 21 rebounds
5. Charles Gaines (201-F-81) of Shanxi Zh. - 32 points, 19 rebounds and 2 assists
6. Gilbert Arenas (192-G-82) of Shanghai S. - 45 points, 8 rebounds and 3 assists
7. Zaid Abbas (203-F-83) of Shandong FB - 25 points, 13 rebounds and 3 assists
8. Will McDonald (211-C-79) of Fujian QB - 28 points, 11 rebounds and 3 assists
9. ZhiZhi Wang (215-C-77) of Bayi R. - 30 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists
10. Stephon Marbury (188-G-77) of Beijing Ducks - 34 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists

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


Greek Head Coach in the Chinese league!! - by Chris Mammides

Another Greek Head Coach is continuing his career abroad! This time in China and the NBL league. The top level league of China. The management of the team Jin Qiang Sichuan decided to trust the coaching to the Greek experienced Head Coach Stratos Stratos Koukoulekidis . Head Coach Stratos Koukoulekidis is quite experienced with the leagues abroad as this is not his first time to be coaching abroad even though the previous times were geographically much closer to his mother land that this time.
Coach Stratos Koukoulekidis coached in Cyprus, FYROM and Greece. The Greek Head Coach is replacing the Chinese Head Coach Guangqi Li. Last season the new team of Coach Stratos Koukoulekidis ended in the 7th place of the league out of 10 teams, this season the expectations are higher..

Eurobasket wishes all the best to the Greek Head Coach in this very big step in his career.


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

Standings - A2 League

A2 Standings
Group Center
 1. Hermes Anal. 9-0 
 2. Gorica 6-3 
 3. Dubrava 6-4 
 4. Zrinjevac 6-4 
 5. Samobor 5-4 
 6. Sanac Karl. 5-6 
 7. Maksimir 4-5 
 8. Bosco 3-6 
 9. Rudes 2-6 
 10. Kaptol 2-6 
 11. Mladost Z.(C) 2-6 
 12. Sus.-Moslavina 0-0 
Group East
 1. Belisce 10-0 
 2. Vinkovci 9-1 
 3. Vukovar 5-4 
 4. Zupanja 5-4 
 5. Meteor D. 4-4 
 6. Vrijednosnice 3-5 
 7. Pozega 3-7 
 8. Olimp Inspekt 2-9 
 9. Virovitica 0-7 
Group North
 1. Mladost D.(N) 12-3 
 2. Graficar 12-3 
 3. Cakovec 11-4 
 4. Podravac Virje 10-5 
 5. Bjelovar 9-5 
 6. Medjimurje C. 9-6 
 7. Vindija V. 8-6 
 8. Petar Zrinski 6-8 
 9. Ivancica 3-11 
 10. Radnik 3-12 
 11. Rudar-Cimper 3-12 
 12. Koprivnica 0-15 
Group South
 1. GKK Sibenik 13-1 
 2. Puntamika 11-0 
 3. Kastela 11-3 
 4. Policnik 8-6 
 5. Metkovic 6-7 
 6. Sukosan 6-8 
 7. Solin 6-8 
 8. Omis Galeb 6-8 
 9. Jazine 5-9 
 10. Cetina 4-9 
 11. DOSK 3-11 
 12. Trogir 2-11 
Group West
 1. Skrljevo 9-1 
 2. Stoja Pula 7-3 
 3. Crikvenica 7-4 
 4. Kastav 6-4 
 5. Pula 1981 6-4 
 6. Zamet 4-6 
 7. Otocac 2-6 
 8. Ghia Staff 2-8 
 9. Rovinj 1-8 
 10. Ucka 0-1 

Regular Season: Round 16

Center

Feb. 2: Kaptol - Zrinjevac
Feb. 2: Gorica - Sanac Karl.
Feb. 2: Samobor - Mladost Z.(C)
Feb. 2: Dubrava - Sus.-Moslavina
Feb. 2: Hermes Anal. - Bosco
Feb. 2: Maksimir - Rudes

East

Feb. 2: Belisce - Olimp Inspekt
Feb. 2: Vukovar - Meteor D.
Feb. 2: Vinkovci - Zupanja
Feb. 2: Vrijednosnice - Virovitica

South

Feb. 2: Solin - Metkovic
Feb. 2: Kastela - Cetina
Feb. 2: Trogir - DOSK
Feb. 2: Puntamika - Omis Galeb
Feb. 2: Policnik - Jazine
Feb. 2: GKK Sibenik - Sukosan

West

Feb. 2: Kastav - Ghia Staff
Feb. 2: Ucka - Stoja Pula
Feb. 2: Otocac - Rovinj
Feb. 2: Pula 1981 - Zamet
Feb. 2: Crikvenica - Skrljevo
Feb. 2: Cakovec - Mladost D.(N)
Feb. 2: Podravac Virje - Graficar
Feb. 2: Koprivnica - Vindija V.
Feb. 2: Ivancica - Medjimurje C.
Feb. 2: Petar Zrinski - Radnik
Feb. 2: Rudar-Cimper - Bjelovar



*****************************************************
  CZECH REPUBLIC   


BK Lions Jindrichuv Hradec Land Lukas Kraus - by Surujh Roopnarine

BK Lions Jindrichuv Hradec have agreed to terms with veteran forward Lukas Kraus (201-F-84) for the remainder of the 2012-13 season.
Lukas Lucas Kraus, 29, was a member of the squad in 2011-12 while they were in the 1.Liga as he helped them gain promotion to the Mattoni NBL.
Prior to the start of this season he left the squad for a spot with Allianz Swans Gmunden in Austria but is now back to help the squad in the fight for the top of A2 group play.
In 17 games last season he averaged 13.4 points, 6.1 rebounds, 1.9 assists and 1.7 steals while shooting 45.1% on three-point field goals.
While he has played his career mostly at home in the Czech Republic with the likes of Pardubice, Decin and Liberec, Lucas Kraus also has playing experience abroad in Spain where he played parts of three seasons.


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

Standings

D-League Standings
East Conference
 1. Maine RC 17-11 
 2. Canton C. 17-11 
 3. Santa Cruz W. 15-9 
 4. Sioux Falls S. 14-11 
 5. Erie Bay H. 14-11 
 6. Ft.Wayne MA 13-14 
 7. Springfield A. 8-17 
 8. Iowa E. 6-18 
West Conference
 1. Bakersfield J. 17-9 
 2. Rio Grande VV 15-9 
 3. Austin T. 14-10 
 4. Tulsa 66ers 14-12 
 5. Texas L. 11-14 
 6. Reno B. 9-12 
 7. Los Angeles D. 9-15 
 8. Idaho S. 7-17 

Regular Season: Round 36

Jan. 30: Canton C. - Erie Bay H. 95-103
Jan. 31: Ft.Wayne MA - Maine RC 115-109
Jan. 30: Los Angeles D. - Bakersfield J. 107-99
Jan. 30: Springfield A. - Tulsa 66ers 100-107

Regular Season: Round 37

Feb. 1: Tulsa 66ers - Erie Bay H.
Feb. 1: Sioux Falls S. - Reno B.
Feb. 1: Iowa E. - Springfield A.
Feb. 1: Texas L. - Santa Cruz W.
Feb. 1: Idaho S. - Los Angeles D.
Feb. 1: Bakersfield J. - Austin T.


Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Luke HARANGODY
  Ft.Wayne.
  (201-F-88)
  Avg: 21.4
 1. Harangody, Ft.Wayn.21.4 
 2. Lamb, Tulsa 66ers21.1 
 3. Johnson-Odom, Los21.0 
 4. Mack, Maine RC20.5 
 5. Goudelock, Sioux F.20.3 
 6. Joseph, Austin T.19.9 
 7. Almond, Iowa E.19.5 
 8. Summers, Maine RC19.5 
 9. Fortson, Los A.19.1 
 10. Kennedy, Erie B.18.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Luke HARANGODY
  Ft.Wayne.
  (201-F-88)
  Avg: 13.4
 1. Harangody, Ft.Wayn.13.4 
 2. Mays, Springfield10.8 
 3. Onuaku, Canton C.10.5 
 4. Butch, Bakersfi.10.4 
 5. Jackson, Austin T.10.2 
 6. Harris, Iowa E.9.6 
 7. Evans, Idaho S.9.4 
 8. Wilkerson, Austin9.1 
 9. Johnson, Ft.Wayne.8.9 
 10. Kennedy, Erie B.8.8 
Assists Per Game
 Shelvin MACK
  Maine RC
  (190-G-90)
  Avg: 8
 1. Mack, Maine RC8.0 
 2. Wright, Iowa E.7.4 
 3. Singletary, Texas6.6 
 4. Fortson, Los A.6.5 
 5. Karl, Idaho S.5.8 
 6. Uzoh, Springfield5.6 
 7. Kennedy, Erie B.5.3 
 8. Johnson-Odom, Los5.2 
 9. McNeal, Bakersfi.4.8 
 10. Joseph, Austin T.4.8 
Steals Per Game
 Jamario MOON
  Los A.
  (203-F-80)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Moon, Los A.2.3 
 2. Downs, Maine RC2.1 
 3. Greene, Los A.2.0 
 4. Hannah, Santa C.2.0 
 5. Wright, Maine RC2.0 
 6. McNeal, Bakersfi.2.0 
 7. Fortson, Los A.1.9 
 8. Gutierrez, Canton1.9 
 9. Wright, Iowa E.1.8 
 10. Tyndale, Sioux F.1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Fabricio MELO
  Maine RC
  (212-C-90)
  Avg: 3.6
 1. Melo, Maine RC3.6 
 2. Jordan, Reno B.2.9 
 3. Eyenga, Texas L.2.5 
 4. Gladness, Santa C.2.5 
 5. Johnson, Ft.Wayne.2.2 
 6. Orton, Tulsa 66ers2.1 
 7. Johnson, Santa C.2.1 
 8. Moon, Los A.2.1 
 9. Flowers, Los A.1.9 
 10. Foster, Sioux F.1.9 


Latest results from around the League - by Eurobasket News

Los Angeles D. - Bakersfield J. 107-99
The Los Angeles D-Fenders toppled the Bakersfield Jam for their second consecutive win, earning a 107-99 victory at Toyota Sports Center on Wednesday night. Trailing by 10 points after the first quarter, the D-Fenders outscored the Jam 31-20 in the second frame to go up 52-51 at halftime. After four lead changes in the first four minutes out of the locker room, the D-Fenders played to a tie with the Jam and remained in front 79-78 heading into the fourth quarter. Beginning the final quarter on an 18-8 run, the D-Fenders jumped out to their largest lead of the night (11 points) and squashed any comeback attempt by the first place Jam to earn the win. Los Angeles (9-15) saw six players finish with double-digit scoring efforts, led by Zachary Andrews (6'8''-F/C-85, college: Bradley) (22 points, 13 rebounds, 4 steals), Gary Flowers (6'8''-F-86, college: S.Mississippi) (21 points, 2 blocks) and Elijah Millsap (19 points). Courtney Fortson also chipped in 17 points, seven rebounds and six assists, Orien Greene tallied 13 points and four steals, and newly-acquired Morris Almond totaled 10 points and six rebounds, rounding out the D-Fenders in double-figures. Additionally, playing in his first game with the D-Fenders, Lazar Hayward pulled down 10 rebounds to go along with five points, helping his team win the rebounding battle 46-33. The D-Fenders, who shot 50 percent on the evening, also forced their opponent into 22 turnovers for the second consecutive game. Bakersfield (17-9) was guided by Jerel McNeal (6'3''-G-87, college: Marquette), who registered a game-high 26 points and six assists, and Renaldo Major (6'7''-F-82, agency: Edge Sports, college: Fresno St.), who posted 17 points in the loss. Adam Koch added 16 points and seven rebounds, James Nunnally scored 12 points and Brian Butch grabbed 10 rebounds for the Jam. Courtesy of: oursportscentral.com

Springfield A. - Tulsa 66ers 100-107
An absence of stops in the fourth quarter for the Springfield Armor equaled an end to their home win streak. The Tulsa 66ers had the range in the fourth quarter and one big defensive presence to hold off the Armor, 107-100, and put the brakes on the Armor's win streak at the MassMutual Center at three. The loss dropped the Armor to 8-17 at the midway point of the season while Tulsa (14-12) won for the fourth time in five games. "I told the guys this is the halfway point for us now and we still have a whole second half to play," Armor coach Bob MacKinnon said. "We've got to see if we can get this thing turned around, and with everyone bunched up, no one is gonna run away right now and we still have a legitimate shot to turn this around." It appeared as if the Armor had a shot at catching the 66ers in the fourth quarter, but every time they scored, the 66ers had an answer. They also had Travis Hyman, who only scored four points and had 2 rebounds in 18 minutes on the floor, but swatted a record nine shots against the Armor, five in the fourth quarter. "Wow, he had nine, I didn't even know that," Armor guard Ramone Moore said. "That's 18 points right there that he negated for us so he was a big factor for them." Hyman's exuberance following a putback dunk in the fourth led to a heated exchange with Armor forward Willie Reed. The players had to be separated and both were hit with technical fouls. The anger continued to simmer after the final horn, with Reed's teammates carrying him away from a confrontation and off the floor. The frustration for Reed and the Armor was obvious. They played a decent first half and trailed by just two, but in the second half, very little went their way. "I thought we lost some of our focus and togetherness in the third quarter," MacKinnon said. "Right now we're struggling to find that and I thought we had it going pretty good but we kind of lost it in the third quarter. We got it back some in the fourth but they made some tough shots. They're pros and you've got to respond." Springfield made just six of 22 field goals in the third quarter as they watched a two-point halftime deficit grow to 15 by the end of the quarter, the largest deficit of the game. "Those guys went on a nice run in the third quarter and that was one of the things coach talked about, how we just put our heads down and let those guys get ahead," said Moore, who scored a season-high 22 points. "There were a lot of things this team has to work on and that's one of them, coming out in the third quarter." Eleven-year NBA veteran Rasual Butler (6'7''-F-79, college: La Salle) scored nine of his game-high 24 points in the third quarter, but it was his teammates who carried the load in the fourth. Dominique Sutton (6'5''-F-86, college: N.C.Central) (19 points, 13 rebounds), Hollis Thompson, Tony Taylor (13 points), Chris Quinn (15 points) and Hyman all played exceptional in the fourth for the 66ers. Moore scored 12 of his points in the fourth, but Springfield was unable to make more than a 4-0 run on Tulsa. James Mays (6'9''-F-86, college: Clemson) had another double-double with 16 points and 14 rebounds and Dennis Horner had 17 points and 11 boards. Ben Uzoh added 10 points with 10 assists and had just one turnover. Courtesy of: masslive.com

Canton C. - Erie Bay H. 95-103
The Erie BayHawks bounced back from Monday's loss to Tulsa with an impressive 103-95 win over the Canton Charge at the Canton Memorial Civic Center Wednesday. Erie (14-11) jumped to a 31-23 lead after the first quarter and extended it to 62-45 at the half. Canton (17-11) responded with a strong second half but couldn't erase the 17-point deficit. Cory Higgins (6'5''-G-89, college: Colorado) continued his solid play since returning to the BayHawks with 24 points on 9-of-20 shooting from the field, while Henry Sims (6'10''-C-90, college: Georgetown) had a double-double with 19 points and 13 rebounds. Gannon graduate Kyle Goldcamp played more than 32 minutes with Sims dealing with foul trouble. Goldcamp finished with eight points and 11 rebounds. Demetri McCamey added 16 points, while Demonte Harper and Erik Daniels had 12 and 10 points, respectively. Josh Selby (6'2''-PG-91, college: Kansas) paced Canton with 27 points and added 11 rebounds, while Jorge Gutierrez scored 20 points and Kevin Jones had a double-double with 18 points and 14 rebounds. The BayHawks' D.J. Kennedy did not play because he was sick. Courtesy of: goerie.com

Ft.Wayne MA - Maine RC 115-109
The Mad Ants returned home for the first time since Jan. 5 and claimed a 115-109 victory over the Maine Red Claws on Thursday at Memorial Coliseum. Luke Harangody (6'7''-F-88, agency: Priority Sports, college: Notre Dame) scored 29 points to lead the Ants, who played without two starters. Guard Ron Howard continued to sit out with a knee injury, and forward Anthony Richardson had the flu. Anthony Harris (6'2''-G-85) had 17 assists for Fort Wayne. The Ants (13-14) drew within 3 1/2 games of Maine (17-11) in the D-League East Division. Former Gonzaga standout Micah Downs (6'8''-G/F-86, agency: Priority Sports, college: Gonzaga) led the Red Claws with 24 points. Courtesy of: journalgazette.net


Sioux Falls Skyforce inks Mustapha Farrakhan - by Eurobasket News

Sioux Falls Skyforce agreed terms with 25-year old guard Mustapha Farrakhan (193-82kg-88, college: Virginia). He just played at Iowa Energy (D-League). In 18 games this season he had 7.0ppg, 2.4rpg and 1.7apg. Farrakhan was called during the season by the Milwaukee Bucks. The last season he played at Bakersfield Jam. In 40 D-League games last year he recorded 8.8ppg, 1.6rpg and 3.3apg. He helped them to make it to the semifinals.
Two years ago Farrakhan was drafted by Bakersfield Jam (D-League) in first round (13th overall).
He attended University of Virginia until 2011 and it will be his second season in pro basketball.
Farrakhan was voted All-ACC Honorable Mention in 2011 at his college time.

By Eurobasket Data Center


Farmer is back at Bighorns - by Eurobasket News

Reno Bighorns signed 32-year old swingman Desmon Farmer (196-100kg-81, college: USC, agency: Interperformances). Its actually his comeback to Bighorns as he played here before. Farmer was just about to play at Bucaneros in Venezuelan LPB league but it did not work out after all. He played at Boca Juniors (LigaA) in Argentinian league that season. In three games last season he had 10.7ppg, 1.7rpg and 1.7apg.
The previous (2011) summer Farmer played at Metros (LNB) in Dominican Rep. league. The other team he played that season for was Ironi Ashkelon (Winner League) in Israeli league. In 23 games that year he recorded 13.2ppg, 2.5rpg and 2.7apg. Farmer also spent pre-season at Dnipro (Superleague) in Ukrainian league that year.
In 2004 he was drafted by Michigan Mayhem (CBA) as #1 pick overall.
The former University of Southern California standoutis in his ninth season in pro basketball.
The list of the past achievements is quite long as Farmer won D-League West Division championship title in 2010. He was selected to D-League All-Star Game back in 2010.
Farmer is quite experienced player. He has played also professionally in Belgium, Croatia (KK Zadar), Greece, Poland, Puerto Rico (Atleticos), Russia (Spartak Primorie Vladivostok), Spain, NBA (San Antonio Spurs) and D-League (Rio Grande Valley Vipers).
Farmer could be described: Desmon is a fine athlete with great leadership qualities and he brings a lot of intangibles. Hes a total winner.

By Eurobasket Data Center


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  EUROCUP   


Unics and Petrovic part ways - by Zoran Popovic

Management of Unics Kazan decides to part ways with coach Aco Petrovic . According to Sports news Uniks Management was unsatisfied with current results and last night lost match against Crvena Zvezda was trigger for that design. During the career Aco petrovic was coach of FMP Zeleznik, Hemofarm Vrsac, Lokomotiv Rostov na Donu, Crvena Zvezda, Zalgiris, Azovmash and two times coach of Unics Kazan. Aco Petrovic was assistant coach of Yugoslavian and Serbian National team.


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  EUROLEAGUE   

Standings

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

Top 16: Round 6

E

Jan. 31: Zalgiris - ALBA 92-56
Jan. 31: Real Madrid - CSKA 86-78 OT
Feb. 1: Panathinaikos - Brose Bask.
Feb. 1: Unicaja - Anadolu Efes

F

Jan. 31: FCB Regal - Montepaschi 85-66
Jan. 31: Olympiacos - Fener.Ulker 82-71
Jan. 31: Besiktas - Maccabi T-A 55-77
Feb. 1: Caja Laboral - Khimky


Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Bobby BROWN
  Montepaschi
  (188-PG-84)
  Avg: 20.4
 1. Brown, Montepaschi20.4 
 2. Nachbar, Brose B.17.7 
 3. Langford, EA7 A.17.0 
 4. Spanoulis, Olympia.16.1 
 5. Schilb, Chalon15.5 
 6. Weems, CSKA14.8 
 7. Bogdanovic, Fener..14.7 
 8. Krstic, CSKA14.3 
 9. Jerrells, Besiktas14.2 
 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-A6.4 
 8. Lasme, Panathin.6.2 
 9. Lampe, Caja L.6.1 
 10. Hines, Olympiacos6.1 
Assists Per Game
 Dimitris DIAMANTIDIS
  Panath.
  (196-G-80)
  Avg: 5.9
 1. Diamantidis, Panat.5.9 
 2. Planinic, Khimky5.9 
 3. Brown, Montepaschi5.4 
 4. Spanoulis, Olympia.5.3 
 5. Blassingame, Assec.5.1 
 6. Cook, EA7 Armani5.0 
 7. Teodosic, CSKA4.9 
 8. Farmar, Anadolu4.3 
 9. Tabu-Eboma, Cantu4.2 
 10. Westermann, Parti.4.1 
Steals Per Game
 Jamon Lukas GORDON
  Anadolu .
  (191-SG-84)
  Avg: 2
 1. Gordon, Anadolu2.0 
 2. Jaaber, Zalgiris1.9 
 3. Hickman, Maccabi1.8 
 4. Khryapa, CSKA1.7 
 5. Green, Cedevita1.6 
 6. Lucic, Partizan1.6 
 7. McCalebb, Fener.Ul.1.5 
 8. Cook, EA7 Armani1.4 
 9. Djedovic, ALBA1.4 
 10. Schilb, Chalon1.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Stephane LASME
  Panathin.
  (203-F-82)
  Avg: 2
 1. Lasme, Panathin.2.0 
 2. James, Maccabi T-A1.6 
 3. Cusin, Cantu1.4 
 4. Tomic, FCB Regal1.4 
 5. Ress, Montepaschi1.3 
 6. Vidmar, Besiktas1.1 
 7. Falker, Besiktas1.1 
 8. Slaughter, Real M.1.1 
 9. Monya, Khimky1.1 
 10. Gordon, Partizan1.1 



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  FINLAND   

Standings - Division I

1st Standings
Division A
 1. Porvoon Tarmo 14-3 
 2. ToPo 12-5 
 3. BC Nokia 10-6 
 4. Tapiolan Honka 10-8 
 5. Oulun NMKY 9-7 
 6. Huima 6-10 
 7. Ura Basket 5-12 
 8. Pyrinto II 5-12 
 9. SayRi 4-12 
Division B
 1. Kerava ET 14-5 
 2. KaU Koris 14-7 
 3. TuNMKY 13-7 
 4. Jarvenpaa 12-8 
 5. BC Jyvaskyla 8-12 
 6. HBA-Marsky 8-12 
 7. Espoo Basket 5-14 
 8. JyWe 5-14 

Regular Season: Round 20

A

Feb. 1: ToPo - Porvoon Tarmo
Feb. 2: Oulun NMKY - Pyrinto II
Feb. 3: BC Nokia - Huima
Feb. 3: SayRi - Ura Basket

B

Jan. 31: TuNMKY - Jarvenpaa 108-95
Feb. 2: JyWe - KaU Koris
Feb. 2: Kerava ET - Espoo Basket
Feb. 3: BC Jyvaskyla - Kerava ET
Feb. 3: Jarvenpaa - JyWe
Feb. 3: Espoo Basket - TuNMKY


Stats Leaders - Division I

Points Per Game
 Nolan RICHARDSON
  Ura B.
  (188-G-84)
  Avg: 26.9
 1. Richardson, Ura B.26.9 
 2. Moultrie, BC Nokia25.6 
 3. Jallow, Jarvenpaa23.8 
 4. Ricks, BC Jyvasky.23.7 
 5. Mays, Huima22.1 
 6. Clark, Tapiolan Ho.20.7 
 7. Mua, Kerava ET19.7 
 8. Harjula, Pyrinto II19.5 
 9. Tate, Porvoon19.2 
 10. Coleman, Oulun N.18.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Michael CORPENING
  BC Jyvas.
  (203-F-87)
  Avg: 14.8
 1. Corpening, BC Jyva.14.8 
 2. Jallow, Jarvenpaa14.8 
 3. Moultrie, BC Nokia14.1 
 4. Towa, Kerava ET13.1 
 5. Stephens, Huima12.0 
 6. Syrjala, KaU Koris11.8 
 7. Keskitalo, JyWe11.7 
 8. Young, Porvoon11.3 
 9. Capers, ToPo11.1 
 10. Coleman, ToPo10.3 
Assists Per Game
 Lauri JARVINEN
  KaU Koris
  (185-C-85)
  Avg: 5.6
 1. Jarvinen, KaU Koris5.6 
 2. Ricks, BC Jyvasky.4.6 
 3. Ginty, ToPo4.4 
 4. Herrala, HBA-M.4.4 
 5. Hanninen, Jarvenp.4.2 
 6. Kyllonen, Porvoon4.0 
 7. Viita, Jarvenpaa3.9 
 8. Russell, Oulun N.3.8 
 9. Mays, Huima3.8 
 10. Harjula, Pyrinto3.8 
Steals Per Game
 La Trice LITTLE
  Kerava ET
  (187-G-79)
  Avg: 2.9
 1. Little, Kerava ET2.9 
 2. Ricks, BC Jyvasky.2.8 
 3. Corpening, BC Jyva.2.2 
 4. Herrala, HBA-M.2.2 
 5. Thomas, SayRi2.1 
 6. Capers, ToPo2.0 
 7. Viita, Jarvenpaa1.9 
 8. Richardson, Ura B.1.9 
 9. Michelsen, HBA-M.1.9 
 10. Andersen, Espoo1.9 
Blocks Per Game
 Harri KESKITALO
  JyWe
  (210-C-90)
  Avg: 2.6
 1. Keskitalo, JyWe2.6 
 2. Pulkkinen, Pyrin.2.0 
 3. Woods, BC Nokia1.9 
 4. Mua, Kerava ET1.9 
 5. Corpening, BC Jyva.1.7 
 6. Jallow, Jarvenpaa1.7 
 7. Young, Porvoon1.4 
 8. Moultrie, BC Nokia1.3 
 9. Capers, ToPo1.3 
 10. Kauhanen, HBA-M.1.2 


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

26-year old power forward Louis Johnson (206-F/C-86, agency: Pro Partner Sports Management) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Namika Lahti and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 28.
He had a double-double of 27 points and 10 rebounds, while his team beat FoKoPo (6-21) 102-95. The game rather meaningless between the teams, which do not have any influence on the top of the standings. Namika Lahti maintains the 12th position in Finnish league. Too late to salvage the team, which is currently ranked at the very bottom. They already lost 21 games and recorded just six victories. Johnson turned to be Namika Lahti's top player in his first season with the team. Western Illinois University graduate has very impressive stats this year. Johnson is in league's top in rebounds (6th best: 8.3rpg) and averages solid 52.1% FGP.

Second best performed player last round was Matthew Gibson (196-G-84) of LrNMKY. He is American guard in his first season at LrNMKY. In the last game Gibson recorded impressive 24 points, 6 rebounds and 8 assists. Bad luck as LrNMKY lost that game 76-92 to the higher-ranked KTP (#2, 21-6). LrNMKY managed to keep the same 6th spot in the standings. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 13-14 record. Gibson is a newcomer at LrNMKY and quickly became one of team's most reliable players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 21.6ppg (#3). His other stats are also decent: 4.1rpg and 4.5apg.

Third place about best performers goes to forward J'Nathan Bullock (196-F-87, agency: Pro One Sports) of Kauhajoki (#5). Bullock scored 27 points and grabbed ten rebounds. He was a key player of Kauhajoki, leading his team to a 91-74 easy win against slightly lower-ranked Kouvot (#7, 12-15). Kauhajoki needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 17 victories and 10 lost games. Bullock has a great season in Finland. After 27 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 17.0ppg (9th best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Emmanuel Holloway (185-G-86) of Namika Lahti - 25 points, 4 rebounds and 4 assists
5. Andrais Thornton (203-F-85) of FoKoPo - 22 points and 11 rebounds
6. Charles Burgess (186-PG-84) of FoKoPo - 20 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists
7. Trey Hampton (203-F-87) of Lapua - 19 points and 10 rebounds
8. Jahmar Thorpe (198-F-84) of FoKoPo - 22 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists
9. Sefton Barrett (196-SF-83) of KTP - 21 points and 9 rebounds
10. Devonne Giles (203-F-83) of KTP - 15 points, 14 rebounds and 3 assists

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


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  FRANCE   


Theo Leon agreed terms with Fos Ouest - by Eurobasket News

Fos Ouest Provence Basket (ProB) inked 21-year old point guard Theo Leon (180-92). He played recently at ASVEL Lyon-Villeurbanne Basket (ProA). But in 7 games this season he recorded just 0.6ppg.
In 2011/12 season Theo Leon notched 2.7 points and 1.1 assists per ProA game.
The previous (10-11) season Leon played at ASVEL Lyon-Villeurbanne Basket (ProA). In 5 games that season he averaged only 1.2ppg.
He played in the final of French U21 Championships (Trophee du Futur) in 2012. Leon represented France at the European Championships U20 in Bilbao (Spain) two years ago. His team won Bronze and his stats at that event were 9 games: 0.9ppg.

By Eurobasket Data Center



Alex Okafor agreed terms with Rennes - by Eurobasket News

Union Rennes Basket 35 (NM1) strengthened their roster with addition of 26-year old American forward Alex Okafor (202-102kg-87, college: Princeton). He played in the summer at Bay Area Matrix (ABA) in the U.S.. Okafor won Regional championship title. He received Defensive Player of the Year award in 2011 at his college time.
Okafor graduated from Princeton University in 2012 and actually missed last season. It is his first season in pro basketball.
The scouts decsribe him following way: Okafor is an extremely versatile player capable of playing multiple positions.
His combination of size, strength, length and athleticism makes for a tough matchup on offense and allows him to be a pest on defense everywhere on the floor.
Okafor likes to attack the rim and makes regular trips to the foul line because of his aggressiveness. He is an unselfish player with the unique ability to create for himself and others. Alex has the ability to post up smaller defenders, attack from the wing or turn and face against bigger players
Okafor has respectable midrange game in his repertoire and is a streaky shooter from distance.
He thrives in the open court using the combination of skill set and athleticism to make plays. Alex possesses equal dexterity with both hands inside 15 ft, which includes a full assortment of floaters, hooks, dunks, and finishes. He is tenacious rebounder with an explosive second jump.
Along the same lines he does not shy away from contact and embraces the chance to mix it up with other physical players.
Okafors unique skill set reliable ball handler who is fully capable of relieving lead guard of management duties.
Okafor sometimes over-thinks the game instead of relying on instinct. He is not a consistent deep ball threat yet, but has greatly improved over the last year. Can be impatient at times when making offensive progressions.

By Eurobasket Data Center


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  FYR MACEDONIA   


Lamarcus Reed is a newcomer at LF Basket, ex Rabotnicki - by Eurobasket News

LF Basket (Basketligan) strengthened their roster with addition of 25-year old American swingman Lamarcus Reed (195-83kg-88, college: Texas Arlington). He just played at Rabotnicki in FYR Macedonian Prva Liga. The last season Reed played for Fersped-Rabotnicki (Prva Liga). The last season he played at the University of Texas at Arlington in Western Athletic Conference in the NCAA. In 32 games last year he recorded very impressive stats: 17.8ppg, 3.8rpg, 1.7apg and 1.0spg. He helped them to win the regular season and make it to the semifinals. Great season indeed as he was voted to All-Southland Conference 1st Team.
Reeds college team won Southland Conference Tournament in 2008.
He has played also professionally in Belgium (Antwerp Giants).
Reed attended University of Texas at Arlington until 2012 and it will be his first season as a professional player.

By Eurobasket Data Center


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  GERMANY   


Citybasket Recklinghausen announces new coaching duo - by Moritz Korff

Georg Kleine and Pit Lueschper have been announced as the new coaching duo of 2. Bundesliga Pro B team Citybasket Recklinghausen. The pair will follow Bill Paterno, who had been sacked earlier this week.
Kleine led the Recklinghausen team to the 2011-12 1. Regionalliga West championship and served as a sport director since leaving the head coach post. Lueschper coached the Metropol Girls of the U17-Bundesliga WNBL last season.


Chris Gadley on verge of Duesseldorf move - by Moritz Korff

According to the website of the 2. Bundesliga, Chris Gadley (207-C-87, college: Canisius) has transferred from Pro A team Uni-Riesen Leipzig to the Duesseldorf Baskets. Gadley is leading the Pro A in rebounding (10.5 boards per contest) and blocked shots (2.3bpg). In 17 games played for Leipzig this season, the 25-year-old big man also scored 12.3 points per outing. He suffered an ankle injury in December, but returned to action in mid-January.
However, the transfer has not been confirmed by the teams yet. The Pro A transfer period ends tonight.


Duesseldorf Baskets land C.J. Collins - by Moritz Korff

After bringing in Chris Gadley (207-C-87, college: Canisius) from Leipzig, the Duesseldorf Baskets (2. Bundesliga Pro A) signed C.J. Collins (180-G-88, college: McNeese St.), according to the website of the 2. Bundesliga.
Collins is a 24-year-old guard from Lake Charles, LA. He spent his college career at NCAA Division 1 school McNeese State and turned pro in 2011. He played in Iceland and joined Saynatsalon Riento of Finnland's second league for the 2012-13 season, but left the club recently. He had 12 appearances for the club, averaging 17.8 points, 3.7 rebounds per contest.


Coach Vojtko and Chris Gadley are leaving Leipzig - by Moritz Korff

2. Bundesliga Pro A team Uni-Riesen Leipzig has parted company with head coach Ivan Vojtko and center Chris Gadley (207-C-87, college: Canisius). Vojtko's contract was terminated by mutual consent, the club said. His assistant Martin Scholz will be promoted to head coach. Vojtko was in his first season as a Leipzig coach.
Gadley will transfer to the Duesseldorf Baskets. The 25-year-old big man played 17 games for Leipzig this season, averaging 12.3 pointsm 10.5 rebounds and 2.3 blocked shots per contest.


Roster moves in Crailsheim - by Moritz Korff

The Crailsheim Merlins have strengthened their roster by the addition of Kosta Karamatskos (197-G-86). The 27-year-old guard started this current season with the Kirchheim Knights and saw action in ten Pro A games for the team, averaging 2.5 points per outing.
Meanwhile, the Merlins sent Daniel Bailey (196-F-90, college: Queens, NC) to their second team (1. Regionalliga South-West) to replace Marlon Miller (180-PG-88, college: Mary Hardin Baylor). Miller averaged 26.2 points, 6.6 rebounds, 4.1 assists and 1.9 steals per contest in the 1. RLSW and was also a member of the Pro A practice squad. The Merlins parted ways with Miller, details were not disclosed.


The LTi Giessen 46ers and Dijuan Harris Go Separate Ways - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

The LTi Giessen 46ers have announced today that Dijuan Harris (175-PG-86, college: Charlotte) is no longer going to strap on the jersey for the team. The club and American have decided to go separate ways. Harris is a 26 year old 175cm point guard from Charlote, North Carolina that was playing his first season in Germany. Harris played 19 games averaging 6,8ppg, 2,0rpg and 2,9apg. The American had played in countries like Finland and Turkey and showed alot of potential in the Beko BBL. He scored in double figures 4 times and started the season well, but in the last two months started getting less playing time with the emergence of Achmadschah Zazai. Harris scored 23 points against Bremerhaven and 21 points against Bonn.

source: LTi Giessen 46ers


Sharaud Curry Joins The LTi Giessen 46ers - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

The LTi Giessen 46ers have had some turbulent days not knowing if they could financially finish the season and losing two key players with Americans Ryan Brooks and Laquan Prowell. However today the club announced that they will be able to finish the season and in addition hauled in a new point guard with Morris Curry (178-G-87, college: Providence). Curry is a 25 year old 178cm guard from Gainsville, Georgia. He started the season for the Mitteldeutscher BC playing 16 games and avergaing 6,9ppg, 1,8rpg and 1,4apg. Last season he played for Allianz Swans Gmunden (Austria-A Bundesliga, starting five): 41 games: 18.0ppg, 3.1rpg, 5.0apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 47.7%, 3PT: 36.8%, FT: 77.0%. Curry started the season hot scoring in double figures in three of the first four games and scoring 20 points against Phoenix Hagen and the Fraport Skyliners. However in the last 12 games he scored in double figures only one time. He lost his starting job to Hoerdur Vilhjalmsson. Curry started his basketball career at Providence (NCAA) in 2005 where he played until 2010. In his senior year he played 31 games: 15.5ppg, 2.0rpg, 3.4apg, 1.2spg, FGP: 40.7%, 3PT: 34.5%, FT: 87.5%. He played a total of 117 NCAA games. In 2010-2011, he was a rookie playing for AZS Koszalin (Poland-PLK): 3 games: 5.3ppg, 1.3rpg, 2.3apg, left in Oct.'10, in Jan.'11 moved to AEK Athens (Greece-A1): 7 games: 2.7ppg, 1.0apg. Awards/Achievements in his basketball career have been Big East All-Rookie Team -06, All-Big East Honorable Mention -07, Austrian Bundesliga Supercup Winner -12 (MVP)
Austrian Bundesliga All-Star Game -12, Austrian Cup Winner -12, Eurobasket.com All-Austrian League Guard of the Year -12, Eurobasket.com All-Austrian League Import Player of the Year -12, Eurobasket.com All-Austrian League 1st Team -12, Eurobasket.com Austrian League All-Imports Team -12, Austrian League Season MVP -12, Austrian Bundesliga A Regular Season Champion -12, and Austrian Bundesliga A Finalist -12


German U-20 Roster named - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber


The German basketball federation has officially released the U-20 roster. Last December there had been a try-out that had been supervised by Frank Menz. Recently Frank Menz was appointed new German national team head coach, but was responsible for putting together this roster. "We had a high quality of players even if the guys playing in US colleges and the guys from Urspring were missing on account of their trip to the States. But that is why we have this try-out is still an important part in our sighting concept. The players there were able to show their talents and work with good coaches", stressed Frank Menz.

The following players were chosen for the U-20 roster. Paul Albrecht (Baskets Akademie Weser-Ems / EWE Baskets Oldenburg / Sportfoerder-Kompanie), Kevin Bryant (Erdgas Ehingen / TuS Urspringschule / Sportfoerder-Kompanie), Alexander Engel (TSV Breitenguessbach), Robin Jorch (IBBA Berlin / RSV Stahnsdorf), Dominic Lockhart (LTi 46ers Juniors / VfB Giessen Pointers), Mauricio Marin (FC Bayern Muenchen), Malik Mueller (Erdgas Ehingen / TuS Urspringschule), Kenneth Ogbe (Erdgas Ehingen / TuS Urspringschule), Johannes Richter (TSV Breitenguessbach), Dennis Schroeder (Spot Up Medien Braunschweig / New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig), Sid.Marlon Theis (Erdgas Ehingen / TuS Urspringschule / Sportfoerder-Kompanie), Leon Tolksdorf (University of Connecticut), Tim Unterluggauer (Erdgas Ehingen / TuS Urspringschule), Julius Wolf (FC Bayern Muenchen) und Paul Zipser (FC Bayern Muenchen) Fabian Bleck (NOMA Iserlohn / Phoenix Hagen), Viktor Frankl-Maus (Dragons Rhoendorf), Jonathan Malu (Eisbaeren Bremerhaven), Max Merz (183-PG-94) (Fraport Skyliners / Eintracht Frankfurt), Cameron Neubauer (IBBA Berlin / RSV Stahnsdorf), Bogdan Radosavljevic (FC Bayern Muenchen), Stefan Wess (UBC Muenster / Young Dragons Quakenbrueck).







Chris Gadley (I Love getting My Teammates Open Shots) - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber


Chris Gadley (207-C-87, college: Canisius) is a 25 year old 207cm center from Amherst, New York that is played his first season for the Uni Riesen Leipzig in the PRO A and now will be playing for Murat Didin He started his basketball career at Hofstra in 2005 where he played until 2007. He then played three seasons for Canisius (NCAA). He turned professional in 2010 and played for the Buffalo Stampede (ACPBL) and Summerside Storm (Canada-NBL). This is his first season overseas and has taken the PRO A by storm averaging 12,3 ppg, 10,5rpg, 1,3apg and 2,8bpg. He spoke to Eurobasket about basketball

Can you count the number of triple doubles that you have had in your career or have you had more than a handful?

Yea I've had a bunch of triple doubles! In highschool I almost averaged a triple double! In high school senior year I averaged 29points 18 rebounds and 8 blocks so yea I've had a few in my career!

You had 11 blocks this season in a game. Can you ever remembering having more blocks in a game? Were you in the zone on this day on the defensive end?

Yea actually when I was in highschool I had a 17 block game lol! Yea I mean since I've lost all this weight I'm learning how to use my body again so now I'm really actually starting to use what ability I have again!

Your only shooting 44% from the free throw line this season. Are you taking extra free throw practice in practice?

Yes I'm extremely unhappy with my free throws! I have never shot this bad in my basketball career! Yes I'm putting in a lot of time with them! It's really not my form that's a concern but it's my confidence at the free throw line that I need to get back!

Where would the team shooting have been this season without Nikita Khartchenkov hot shooting?

Yea Nikita is a awesome player he is a great teammate! I think we would have a harder time without his shooting!! He truly is a major piece to the puzzle of our team!

This is your third professional season after playing in North America in the ACPBL and NBL. You are really taking off this season. What is your secret to your individual play so far?

Well basically I wanted to make a name for myself. I know I can play and I want people to know that I'm here in pro a! I want to show my dominance and want to earn the respect of the League!

What has been the main reason for being able to adjust to the German PRO A so rapidly?

Well I think I was already prepared by playing in the states at a division 1 school! So really I had the tools to be successful, but now I am really just using all the tools and tips my coaches have taught me in the past!

What is a strength in your game that doesnt always get noticed right away?

I believe my biggest strength that people may not notice is the way I'm able to get my teammates open shots! I love doing it and seeing them get an make open shots!!

On what things do you still need to improve in your game on the court?

Well I believe I can improve on everything My left hand, Free throw shooting

Conditioning , Rebounding, Defensive play, Being a better teammate, so I believe I can improve on every aspect of the game!

To what NBA player would you compare your game to?

Ehh I don't think I can compare myself to a particular NBA player but Shaq I love and I use his philosophy of domination when I play the game!

Your from the New York area. If you could ask the legendary Patrick Ewing one question what would it be?

I would ask him what is the best way to make the rest of my basketball career the most successful!

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Last DVD I saw was called warrior!

Thanks Chris for the chat


Euroleague: Zalgiris stun ALBA in Top 16 Round 6 opener - by Eurobasket News

Zalgiris - ALBA 92:56

Zalgiris stun ALBA in Top 16 Round 6 opener. The Lithuanian team recovered from last losses and won 92:56.
Zalgiris opened the game with 26-21 and continued their dominance later in the game. The hosts added 18-16 rally in the second frame for 7-point lead at the halftime. The third period was a nightmare for the German side that lost the frame 9-26. Zalgiris managed to added 22-10 in the last stanza for an easy success.
Marko Popovic (185-G-82, agency: Alti Sport, college: S.Idaho JC) top-scored for the winners with 22 points and Tremmell Darden (194-G/F-81, college: Niagara) nailed 17. Mindaugas Kuzminskas (205-F-89) delivered 14, while Mario Delas (207-F/C-90) and Ksistof Lavrinovic (210-C-79) had 8 each. Yassin Idbihi (209-C-83, college: Buffalo) answered with 12 points in the losing case and Derrick Byars (201-G/F-84, agency: Beo Basket, college: Vanderbilt) netted 10. Deon Thompson (203-F-88, college: N.Carolina) and Je'Kel Foster (191-G-83, college: Ohio St.) finished the game with 8 points each in a loss.

Zalgiris: Marko Popovic 22, Tremmell Darden 17, Mindaugas Kuzminskas 14, Mario Delas 8, Ksistof Lavrinovic 8
ALBA: Yassin Idbihi 12, Derrick Byars 10, Deon Thompson 8, Je'Kel Foster 8


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


Euroleague: Olympiacos Piraeus outgun Fenerbahce Ulker 82:71 - by Eurobasket News

Olympiacos Piraeus - Fenerbahce Ulker 82:71

Olympiacos Piraeus outgun Fenerbahce Ulker 82:71 in EuroLeague Top 16 Round 6. The Greek side improved to 3-3 record and sent the Turkish team to 1-5 record.
Fenerbahce Ulker had nothing to lose in this game and started with 24-23 lead. The Turkish team tried hard to win also the first half, but failed in the second quarter. Olympiacos Piraeus needed 20-13 in it for 43:37 halftime advantage. Moreover the Greek titan won the third period 25-12 and enjoyed the bigger lead after three quarters. Although Fenerbahce Ulker won the last stanza 22-14 they could only reduce to 11 final points.
Vassilis Spanoulis (193-G-82, agency: Beo Basket) top-scored for the winners with 15 points and Georgios Printezis (206-F-85, agency: FCM) had 13. Acie Law (190-G-85, college: Texas A&M) added 12, while Kyle Hines (198-F-86) delivered 10. Bo McCalebb (178-PG-85, college: New Orleans) and Bojan Bogdanovic (203-SG-89) answered with 20 points each, while David Andersen (212-C-80) had 18. Uros Tripkovic (197-G-86) followed them with 5 points in a loss.

Olympiacos Piraeus: Vassilis Spanoulis 15, Georgios Printezis 13, Acie Law 12, Kyle Hines 10
Fenerbahce Ulker: Bo McCalebb 20, Bojan Bogdanovic 20, David Andersen 18, Uros Tripkovic 5


Greek Head Coach in the Chinese league!! - by Chris Mammides

Another Greek Head Coach is continuing his career abroad! This time in China and the NBL league. The top level league of China. The management of the team Jin Qiang Sichuan decided to trust the coaching to the Greek experienced Head Coach Stratos Stratos Koukoulekidis . Head Coach Stratos Koukoulekidis is quite experienced with the leagues abroad as this is not his first time to be coaching abroad even though the previous times were geographically much closer to his mother land that this time.
Coach Stratos Koukoulekidis coached in Cyprus, FYROM and Greece. The Greek Head Coach is replacing the Chinese Head Coach Guangqi Li. Last season the new team of Coach Stratos Koukoulekidis ended in the 7th place of the league out of 10 teams, this season the expectations are higher..

Eurobasket wishes all the best to the Greek Head Coach in this very big step in his career.


*****************************************************
  GUINEA   


PGE Turow adds Robinson to their roster - by Eurobasket News

PGE Turow Zgorzelec (TBL) added to their roster 27-year old American (has also Guinean passport) point guard Russell Robinson (185-90kg-86). He just played at Angelico Biella in Italian SerieA. In 15 games this season he recorded 12.6ppg, 2.3rpg, 2.1apg and 2.4spg. The last season Robinson played at Trabzonspor (TB2L) in Turkish league. In 18 games last year he averaged 13.4ppg, 2.4rpg, 3.2apg and 2.1spg (in top 2). He also played at JSF Nanterre (ProA) in French league earlier that season. In 18 games he averaged 13.4ppg, 2.4rpg and 3.2apg. The other team Robinson played that season for was FIATC Joventut (ACB) in Spanish league. In 34 games that year he averaged 9.6ppg, 2.4rpg, 2.8apg and 1.8spg.
In 2008 he was drafted by Reno Bighorns (D-League) in second round (23rd overall).
The list of the past achievements is quite long as Robinson won D-League West Division championship title in 2010. He was also voted Big 12 All-Defensive Team back in 2006,2007 and 2008.
Robinson is quite experienced player. He has played also professionally in USA, NBA (Cleveland Cavaliers), Turkey (Erdemir) and D-League (Maine Red Claws).
On Robinson: A combo guard who can score in a number of ways... Has the ball handling abilities to run the point... Brings toughness and tenacity... Has the potential to be solid defensively.

By Eurobasket Data Center


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

Standings - Promotie Divisie

Prom.Divisie Standings
 1. Orca's Urk 13-1 
 2. De Groene 11-2 
 3. Cangeroes 10-5 
 4. MSV/Zeemacht 8-6 
 5. Red Giants 8-6 
 6. Rotterdam 2 8-7 
 7. De Hoppers 7-6 
 8. Binnenland 7-6 
 9. Leiden 2 7-8 
 10. Almonte 6-8 
 11. BC Apollo 2 4-10 
 12. Almere P. 4-11 
 13. Punch 4-11 
 14. UBALL 3-12 

Regular Season: Round 17

Feb. 2: Almere P. - Red Giants
Feb. 2: Almonte - De Groene
Feb. 2: UBALL - Binnenland
Feb. 2: De Hoppers - Leiden 2
Feb. 2: BC Apollo 2 - Punch
Feb. 2: Orca''s Urk - Rotterdam 2
Feb. 3: Cangeroes - MSV/Zeemacht



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

Standings - Iceland Express League

Express L. Standings
 1. Grindavik 11-3 
 2. Thor Thorl 10-4 
 3. Snaefell 10-4 
 4. Stjarnan 9-5 
 5. KR 8-5 
 6. Keflavik 8-5 
 7. Njardvik 6-8 
 8. Skallagrimur 6-8 
 9. KFI 4-9 
 10. Fjolnir 4-10 
 11. Tindastoll 3-10 
 12. IR 3-11 

Regular Season: Round 14

Jan. 31: Grindavik - Thor Thorl 89-87
Jan. 31: Stjarnan - Snaefell 88-89
Jan. 31: Skallagrimur - Fjolnir 85-83
Jan. 31: IR - Njardvik 81-98
Feb. 1: KFI - Tindastoll
Feb. 1: KR - Keflavik


Stats Leaders (Men)

Points Per Game
 Eric PALM
  IR
  (188-G-87)
  Avg: 27.1
 1. Palm, IR27.1 
 2. Smith, Thor Thorl25.3 
 3. Medlock, Skallagri.25.2 
 4. Broussard, Grind.23.8 
 5. Shouse, Stjarnan21.9 
 6. Zeglinski, Grindav.21.9 
 7. Craion, Keflavik21.5 
 8. Jackson, Thor Thorl21.5 
 9. Quaintance, Skalla.20.0 
 10. Jonsson, Snaefell19.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Marcus VAN
  Njardvik
  (201-F/C-85)
  Avg: 14.9
 1. Van, Njardvik14.9 
 2. Craion, Keflavik13.5 
 3. Quaintance, Skalla.12.9 
 4. Valentine, Tindast.10.5 
 5. Spicer, Fjolnir10.1 
 6. Mills, Stjarnan9.8 
 7. McQueen, Snaefell9.7 
 8. Jackson, Thor Thorl9.4 
 9. Virijevic, KFI9.3 
 10. Broussard, Grind.8.6 
Assists Per Game
 Jay THREATT
  Snaefell
  (180-G-89)
  Avg: 9.6
 1. Threatt, Snaefell9.6 
 2. Shouse, Stjarnan9.0 
 3. Gibson, Tindastoll7.0 
 4. Zeglinski, Grindav.6.9 
 5. Williams, IR6.4 
 6. Smith, Thor Thorl5.6 
 7. Fridriksson, Njard.4.9 
 8. Hermannsson, KR4.7 
 9. Valsson, Keflavik4.5 
 10. Quaintance, Skall.4.3 
Steals Per Game
 Haminn QUAINTANCE
  Skalla.
  (201-F-85)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Quaintance, Skalla.2.8 
 2. Broussard, Grind.2.5 
 3. Medlock, Skallagri.2.4 
 4. Viggosson, Tindast.2.4 
 5. Williams, IR2.3 
 6. Moore, Njardvik2.2 
 7. Lewis, Keflavik2.1 
 8. Threatt, Snaefell2.1 
 9. Valentine, Tindast.2.1 
 10. Jonsson, Thor Tho.2.1 
Blocks Per Game
 Brian MILLS
  Stjarnan
  (203-F-88)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Mills, Stjarnan2.1 
 2. Craion, Keflavik2.0 
 3. Quaintance, Skalla.1.7 
 4. Magnusson, KR1.5 
 5. Valentine, Tindast.1.3 
 6. Thorsteinsso., Gri.1.2 
 7. Van, Njardvik1.2 
 8. Acox, KR1.2 
 9. Valdimarsson, Stja.0.9 
 10. Eiriksson, Skalla.0.8 


Pavel Ermolinskij's double-double lands him Player of the Week award among Icelandic playing currently abroad - by Eurobasket Center

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

Pavel Ermolinskij
Pavel Ermolinskij
   #1. This week's number one is an international guard Pavel Ermolinskij (202-87, agency: I.D.S. Law, currently plays in Sweden). He led Norrkoping Dolphins to a victory over the closely-ranked Boras Basket (17-8) 99-92 in the Swedish Basketligan in Friday night's game. Ermolinskij was MVP of the game. He had a double-double by scoring 19 points and getting 10 rebounds. Ermolinskij also added 8 assists in 33 minutes on the court. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. Norrkoping Dolphins (17-2) is placed second in the Basketligan. It's Ermolinskij's first season with the team. Ermolinskij is currently third on the list of best passers with 5.0apg. He also averaged so far 11.1ppg, 6.9rpg, 1.2spg, 2FGP: 53.0%, 3FGP: 36.7% in the 20 games he played so far. Ermolinskij 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). He contributed to a Sundsvall Dragons' victory against the tenth-ranked White Eagles (5-19) 93-83 in the Swedish Basketligan last Friday. Baeringsson recorded a double-double by scoring 16 points and getting 12 rebounds. He also added 5 assists. Sundsvall Dragons (21-3) is placed first in the Basketligan. It was his team's fifth consecutive victory in a row. Baeringsson is currently second on the league's list of best rebounders. He has very reliable stats this season: 14.5ppg, 10.2rpg, 3.6apg, 1.3spg, 2FGP: 58.9%(106-180), 3FGP: 37.0% and FT: 77.2%. Baeringsson is in the roster of the Icelandic senior national team.

Jakob Sigurdarson
Jakob Sigurdarson
   #3. The Icelandic player who performed third best last week abroad was an international point guard Jakob Sigurdarson (192-82, college: Birm.Southern, currently plays in Sweden) is a teammate of previously mentioned Hlynur Baeringsson and both played together in the last Swedish Basketligan game. Sigurdarson helped Sundsvall Dragons win their game against the tenth-ranked White Eagles (5-19) 93-83. He scored 6 points and grabbed 6 rebounds in 31 minutes. Sigurdarson is one of the most experienced players in a team as it's his fourth year in Sundsvall Dragons' roster. Sigurdarson belongs to league's top scorers and is ranked #6 with 17.5ppg. This year his other stats are: 3.1rpg, 2.9apg, 2FGP: 50.3%, 3FGP: 36.7% and FT: 92.3%(96-104) in the 23 games. Sigurdarson is also a member of the Icelandic senior national team.

Logi Gunnarsson
Logi Gunnarsson
   #4. Shooting guard Logi Gunnarsson (192-81, currently plays in France), who plays in the French NM1 (third division) could not help Angers BC 49 (5-11) in their last game on Saturday. Despite his good performance Angers BC 49 was defeated 79-72 on the road by the higher-ranked Monaco (#6). Gunnarsson scored 12 points, had 5 rebounds and dished 5 assists. Gunnarsson has relatively good stats this season: 12.2ppg, 2.9rpg and 2.8apg. He is also Icelandic national team player.

Axel Karason
Axel Karason
   #5. International small forward Axel Karason (194-83, currently plays in Denmark) was not able to help Vaerlose (7-9) in their game against Bakken (16-5) in the Danish Ligaen, despite his good performance last Sunday. Karason was the second best scorer with 10 points. He also added 5 rebounds in 17 minutes. But Vaerlose was crushed 107-65 in Aarhus by the higher-ranked (#3) Bakken. This year Karason has relatively solid stats: 11.0ppg, 7.0rpg and 1.7apg in the 21 games. He plays currently for the Icelandic national team.

Hoerdur Vilhjalmsson
Hoerdur Vilhjalmsson
   #6. Point guard Hoerdur Vilhjalmsson (194-88, currently plays in Germany) was not able to secure a victory for Mitteldeutscher BC (8-11) in their game against Brose Baskets Bamberg (17-2) in the German BBL. Vilhjalmsson did not beat the league record on Saturday evening. He scored only 3 points. Mitteldeutscher BC was edged 58-56 in Bamberg by the leading Brose Baskets. Vilhjalmsson has reliable stats this season: 10.3ppg, 2.4rpg and 2.1apg. He is an international player who is currently on the senior Icelandic National Team roster.

Haukur Palsson
Haukur Palsson
   #7. International small forward Haukur Palsson (197-92, college: Maryland, currently plays in Spain) managed to help Assignia Manresa in a victory against the fifth-ranked G.Canaria 2014 (12-7) 75-65 in the Spanish ACB in Sunday night's game. Palsson recorded only 2 points in 8 minutes on the court. Assignia Manresa (4-15) is placed second from the bottom (#17) in the ACB. This year Palsson averages just 1.5ppg in the 17 games. He is also Icelandic national team player.

Gudni Valentinusson
Gudni Valentinusson
   #8. Center Gudni Valentinusson (204-85, currently plays in Denmark) couldn't help Aarhus BC (5-16) in their game against Horsholm (8-8) in the Danish Ligaen. Valentinusson cannot count Saturday's game as one of the best ones. He scored only 2 points. Aarhus BC was edged in an overtime 81-78 at home by the higher-ranked Horsholm (#4). It was Aarhus BC's ninth consecutive loss in a row. Valentinusson's overall stats this season are: 3.8ppg 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
Arnar Jonsson (183-G-83) plays for Aarhus BC in Danish Ligaen
Aske Thorsteinsson (185-SG-86) plays for Aalborg in Danish Ligaen


*****************************************************
  IRAN   

Standings - Superleague

Superleague Standings
 1. Petrochimi 17-1 
 2. Foolad Mahan 15-3 
 3. Mahram 14-3 
 4. Zanjan 10-8 
 5. Gorgan 8-10 
 6. Azad 7-10 
 7. Petrochimi Mahshahr 5-13 
 8. Al Badr 5-13 
 9. Esteghlal 4-14 
 10. Naft Sepahan 4-14 

Regular Season: Round 18

Jan. 31: Petrochimi Mahshahr - Naft Sepahan 85-86
Jan. 31: Gorgan - Zanjan 80-73
Jan. 31: Azad - Mahram 77-96
Jan. 31: Esteghlal - Petrochimi 63-82
Jan. 31: Al Badr - Foolad Mahan 55-71

Quarter-Finals: Round 1

Feb. 14: Gorgan - Zanjan
Feb. 14: Al Badr - Petrochimi
Feb. 14: Petrochimi Mahshahr - Foolad Mahan
Feb. 14: Azad - Mahram



*****************************************************
  IRAQ   


Kaba in Al-Kahraba !!!! - by Ahmad Madwar

The american forward Chris Kaba (203-F-88, college: N.Colorado) agreed terms with Al-Kahraba to play with them for the rest of season, Al-Kahraba currently lead the league with 6W and 1L .. Chris will replace Xavier Keeling ... he wont be the first player graduated from UNIVERSITY OF NORTHERN COLORADO plays in Iraq .. his former college teammate Jefferson Mason already joined Al-Tadamoun ...
Kaba graduated in 2011, his first experience as pro player was in Switzerland with SAM Basket Massagno season 2011-2012 .. and he started this season with Guerreros de Guerroro Cumple in Mexico LNBP and he left after 5 games due the bad situation in the team ..
this is his Awards/Achievements:
Big Sky Conf. Regular Season Runner-Up -10
Big Sky Conf. Tournament Semifinals -10
Big Sky Conf. Regular Season Champion -11
Big Sky Conf. Tournament Winner -11
All-Big Sky Conf. Honorable Mention -11
Big Sky Conf. All-Tournament Team -11

We wish all the best for Chris Kaba (203-F-88, college: N.Colorado) with his new team ..


Ricky James in Nift Al-Janoub !! - by Ahmad Madwar

the american guard Ricky James (190-G-84, agency: Prossin Sports Management, college: Trevecca Naz.) agreed terms with Nift Al-Janoub Club to play with them in the second half of season .. This is Ricky's first expirience in Middle-east .. he played before in Uruguay and Dominican Rep, but he had long expirience in the local leagues in USA like UBA, UBL, ABA, WBA .. etc
Ricky graduated from revecca Nazarene college in NAIA league in 2008 .. and this is his Awards/Achievements:
All-TSC 1st Team -07
All-SEBL Metro A-League North Division 4th Team -07
SEBL All-Conference City B-League West Division 3rd Team -07
NAIA D1 Sweet 16 -08
URBL All-Star Game -09 (Slam Dunk Contest Winner)
USBasket.com All-URBL Player of the Year -09
USBasket.com All-URBL 1st Team -09
USBasket.com URBL All-Defensive Team -09
URBL Finalist -09
URBL Regular Season National Division Runner-Up (MVP) -09
Southern Classic Roundball (UBA Selection Team) -10
UBA All-Star Selection -09, 10, 11
UBA All-Star Game Slam Dunk Contest -10, 11
UBA Showcase All-Tournament 2nd Team -11
USBasket.com All-UBA 2nd Team -10, 11
Usbasket.com All-UBA Western Conference Player of the Year -11
Usbasket.com All-UBL Player of the Year -11
UBA Champion -12


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  IRELAND   


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). He contributed to PAOK's victory against the league leader Olympiacos (13-1) 76-71 in the Greek A1 in Sunday night's game. McGrath scored 10 points and added 6 passes in 40 minutes on the court. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. PAOK Thessaloniki (9-5) is placed fourth in the A1. It's McGrath's first season with the team. He has relatively good stats this year: 14.1ppg, 2.3rpg, 3.7apg, 2FGP: 55.4%(41-74), 3FGP: 37.0% and FT: 79.1% in the 14 games he played so far. McGrath is a naturalized American. He played for the Irish senior national team five years ago. Strangely McGrath 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), who plays in the British BBL. O'Reilly could not help Plymouth Raiders (13-6) in their last game. Despite his good performance Plymouth Raiders was badly defeated 98-81 on the road by the one of league's weakest teams (#11) Durham Wildcats. O'Reilly scored 12 points in 34 minutes. This year O'Reilly has relatively solid stats: 13.6ppg, 6.4rpg, 2.8apg, 2FGP: 58.1%(72-124), 3FGP: 36.3% and FT: 77.8% in the 19 games. He 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 was not able to help Chalons-Reims (14-6) in their game against Fos Ouest (11-9) in the French ProB (second division). Mullins scored 8 points, made 3 passes and 5 steals in 31 minutes. Chalons-Reims lost 53-65 at home to the lower-ranked (#9) Fos Ouest. They ended the series of five consecutive victories. Mullins is currently fifth on the list of most steals with 2.0spg. This year he also averages: 7.8ppg, 2.7rpg, 4.3apg, 2FGP: 49.4%, 3FGP: 34.7% and FT: 70.6% in the 20 games. Mullins is a naturalized American. He played for the Irish national team four years ago. Apparently Mullins has never played in Ireland.

Sean McCarthy
Sean McCarthy
   #4. Center Sean McCarthy (208-93, currently plays college basketball in the States) contributed to an easy victory against the Fisher College (13-3) crushing them 108-69 in the NCAA in Wednesday night's game. McCarthy had a double-double by scoring 10 points and getting 12 rebounds in 20 minutes. The New Jersey Institute of Technology has 3-0 conference record this season. So far his team won all three games in the conference. McCarthy has individually a very good year with high stats. He averages: 16.2ppg, 8.6rpg and 1.2apg in the 11 games. McCarthy used to play for the Irish U16 national team back in 2009.

Mark Reynolds
Mark Reynolds
   #5. Former international forward Mark Reynolds (197-84, currently plays in United Kingdom) managed to help Durham Wildcats in a victory against the seventh-ranked Cheshire Phoenix (7-12) 94-82 in the British BBL last Sunday. He scored only 2 points in 7 minutes on the court. Durham Wildcats (7-13) is placed second from the bottom (#11) in the BBL. This year Reynolds averages just 0.9ppg in the 17 games. He used to play for the Irish national team six years ago.

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 (9-10) in their last game on Saturday. Despite his good performance Blusens Monbus was defeated 79-73 on the road by the lower-ranked Baloncesto Fuenlabrada (#16). Kendall was the top scorer with 14 points. He also added 5 rebounds. This season Kendall has relatively solid stats: 12.9ppg, 5.7rpg, 1.8apg and 1.1spg. 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 against the closely-ranked Clinicas Rincon (9-5) 67-54 in the Spanish LEB Silver (third division) in Saturday night's game. Hanley recorded a double-double by scoring 11 points and getting 12 rebounds. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. Oviedo Club Baloncesto (10-3) is placed second in the LEB Silver. It was his team's seventh consecutive victory in a row. Hanley is the league's top scorer and also on the list of best rebounders (first place). He has individually a very good season with high stats. Hanley averages: 18.0ppg, 11.2rpg and 1.3spg. He is a naturalized American. Apparently Hanley has never played in Ireland.

   #3. Mihajlo Pesic (206-F/C-81, agency: Three Eye Sports, currently plays in Cyprus) was not able to help AEL (5-11) in their game against Keravnos (13-3) in the Cypriot Division A. Despite his very good performance on Wednesday night He recorded a double-double by scoring 14 points and getting 11 rebounds. Pesic is currently fourth on the league's list of top scorers and also on the list of best rebounders (second place). This season he has very high stats. Pesic averages: 16.2ppg, 8.6rpg and 1.2apg. He is another player who holds two passports: Irish and Serbian.

   #4. Ben Altit (208-PF-93, agency: Avi Zilberman, college: Bryant, currently plays in Israel) managed to help Bnei Eshet Tours Hasharon to win against the league outsider Hapoel Holon (5-10) crushing them 103-77 in the Israeli Winner League last Sunday. He scored only 2 points. Bnei Eshet Tours Hasharon (7-8) is placed seventh in the Winner League. This season Altit averages just 1.4ppg.

   #5. Experienced Tony McCrory (199-G/F-77, college: Simon Fraser, currently plays in Switzerland) contributed to Starwings' victory against the league outsider SAM Massagno (3-13) 83-74 in the Swiss LNA on Saturday night. He recorded 5 points in 30 minutes. Starwings Basket Regio Basel (4-12) is placed eighth in the LNA. It was his team's first victory after three consecutive loses. There are only two 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. McCrory has reliable stats this season: 12.3ppg, 3.2rpg and 2.5apg in the 15 games he played so far. He has both Canadian and Irish nationalities.

   #6. Orel Lev (195-SG-93, currently plays in Israel) was not able to secure a victory for Hapoel Kfar Saba in their game against Ironi Nahariya in the Israeli National League (second division). Lev cannot count Wednesday's game as one of the best ones. He scored only 2 points. His team was crushed by 27 points 99-72. Lev's overall stats this season are: 3.8ppg and 3.2rpg.


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  ISRAEL   

Standings - National League

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

Regular Season: Round 15

Jan. 29: Elitzur Yavne - Hapoel K/S 98-86
Jan. 29: Maccabi K/G - Ironi Nahariya 95-99
Jan. 29: Kiryat Tivon - Hapoel Kazrin 83-87
Jan. 29: Hapoel Afula - Ironi K-A 83-76
Jan. 29: Ironi Ramat Gan - Hod Hasharon 82-92
Jan. 29: Macc.B.Yaakov - Ironi Nes-Ziona 80-87
Jan. 29: Maccabi K/B - Elitzur Ramla 79-87

Regular Season: Round 16

Feb. 5: Elitzur Ramla - Kiryat Tivon
Feb. 5: Hapoel K/S - Maccabi K/G
Feb. 5: Ironi Nahariya - Ironi Ramat Gan
Feb. 5: Hod Hasharon - Macc.B.Yaakov
Feb. 5: Ironi Nes-Ziona - Hapoel Afula
Feb. 5: Ironi K-A - Maccabi K/B
Feb. 5: Hapoel Kazrin - Elitzur Yavne


Stats Leaders - National League

Points Per Game
 Allen DURHAM
  Hapoel A.
  (198-F-88)
  Avg: 21.5
 1. Durham, Hapoel A.21.5 
 2. Westbrook, Hapoel21.1 
 3. Laing, Macc.B.Y.20.5 
 4. Murray, Kiryat T.20.5 
 5. Odiakosa, Hod H.20.4 
 6. McCoy, Ironi N.19.3 
 7. Clemente, Ironi N.19.2 
 8. Johnson, Hapoel K.19.1 
 9. Iram, Macc.B.Y.19.0 
 10. Zelkovits, Ironi19.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Chukwudinma ODIAKOSA
  Hod H.
  (203-F/C-85)
  Avg: 14.3
 1. Odiakosa, Hod H.14.3 
 2. Durham, Hapoel A.13.0 
 3. Jefferson, Elitzu.12.5 
 4. Ramsey, Ironi R.10.4 
 5. Joyner, Maccabi9.9 
 6. Benn, Ironi N.9.9 
 7. McGhee, Elitzur9.9 
 8. Johnson, Hapoel K.9.6 
 9. Constantine, Hapoe.9.5 
 10. Kazarnovski, Hapo.9.3 
Assists Per Game
 Brandon BROOKS
  Hapoel K/S
  (188-G-87)
  Avg: 6.8
 1. Brooks, Hapoel K/S6.8 
 2. Nanikashvili, Iron.6.7 
 3. Fisher, Hapoel Afu.6.1 
 4. Golan, Ironi Nahar.5.4 
 5. Grinboim, Ironi R.4.7 
 6. Gordon, Hapoel K.4.7 
 7. Benn, Ironi N.4.6 
 8. Eliyahu, Macc.B.Y.4.5 
 9. Ber-Aven, Kiryat T.4.3 
 10. Govens, Ironi K-A4.2 
Steals Per Game
 Marcus ALEXANDER
  Maccabi .
  (--)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Alexander, Maccabi2.8 
 2. Ber-Aven, Kiryat T.2.7 
 3. Ramsey, Ironi R.2.6 
 4. Benn, Ironi N.2.5 
 5. Hofman, Elitzur2.3 
 6. McGhee, Elitzur2.1 
 7. Gordon, Hapoel K.2.1 
 8. Eliyahu, Macc.B.Y.2.1 
 9. Zelkovits, Ironi N.2.0 
 10. Laing, Macc.B.Y.2.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Johndre JEFFERSON
  Elitzu.
  (207-F-88)
  Avg: 3.3
 1. Jefferson, Elitzu.3.3 
 2. Clark, Ironi K-A1.9 
 3. Blair, Ironi N.1.6 
 4. Buchman, Kiryat T.1.4 
 5. Constantine, Hapoe.1.4 
 6. Labanowski, Macca.1.3 
 7. Ramsey, Ironi R.1.3 
 8. Odiakosa, Hod H.1.1 
 9. Durham, Hapoel A.1.1 
 10. Tamir, Ironi R.0.9 


Standings - Artzit (D3)

Artzit Standings
Group North
 1. Hapoel Migd.H. 11-1 
 2. Maccabi K/M 10-2 
 3. Hapoel E/H 9-3 
 4. Hapoel Q. 9-3 
 5. Maccabi Raanana 9-3 
 6. Macc.Hadera 7-5 
 7. Beitar K/Y 6-6 
 8. Lev Hasharon 5-9 
 9. Elitzur K/Y 4-8 
 10. Maccabi Haifa 2 3-9 
 11. Macc.Carmiel 2-10 
 12. Wingate Acad. 2-10 
 13. Hapoel Miilia 1-11 
Group South
 1. R.Hasharon 10-1 
 2. Maccabi Ged. 9-2 
 3. Maccabi M/A 8-3 
 4. Hapoel B/T 7-4 
 5. Macc.Rehovot 7-4 
 6. Hap.FL Jerus. 5-6 
 7. Maccabi P/T 5-6 
 8. Maccabi R/H 5-6 
 9. Maccabi Modiin 4-7 
 10. Elitzur R/G 3-8 
 11. Hapoel H/A 3-8 
 12. Ironi B/S 0-11 


Israeli National League round 15 best performance: Johndre Jefferson - by Eurobasket News

American forward Johndre Jefferson (207-F-88) had a very impressive game in the last round for Elitzur Ramla, receiving a Eurobasket.com National League Player of the Week award for round 15.
The 24-year old player had a double-double of 24 points and 12 rebounds, while his team beat Maccabi K/B (#14, 1-14) 87-79. The game rather meaningless between the teams, which do not have any influence on the top of the standings. Elitzur Ramla maintains the 11th position in Israeli National League. Elitzur Ramla is rather a weak team placed in lower part in the standings. They need more victories to improve their 5-10 record. Jefferson turned to be Elitzur Ramla's top player in his first season with the team. Former University of South Carolina star has very solid stats this year. Jefferson is in league's top in rebounds (3rd best: 12.5rpg) and averages impressive 3.3bpg and 65.0% FGP.

The second best player in last round's games was 25-year old American Lenny Daniel (203-F-87) of Maccabi K/G. Daniel had a very good evening with a double-double of 28 points and 14 rebounds. Bad luck as Maccabi K/G was edged by the higher-ranked Ironi Nahariya (#2, 12-3) 99-95. Maccabi K/G is still in a red zone at 13th spot in the standings. 12 lost games are too many comparing to just three victories Maccabi K/G managed to get this year. Daniel is a newcomer at Maccabi K/G, but is already one of team's top players.

Third on the list of top players last round was American forward Gary Johnson (198-F-88) of Hapoel Kazrin (#8). Johnson scored 21 points and grabbed twenty rebounds (!!!). He was a key player of Hapoel Kazrin, leading his team to a 87-83 win against the lower-ranked Kiryat Tivon (#12, 4-11). The chances of Hapoel Kazrin ranking at the top of the league, however are very questionable as they have already lost 8 games, recording just seven victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Johnson could help Hapoel Kazrin to bring them higher in the standings. Johnson has a great season in Israel. After 14 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 19.1ppg (6th best) and rebounds with 9.6rpg (8th best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Vernon Teel (193-G-87) of Elitzur Ramla - 24 points, 12 rebounds and 5 assists
5. Gabe Blair (203-F/C-87) of Ironi Nes-Ziona - 25 points and 18 rebounds
6. Bilal Benn (196-G/F-86) of Ironi Nes-Ziona - 14 points, 16 rebounds and 8 assists
7. Brian Laing (195-G/F-85) of Elitzur Yavne - 28 points, 4 rebounds and 7 assists
8. Aviram Zelkovits (193-G-89) of Ironi Nahariya - 26 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists
9. Chukwudinma Odiakosa (203-F/C-85) of Hod Hasharon - 19 points, 8 rebounds and 3 assists
10. Anton Kazarnovski (205-F/C-85) of Hapoel Kazrin - 15 points, 11 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)


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

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

Yuval Naimy
Yuval Naimy
   #1. This week's number one is an international point guard Yuval Naimy (188-85, currently plays in Eurocup), who plays in Russia. He could not help Triumph Lyubertsy (1-3) in their last game. Despite Naimy's very good performance the fourth-placed Triumph Lyubertsy lost 79-86 on the road to the second-ranked Banvit BK in the group I of Eurocup. He was the second best scorer with 20 points. Naimy also added 3 assists in 31 minutes on the court. It was Triumph Lyubertsy's third consecutive loss in a row. There are only two games left until the end of the Eurocup Top 16. So now every game will be critical. Naimy has relatively good stats this year: 10.9ppg, 1.6rpg, 2.2apg, 2FGP: 36.8%, 3FGP: 49.0%(25-51) in the 10 games he played so far. He is currently a member of the Israeli senior national team.

Alex Tyus
Alex Tyus
   #2. Second place goes to an international center Alex Tyus (205-88, college: Florida, currently plays in Italy). Tyus was not able to help one of league's weakest teams Cantu (11-6) in their game against Lottomatica Roma (12-5) in the Italian SerieA. He scored 5 points, grabbed 4 rebounds and made 3 blocks. Cantu was defeated 65-60 at home by the higher-ranked Lottomatica Roma (#4). This season Tyus averages: 9.8ppg, 4.8rpg, 1.2bpg, 2FGP: 72.4%(71-98) and FT: 61.0%. He is a naturalized American. Tyus is in the roster of the Israeli senior national team. He used to play for Maccabi Ashdod in Israeli league.

Yotam Halperin
Yotam Halperin
   #3. The Israeli player who performed third best last week abroad was an international shooting guard Yotam Halperin (193-84, currently plays in Germany). Halperin contributed to a Bayern Muenchen's victory against the 16th-ranked New Yorker Phantoms (6-13) 75-70 in the German BBL on Wednesday night. He scored 8 points and added 3 passes in 22 minutes. FC Bayern Muenchen (13-7) is placed third in the BBL. It's Halperin's first season with the team. This year Halperin's overall stats are: 6.0ppg, 1.9rpg, 2.6apg, 1.3spg, 2FGP: 69.7%(23-33) and FT: 82.6% in the 20 games. He is also a member of the Israeli senior national team.

Robert Rothbart
Robert Rothbart
   #4. Center Robert Rothbart (217-86, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group, currently plays in Poland), who plays in the Polish TBL was not able to secure a victory for Start Gdynia (5-13) in their last game on Sunday. Despite Rothbart's good performance Start Gdynia was defeated 78-64 on their home court in Gdynia by the leading PGE Turow. He was the second best scorer with 11 points. Rothbart also added 4 rebounds. There are only four games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game is very crucial. This season Rothbart has relatively solid stats: 13.2ppg and 7.1rpg. He has a dual citizenship: Bosnia and Herzegovina and Israeli. Rothbart is also Israeli national team player.

Oded Brandwein
Oded Brandwein
   #5. Former U20 international guard Oded Brandwein (186-88, agency: N.E.T., currently plays in Poland) couldn't help Energa Czarni (9-9) in their game against Asseco Prokom Gdynia (12-6) in the Polish TBL. He scored only 4 points and added 3 passes. Energa Czarni was crushed 85-60 in Gdynia by the higher-ranked Asseco Prokom (#4). There are only four games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be important. Brandwein's total stats this season are: 8.1ppg and 3.3apg. He is another player who holds two passports: Israeli and Polish. Brandwein used to play for the Israeli U20 national team five years ago.

Jeremiah Kreisberg
Jeremiah Kreisberg
   #6. Center Jeremiah Kreisberg (208-92, currently plays college basketball in the States) managed to help Yale University in a victory in overtime against the Brown University (1-1) 76-64 in the NCAA in Saturday night's game. He scored 5 points in 15 minutes. The Yale University has 1-1 conference record this season. This year Kreisberg's total stats are: 8.1ppg and 3.3apg in the 15 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 (2-6) in their game against the Georgetown University (5-3) in the NCAA. Maayan cannot count Wednesday's game as one of the best ones. He scored only 2 points. The Seton Hall was crushed 74-52 in Washington, DC by the Georgetown University. Maayan has averaged so far 8.1ppg and 3.3apg. He used to play for the Israeli U18 national team two years ago.

One more player who has never been selected to any of national teams, but has Israeli passport:

   #1. Jason Thomas (191-G-82, college: American, currently plays in Sweden), who plays in the Swedish Basketligan could not help Boras Basket (17-8) in their last game. Despite his good performance Boras Basket lost 92-99 on the road to the lower-ranked (#6) Norrkoping Dolphins. Thomas scored 10 points and grabbed 4 rebounds in 28 minutes. Thomas has reliable stats this year: 12.2ppg, 6.6rpg and 2.1apg in the 25 games he played so far. He is a naturalized American. Thomas used to play for Ironi Kfar Hamaccabia Ramat Gan in Israeli league.

Other top Israeli players, who play abroad:

Omri Casspi (204-SF-88) plays for Cleveland Cavaliers in the NBA
Omar Wattad (195-G-88) plays for Energy Invest in Georgian Superleague
Joshua Reisman (188-G-82) plays for Lechugueros in Mexican LNBP
Guy Aud (188-G-89) plays for Finke Baskets in German ProA
Gil Sobol (201-C-93) plays for Fraport Skyliners II in German ProB
Haran Shifman (183-G-84) plays for Polonia in Polish 1Liga
Guy Parselani (217-C-78) plays for The San Diego Surf in the ABA
Or Sela (180-PG-84) plays for Charlottenburg in German Regionalliga
Nathan Zana (185-G-77) plays for Blonay Basket in Swiss LNB

Notice: The list above includes only some of the Israeli playing currently abroad. Go to Israeli Abroad Page to see completed list.


Euroleague: Maccabi T-A keep Besiktas winless - by Eurobasket News

Besiktas - Maccabi T-A 55:77

Maccabi T-A keep Besiktas winless in Euroleague Top 16 Group F. The Israeli team won 77:55 away from home and sent the hosts to 0-6 record. The winners meanwhile improved to 2-4 record.
Maccabi T-A did not waste time and started the game with 21-12 in the first period. The Israeli team added 22-10 in the second frame and solved their task already at the end of the first half. Besiktas started to play better in the second half but was too far to come closer. Maccabi T-A won the third period 14-13 and led 57:35 after 30 minutes. Both sides scored 20 points in the last stanza for the final result in the game.
Lior Eliyahu (206-SF-85) top-scored for the winners with 14 points and Niklas Caner-Medley (203-F-83, agency: Beo Basket, college: Maryland) notched 12. David Logan (185-G-82, college: Indianapolis) netted 10, while Ricky Hickman (189-PG-85, college: NC-Greensboro) scored 9. Serhat Cetin (197-G/F-86) answered with 13 points in the losing effort and Patrick Christopher (196-G-88, agency: 1x1 Sports, college: California) notched 12. Gasper Vidmar (211-C/F-87) delivered 11 and Damir Markota (209-F-85) added 5.

Besiktas: Serhat Cetin 13, Patrick Christopher 12, Gasper Vidmar 11, Damir Markota 5
Maccabi T-A: Lior Eliyahu 14, Niklas Caner-Medley 12, David Logan 10, Ricky Hickman 9


*****************************************************
  ITALY   


Wojciechowski's double-double lands him Nazionale A Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News

22-year old power forward Jakub Wojciechowski (210-F/C-90) put on an amazing game in the last round for league's best team Torino and receives a Eurobasket.com Nazionale A Player of the Week award for round 22.
He had a double-double of 26 points and 12 rebounds, while his team beat Castelletto (#4, 12-8) 74-60. The game was between two of the league's top four teams. It allowed Torino to consolidate first place in the Italian Nazionale A. Torino have a solid 17-3 record. In the team's last game Wojciechowski had a remarkable 73.3% from 2-point range. He turned to be Torino's top player in his first season with the team. Jakub Wojciechowski averages this season 16.2ppg and 9.0rpg.

Second best performed player last round was Michele Benfatto (205-F/C-85) of Ferrara. He is a forward in his second season at Ferrara. In the last game Benfatto recorded impressive double-double of 22 points and 14 rebounds. Of course Ferrara cruised to a 73-62 relatively comfortable win over slightly higher-ranked Firenze (#12, 8-10). The game was between two teams which are definitely not main contenders for the title. But Ferrara managed to improve slightly their position in standings taking 13th place. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 8-11 record. Benfatto is well-known at Ferrara and he already established his position as one of the team's leaders.

Third place about best performers goes to guard Davide Reati (193-G-88) of Treviglio (#5). Reati scored 26 points and grabbed seven rebounds. He was a key player of Treviglio, leading his team to a 92-76 easy win against the lower-ranked Chieti (#9, 10-10). Treviglio needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 12 victories and 8 lost games. Reati has a great season in Italy. After 20 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 16.2ppg (5th best). He also has 2.2spg and FGP: 56.9%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Emanuele Rossi (208-C-82) of Chieti - 17 points and 13 rebounds
5. Massimo Rezzano (203-F/C-82) of Matera - 23 points and 3 rebounds
6. Davide Parente (188-PG-83) of Lucca - 24 points, 3 rebounds and 4 assists
7. Riccardo Perego (203-F/C-81) of Treviglio - 15 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists
8. Manuel Carrizo (198-F/G-80) of Latina Basket - 20 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists
9. Alberto Chiumenti (204-F/C-87) of Casalpusterlengo - 22 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Stefano Spizzichini (202-F-90) of Firenze - 19 points and 10 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)


Euroleague: Barcelona Regal pummels Montepaschi Siena in Spain - by Eurobasket News

Barcelona Regal - Montepaschi Siena 85:66

Barcelona Regal pummels Montepaschi Siena in Spain for 5-1 record. The Spanish team handed the Italian side their first 85:66 loss and tied both records at 5-1.
Barcelona Regal started with 20-13 and never looked behind in the game. They added massive 28-16 in the second frame and enjoyed a 48:29 halftime advantage. Moreover the hosts posted a 20-18 rally in the third quarter and reached 68:47 after three quarters. Montepaschi Siena managed to win the last period 19-17 and reduced to final 19 points.
Ante Tomic (217-C-87) paced all the winners with 20 points and Xavier Rabaseda (198-G/F-89) notched 16. Nathan Jawai (208-F/C-86, college: Midland CC) delivered 11, while Marcelinho Huertas (191-PG-83, agency: Edge Sports) had 10. Bobby Brown (188-PG-84, college: CS Fullerton) replied with 19 points in the losing effort and Daniel Hackett (200-PG-87, agency: Two Points, college: USC) scored 14. Benjamin Eze (207-C/F-81, college: S.Idaho JC) notched 12, whilst Aleksandar Rasic (195-PG-84, agency: Beo Basket) brought 6.

Barcelona Regal: Ante Tomic 20, Xavier Rabaseda 16, Nathan Jawai 11, Marcelinho Huertas 10
Montepaschi Siena: Bobby Brown 19, Daniel Hackett 14, Benjamin Eze 12, Aleksandar Rasic 6


Brown left Acegas Aps Trieste - by Eurobasket News

32-year old American power forward Brandon Brown (202-100kg-81, college: Tulane) left Acegas Aps Trieste (Lega2). In 12 games he played this season he recorded 10.8ppg, 5.8rpg, 1.1apg and 1.1spg.
The last season Brown played at BancaTercas (SerieA). In 32 games last year he averaged 10.1ppg, 5.8rpg and 1.4apg.
The previous (10-11) season he played at KK_Zadar (A1) in Croatian league. The team played in three different competitions (!!!) that year, and Brown had a chance to explore basketball on different levels. In 16 A1 games that season he averaged impressive 15.7ppg, 7.4rpg, 1.2apg and 1.8spg. He helped them to make it to the final after they ended regular season as second best team. A very spectacular season in his career as he was voted to Eurobasket.com Croatian A1 League All-Imports Team and 2nd Team. Brown also played 11 games in EuroChallenge where he averaged 11.1ppg, 6.2rpg, 1.3apg and 1.0spg. He also played 26 games in Adriatic League where he averaged 10.8ppg, 4.8rpg (#3 in the league) and 1.3spg.
In 2003 Brown was drafted by Kansas Cagerz (USBL) in second round (17th overall).
The former Tulane University staris in his tenth season in pro basketball.
Brown is quite experienced player. He has played also professionally in Bosnia, Finland, Greece (Ionikos Neas Filadelfeias), Poland, Venezuela (Cocodrilos), South Korea (ET Land Elephants) and Italy (Air Avellino and Vanoli Cremona).
On Brown: Brandon Brown is a blue-collar workhorse who knows how to box out and come up big on the boards. Plays with aggressiveness, defends well both on power forwards and centers. Has a team mentality and is a very good rebounder.

By Eurobasket Data Center


*****************************************************
  IVORY COAST   


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

Traditionally, every week we bring you a list of the top performances of Ivorians who are currently playing 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 (7-10) in their last game. Despite Diabate's good performance Sluc Nancy lost 79-83 on the road to the leading Gravelines-Dunkerque. He had a double-double by scoring 10 points and making 12 passes in 37 minutes on the court. Diabate is currently first on the league's list of best passers and also on the list of most steals (first place). He has very reliable stats this year: 14.2ppg, 4.6rpg, 6.8apg, 2.1spg, 2FGP: 46.7%, 3FGP: 34.0% and FT: 82.0% in the 17 games he played so far. Diabate has a dual citizenship: Ivorian and French. He is currently a member of the Ivorian senior national team.

Pape-Philippe Amagou
Pape-Philippe Amagou
   #2. Second place goes to an international guard Pape-Philippe Amagou (185-85, also represented by Beo Basket, currently plays in France). Amagou led Chorale de Roanne to an easy victory against the sixth-ranked Paris-Levallois (10-7) 87-71 in the French ProA last Saturday. He scored 15 points. Chorale de Roanne Basket (8-9) is placed tenth in the ProA. Amagou has relatively good stats this season: 12.2ppg, 2.0rpg, 3.1apg, 3FGP: 37.7% and FT: 70.3%. He is another player who holds two passports: Ivorian and French. Despite Amagou played previously for the French U20 national team, he is currently a member of the Ivorian senior national team.

Charles Abouo
Charles Abouo
   #3. The Ivorian player who performed third best last week abroad was former international swingman Charles Abouo (195-89, college: BYU, currently plays in Spain). Abouo led Lobe Huesca to a 1-point victory over the closely-ranked Lleida Basquet (7-9) 74-73 in the Spanish LEB Gold (second division) on Friday night. He was MVP of the game. Abouo recorded 20 points and grabbed 7 rebounds in 35 minutes; quite an impressive performance considering it's only his third season in pro basketball. CB Lobe Huesca (7-9) is placed ninth in the LEB Gold. It's Abouo's first year with the team. This season Abouo averages: 9.2ppg, 5.2rpg, 1.7spg, 2FGP: 43.1%, 3FGP: 26.1% and FT: 65.4% in the 16 games. He played for the Ivorian national team three years ago.

Errick Craven
Errick Craven
   #4. Guard Errick Craven (188-83, college: USC, currently plays in France), who plays in the French ProB (second division) was not able to help Saint Vallier (7-13) in their last game on Saturday. Despite Craven's good performance Saint Vallier was edged 71-70 in Antibes by the much higher-ranked Olympique (#3). He recorded a double-double by scoring 14 points and making 10 passes. Craven also added 9 rebounds and 3 steals. It's Craven's first season with the team. Craven is ranked first on the list of the best passers in the league and also on the list of most steals (second place). This season he has very good stats: 15.0ppg, 5.3rpg, 7.2apg and 2.6spg. Craven has both American and Ivorian nationalities. He used to play for the Ivorian national team back in 2011.

Jonathan Kale
Jonathan Kale
   #5. Former international forward Jonathan Kale (203-85, college: Providence, currently plays in Spain), who plays in the Spanish LEB Gold (second division) was not able to secure a victory for Leyma Basquet (6-10) in their last game. Despite Kale's very good performance Leyma Basquet was edged 66-63 on the opponent's court by the higher-ranked (#8) Caceres_Basket. He was the top scorer with 18 points. Kale also added 4 rebounds in 32 minutes. It was Leyma Basquet's fifth consecutive loss in a row. This year Kale has relatively solid stats: 11.9ppg and 5.7rpg in the 16 games. He also holds two passports: Ivorian and American. Kale used to play for the Ivorian national team two years ago.

Adjehi Baru
Adjehi Baru
   #6. Power forward Adjehi Baru (206-91, currently plays college basketball in the States) contributed to Charleston's victory against the Appalachian State University (3-5) 72-59 in the NCAA on Wednesday night. He scored 9 points, had 6 rebounds, passed 4 assists and added 3 blocks. The College of Charleston has a solid 7-3 conference record this season. It was his team's third consecutive victory in a row. Baru has reliable stats this season: 11.9ppg and 5.7rpg. He is an international player who is currently on the senior Ivorian National Team roster.

Wilfrid Aka
Wilfrid Aka
   #7. An experienced international swingman Wilfrid Aka (192-79, currently plays in France) was the major contributor in Blois' victory against the 13th-ranked Vendee Challans (5-11) 70-64 in the French NM1 (third division) last Saturday. Aka scored 16 points and grabbed 7 rebounds. ADA Blois Basket (9-7) is placed eighth in the NM1. They ended the series of three consecutive loses. Aka's overall stats this season are: 4.6ppg, 2.7rpg and 1.3apg. He is also Ivorian national team player.

Mohamed Kone
Mohamed Kone
   #8. Center Mohamed Kone (211-81, college: Valparaiso, currently plays in Iran) contributed to an easy victory against the league outsider Naft Sepahan (3-14) crushing them 102-78 in the Iranian Superleague on Thursday night. Kone recorded 7 points and grabbed 7 rebounds in only 14 minutes. Foolad Mahan Esfahan (14-3) is placed second in the Superleague. It was his team's fifth consecutive victory in a row. They will play only one more game in the Regular Season. And that game will be critical. This year Kone's overall stats are: 5.0ppg and 5.0rpg in the three games. He plays currently for the Ivorian national team.

Bryan Pamba-Juille
Bryan Pamba-Juille
   #9. Former international shooting guard Bryan Pamba-Juille (185-92, currently plays in France) managed to help Entente Orleans 45 to win against the league outsider Boulazac Basket (4-13) 93-75 in the French ProA on Saturday night. He scored only 1 points. Entente Orleans 45 (9-8) is placed seventh in the ProA. This season Pamba-Juille averages just 1.3ppg. He used to play for the Ivorian national team three years ago.

Herve Toure
Herve Toure
   #10. Forward Herve Toure (202-82, currently plays in France) is a teammate of previously mentioned Souleyman Diabate and both played together in the last French ProA game. Toure couldn't help Sluc Nancy (7-10) in their game against Gravelines-Dunkerque (12-5). He cannot count Saturday's game as one of the best ones. Toure scored only 2 points in 7 minutes on the court. Sluc Nancy lost 79-83 on the opponent's court to the leading Gravelines-Dunkerque. This year Toure's total stats are: 5.6ppg and 3.9rpg in the 12 games. He is a former international player as three years ago he still played for the Ivorian senior national team.

   #11. International forward Guy Landry Edi (198-86, currently studies in the States) contributed to an easy victory against the Brigham Young University crushing them 83-63 in the NCAA last Thursday. Edi scored only 2 points. Edi has averaged so far 5.6ppg and 3.9rpg. He plays currently for the Ivorian national team.

   #12. International forward Ismael N'Diaye (197-82, college: FIU, currently plays in Switzerland) couldn't help Boncourt in their game against Fribourg in the Swiss LNA. N'Diaye recorded 6 points and grabbed 6 rebounds in 25 minutes. His team lost 75-84. N'Diaye has averaged so far 9.4ppg, 3.8rpg, 1.9apg and 1.5spg in the 16 games. He is also in the roster of the Ivorian 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), who plays in the French ProA could not help Le Mans (11-6) to beat Strasbourg IG (12-5). Koffi scored 6 points in 21 minutes. Le Mans lost 73-85 at home to the second-ranked Strasbourg IG. It was Le Mans' first loss after four consecutive victories. This year Koffi's overall stats are: 7.2ppg and 3.7rpg in the 17 games he played so far. He has a dual citizenship: Ivorian and French.

   #2. Kafil Eyitayo (201-F, currently plays in Canada) contributed to a 2-point Concordia University's victory against the Redmen (7-2) 62-60 in a derby game in the Canadian university league CIS in Thursday night's game. Eyitayo scored 7 points, had 10 rebounds and made 4 blocks. The Concordia University has 6-4 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. He is currently fifth on the league's list of best blockers. Eyitayo has very solid stats this season: 10.4ppg, 9.3rpg and 1.6bpg.

   #3. Patrick Konan (198-F-90, currently plays college basketball in the States) led New Hampshire to an easy victory against the Binghamton University 63-45 in the NCAA last Saturday. He scored 12 points and grabbed 8 rebounds in 33 minutes. The University of New Hampshire has not so impressive 2-6 conference record this season. Konan's stats this year are: 10.4ppg, 9.3rpg and 1.6bpg in the 10 games.

   #4. Mohamed Toure (190-G-92, agency: Players Group, currently plays in Italy) managed to help Paffoni Omegna to win against the 11th-ranked Liomatic Viola Reggio Calabria (9-11) 77-73 in the Italian Nazionale A (third division) in Sunday night's game. Toure scored only 3 points. Paffoni Omegna (11-8) is placed sixth in the Nazionale A. It was his team's fourth consecutive victory in a row. Toure has averaged so far 8.3ppg, 2.2rpg and 1.6apg. 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 (5-11) in their game against Blois (9-7) in the French NM1 (third division). Medenouvo cannot count Saturday's game as one of the best ones. He scored only 2 points in 7 minutes on the court. Vendee Challans lost 64-70 on the road to the higher-ranked (#8) Blois. Medenouvo has averaged so far 3.1ppg and 1.7rpg in the 16 games. He has both Ivorian and French nationalities.


*****************************************************
  JAMAICA   


Roy Hibbert's double-double lands him Player of the Week award among Jamaicans playing currently abroad - 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 over the Detroit Pistons (17-29) 98-79 in the NBA in Wednesday night's game. Hibbert was MVP of the game. He had a double-double by scoring 18 points and getting 11 rebounds in 26 minutes on the court. The Indiana Pacers have 27-19 record this season. It was his team's first victory after three consecutive loses. It's Hibbert's fifth year with the team. Hibbert is ranked fourth on the list of the best blockers in the league with 2.6bpg. He also averaged so far 10.0ppg, 8.3rpg, 1.5apg, 2FGP: 41.7% and FT: 70.5% in the 46 games he played so far. Hibbert is a naturalized American. He 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), who plays in the Mexican LNBP (second division). He could not help one of league's weakest teams Pioneros (11-11) in their last game. Despite Scott's very good performance Pioneros was edged 74-72 at home by the higher-ranked (#4) Toros. He had a double-double by scoring 15 points and getting 10 rebounds. Scott also added 5 assists in 29 minutes. Scott has relatively good stats this year: 12.4ppg, 3.0rpg, 3.2apg, 1.4spg, 2FGP: 54.9%, 3FGP: 31.4% and FT: 74.2% in the 42 games. He is a naturalized American. Worth to mention Scott played also at Eurobasket Summer League, which helped him get the job in pro basketball. Scott is in the roster of the Jamaican senior national team.

Kevin Young
Kevin Young
   #3. The Jamaican player who performed third best last week abroad was former international center Kevin Young (206-84, college: Missouri, currently plays in Japan). Young was the major contributor in an Aishin Sea Horses' victory against the closely-ranked Panasonic Trians (15-11) 82-67 in the Japanese JBL on Saturday night. He recorded 16 points, 9 rebounds and 3 assists. It was the game of the round between two top 4 ranked teams. Aishin Sea Horses (21-5) are placed first in the JBL. This season Young averages: 9.5ppg, 7.1rpg, 1.2apg, 2FGP: 55.1%(102-185). He played for the Jamaican national team seven years ago.

Patrick Ewing Jr.
Patrick Ewing Jr.
   #4. Forward Patrick Ewing Jr. (203-84, college: Georgetown, currently plays in Spain), who plays in the Spanish ACB was not able to help Blancos de Rueda (7-12) in their last game. Despite Ewing Jr.'s good performance Blancos de Rueda lost 75-87 on the road to the leading Real Madrid. He recorded 12 points in only a mere 12 minutes. This year Ewing Jr.'s overall stats are: 6.3ppg and 1.3rpg in the three games. He is a naturalized American. Ewing Jr. is also Jamaican national team player.

Ronald Yates
Ronald Yates
   #5. Former international forward Ronald Yates (201-83, college: St.Peter's, currently plays in Switzerland) contributed to Fribourg's victory against the seventh-ranked Boncourt (6-10) 84-75 in the Swiss LNA in Saturday night's game. He recorded a double-double by scoring 15 points and getting 11 rebounds. Benetton Fribourg Olympic (14-2) is placed first in the LNA. There are only two games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be critical. This season Yates has relatively solid stats: 12.6ppg, 6.0rpg and 2.3apg. He is a naturalized American. Yates used to play for the Jamaican national team three years ago.

Ryan Reid
Ryan Reid
   #6. Power forward Ryan Reid (203-86, college: Florida St., currently plays in France) contributed to an easy victory against the sixth-ranked Paris-Levallois (10-7) 87-71 in the French ProA last Saturday. He scored 10 points and grabbed 9 rebounds in 19 minutes. Chorale de Roanne Basket (8-9) is placed tenth in the ProA. This year Reid's total stats are: 5.6ppg and 3.9rpg in the 14 games. He is a naturalized American. Reid is a former international player as he played for the Jamaican senior team two years ago.

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

   #1. McHugh Mattis (198-F-84, college: S.Florida, currently plays in Mexico), who plays in the Mexican LNBP (second division) could not help Abejas (19-21) in their last game on Thursday. Despite Mattis' very good performance Abejas was crushed 103-73 on the road by the leading Halcones UV Xalapa. He recorded a double-double by scoring 26 points and getting 12 rebounds. Mattis also added 4 assists. It's Mattis' first season with the team. Mattis is ranked fourth on the list of the best rebounders in the league and also on the list of best blockers (second place). He has individually a very good season with high stats. Mattis averages: 17.3ppg, 9.1rpg, 1.5apg, 1.6bpg and 1.4spg. He is a naturalized American.

   #2. Experienced Corey Williams (191-G-77, college: Alabama St., currently plays in Lebanon), who plays in the Lebanese Division A was not able to help Bejjeh (4-9) in their last game on Wednesday. Despite his very good performance Bejjeh was crushed 107-85 in Dik El Mehdi by the higher-ranked Champville (#3). Williams was the top scorer with 28 points. He also added 5 rebounds and 9 assists. There are only three games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be critical. Williams is currently seventh on the list of top scorers and also on the list of most steals (first place). This season he has very high stats. Williams averages: 23.5ppg, 7.3rpg, 5.2apg and 2.8spg. He is a naturalized American.

   #3. Bryan Bailey (185-SG-80, college: Bucknell, currently plays in Germany) led BBC Bayreuth to a victory over the closely-ranked Phoenix Hagen (9-10) 103-96 in the German BBL last Saturday. Bailey was the best player in that game. He scored 20 points and had 3 steals in 34 minutes. BBC Bayreuth (9-11) is placed 12th in the BBL. It's Bailey's first season with the team. This year Bailey has relatively solid stats: 12.2ppg, 2.7rpg and 2.6apg in the 19 games he played so far. He is a naturalized American.

   #4. Sherman Gay (201-PF-82, college: Loyola Mary, currently plays in France) was the main contributor in a Le Portel's victory against the 15th-ranked Hyeres-Toulon (7-13) 85-73 in the French ProB (second division) in Friday night's game. Gay was the best player in that game. He scored 21 points, grabbed 5 rebounds and made 2 blocks in 30 minutes. ESSM Le Portel Cote d'Opale (14-6) is placed fifth in the ProB. It was his team's third consecutive victory in a row. It's Gay's first season with the team. Gay belongs to league's best blockers and is ranked #2 with 1.7bpg. He also averaged so far 16.6ppg and 6.2rpg in the 20 games. Gay is a naturalized American.

   #5. Garry Gallimore (192-G-84, currently plays in Romania), who plays in the Romanian Liga Nationala was not able to secure a victory for Timisoara (10-6) in their last game on Friday. Despite his very good performance Timisoara was defeated 95-84 in Cluj by the higher-ranked U-Mobitelco (#4). Gallimore was the second best scorer with 16 points (made all of his six free throws). This season Gallimore has relatively solid stats: 10.2ppg, 2.6rpg and 2.2apg. 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.

   #6. Corey Muirhead (197-F-83, college: W.Carolina, currently plays in Czech Republic) contributed to an easy victory against the eighth-ranked USK Praha crushing them 89-59 in the Czech Republic NBL on Saturday night. He scored 8 points, had 7 rebounds and dished 4 assists. Muirhead is ranked fourth on the list of the best rebounders in the league. He has very reliable stats this season: 13.7ppg, 8.0rpg, 3.2apg and 1.3spg. Muirhead is another player who holds two passports: Canadian and Jamaican.

   #7. Jermaine Bucknor (199-F-83, college: Richmond, currently plays in Germany) couldn't help TBB Trier in their game against s Oliver Baskets in the German BBL. He scored 9 points in 17 minutes. His team lost 66-71. Bucknor has averaged so far 7.6ppg and 2.5rpg in the 19 games. Similarly like Muirhead and Gallimore above he has both Jamaican and Canadian nationalities.

   #8. Adrian Uter (200-F/C-84, agency: Gross Zeev ISA, college: Hofstra, currently plays in Israel) contributed to a Maccabi Rishon's victory against the closely-ranked Hapoel Tel-Aviv 69-60 in the Israeli Winner League last Monday. Uter scored 6 points, had 9 rebounds and made 3 blocks. Uter is currently fourth on the list of best blockers. He has very reliable stats this season: 13.4ppg, 9.2rpg, 1.9apg, 1.5bpg and 1.1spg. Uter is a naturalized American.

   #9. Neveij Walters (198-F, currently plays college basketball in the States), who plays in the NCAA couldn't help the Idaho St. (3-7) in their last game. Despite his good performance the Idaho St. was badly defeated 70-51 in Missoula, MT by the University of Montana. Walters scored 12 points in 22 minutes. He has reliable stats this year: 13.4ppg, 9.2rpg, 1.9apg, 1.5bpg and 1.1spg in the 15 games.

   #10. Alwayne Bigby (196-G/F-90, currently studies in the States) couldn't help the Rhode Island in their game against the Virginia Commonwealth University in the NCAA. Bigby scored 5 points. His team was defeated 70-64. He has reliable stats this season: 13.4ppg, 9.2rpg, 1.9apg, 1.5bpg and 1.1spg. Bigby also holds two passports: Jamaican and Canadian.


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

LBL Standing

LBL Standings
 1. Barons kvartals 13-7 
 2. Jekabpils 13-8 
 3. Valmiera 12-8 
 4. Ventspils 10-1 
 5. VEF Riga 10-1 
 6. Jelgava 9-10 
 7. Jurmala 9-12 
 8. LU 8-13 
 9. Liepaja 7-14 
 10. Turiba 7-14 
 11. U18 1-11 

Regular Season: Round 24

Jan. 26: VEF Riga - Liepaja 80-58
Jan. 31: Barons kvartals - Jurmala 79-63
Jan. 26: Turiba - Jurmala 78-75
Jan. 30: Turiba - Valmiera 76-73
Jan. 28: Jekabpils - U18 106-58

Regular Season: Round 25

Feb. 2: Liepaja - Ventspils
Feb. 2: Jelgava - Turiba
Feb. 3: LU - Valmiera
Feb. 4: U18 - Barons kvartals


Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Maris GULBIS
  Barons k.
  (202-F-85)
  Avg: 19.6
 1. Gulbis, Barons k.19.6 
 2. Peiners, LU19.3 
 3. Hill jr., Jekabpils16.7 
 4. O''Brien, Jekabpils16.5 
 5. Berzins, Valmiera14.9 
 6. Porzingis, Valmiera14.1 
 7. Apsitis, Turiba14.1 
 8. Brown, Jurmala14.1 
 9. Aleksejevs, Jekabp.14.0 
 10. Ozols, Jurmala13.9 
Rebounds Per Game
 Todd O''BRIEN
  Jekabpils
  (213-C-89)
  Avg: 9
 1. O''Brien, Jekabpils9.0 
 2. Aleksejevs, Jekabp.8.2 
 3. Dargais, LU8.2 
 4. Butjankovs, Valmi.7.9 
 5. Mizis, Jelgava7.7 
 6. Mednis, Jurmala7.6 
 7. Berzins, Valmiera7.3 
 8. Ziedins, Valmiera6.3 
 9. Gulbis, Barons k.6.3 
 10. Hlebowicki, Jekab.6.1 
Assists Per Game
 Rinalds SIRSNINS
  Jekabpils
  (186-PG-85)
  Avg: 6.5
 1. Sirsnins, Jekabpils6.5 
 2. Sims, Ventspils4.1 
 3. Gabrans, Valmiera4.1 
 4. Hill jr., Jekabpils3.9 
 5. Bergmanis, Barons3.5 
 6. Metra, Barons k.3.5 
 7. Miezis, Barons k.3.2 
 8. Kanbergs, Jelgava3.2 
 9. Bertans, VEF Riga3.1 
 10. Brown, Jurmala3.1 
Steals Per Game
 Zanis PEINERS
  LU
  (204-G-90)
  Avg: 1.9
 1. Peiners, LU1.9 
 2. Brown, Jurmala1.8 
 3. Rudmiezis, Turiba1.8 
 4. Miezis, Barons k.1.7 
 5. Mizis, Jelgava1.7 
 6. Virsis, Jekabpils1.5 
 7. Ate, Liepaja1.5 
 8. Sirsnins, Jekabpils1.5 
 9. Kanbergs, Jelgava1.5 
 10. Sims, Ventspils1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Jekabs ROZITIS
  Barons k.
  (205-C-86)
  Avg: 1.6
 1. Rozitis, Barons k.1.6 
 2. Meiers, Ventspils1.4 
 3. Iljins, Valmiera1.0 
 4. Aleksejevs, Jekabp.1.0 
 5. Ziedins, Valmiera1.0 
 6. Hlebowicki, Jekabp.0.8 
 7. O''Brien, Jekabpils0.8 
 8. Leiteris, Liepaja0.7 
 9. Mednis, Jurmala0.7 
 10. Chamberlain, Jelg.0.7 


Standings - LBAL

LBL2 Standings
 1. Saldus 16-2 
 2. BK VEF-LSPA 16-3 
 3. Jelgava/LLU 14-4 
 4. VeA 12-7 
 5. RSU 12-7 
 6. Kvele 11-8 
 7. Ogres 10-9 
 8. ViA Riga 10-9 
 9. VEF skola 7-9 
 10. Gulbene 6-11 
 11. Livani 6-12 
 12. DSN 6-13 
 13. Ridzene 4-13 
 14. Liepaja-2 3-12 
 15. Valmiera BSS 3-17 

Regular Season: Round 24

Jan. 30: BK VEF-LSPA - Valmiera BSS 93-70
Jan. 31: Ogres - Ridzene 91-75
Jan. 30: DSN - Livani 76-63
Jan. 29: Kvele - RSU 74-61
Jan. 29: Saldus - ViA 68-60


LBL Round 24: Barons kvartals keep a leadership position - by Eurobasket News

Coincidentally all hosts won their games.

The game had a very big importance for second-ranked Barons kvartals as it allowed them to take a leadership position. Barons kvartals defeated 7th ranked Jurmala in Riga 79-63. The hosts trailed by 1 point after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 5-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 79-63. Barons kvartals outrebounded Jurmala 40-29 including a 30-18 advantage in defensive rebounds. It was a good game for American forward Tyler Cain (203-88, college: S.Dakota) who led his team to a victory with 11 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists. Forward Maris Gulbis (202-85, agency: Players Group) contributed with 13 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Forward Janis Dilevka (200-88) replied with 13 points and 6 rebounds for Jurmala. Jurmala's coach Jevgenijs Kosuskins rotated ten players seeing no chance for a win. Barons kvartals (13-7) have an impressive six-game winning streak. As mentioned above they are alone now at the top position. Jurmala lost third consecutive game. They keep the seventh place with 12 games lost.
Very important is a road loss of third ranked Valmiera (12-8) against tenth ranked Turiba (7-14) on Wednesday night. Visiting Valmiera was edged by Turiba in a tough game in Turiba 73-76. Worth to mention a great performance of forward Karlis Apsitis (200-92) who helped to win the game recording 14 points and 6 rebounds and Martins Vinauds who added 15 points during the contest. Turiba's coach Arnis Vecvagars allowed to play the deep bench players in such tough game. The best for the losing side was forward Janis Berzins (202-93, agency: Players Group) with 28 points and 8 rebounds. Turiba moved-up to ninth place, which they share with Liepaja. Valmiera at the other side keeps the third position with eight games lost.
A very close game took place in Turiba between Turiba and Jurmala. Tenth ranked Turiba (7-14) got a very close home victory over 7th ranked Jurmala (9-12). Turiba managed to escape with a 3-point win 78-75 on Saturday evening. The winners were led by Karlis Apsitis who scored that evening 19 points and 5 rebounds. Turiba's coach Arnis Vecvagars used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. Even 20 points and 8 rebounds (went 8 for 8 at the free throw line) by Roberts Mednis did not help to save the game for Jurmala. Turiba moved-up to ninth place, which they share with Liepaja. Jurmala lost third consecutive game. They keep the seventh position with 12 games lost.
The game between third ranked Jekabpils (13-8) and 11th ranked U18 (1-11) in Jekabpils ended with biggest points difference. Jekabpils outscored guests from Riga 106-58. The best player for the winners was Jurijs Aleksejevs who scored 22 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists. U18's coach Nikolajs Mazurs gave up on the game allowing to play ten players seeing no chance for a win. Jekabpils have a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to second place. U18 lost seventh consecutive game. U18 at the other side, also newcomer in the league, stay at the bottom position with 11 games lost.

In the last game of round 24 Liepaja was smashed by VEF Riga on the road 80-58.

Barons kvartals - Jurmala 79-63

The game had a very big importance for second-ranked Barons kvartals as it allowed them to take a leadership position. Barons kvartals defeated 7th ranked Jurmala in Riga 79-63. The hosts trailed by 1 point after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 5-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 79-63. Barons kvartals outrebounded Jurmala 40-29 including a 30-18 advantage in defensive rebounds. It was a good game for American forward Tyler Cain (203-88, college: S.Dakota) who led his team to a victory with 11 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists. Forward Maris Gulbis (202-85, agency: Players Group) contributed with 13 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Forward Janis Dilevka (200-88) replied with 13 points and 6 rebounds and point guard Davis Coders (188-92) added 15 points in the effort for Jurmala. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Jurmala's coach Jevgenijs Kosuskins rotated ten players seeing no chance for a win. Barons kvartals (13-7) have an impressive six-game winning streak. As mentioned above they are alone now at the top position. Jurmala lost third consecutive game. They keep the seventh place with 12 games lost.
Top scorers:
Barons kvartals: S.Metra 15+4reb+1ast, M.Gulbis 13+7reb+1ast, A.Skele 12+4reb+1ast, T.Cain 11+8reb+4ast, A.Brunins 9+3reb+2ast, I.Bergmanis 7+4reb+6ast
Jurmala: D.Coders 15+3reb+1ast, A.Ozols 14+3reb+1ast, J.Dilevka 13+6reb, R.Mednis 10+3reb+3ast, R.Stumbris 7+9reb, R.Liepa 2+4reb+1ast
gschID: 230968


Turiba - Valmiera 76-73

Very important is a road loss of third ranked Valmiera (12-8) against tenth ranked Turiba (7-14) on Wednesday night. Visiting Valmiera was edged by Turiba in a tough game in Turiba 73-76. The hosts started the game with a very strong first quarter 28-19. But Valmiera won second period 18-17. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The game was decided in the last minutes when Turiba won last quarter 18-17. Worth to mention a great performance of forward Karlis Apsitis (200-92) who helped to win the game recording 14 points and 6 rebounds and forward Martins Vinauds (194-91) who added 15 points during the contest. Turiba's coach Arnis Vecvagars allowed to play the deep bench players in such tough game. The best for the losing side was forward Janis Berzins (202-93, agency: Players Group) with 28 points and 8 rebounds and power forward Artjoms Butjankovs (205-91, agency: FCM) scored 9 points and 8 rebounds. Turiba moved-up to ninth place, which they share with Liepaja. Valmiera at the other side keeps the third position with eight games lost.
Top scorers:
Turiba: M.Vinauds 15+3reb+2ast, K.Apsitis 14+6reb+2ast, M.Rudmiezis 12+5reb+2ast, M.Steinbergs 9+2reb, G.Sipolins 8+7reb, M.Sokolovs 7+2reb+2ast
Valmiera: J.Berzins 28+8reb, R.Gabrans 13+1reb+4ast, J.Kaufmanis 10+2reb+1ast, A.Butjankovs 9+8reb+2ast, M.Ziedins 7+6reb+1ast, K.Krumins 3+1ast
gschID: 230967


Jekabpils - U18 106-58

The game between third ranked Jekabpils (13-8) and 11th ranked U18 (1-11) in Jekabpils ended with biggest points difference. Jekabpils outscored guests from Riga 106-58. The game without a history. Jekabpils led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 46 of its points in the paint compared to U18's 26. Jekabpils forced 19 U18 turnovers and outrebounded them 43-25 including a 34-18 advantage in defensive rebounds. They shot the lights out from three nailing 18 long-distance shots on high 56.3 percentage. Jekabpils players were unselfish on offense dishing 28 assists comparing to just 10 passes made by U18's players. The best player for the winners was the former international center Jurijs Aleksejevs (202-85) who scored 22 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists. American point guard P.J. Hill jr. (182-87, college: Ohio St.) chipped in 20 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists. Hill jr. is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. Four Jekabpils players scored in double figures. At the other side the best for losing team was center Klavs Cavars (200-96) who recorded 9 points and 8 rebounds and guard Davis Geks (190-95) added 11 points respectively. U18's coach Nikolajs Mazurs gave up on the game allowing to play ten players seeing no chance for a win. Jekabpils have a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to second place. U18 lost seventh consecutive game. U18 at the other side, also newcomer in the league, stay at the bottom position with 11 games lost.
Top scorers:
Jekabpils: J.Aleksejevs 22+9reb+4ast, T.O'Brien 20+8reb+2ast, P.Hill jr. 20+8reb+4ast, K.Mediss 18+4reb+1ast, R.Sirsnins 8+4reb+11ast, O.Virsis 7+1reb+2ast
U18: D.Geks 11+3reb, I.Zvigurs 10+3reb, K.Plavnieks 9+2reb+2ast, K.Cavars 9+8reb, R.Avenitis 6, E.Meznieks-Zahars 5+3reb+1ast
gschID: 230966


VEF Riga - Liepaja 80-58

No shocking result in a game when fifth ranked VEF Riga (10-1) crushed at home 9th ranked Liepaja (7-14) 80-58. The game without a history. VEF Riga 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 Liepaja's 28. VEF Riga forced 32 Liepaja turnovers. The best player for the winners was the former international center Lauris Blaus (204-90, agency: FCM) who scored 16 points and 8 rebounds (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field). American forward Will Daniels (203-86, college: Rhode Island) chipped in 18 points and 4 steals. Four VEF Riga players scored in double figures. At the other side the best for losing team was point guard Ingus Jakovics (185-93) who recorded 16 points and American guard Greg Plater (185-89, college: Long Beach St.) added 10 points respectively. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. VEF Riga have an impressive five-game winning streak. Defending champion moved-up to fourth place, which they share with Ventspils. Liepaja at the other side keeps the ninth position with 14 games lost.
Top scorers:
VEF Riga: W.Daniels 18+1reb+1ast, L.Blaus 16+8reb+2ast, A.Kavaliauskas 13+4reb, D.Bertans 12+3reb+5ast, A.Strelnieks 9+2reb+4ast, E.Rowland 6+3ast
Liepaja: I.Jakovics 16+1reb, G.Plater 10+1reb+2ast, A.Helmanis 9+4reb, A.Bricis 7+6reb, A.Ate 7+4reb+1ast, R.Magone 4+2reb+1ast
gschID: 230965


Turiba - Jurmala 78-75

A very close game took place in Turiba between Turiba and Jurmala. Tenth ranked Turiba (7-14) got a very close home victory over 7th ranked Jurmala (9-12). Turiba managed to escape with a 3-point win 78-75 on Saturday evening. Jurmala was trailing by 4 points at halftime but managed to get 4-point lead after three quarters before a 17-10 charge of Turiba, which allowed them to win the game. The winners were led by forward Karlis Apsitis (200-92) who scored that evening 19 points and 5 rebounds and forward Martins Motivans (200-88) supported him with 7 points and 10 rebounds. Turiba's coach Arnis Vecvagars used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. Even 20 points and 8 rebounds (went 8 for 8 at the free throw line) by center Roberts Mednis (204-89) did not help to save the game for Jurmala. point guard Davis Coders (188-92) added 14 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists. Turiba moved-up to ninth place, which they share with Liepaja. Jurmala lost third consecutive game. They keep the seventh position with 12 games lost.
Top scorers:
Turiba: K.Apsitis 19+5reb+2ast, M.Vinauds 11+3reb+2ast, M.Rudmiezis 11+2reb+1ast, J.Antrops 8+1reb, M.Motivans 7+10reb, M.Sokolovs 7+2reb+2ast
Jurmala: R.Mednis 20+8reb+2ast, A.Ozols 18+7reb+1ast, D.Coders 14+8reb+5ast, R.Liepa 8+4reb, R.Stumbris 8+5reb, J.Dilevka 4+4reb
gschID: 230964



Aleksejevs' 22 points and 9 rebounds give him Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News

27-year old center Jurijs Aleksejevs (202-C-85) had a great game in the last round for second-ranked Jekabpils and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 24.
He had the game-high 22 points adding nine rebounds and four assists for Jekabpils in his team's victory, helping them to outclass U18 (#11, 1-11) with 48-point margin 106-58. Jekabpils is placed at 2nd position in Latvian league. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Jekabpils will need more victories to improve their 13-8 record. In the team's last game Aleksejevs had a remarkable 71.4% from 2-point range. He turned to be Jekabpils' top player in his first season with the team. Aleksejevs has impressive league stats. He is in league's top in points (9th best: 14.0ppg), rebounds (2nd best: 8.2rpg) and averages solid 57.3% FGP and 44.8% from behind 3-point line.

Second best performed player last round was Janis Berzins (202-F-93, agency: Players Group) of Valmiera. He is a forward in his first season at Valmiera. In the last game Berzins recorded impressive 28 points and 8 rebounds. Bad luck as Valmiera was edged by the lower-ranked Turiba (#10, 7-14) 76-73. Valmiera managed to keep the same 3rd spot in the standings. His team's 12-8 record is not bad at all. Berzins is a newcomer at Valmiera and quickly became one of team's most reliable players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 14.9ppg (#5). He also registered 7.3 boards per game.

Third place about best performers goes to center Roberts Mednis (204-C-89) of Jurmala (#7). Mednis scored 20 points and grabbed eight rebounds. Despite Mednis' great performance Jurmala lost 75-78 to the lower-ranked Turiba (#10, 7-14). But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates. The chances of Jurmala ranking at the top of the league, however are very questionable as they have already lost 12 games, recording just nine victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Mednis could help Jurmala to bring them higher in the standings. Mednis has a great season in Latvia. After 21 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in rebounds with 7.6rpg (6th best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. P.J. Hill jr. (182-PG-87) of Jekabpils - 20 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists
5. Karlis Apsitis (200-F-92) of Turiba - 19 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assists
6. Todd O'Brien (213-C-89) of Jekabpils - 20 points, 8 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Tyler Cain (203-F-88) of Barons kvartals - 11 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists
8. Rinalds Sirsnins (186-PG-85) of Jekabpils - 8 points, 4 rebounds and 11 assists
9. Atis Ozols (199-F-81) of Jurmala - 18 points and 7 rebounds
10. Davis Coders (188-PG-92) of Jurmala - 14 points, 8 rebounds and 5 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)


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

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

Davis Bertans
Davis Bertans
   #1. This week's number one is an international small forward Davis Bertans (203-92, currently plays in Adriatic League), who plays in Serbia. He could not help Partizan (12-7) in their last game. Despite Bertans' good performance Partizan was edged 78-76 on the road by the lower-ranked (#6) Radnicki KG. He recorded 11 points and grabbed 4 rebounds in 25 minutes on the court. This year Bertans averages: 8.7ppg, 2.6rpg, 2FGP: 51.1%, 3FGP: 44.2% and FT: 72.0% in the 19 games he played so far. He is currently a member of the Latvian senior national team.

Juris Umbrasko
Juris Umbrasko
   #2. Second place goes to an experienced former international swingman Juris Umbrasko (197-79, currently plays in Estonia). Umbrasko led BC Rakvere to a victory over the league outsider Hito/Johvi (1-16) crushing them 86-64 in the Estonian KML last Saturday. He was MVP of the game. Umbrasko recorded 20 points. BC Rakvere Tarvas (15-4) is placed second in the KML. It was his team's tenth consecutive victory in a row. Umbrasko has relatively good stats this season: 13.7ppg, 5.6rpg, 2.3apg, 1.1spg, 2FGP: 47.4%, 3FGP: 38.1% and FT: 81.6%. He played for the Latvian national team in 2008.

Janis Strelnieks
Janis Strelnieks
   #3. The Latvian player who performed third best last week abroad was an international point guard Janis Strelnieks (191-89, currently plays in Eurocup). Strelnieks contributed to an easy victory against the closely-ranked Stelmet ZG (1-3) crushing them 89-69 in the Eurocup on Wednesday night. He scored 7 points and added 4 assists in 27 minutes. Spartak St.Petersburg (3-1) is placed second in group K. It was his team's third consecutive victory in a row. There are only two games left until the end of the Eurocup Top 16. So now every game will be critical. This year Strelnieks' overall stats are: 6.1ppg, 2.7apg and FT: 77.8% in the 10 games. He is also a member of the Latvian senior national team.

Armands Skele
Armands Skele
   #4. Guard Armands Skele (192-83, currently plays in Estonia) contributed to an easy victory against one of league's weakest teams Tln Kalev (4-15) crushing them 95-62 in a derby game in the Estonian KML in Tuesday night's game. Skele scored 17 points, grabbed 9 rebounds and dished 5 assists. BC Kalev/Cramo Tallinn (11-5) is placed third in the KML. It was his team's fifth consecutive victory in a row. Skele's total stats this season are: 9.8ppg, 5.4rpg and 2.6apg. He is also Latvian national team player.

Ivars Timermanis
Ivars Timermanis
   #5. Former international forward Ivars Timermanis (203-82, currently plays in Romania), who plays in the Romanian Liga Nationala was not able to help Ploiesti (13-6) in their last game. Despite Timermanis' very good performance Ploiesti was edged 95-93 on the opponent's court by the lower-ranked (#9) Rovinari. He was the top scorer with 23 points. Timermanis also added 7 rebounds in 29 minutes. This year Timermanis has relatively solid stats: 10.3ppg, 3.5rpg and 1.1apg in the 18 games. He used to play for the Latvian national team six years ago.

Janis Blums
Janis Blums
   #6. Shooting guard Janis Blums (191-82, currently plays in Lithuania) contributed to an easy victory against the league outsider Naglis Palangos (0-13) crushing them 87-52 in the Lithuanian LKL on Monday night. Blums scored 11 points. Lietuvos Rytas Vilnius (5-2) is placed eighth in the LKL. It's Blums' first season with the team. His total stats this year are: 8.4ppg, 2.0rpg and 1.3apg. Blums is an international player who is currently on the senior Latvian National Team roster.

Edgars Jeromanovs
Edgars Jeromanovs
   #7. International point guard Edgars Jeromanovs (186-86, currently plays in EuroChallenge), who plays in Sweden was not able to secure a victory for Norrkoping Dolphins (1-2) in their last game. Despite his very good performance the fourth-placed Norrkoping Dolphins lost 76-81 in Yuzhny to the second-ranked Khimik in the group K of EuroChallenge. Jeromanovs was the top scorer with 22 points. He also added 5 rebounds in 21 minutes. There are only three games left until the end of the EuroChallenge Top 16. So now every game is very crucial. Jeromanovs has reliable stats this year: 12.6ppg, 2.4rpg, 4.0apg and 1.6spg in the nine games. He is also Latvian national team player.

Maris Laksa
Maris Laksa
   #8. Forward Maris Laksa (205-81, college: Providence, currently plays in Estonia) is a teammate of previously mentioned Juris Umbrasko and both played together in the last Estonian KML game. Laksa was the major contributor in a BC Rakvere's victory against the league outsider Hito/Johvi (1-16) crushing them 86-64. He recorded 15 points. Laksa is ranked first on the list of the top scorers in the league. He has individually a very good season with high stats. Laksa averages: 16.8ppg, 2.9rpg, 1.4apg and 1.4spg. He used to play for the Latvian national team back in 2003.

Ernests Kalve
Ernests Kalve
   #9. Former international forward Ernests Kalve (200-87, currently plays in EuroChallenge) contributed to Szolnok's victory against the closely-ranked Hapoel Holon (0-3) 77-72 in the EuroChallenge on Wednesday night. Kalve scored 13 points and added 3 passes in 24 minutes. Szolnoki Olajbanyasz (2-1) is placed third in group J. It was his team's third consecutive victory in a row. There are only three games left until the end of the EuroChallenge Top 16. So now every game will be important. Kalve averaged so far 14.7ppg, 5.4rpg and 1.3apg in the nine games. He used to play for the Latvian national team three years ago.

Kristaps Valters
Kristaps Valters
   #10. Guard Kristaps Valters (190-81, currently plays in Spain) contributed to a Baloncesto Fuenlabrada's surprising victory against the tenth-ranked Blusens Monbus (9-10) 79-73 in the Spanish ACB in Saturday night's game. Valters recorded 17 points and added 4 assists. Mad-Croc Fuenlabrada (6-13) is placed 16th in the ACB. Valters' total stats this season are: 9.0ppg, 2.0rpg, 3.1apg and 1.1spg. He is a former international player as four years ago he still played for the Latvian senior national team.

   #11. Former international center Andris Biedrins (213-86, currently plays in NBA) managed to help Golden State Warriors in a victory against the Cleveland Cavaliers 108-95 in the NBA last Tuesday. Biedrins scored only 2 points, had 5 rebounds and made 2 blocks in 11 minutes. This year Biedrins' total stats are: 0.5ppg and 3.1rpg in the 36 games. He used to play for the Latvian national team four years ago.

   #12. Former international center Kaspars Kambala (206-78, agency: Alti Sport, college: UNLV, currently plays in Turkey) was the main contributor in a Pi Koleji's shocking victory against the fifth-ranked Izmir BSB 76-75 in the Turkish TB2L (second division) on Sunday night. Kambala was the best player in that game. He recorded a double-double by scoring 27 points and getting 15 rebounds. It was his first game for Pi Koleji this season. Kambala used to play for the Latvian national team back in 2009.

   #13. International point guard Kaspars Vecvagars (193-93, currently plays in Baltic League), who plays in Lithuania couldn't help Lietkabelis (1-2) in their last game. Despite his very good performance Lietkabelis (#3) lost 67-74 in Riga to the leading Barons kvartals in the group E of Baltic League. Vecvagars was the second best scorer with 15 points in 20 minutes. Vecvagars has averaged so far 8.5ppg, 2.7rpg, 2.7apg and 1.4spg in the 13 games. He is also Latvian national team player.

   #14. Former international swingman Mareks Jurevicus (197-85, currently plays in Italy) helped Prima Veroli win their game against the league outsider Aget Service IM 78-74 in the Italian Lega2 (second division) last Sunday. Jurevicus scored 19 points and grabbed 6 rebounds. Jurevicus averaged so far 13.8ppg, 4.1rpg, 1.7apg and 1.6spg. He used to play for the Latvian national team back in 2011.

   #15. Former U18 international guard Edgars Cunda (195-84, currently plays in Estonia) helped Valga win their game against the league outsider Hito/Johvi crushing them 72-50 in the Estonian KML on Friday night. Cunda recorded 13 points and added 6 passes in 32 minutes. Cunda belongs to league's best passers and is ranked #4 with 4.1apg. This year his other stats are: 11.1ppg, 6.4rpg and 1.4spg in the 17 games. Cunda used to play for the Latvian U18 national team eleven years ago.

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

   #1. Matiss Sakne (191-G-91, currently plays in Denmark) contributed to a 1-point Horsens IC's victory against the league outsider Aalborg (1-18) 74-73 in the Danish Ligaen on Sunday night. He scored 7 points. Horsens IC (17-5) is placed second in the Ligaen. Sakne has averaged so far 3.8ppg, 1.4rpg and 1.2apg.

   #2. Martins Berkis (198-F-85, currently plays in Hungary), who plays in the Hungarian A Division could not help one of league's weakest teams Marso NYKK (7-11) to beat Kormend (7-10). He scored 8 points and grabbed 8 rebounds in 34 minutes. Marso NYKK was badly defeated 83-64 on the road by the higher-ranked (#9) Kormend. There are only four games left until the end of the Regular Season. So now every game will be critical. Berkis has individually a very good year with high stats. He averages: 15.7ppg, 5.7rpg, 2.4apg and 1.4spg in the 18 games he played so far.

   #3. Ugis Promolds (190-G-88, currently plays in Denmark) was not able to help SISU (15-0) in their game against Randers (10-11) in the Danish Ligaen. Promolds scored 7 points. The league leader SISU was defeated 95-88 on the opponent's court by the lower-ranked Randers (#6). Promolds has averaged so far 2.0ppg and 1.2rpg.

   #4. Martins Abele (216-C-90, currently plays college basketball in the States) was not able to secure a victory for the Duquesne (0-6) in their game against the Saint Louis University (3-2) 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 at home to the Saint Louis University. So far Duquesne lost all six games in the conference Abele has averaged so far 2.0ppg and 1.2rpg in the 14 games.


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  LITHUANIA   


Sarunas Jasikevicius 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.

Sarunas Jasikevicius
Sarunas Jasikevicius
   #1. This week's number one is an experienced international point guard Sarunas Jasikevicius (192-76, college: Maryland, currently plays in Spain). He led Regal FC Barcelona to an overtime victory against the closely-ranked Gescrap BB (12-7) 87-85 in the Spanish ACB in Sunday night's game. Jasikevicius recorded 14 points and added 6 assists (made all of his eight free throws) in 25 minutes on the court. Regal FC Barcelona (11-8) is placed sixth in the ACB. This year Jasikevicius averages: 6.3ppg, 1.1rpg, 1.9apg, 2FGP: 40.6%, 3FGP: 33.3% in the 12 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 led his Latvian team VEF Riga to a victory over the fourth-ranked CEZ Nymburk (1-3) crushing them 81-59 in the Eurocup last Wednesday. He was MVP of the game. Kavaliauskas recorded 17 points and grabbed 9 rebounds. VEF Riga (3-1) is placed first in group J. It was his team's third consecutive victory in a row. There are only two games left until the end of the Eurocup Top 16. So now every game will be critical. Kavaliauskas' overall stats this season are: 9.7ppg, 4.4rpg, 2FGP: 62.7%(42-67) and FT: 68.4%. He is in the roster of the Lithuanian senior national team.

Mantas Kalnietis
Mantas Kalnietis
   #3. The Lithuanian player who performed third best last week abroad was an international point guard Mantas Kalnietis (195-86, also represented by Interperformances, currently plays in VTB United League). Kalnietis was the main contributor in Lokomotiv's victory against the tenth-ranked Tsmoki-Minsk (0-12) 80-64 in the VTB United League on Saturday night. He was the best player in that game. Kalnietis scored 20 points and added 4 passes in 31 minutes. Lokomotiv Kuban (8-4) is placed third in group B. It's Kalnietis' first season with the team. He has relatively good stats this year: 12.0ppg, 1.8rpg, 3.9apg, 2FGP: 69.0%(29-42), 3FGP: 30.8% and FT: 73.7% in the eight games. Kalnietis is also a member of the Lithuanian senior national team.

Povilas Butkevicius
Povilas Butkevicius
   #4. Forward Povilas Butkevicius (203-87, agency: Players Group, currently plays in Italy) contributed to a Novipiu Casale's victory against the 13th-ranked FCM Ferentino (6-10) 85-76 in the Italian Lega2 (second division) in Sunday night's game. He was the top player that evening. Butkevicius recorded a double-double by scoring 22 points and getting 18 rebounds. He also added 5 blocks. Novipiu Casale Monferrato (11-5) is placed third in the Lega2. Butkevicius is currently sixth on the list of best rebounders. His overall stats this season are: 9.0ppg, 9.1rpg and 1.3spg. Butkevicius used to play for the Lithuanian U20 national team back in 2007.

Simas Jasaitis
Simas Jasaitis
   #5. International small forward Simas Jasaitis (202-82, currently plays in Eurocup) is a teammate of previously mentioned Mantas Kalnietis. But that was another game of his team in Eurocup which we would like to mention. Jasaitis helped his Russian team Lokomotiv win their game against the fourth-ranked Cajasol (0-4) 83-72. He recorded 13 points and grabbed 6 rebounds in 37 minutes. Lokomotiv Kuban (4-0) is placed first in group K. So far his team won all four games in the Top 16. This year Jasaitis has relatively solid stats: 11.9ppg, 5.0rpg and 1.6apg in the 10 games. He plays currently for the Lithuanian national team.

Darius Songaila
Darius Songaila
   #6. Power forward Darius Songaila (204-78, agency: Priority Sports, college: Wake Forest, currently plays in VTB United League), who plays in Ukraine could not help BC Donetsk (4-8) in their last game on Monday. Despite Songaila's very good performance the seventh-placed BC Donetsk was badly defeated 84-66 at home by the higher-ranked Khimky (#3) in the group A of VTB United League. He was the top scorer with 18 points. Songaila also added 7 rebounds. Songaila is currently fifth on the league's list of top scorers and also on the list of best rebounders (sixth place). He has individually a very good season with high stats. Songaila averages: 15.3ppg, 6.8rpg, 1.3apg and 2.0spg. He is an international player who is currently on the senior Lithuanian National Team roster.

Donatas Motiejunas
Donatas Motiejunas
   #7. Former international power forward Donatas Motiejunas (213-90, another player represented by Interperformances, currently plays in NBA) helped Houston Rockets win their game against the Utah Jazz (25-21) crushing them 125-80 in the NBA on Monday night. He scored 6 points in only 8 minutes. The Houston Rockets have 25-23 record this season. It was his team's third consecutive victory in a row. This year Motiejunas averages only 1.9ppg in the 15 games. He used to play for the Lithuanian national team two years ago.

Augustas Peciukevicius
Augustas Peciukevicius
   #8. Guard Augustas Peciukevicius (192-91, currently plays in Baltic League), who plays in Estonia was not able to help KK Parnu (0-3) in their last game on Friday. Despite Peciukevicius' very good performance KK Parnu (#4) was defeated 70-58 on the road by the second-ranked Ventspils in the group E of Baltic League. He was the top scorer with 24 points. Peciukevicius also added 9 rebounds and 6 assists. There are only two games left until the end of the Baltic League Top 16. So now every game is very crucial. Peciukevicius has reliable stats this season: 13.2ppg, 5.5rpg, 5.5apg and 1.3spg. He used to play for the Lithuanian university national team back in 2011.

Jonas Maciulis
Jonas Maciulis
   #9. International swingman Jonas Maciulis (199-85, currently plays in Euroleague) was not able to secure a victory for Panathinaikos (3-2) in their game against Real Madrid (6-0) in the Euroleague. Maciulis scored 5 points. Panathinaikos (#4) was defeated 58-54 on their home court in Athens by the leading Real Madrid in the group E of Euroleague. Maciulis averaged so far 10.5ppg and 4.0rpg. He is also in the roster of the Lithuanian national team.

Egidijus Dimsa
Egidijus Dimsa
   #10. Center Egidijus Dimsa (205-85, currently plays in Baltic League) helped his Estonian team TU/Rock win their game against the closely-ranked Valmiera (2-1) 69-62 in the Baltic League in Friday night's game. Dimsa recorded 7 points and grabbed 6 rebounds in 26 minutes. It was the game of the round between two top 2 ranked teams in group H. Tartu Ulikool/Rock (3-0) is placed first. So far his team won all three games in the Top 16. There are only two games left until the end of the Baltic League Top 16. So now every game will be important. This year Dimsa's overall stats are: 9.6ppg and 5.6rpg in the 13 games. He is a former university international player as four years ago he still played for the Lithuanian national team.

   #11. Former U20 international point guard Evaldas Zabas (188-88, currently plays in Czech Republic) helped BK Pardubice win their game against the eighth-ranked USK Praha crushing them 89-59 in the Czech Republic NBL last Saturday. Zabas scored 10 points, had 5 rebounds and dished 6 assists. Zabas is currently third on the league's list of top scorers. This season he has very high stats. Zabas averages: 17.5ppg, 3.6rpg, 3.2apg and 1.3spg. He used to play for the Lithuanian U20 national team five years ago.

   #12. Former U21 international forward Vaidotas Pridotkas (200-84, currently plays in France), who plays in the French ProB (second division) couldn't help Charleville-Mezieres (6-11) in their last game. Despite Pridotkas' very good performance Charleville-Mezieres was crushed 104-83 in Aix-les-Bains by the higher-ranked (#7) Aix-Maurienne. He was the top scorer with 22 points. Pridotkas also added 6 rebounds and dished 4 assists in 29 minutes. His stats this year are: 13.7ppg, 5.7rpg and 1.3apg in the 20 games. Pridotkas used to play for the Lithuanian U21 national team back in 2005.

   #13. Former international guard Martynas Gecevicius (193-88, currently plays in Euroleague) managed to help Olympiacos S.F.P. Pireus in a victory against the seventh-ranked Fenerbahce Ulker 82-71 in the Euroleague last Thursday. He scored only 1 points in 8 minutes on the court. This year Gecevicius averages just 1.5ppg in the 10 games. He used to play for the Lithuanian national team two years ago.

   #14. U20 international center Egidijus Mockevicius (208-92, currently plays college basketball in the States) helped Evansville win their n overtime game against the University of Northern Iowa 54-51 in the NCAA on Tuesday night. Mockevicius scored 6 points, grabbed 13 rebounds and made 6 blocks. This season Mockevicius averages only 1.5ppg. He plays currently for the Lithuanian U20 national team.

   #15. Former international forward Dainius Salenga (197-77, currently plays in Eurocup) helped his Ukrainian team Budivelnyk edge the third-ranked Buducnost 77-75 in the Eurocup on Wednesday night. He recorded only 4 points in 23 minutes. This year Salenga's total stats are: 7.1ppg, 2.9rpg and 1.1apg in the nine games. He used to play for the Lithuanian national team eight years ago.

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

   #1. Zygimantas Jonusas (200-F-82, currently plays in Italy) led Juvecaserta to a 1-point victory over the closely-ranked Vanoli Cremona (6-11) 74-73 in the Italian SerieA in Sunday night's game. Jonusas was the top player that evening. He scored 20 points and grabbed 9 rebounds in 35 minutes. Co.Fi.Ba JuveCaserta (8-9) is placed tenth in the SerieA. This year Jonusas' overall stats are: 9.6ppg, 4.6rpg, 1.1apg and 1.3spg in the 16 games he played so far.

   #2. Benas Veikalas (192-G-83, college: Metro St., currently plays in EuroChallenge), who plays in Germany could not help Telekom Baskets (1-2) in their last game on Tuesday. Despite his very good performance Telekom Baskets (#3) was defeated 74-70 on the road by the second-ranked Tsmoki-Minsk in the group L of EuroChallenge. Veikalas was the top scorer with 21 points. There are only three games left until the end of the EuroChallenge Top 16. So now every game will be critical. Veikalas has reliable stats this season: 10.2ppg, 2.4rpg and 1.6apg.

   #3. Nik Stauskas (198-G-93, currently plays college basketball in the States) led Michigan to a victory against the University of Illinois (2-6) 74-60 in the NCAA last Sunday. Stauskas scored 14 points in 34 minutes. The University of Michigan has quite an impressive 7-1 conference record this season. It was his team's fourth consecutive victory in a row. Stauskas' stats this year are: 13.2ppg, 5.5rpg, 5.5apg and 1.3spg in the 11 games. 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. Experienced Christopher Young (206-F/C-79, college: Michigan, currently plays in EuroChallenge) was not able to help Okapi Aalstar (1-2) in their game against EWE Baskets (3-0) in the EuroChallenge. He scored 7 points and grabbed 5 rebounds. Okapi Aalstar (#4) was crushed 103-80 in Oldenburg by the leading EWE Baskets in the group L of EuroChallenge. There are only three games left until the end of the EuroChallenge Top 16. Young's total stats this season are: 9.4ppg and 7.1rpg. He is a naturalized American. Strangely Young has never played in Lithuania.

   #5. Deividas Busma (212-C-87, agency: Two Points, college: Idaho St., currently plays in Spain) contributed to a CB Clavijo's victory against the 11th-ranked Ourense (1-9) 75-71 in the Spanish LEB Gold (second division) in Friday night's game. Busma had a double-double by scoring 13 points and getting 10 rebounds. He also added 3 blocks in 23 minutes. CB Clavijo (7-9) is placed sixth in the LEB Gold. This year Busma's total stats are: 7.9ppg and 4.0rpg in the nine games.

   #6. Gintaras Leonavicius (194-G-83, agency: Players Group, currently plays in Spain) helped Leche Rio Breogan win their game against the closely-ranked Ford Burgos 85-77 in the Spanish LEB Gold (second division) last Friday. He recorded 13 points, 3 assists and 3 steals. Leonavicius' total stats this season are: 8.3ppg, 2.5rpg and 2.1apg.

   #7. Arturas Masiulis (210-C-80, currently plays in United Kingdom) was not able to secure a victory for Worcester Wolves in their game against Surrey Heat in the British BBL. Masiulis scored 9 points and grabbed 6 rebounds. His team was defeated 97-91. Masiulis averaged so far 12.7ppg, 7.3rpg and 1.4apg.

   #8. Rokas Garlauskas (198-F-92, currently plays in Denmark) couldn't help SISU in their game against Randers in the Danish Ligaen. He scored 8 points in only 8 minutes. His team lost 88-95. This year Garlauskas averages only 2.4ppg in the 10 games.

   #9. Gabas Maldunas (203-F-93, currently studies in the States) couldn't help the Dartmouth in their game against the Harvard University in the NCAA. He scored 7 points, grabbed 4 rebounds and made 2 blocks. His team was defeated in an overtime 82-77. This season Maldunas averages only 2.4ppg.

   #10. Marius Rutkauskas (196-G/F-89, currently plays in Germany) managed to help Duesseldorf Baskets to win against the seventh-ranked Ehingen/Urspringschule 57-48 in the German ProA (second division) last Sunday. He recorded 5 points. This season Rutkauskas averages only 1.5ppg.


A.Gydra moves to Mazeikiai - by Evaldas Ceilytkas

Before playoffs Mazeikiai strengthened their roster with center-power forward Arvydas Gydra (206-F-89). This season Gydra played for Marciulionis Academy in national league and was one off key players in team. He averaged 9.1 ppg and grabbed 4.2 rpg. Last season he played in LKL for Vilnius Sakalai team. He also was member of Lithuanian U-18 team in 2007 and U-20 team in 2009. Arvydas Gydra born Mazeikiai but all time was playing for Marciulionis basketball academy.


Euroleague: Zalgiris stun ALBA in Top 16 Round 6 opener - by Eurobasket News

Zalgiris - ALBA 92:56

Zalgiris stun ALBA in Top 16 Round 6 opener. The Lithuanian team recovered from last losses and won 92:56.
Zalgiris opened the game with 26-21 and continued their dominance later in the game. The hosts added 18-16 rally in the second frame for 7-point lead at the halftime. The third period was a nightmare for the German side that lost the frame 9-26. Zalgiris managed to added 22-10 in the last stanza for an easy success.
Marko Popovic (185-G-82, agency: Alti Sport, college: S.Idaho JC) top-scored for the winners with 22 points and Tremmell Darden (194-G/F-81, college: Niagara) nailed 17. Mindaugas Kuzminskas (205-F-89) delivered 14, while Mario Delas (207-F/C-90) and Ksistof Lavrinovic (210-C-79) had 8 each. Yassin Idbihi (209-C-83, college: Buffalo) answered with 12 points in the losing case and Derrick Byars (201-G/F-84, agency: Beo Basket, college: Vanderbilt) netted 10. Deon Thompson (203-F-88, college: N.Carolina) and Je'Kel Foster (191-G-83, college: Ohio St.) finished the game with 8 points each in a loss.

Zalgiris: Marko Popovic 22, Tremmell Darden 17, Mindaugas Kuzminskas 14, Mario Delas 8, Ksistof Lavrinovic 8
ALBA: Yassin Idbihi 12, Derrick Byars 10, Deon Thompson 8, Je'Kel Foster 8


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


AZS Koszalin could sign Alexander Franklin - by Greg

AZS Koszalin (TBL) is about to agree terms with 25-year old American power forward Alexander Franklin (196-103kg-88, college: Siena) who currently plays Soles de Mexicali in Mexico. In 13 LNBP games this season he had 14.0ppg, 5.9rpg, 2.4apg and 1.6spg. Franklin ended the last season at Titanes (LNB) in Dominican Rep. league. But the most of that year Franklin spent at Indios (BSN) in Puerto Rican league. In 21 games he recorded 6.4ppg and 3.6rpg. He helped them to win the league title. The other team Franklin played that season for was Lobe_Huesca (LEB Gold) in Spanish league. In 19 games last year he was fifth best scorer with impressive 16.2ppg and averaged 6.4rpg, 2.7apg and 2.5spg (leader !!!). Another team he played that season for was JA Vichy (ProB) in French league. In 10 games he was fifth best scorer with 13.5ppg and had 5.6rpg, 1.9apg and 1.1spg (leader !!!).
The list of the past achievements is quite long as Franklin was voted Eurobasket.com All-Spanish LEB Gold Honorable Mention in 2011. He represented USA at the Olympic Games Additional Qualifying Round in Caracas (Venezuela) last year. His stats at that event were 2 games: 5.0ppg, 2.0rpg, 1.0apg.
He attended Siena College until 2010 and it will be his third season as a professional player.

By Eurobasket Data Center


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  NBA   

Standings

NBA Standings
Eastern Conference
Atlantic Div.
 1. New York K. 28-15 
 2. Brooklyn N. 27-19 
 3. Boston C. 22-23 
 4. Philadelph.76 19-26 
 5. Toronto R. 16-30 
Central Div.
 1. Chicago B. 28-17 
 2. Indiana P. 27-19 
 3. Milwaukee B. 24-20 
 4. Detroit P. 17-29 
 5. Cleveland C. 13-33 
Southeast Div.
 1. Miami Heat 29-13 
 2. Atlanta H. 26-19 
 3. Orlando M. 14-31 
 4. Washington W. 11-33 
 5. Charlotte B. 11-34 
Western Conference
Northwest Div.
 1. Oklah.City T. 35-11 
 2. Denver N. 29-18 
 3. Utah Jazz 25-21 
 4. Portland TB 23-22 
 5. Minnesota T. 17-25 
Pacific Div.
 1. LA Clippers 34-13 
 2. Golden St.W. 29-17 
 3. LA Lakers 20-26 
 4. Sacramento K. 17-30 
 5. Phoenix Suns 16-30 
Southwest Div.
 1. San Antonio S. 37-11 
 2. Memphis G. 29-16 
 3. Houston R. 25-23 
 4. Dallas M. 19-27 
 5. N.Orleans H. 15-31 

Regular Season: Round 92

Jan. 31: Oklah.City T. - Memphis G. 106-89
Jan. 31: Golden St.W. - Dallas M. 100-97

Regular Season: Round 93

Feb. 1: Toronto R. - LA Clippers
Feb. 1: Indiana P. - Miami Heat
Feb. 1: Boston C. - Orlando M.
Feb. 1: Brooklyn N. - Chicago B.
Feb. 1: New York K. - Milwaukee B.
Feb. 1: Philadelph.76 - Sacramento K.
Feb. 1: Detroit P. - Cleveland C.
Feb. 1: Memphis G. - Washington W.
Feb. 1: Denver N. - N.Orleans H.
Feb. 1: Utah Jazz - Portland TB
Feb. 1: Phoenix Suns - Dallas M.
Feb. 1: Minnesota T. - LA Lakers


Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Kevin DURANT
  Oklah.Ci.
  (206-SF-88)
  Avg: 29.6
 1. Durant, Oklah.Ci.29.6 
 2. Anthony, New Y.29.1 
 3. Bryant, LA Lakers28.1 
 4. James, Miami Heat26.5 
 5. Harden, Houston R.25.9 
 6. Irving, Cleveland23.9 
 7. Westbrook, Oklah..22.5 
 8. Curry, Golden S.21.0 
 9. Aldridge, Portland.20.7 
 10. Wade, Miami Heat20.7 
Rebounds Per Game
 Anderson VAREJAO
  Clevelan.
  (205-C-82)
  Avg: 14.4
 1. Varejao, Clevelan.14.4 
 2. Howard, LA Lakers11.9 
 3. Randolph, Memph.11.7 
 4. Noah, Chicago B.11.3 
 5. Asik, Houston R.11.3 
 6. Vucevic, Orlan.11.2 
 7. Lee, Golden St.W.11.0 
 8. Hickson, Portland.10.9 
 9. Chandler, New Y.10.6 
 10. Cousins, Sacramen.10.1 
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.9.4 
 4. Holiday, Philadel.8.9 
 5. Westbrook, Oklah..8.3 
 6. Williams, Brooklyn7.8 
 7. Nash, LA Lakers7.7 
 8. Parker, San A.7.5 
 9. Calderon, Toron.7.4 
 10. Nelson, Orlando M.7.4 
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. Lin, Houston R.2.0 
 4. Walker, Charlott.1.9 
 5. Jennings, Milwauke.1.9 
 6. Westbrook, Oklah..1.9 
 7. Ellis, Milwaukee B.1.9 
 8. Harden, Houston R.1.9 
 9. George, Indiana P.1.8 
 10. Irving, Cleveland1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Larry SANDERS
  Milwauke.
  (211-F-88)
  Avg: 3
 1. Sanders, Milwauke.3.0 
 2. Ibaka, Oklah.Ci.2.9 
 3. Duncan, San A.2.7 
 4. Hibbert, Indiana P.2.6 
 5. Howard, LA Lakers2.4 
 6. Lopez, Brooklyn N.2.2 
 7. Smith, Atlanta H.2.2 
 8. Noah, Chicago B.2.1 
 9. McGee, Denver N.1.9 
 10. Gasol, Memphis G.1.8 


Jose Manuel Calderon agreed terms with The Pistons - by Eurobasket News

Detroit Pistons strengthened their roster with addition of 32-year old Spanish ex-international point guard Jose Manuel Calderon (192-95kg-81). He played recently at Toronto Raptors. In 45 NBA games this season he recorded 11.1ppg, 2.4rpg and 7.4apg.
The previous (10-11) season Calderon played at the Raptors. In 68 NBA games that season he averaged 9.8ppg, 3.0rpg, 8.9apg and 1.2spg.
He has never been drafted by the NBA.
Among other achievements Calderon won NBA Atlantic Division championship title in 2007. He received also Eurobasket.com All-Europeans Honorable Mention award in 2006,2011 and 2012.
Calderon was also a member of Spanish international program for some years. He played for Spanish Senior National Team between 2002 and 2012 and previously for U21 National Team back in 2001. Calderon represented Spain at the Olympic Games in London (United Kingdon) last year. His team won Silver and his stats at that event were 8 games: 7.0ppg, 2.1rpg, 2.5apg, FGP: 55.6%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 75.0%.
Calderon has played also professionally for other Spanish teams like Caja Laboral, Baloncesto Fuenlabrada and Meridiano Alicante.
The scouts decsribe him following way: Has a very good shoot but still has to improve his three pointer shooting. Has good court sense and playmaking ability; hes very stong, a good athlete and a very good leaper;.

By Eurobasket Data Center


Victories for the Warriors and the Thunder on Thursday - by Eurobasket News

Golden St.W. - Dallas M. 100-97
The Dallas Mavericks lost for the third time in the past four games when they dropped a 100-97 decision to the Golden State Warriors on Thursday night at ORACLE Arena. The Mavs are now 19-27 on the season and will play at Phoenix on Friday beofre finishing this four-game road trip Monday in Oklahoma City. The Mavs played without forward Dirk Nowitzki, who discovered before the game that he has a strained right adductor. It's the first game Nowitzki has missed since returning Dec. 23 after missing 27 games when he underwent right knee surgery on Oct. 19. Dallas had a chance to tie the game with 43 seconds left, but O.J. Mayo (6'5''-G-87, college: USC) split his two free throws, leaving the Mavs behind, 98-97. Then, the Mavs had an opportunity to take the lead, but Brandan Wright's short jumper was blocked by Andrew Bogut with 12 seconds to go. Jarrett Jack then hit a pair of free throws with two seconds remaining to give the Warriors a 100-97 lead. Vince Carter (6'6''-G/F-77, college: N.Carolina) then missed a potential game-tying three-pointer at the buzzer. O.J. Mayo led the Mavs with 25 points, Carter scored 22, and Shawn Marion had 18 points and a season-high 17 rebounds. Klay Thompson (6'6''-G-90, college: Washington St.) led the Warriors with 27 points, while David Lee (6'9''-F-83, agency: Priority Sports, college: Florida) contributed impressive 15 points, 20 rebounds and 9 assists in the win. Courtesy of: star-telegram.com

Oklah.City T. - Memphis G. 106-89
Kevin Durant (6'9''-SF-88, college: Texas) scored 27 points, Russell Westbrook (6'3''-PG-88, college: UCLA) added 21 points and nine assists and the Oklahoma City Thunder beat Memphis 106-89 Thursday night in the Grizzlies' first game since trading away leading-scorer Rudy Gay. Memphis struggled mightily in the first half and trailed by 26 in the third quarter before a mini-implosion by the Thunder that featured Westbrook getting benched after a dust-up with his teammates. It still didn't provide a big enough opening for the Grizzlies, who were playing short-handed while waiting for trade acquisitions Tayshaun Prince, Austin Daye and Ed Davis to arrive and pass physicals. Jerryd Bayless (6'3''-PG-88, college: Arizona) led Memphis with 23 points. Zach Randolph (6'9''-C-81, college: Michigan St.) missed his first 10 shots and wound up with nine points and 19 rebounds. The Grizzlies were already short on numbers after dealing away reserves Marreese Speights, Wayne Ellington and Josh Selby for Jon Leuer about a week earlier and with Quincy Pondexter out with a sprained ligament in his left knee. That left just nine healthy players for Memphis, and Leuer didn't get into the game until it was out of hand in the final 5 minutes. Just when Oklahoma City seemed to be firmly in control, Westbrook started sniping with his teammates after a possession when he posted up along the left side of the lane and eventually got called for a turnover when Bayless stuck with him on defense for 5 seconds. Westbrook then spiked the ball twice while gesturing toward Thabo Sefolosha and Durant that they needed to get open better. He then hollered toward coach Scott Brooks on the bench. Memphis followed his outburst with 10 straight points to make it a game again-with Westbrook getting an early hook during the stretch and heading down the tunnel to the locker room. Brooks finally put him back in the game to start the fourth quarter, after Memphis had pulled to 77-67 in the final minute of the third quarter. Westbrook hit a pull-up jumper and set up Kevin Martin for a 3-pointer in transition on consecutive possessions to bump the lead back up to 86-69 with 9:32 remaining. That all but ended the Grizzlies' comeback bid. Memphis had been one of only three visiting teams to win at the Chesapeake Energy Arena this season, but that was before the two trades aimed at avoiding the luxury tax. From the start, the depleted Grizzlies were no match for the Thunder at full strength. Returning home for the first time after a six-game road trip, Oklahoma City connected on its first nine shots to move ahead and then tacked onto the lead after the streak stopped. Martin's 3-pointer from the left wing pushed the advantage into double digits for the first time at 27-16 with 2:41 left in the first quarter. Nick Collison had a two-handed slam and Durant converted a three-point play after being fouled on a right-handed jam during a string of nine straight Oklahoma City points early in the second quarter, and the lead ballooned to 24 by halftime. Memphis shot just 26 percent while matching its season-low with 34 first-half points while the Thunder made 61 percent and scored 58 points against what has been the league's stingiest defense. Courtesy of: montereyherald.com


Irving, Lillard Headline Rising Stars Roster - by Eurobasket News

The NBA has invited Kyrie Irving (6'3''-G-92, college: Duke), Kenneth Faried (6'8''-F-89, college: Morehead St.), Brandon Knight (6'3''-G-91, college: Kentucky), Kawhi Leonard (6'7''-F-91, college: San Diego St.), Chandler Parsons (6'9''-F-88, agency: Priority Sports, college: Florida), Klay Thompson (6'6''-G-90, college: Washington St.), Tristan Thompson (6'8''-F-91, college: Texas), Nikola Vucevic (6'11''-C-90, college: USC) and Kemba Walker (6'1''-PG-90, college: Connecticut) as the sophomore in the 2013 Rising Stars Game.
The rookies are led by Damian Lillard (6'2''-PG-90, college: Weber St.), Anthony Davis (6'10''-C-93, college: Kentucky), Harrison Barnes (6'8''-F-92, college: N.Carolina), Andre Drummond (6'11''-C-93, college: Connecticut), Michael Kidd-Gilchrist (6'7''-SF-93, college: Kentucky), Bradley Beal (6'3''-SG-93, agency: Priority Sports, college: Florida), Alexey Shved, Dion Waiters (6'4''-G-91, college: Syracuse) and Tyler Zeller (7'0''-PF-90, college: N.Carolina)ller.
Ricky Rubio (6'4''-G-90), Terrence Ross (6'6''-G-91, college: Washington), Jimmy Butler (6'7''-G/F-89, college: Marquette) and Jared Sullinger (6'9''-F-92, college: Ohio St.) are amongst the notable omissions for the game.
Courtesy of: basketball.realgm.com


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

NBLC Standings

NBL Canada Standings
 1. London L. 23-4 
 2. Oshawa P. 17-11 
 3. Summerside S. 17-11 
 4. Halifax R. 15-15 
 5. St.John M.R. 15-15 
 6. Moncton M. 15-19 
 7. Windsor Exp. 11-16 
 8. Montreal J. 2-24 

Regular Season: Round 26

Jan. 27: Windsor Exp. - London L. 99-93
Jan. 26: Montreal J. - St.John M.R. 86-95
Jan. 27: Halifax R. - Summerside S. 121-108
Jan. 30: Moncton M. - St.John M.R. 108-114
Jan. 31: Halifax R. - Moncton M. 108-103

Regular Season: Round 27

Feb. 6: Windsor Exp. - Oshawa P.
Feb. 7: Montreal J. - Summerside S.
Feb. 7: Moncton M. - London L.
Feb. 8: Montreal J. - Halifax R.
Feb. 8: St.John M.R. - London L.


Halifax Rainmen Acquire Akeem Wright - by Surujh Roopnarine

The Halifax Rainmen on Wednesday announced that they have acquired veteran swingman Akeem Wright (6'7''-F/G-84, college: Kansas St.).
Akeem Wright, 29, is a 6-7 small forward out of Kansas State who joins the 14-15 Rainmen after beginning this season in Israel's National (2nd) League.
This season he split time between Elitzur Ramla and Maccabi Kiryat Gat where he played up until a few weeks ago.
In five games for Ramla he posted averages of 13.2ppg, 11.0rpg, 1.4apg, 1.4spg, 2FGP: 44.4%, 3FGP: 6.3%, FT: 65.2%.
In seven games for Maccabi Kiryat Gat he increased his output to 21.7 points, 7.1 rebounds, 2.9 assists and 2.3 steals in 30.0 minutes per contest as the team went 2-5 during that stretch.
Wright, a native of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania has played professionally in the Middle East, Argentina and New Zealand abroad, and played last season for both Oshawa and Moncton in the NBL.


Saint John Mill Rats Release Farnold Degand - by Surujh Roopnarine

Former North Carolina State guard Farnold Degand (6'4''-G-88, college: N.Carolina St.) is no longer a member of the Saint John Mill Rats. Earlier this week the club activated Melvin Council from the reserve list and parted ways with the 6-4 Degand. A Boston, Massachusetts native, Degand was in training camp with the Maine Red Claws of the NBA D-League prior to the start of this season and joined the Mill Rats in the middle of January.
In five games off the bench he averaged 3.4 points and 1.0 assists while connecting on 6-12 field goals.


Spears is back at London Lightning, ex I.P. Virginio - by Eurobasket News

London Lightning (NBL Canada) agreed terms with 27-year old American forward Shamari Spears (198-107kg-86, college: Charlotte). Its actually his comeback to London Lightning as he played here before. Spears just played at I.P. Virginio in Chilean DIMAYOR. He also played at London Lightning earlier that season.
The list of the past achievements is quite long as Spears won NBL Canada championship title in 2012. He was also voted NABC Division I All-District 4 2nd Team back in 2010 at his college time.
Spears graduated from University of North Carolina - Charlotte in 2011 and it is his second season as a professional player.

By Eurobasket Data Center


Recent wins for Mill Rats, Express and Rainmen - by Eurobasket News

Montreal J. - St.John M.R. 86-95
The Saint John Mill Rats, presented by Rogers, dug down and came up with a grind-it-out road win against the Montreal Jazz, 95-86, at the Pierre Charbonneau Centre. Behind a hot Anthony Anderson (5'11''-G-81, college: Massachusetts) (5-5 from field in first quarter), Saint John led 33-22 at the end of one. In the second quarter, the Montreal Jazz were carried by forward Eric Frederick (6'8''-F-88, college: Texas Wesleyan) who ended the half with 21 points and 9 rebounds, and the Jazz led 50-45. Saint John trailed all of the third quarter, but cut the deficit to one at 69-68. In the fourth quarter Jerice Crouch caught fire draining three 3 pointers, and Saint John won comfortably down the stretch for a final score of 95-86. Leading all scoreres was Anthony Anderson with 31 points. Kenny Jones (6'6''-PF-84, agency: Dream Team Management, college: Kentucky St.) and Jerice Crouch added 12 each. Sheray Thomas had a solid 11 points and 8 rebounds in his homecoming. Frederick finished with 29 points and 15 rebounds. The Mill Rats rise to 14-15 on the season and move back into 2nd place in the Atlantic Division. Courtesy of: oursportscentral.com

Windsor Exp. - London L. 99-93
The Windsor Express are back on track. As Windsor welcomed the London Lightning, the team was hoping to bounce back after being derailed the past few games. And it did, by defeating the league's top team. The Express walked off the court this afternoon with a 99-93 victory over the Lightning this afternoon, at the WFCU Centre. With the win, Windsor serves London only their fourth loss of the season. Chris Commons (6'9''-F-84, college: USC Aiken), Darren Duncan (5'11''-PG-88, college: Merrimack), Mike Helms and Kevin Loiselle kept the Express speeding forward. Commons scored 28 points, Duncan had 24 and Helms netted 16. Loiselle played a strong game, both offensively and defensively. He had 12 points and team-leading 14 rebounds. His efforts, along with those of his teammates, held London's offense back to only a handful of leads throughout the game. Kevin Loiselle got things rolling for the Express in the first. Shortly after, Chris Commons came in with a head of steam. Though London caught up, Windsor kept control; the Express had 29-23 advantage after one. Back and forth, the teams nearly sank basket for basket. London's fouls allowed Windsor to keep adding points, but the Lightning would catch up. Eventually, at the end of the half, they had a 53-50 lead over the Express. Windsor regrouped during halftime and came out ready for the third quarter. Early on, the Express took the lead, and didn't look back after that. Scoring the second half's first five points, they kept pressing. The Lightning got close again, but Windsor kept calm and maintained the upper hand heading into the fourth. Unfortunately, as the Lightning fought back into the game, Helms fouled out late in the game. London wasn't ready to throw in the towel just yet - and neither was Windsor. Loiselle snatched some rebounds and pushed his team up the court. He also had a big block with time running out. From that block, the Lightning recovered and scored a timely 3-pointer, tying the game at 91 with 1:21 remaining. Nearly 700 fans were holding their breaths as the game's intensity picked up. After a Windsor timeout, as the Express tried to inbound the ball, London's DeAnthony Bowden was handed a technical foul. And Duncan took over. He ensured his team's victory with two free throws and a basket with two foul shots. The Windsor Express earned a hard-fought win this afternoon, defeating the London Lightning 99-93. Courtesy of: windsorite.ca

Moncton M. - St.John M.R. 108-114
The Moncton Miracles, presented by Rogers, lost to the Saint John Mill Rats with a final score of 108-114 The Miracles now sit with a 15-18 record. The first basket of the game came from Miracles Isaac Butts in the inside of the key, which would soon be answered by the Mill Rats. Less than 2 minutes into the game Saint John had pulled ahead 4-9. The Miracles would try and shorten the lead and when the media time-out came with 5:27 on the clock they would only trail by 2, 14-16. Devin Sweetney (6'6''-G/F-87, agency: Pro One Sports, college: St.Francis, PA) would tie the game up for Moncton with 4:01 left to play in the first at 18-18. Sweetney would score the next basket giving his team their first lead of the game. The first quarter ended with the Miracles edging the Mill Rats 26-24. Mill Rats Antonio Burks would hit a 3 to give them control of the scoreboard, 33-34. Every time the Miracles would tie the game up their opponents would once again pull ahead. With less than 4 minutes to play Miracles Kamar Burke would go 2 for 2 from the line to bring the game within one possession, 41-43. The first half would end with the Miracles once again edging their provincial rivals 50-49. The Mill Rats would start the third quarter off with a major push and go on a 13-5 run putting them up, 55-62. Saint John would continue to make their shots and pull ahead by 13 points with Kenny Jones' 3 with 6 minutes left in the quarter, 62-75. Miracles Oliver McNally (6'3''-G, college: Harvard) would spark his team late in the third quarter when he made a far out 3, stole the ball when it went the other way, then went coast to coast for the two handed dunk. With 1:57 left to play the Miracles were only down 77-80. With 3 minutes left to play Oliver McNally would hand it off to Devin Sweetney for the lay-up to bring the game within 1 point, 102-103. The Miracles would continue to try and rally back but would be unable to regain control. Devin Sweetney led the way for the Miracles with 26 points. Oliver McNally followed with 25 points and Darrell Wonge dropped 20 points and pulled down 10 rebounds. Anthony Anderson was the force for the Mill Rats with 43 points. Kenny Jones was next with 21 points and Jerice Crouch with 13 points. Miracles Cordell Jeanty was handed an unsportsmanlike foul in the fourth quarter. Courtesy of: oyetimes.com

Halifax R. - Moncton M. 108-103
On Thursday night the Rainmen won their second straight game, beating the Moncton Miracles 108-103 in front of 1623 fans at the Halifax Metro Centre. With the win the Rainmen moved to 15-15 on the season, and into second place in the NBLC Atlantic Conference. Hillary Haley's back-to-back 3's off the Rainmen bench gave them a 28-17 lead near the end of the first quarter. The Rainmen finished the first quarter leading 29-18, led by 10 points by Brown and 6 by Haley, while the Miracles were led by Darrell Wonge with 7. Back-to-back 3's from Tyrone Levett and Cedric Moodie gave the Rainmen 44-27 lead with 4 minutes to play in the first half. At half the Rainmen led 46-39 thanks to 53% shooting from the field and 44% from 3, as Quinnel Brown (6'6''-F-83, college: Auburn) led the way with 13, while Tyrone Levett had 8. In the third, the Miracles outscored the Rainmen 32-30, thanks to 15 points by Devin Sweetney in the quarter. The Rainmen held on to a 76-71 lead going into the fourth quarter, led by 16 points from Quinnel Brown, 13 by Melvin Goins and 10 by Hillary Haley. In the fourth quarter the Miracles took their first lead of the game, 79-78 with 9:29 to play. Tyrone Levett's 3 with 5:50 to play made it a 88-82 Rainmen lead. After Quinnel Brown hit a huge 3 to give the Rainmen a 98-94 lead with 44 seconds to play, Melvin Goins hit two free-throws, stole the ball and hit another free-throw to give the Rainmen a 101-94 lead with 31 seconds remaining. Free-throws by Tyler Richards and Cedric Moodie helped the Rainmen seal a 108-103 win. Halifax shot 48% from the field and over 38% from 3 in the victory. The Rainmen were led by Melvin Goins with 22 and 10 rebounds, Quinnel Brown 21, Cedric Moodie 16, Hillary Haley 12, Tyrone Levett 11 and Joey Haywood with 11. The Miracles were led by Devin Sweetney with 31 and 11 rebounds, Herman Favors with 23 points and 10 assists, and Boubacar Coly with 15 points. Courtesy of: oursportscentral.com

Halifax R. - Summerside S. 121-108
Less than 48 hours after losing by 45 points to the Summerside Storm, the Halifax Rainmen answered back in a big way on Sunday afternoon. The Rainmen defeated the Storm 121-108 in the back end of a weekend home-and-home series at the Halifax Metro Centre. The Storm defeated the Rainmen 135-90 at Eastlink Arena on Friday night. Quinnel Brown scored 27 points to lead the Rainmen, who improved to 14-15 (won-lost) while the Atlantic Division-leading Storm dropped to 17-11. Brandon Robinson (6'6''-F-89, college: Clayton St.) poured in a game-high 29 points to lead Storm, who led 58-54 at the half but was outscored 67-50 in the second half. Courtesy of: journalpioneer.com


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

Top 25 - Men

TOP25 Standings
 1. Indiana 6-0 (18-1) 
 2. Louisville 5-3 (17-4) 
 3. Kentucky 4-2 (13-6) 
 4. Ohio St. 6-2 (16-3) 
 5. Michigan 7-1 (19-1) 
 6. N.Carolina St. 4-3 (14-5) 
 7. Kansas 7-0 (19-1) 
 8. Duke 5-2 (17-2) 
 9. Syracuse 6-1 (18-2) 
 10. Florida 7-0 (17-2) 
 11. Arizona 6-2 (17-2) 
 12. N.Carolina 4-3 (14-6) 
 13. UCLA 6-3 (16-6) 
 14. Michigan St. 7-2 (18-3) 
 15. Creighton 6-2 (17-3) 
 16. Memphis 6-0 (17-3) 
 17. Missouri 4-3 (15-5) 
 18. Baylor 5-2 (14-6) 
 19. UNLV 4-2 (17-4) 
 20. San Diego St. 4-2 (15-3) 
 21. Wisconsin 4-3 (13-6) 
 22. Gonzaga 7-0 (20-2) 
 23. Notre Dame 5-2 (17-3) 
 24. Florida St. 4-3 (12-8) 
 25. Texas 1-6 (9-11) 

Regular Season: Round 81

Jan. 30: USF - St.Mary''s, CA 63-67
Jan. 30: Creighton - Missouri St. 91-77
Jan. 30: Buffalo - Cent.Michigan 91-73
Jan. 30: High Point - Longwood 88-60
Jan. 30: Kansas St. - Texas 83-57
Jan. 30: Youngstown St. - Valparaiso 80-68
Jan. 30: St.John''s - De Paul 79-74 OT
Jan. 30: Rice - Houston 79-69
Jan. 30: Ball St. - Toledo 78-85
Jan. 30: Oklahoma St. - Iowa St. 78-76
Jan. 30: UAB - UTEP 78-72 OT
Jan. 30: Colorado St. - Boise St. 77-57
Jan. 30: Wright St. - Detroit Mercy 76-83
Jan. 30: Loyola, IL - Wisc.-Milwaukee 76-65
Jan. 30: Stanford - Oregon 76-52
Jan. 30: Florida - S.Carolina 75-36
Jan. 30: Presbyterian - NC-Asheville 74-77
Jan. 30: Georgetown - Seton Hall 74-52
Jan. 30: Northeastern - Georgia St. 73-78
Jan. 30: Charleston So. - Gardner-Webb 73-74 OT
Jan. 30: Florida St. - Maryland 73-71
Jan. 30: LSU - Missouri 73-70
Jan. 30: Charleston - Appalachian St. 72-59
Jan. 30: UCLA - USC 71-75 OT
Jan. 30: Baylor - Oklahoma 71-74
Jan. 30: Temple - Richmond 71-64
Jan. 30: Wake Forest - Duke 70-75
Jan. 30: Radford - VMI 69-70
Jan. 30: Lafayette - Colgate 69-40
Jan. 30: E.Carolina - Memphis 68-75
Jan. 30: Miami, OH - W.Michigan 68-72
Jan. 30: Michigan - Northwestern 68-46
Jan. 30: N.Illinois - Kent St. 67-65
Jan. 30: Holy Cross - Army 66-80
Jan. 30: ODU - Towson 66-68
Jan. 30: Xavier - Dayton 66-61
Jan. 30: Delaware - William & Mary 66-56
Jan. 30: Notre Dame - Villanova 65-60
Jan. 30: Virginia Tech - Miami, FL 64-73
Jan. 30: Rhode Island - VCU 64-70
Jan. 30: Fordham - St.Joseph''s 62-66
Jan. 30: Cincinnati - Rutgers 62-54
Jan. 30: Air Force - Fresno St. 62-50
Jan. 30: Winthrop - Co.Carolina 61-48
Jan. 30: Purdue - Indiana 60-97
Jan. 30: S.Carolina St. - Hampton 60-64
Jan. 30: La Salle - Massachusetts 60-61
Jan. 30: Wyoming - N.Mexico 59-63
Jan. 30: Binghamton - UMBC 58-61
Jan. 30: Marshall - SMU 57-68
Jan. 30: Long Beach St. - UCSB 57-55
Jan. 30: Georgia - Auburn 57-49
Jan. 30: S.Illinois - Drake 56-61
Jan. 30: Bowling Green - Akron 55-68
Jan. 30: American - Bucknell 55-56
Jan. 30: Maine - New Hampshire 54-57
Jan. 30: Cal-Irvine - Cal Poly - SLO 52-45
Jan. 30: Tulane - Cent.Florida 50-58
Jan. 30: Navy - Lehigh 49-71
Jan. 30: Mississippi St. - Texas A&M 49-55 OT
Jan. 30: Hartford - Vermont 43-49
Jan. 30: McNeese St. - SF Austin 39-59
Jan. 30: NJIT - Fisher 108-69

Regular Season: Round 83

Feb. 1: Harvard - Yale
Feb. 1: Siena - Manhattan
Feb. 1: Fairfield - Rider
Feb. 1: Princeton - Cornell
Feb. 1: Pennsylvania - Columbia
Feb. 1: Dartmouth - Brown
Feb. 1: Mercer - Kennesaw St.
Feb. 1: Detroit Mercy - Youngstown St.
Feb. 1: Valparaiso - Wisc.-Milwaukee


Stats Leaders - NCAA1

Points Per Game
 James KINNEY
  San J.
  (188-PG-90)
  Avg: 20.6
 1. Kinney, San J.20.6 
 2. Burrage, UTSA17.9 
 3. Wright, Texas St.17.3 
 4. Barone, Idaho16.4 
 5. Medlin, Utah St.16.3 
 6. Madison, Idaho15.1 
 7. Mullings, N.Mexico.14.8 
 8. Hill, UTSA13.6 
 9. Appleby, Louisian.13.6 
 10. Shaw, Utah St.13.4 
Rebounds Per Game
 Kyle BARONE
  Idaho
  (208-C-89)
  Avg: 9.6
 1. Barone, Idaho9.6 
 2. Cunningham, San J.8.6 
 3. Shaw, Utah St.8.5 
 4. Reves, Texas A.8.2 
 5. Edwards, Texas A.7.9 
 6. Sy, N.Mexico St.7.3 
 7. Sunderhaus, Seatt.6.8 
 8. Hill, UTSA6.7 
 9. Wright, Texas St.6.6 
 10. Reed, Utah St.6.5 
Assists Per Game
 Kenneth SMITH
  Louisiana Tech
  (190-G-93)
  Avg: 5.1
 1. Smith, Louisiana T.5.1 
 2. Obasi, Seattle4.9 
 3. Brown, San J.4.1 
 4. O''Neale, Denver3.4 
 5. Pickett, Seattle3.4 
 6. Udofia, Denver3.3 
 7. Medlin, Utah St.3.2 
 8. Davis, Utah St.3.1 
 9. Jones, Texas St.3.0 
 10. McChristian, Idaho2.9 
Steals Per Game
 James KINNEY
  San J.
  (188-PG-90)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Kinney, San J.2.4 
 2. Mullings, N.Mexico.2.2 
 3. Smith, Louisiana T.2.0 
 4. Hallam, Denver2.0 
 5. Davis, Texas St.2.0 
 6. Reed, Utah St.1.6 
 7. O''Neale, Denver1.6 
 8. Pickett, Seattle1.6 
 9. Jones, Texas St.1.5 
 10. Udofia, Denver1.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Michale KYSER
  Louisian.
  (206-F-91)
  Avg: 3.3
 1. Kyser, Louisian.3.3 
 2. Reves, Texas A.2.5 
 3. Udofia, Denver2.4 
 4. Brown, San J.2.0 
 5. Bhullar, N.Mexico.1.9 
 6. Reed, Utah St.1.8 
 7. Barone, Idaho1.3 
 8. Shaw, Utah St.1.2 
 9. Staff, Texas St.1.1 
 10. Dixon, N.Mexico.1.0 


Stanford Pummels No. 10/12 Oregon, 76-52 - by Eurobasket News

STANFORD, Calif. (AP) - Stanford is making a habit of ruining Oregon's undefeated runs.

Chasson Randle (6'1''-PG-93) scored 17 points, Josh Huestis had 14 points and 13 rebounds, and the Cardinal stunned Oregon on a big stage again by routing the 10th-ranked Ducks 76-52 Wednesday night.

More than two months after the Stanford football team handed Oregon its only loss of the season, the Cardinal (13-8, 4-4 Pac-12) dominated the Ducks from the start for the basketball program's first victory over a top 10 team in almost five years. Stanford snapped a nine-game winning streak for Oregon (18-3, 7-1), which dropped its first conference game this season.

"I hope they think we're a tough bunch," Randle said.

Dwight Powell (6'10''-F-91) added 12 points and 13 rebounds, and Aaron Bright (5'11''-PG) finished with 12 points as Stanford built a 25-point lead early in the second half and coasted to the buzzer. Stanford outshot Oregon 52 to 35 percent from the floor. The Cardinal also went 8 of 14 from 3-point range, while the Ducks converted only 4 of 16 from beyond the arc.

Stanford hadn't beaten a ranked opponent since Jan. 13, 2011, when it topped No. 17 Washington 58-56 at home. The last top 10 team Stanford had defeated came when the Cardinal won at No. 9/9 Washington State 67-65 in overtime on Feb. 2, 2008 -- the season before coach Johnny Dawkins took over.

"It's definitely one of the best games I think our guys have played, being the fact that they're such a highly ranked team," Dawkins said. "I think our kids had some other good moments as well, but this definitely ranks up there as one of the better moments for our program."

Carlos Emory scored 12 points and Arsalan Kazemi had six points and nine rebounds on a forgettable night for Oregon, which matched its highest ranking since March 2007 this week but will surely take a tumble in the AP poll now. Oregon's best start in conference play since finishing 10-0 in the 1925-26 season also is over.

"We just got it handed to us," coach Dana Altman said.

Once again, the Ducks can thank Stanford for spoiling all the fun.

The Cardinal football team outlasted Oregon in November on the way to a Pac-12 title and Rose Bowl victory. Coincidentally, Jordan Williamson, who kicked the winning 37-yard field goal in overtime at top-ranked Oregon, stood in the first row of the Stanford student section along with a few teammates.

The hardwood rematch was never quite so close.

Despite Oregon's strong start, the Ducks entered the game as 2 1/2-point underdogs. That might have been in part because the Ducks played without starting point guard Dominic Artis for the second straight game. Artis is out indefinitely with a left foot injury.

In the end, the only surprise was that Las Vegas bookmakers didn't make the line even higher. Stanford followed up its 87-56 win at Utah on Sunday -- its most lopsided league victory in nine years -- with another runaway performance.

The one celebration Oregon enjoyed came after Kazemi's two-handed slam in the opening moments. That faded fast when the Oregon forward fell hard going for a rebound on the next defensive possession.

Kazemi, who had a concussion in a win against Nevada on Dec. 31, lay on the court holding his head for more than a minute before being helped up by a team trainer. He later returned and showed no effects from the injury.

With Kazemi recovering on the bench, Stanford started its never-ending surge.

Randle, Powell, Bright and John Gage each hit a 3-pointer during an 18-2 run that brought the sparse crowd roaring to its feet. The Cardinal clamped down on defense, too, pushing the pace for quick scores to go ahead 20-8 in the first 8 minutes.

Oregon missed its first six shots from beyond the arc and committed 20 turnovers, including three egregious errors just before the break. Stanford scored after each one, part of a quick 6-0 burst capped by Anthony Brown's bank hook that helped the Cardinal carry a 35-22 lead into the locker room.

"It's good to see the ball go in the basket," Dawkins said, chuckling. "It makes everything a little easier." Stanford started even faster in the second half.

After E.J. Singler's 3-pointer cut the Cardinal's lead to 10, the Ducks never got closer. Powell started a three-point play with a layup over Singler, then made a runner and another from beyond the arc as the Cardinal gained control for good.

Huestis cleaned up a miss with a putback dunk, and Bright made a jumper and a 3-pointer to put the Cardinal ahead 54-29 with 12:08 remaining. Singler finished with six points and four rebounds in 26 minutes.

Stanford students taunted Oregon in the final minutes with chants of "overrated."

"We haven't reached our goals yet, but this is a great win against a great team," Powell said. "They've proven themselves. And we're still in the process of proving ourselves."
Courtesy of: Antonio Gonzalez, Associated Press


No. 3 Indiana Routs Purdue, 97-60 - by Eurobasket News

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. (AP) - Cody Zeller (7'0''-F-92) is back in his shooting groove, and No. 3 Indiana looks better than ever.

The 7-foot sophomore center broke out of his two-game funk Wednesday night, scoring 19 points, grabbing 11 rebounds and opening things up for his teammates as they routed rival Purdue 97-60 with one of the most resounding victories in this 199-game series.

"It is kind of neat because IU has had so many great teams over the years and to be the biggest win, it's always nice to be part of history," Zeller said. "And there's always a little extra here at Purdue."

It wasn't Indiana's most lopsided win in the series, just the biggest rout for the Hoosiers in West Lafayette. But it was the worst home loss for Purdue in school history.

And it was no secret why the Hoosiers (19-2, 7-1 Big Ten) were able to play so well: They did virtually everything right.

Zeller was 6 of 14 from the field and made all seven free throws. He had seven offensive rebounds, two assists and two steals.

His teammates made a season-high 12 3-pointers, seized control in the first half and never let the Boilermakers get closer than 18 in the second half. Indiana outrebounded Purdue 39-29, forced 18 turnovers compared with only eight, went 19 of 20 from the free throw line and wound up with the most points ever against one of coach Matt Painter's teams at Purdue.

The reward: Indiana played its most impressive game of the season and produced its highest point total against Purdue since Jan. 28, 1992, when it won 106-65.

"To win here, you've really got to be on top of your game and I don't just mean offensive and defensive execution," Hoosiers coach Tom Crean said. "It's attitude, it's energy, it's toughness and our guys did all of those things tonight."

Indiana has won four straight overall, five straight Big Ten road games dating to last season and three straight over the dreaded Boilermakers.

And Zeller's resurgence, following two games in which he had a combined two baskets and 11 points, couldn't have come at a better time.

Next up for the Hoosiers is a Saturday night showdown with No. 1 Michigan, a game that will break up the tie for the Big Ten lead and could dictate which team holds the top spot in next week's poll. The Wolverines defeated Northwestern 68-46 on Wednesday.

But that was the furthest thing from the Hoosiers' minds.

"I thought we played pretty well. It was good to see everyone working together," Zeller said. "When the ball is moving from side to side and up and down the court like that, we're a tough team."

Purdue (11-10, 4-4) found out the hard way.

While freshman center A.J. Hammons scored a career-high 30 points and freshman point guard Ronnie Johnson (6'0''-PG) added 13, just about everything else went wrong for the Boilermakers.

No other player scored more than four points. Only Hammons (10), Ronnie Johnson (five), Terone Johnson (two) and Travis Carroll (two) made more than one basket. The Boilermakers shot just 40 percent from the field (22 of 55) and without Hammons' 10-of-14 night, that dismal shooting percentage would have dropped to an even more mind-boggling 29.3 percent.

While the Boilermakers barely avoided their worst loss in the series, a mark set in that 41-point rout in '92, they still wound up with their worst home loss ever.

Even more troubling was that Purdue didn't look anything like the team that had won four of its last five or its last three at home.

"Facts are facts," Painter said. "They played harder than us and they played better than us. At the end those guys were out there celebrating and that's what it's all about. ... They're a good team and we're not. We play like individuals."

How bad was it?

After falling behind 27-17 with 9:15 left in the first half, the Boilermakers only cut the deficit to single digits three times.

"We knew how they were going to be, we saw them on TV, we expected it," Carroll said. "We just didn't play up to it."

The Hoosiers didn't waste much time seizing control.

Indiana took advantage when Hammons and swingman D.J. Byrd went to the bench with two fouls, going on a 9-0 run to take a 10-point lead.

Painter gambled by putting both back in. With Byrd, it worked. With Hammons, it did not.

The Boilermakers' 7-foot freshman center picked up his third foul with 4:17 to go in the half, and with Hammons out, Zeller scored six points in a 13-0 run that turned the game.

Indiana put it away with a 14-1 spurt midway through the second half and Purdue couldn't get closer than 26 after that.

"I think we played with resolve, we were very authoritative on drives and our pressure defense was up and active," Crean said. "We're getting more active defensively in the Big Ten and we just keep moving the ball. I know it sounds easy, but it's not."
Courtesy of: http://www.iuhoosiers.com


Plumlee Leads No. 5 Duke Past Wake Forest 75-70 - by Eurobasket News

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. Seth Curry (6'2''-G-90) wasn't going to miss every 3-pointer he tossed up. Mason Plumlee (6'10''-F-90) wasn't going to miss very often at all.

Thanks to those two seniors, No. 5 Duke finally has its first road victory.

Plumlee scored a career-high 32 points and Curry added 21 with a tiebreaking 3 that helped the Blue Devils hold off pesky Wake Forest 75-70 on Wednesday night.

Despite hitting a season-low two 3-pointers, the Blue Devils (18-2, 5-2 Atlantic Coast Conference) shot 52 percent - much of that because of their efficient senior big man - to improve to 1-2 in true road games.

"I don't know if he's the best player in the league, but there's no player who's more important to his team" than Plumlee, coach Mike Krzyzewski said. "There is no substitute for him, so those kind of guys need to get the ball."

Freshman big man Devin Thomas (6'9''-F-94) had 15 points for the Demon Deacons (10-10, 3-5), who shot 48 percent but were denied their second upset of a nationally ranked state rival in eight nights.

At times, this game turned into a Thomas-vs.-Plumlee showdown, with the two big men trading baskets over - if not through - each other. Plumlee simply made more, finishing 12 of 15 from the field and 8 of 10 from the free-throw line.

"He was making everything today," Thomas said. "He just got all the moves that you would want as a big man - a quick spin, a right- (and) left-handed hook, athletic. ... We wanted to foul him to put him on the line, but he was making his free throws, so it was just a lose-lose situation for us."

Still, Wake Forest went up 66-65 on Tyler Cavanaugh's three-point play with 4:02 left that had Joel Coliseum rocking.

And then Duke's two healthy seniors took over.

"You look up there and we're down one, and it's go-time," Plumlee said. "It's do or die. Guys made big plays. ... It was a total team win."

First, Plumlee tied it at 66 with a free throw with 3:48 to go.

Then, Curry - who had missed his first five 3-point attempts, including two straight open looks a few possessions earlier - knocked down a 3 from the key with just under 3 minutes left to put Duke ahead to stay, 69-66.

"I just missed" the open shots, Curry said. "I just tried to stick with it, and I got another look, so I was able to knock it down."

Added Krzyzewski: "That's a sign of a really good player."

Madison Jones pulled the Demon Deacons to 69-68 on a backdoor layup with 1:40 left, but Wake Forest came up empty on its next two trips downcourt while the Blue Devils pulled away.

Plumlee hit a layup over Thomas with 1:16 left, and Rasheed Sulaimon's jumper pushed the lead to 73-68 with 27.6 seconds to go.

Plumlee blocked C.J. Harris' layup with about 20 seconds left, and Quinn Cook and Curry combined to hit two free throws in the final 15.8 seconds to seal it.

Cook finished with 12 points for the Blue Devils, who claimed their seventh straight win in the series and denied the Demon Deacons their biggest win since they knocked off then-No. 1 Duke as a top-five team themselves four years ago.

"With the guts of the game, Duke simply made some timely stops and made some timely shots," Wake Forest coach Jeff Bzdelik said.

Harris and Travis McKie each scored 14 points for Wake Forest, which upset then-No. 19 North Carolina State eight nights earlier behind 25 points and 14 rebounds from Thomas.

And seemingly every time Duke threatened to pull away in this one, the Demon Deacons - who trailed 37-7 in their previous game, a 20-point loss at last-place Georgia Tech - found a way to claw back.

Wake Forest twice trailed by eight in the second half but managed to tighten things back up. After Sulaimon put Duke up 52-44 with a free throw with 14:40 left, Thomas keyed a 16-6 run that followed and Harris put the Demon Deacons up 60-58 with a sliding jumper with 8 minutes to go.

Duke played its fifth straight game without 6-foot-11 forward Ryan Kelly. He's out indefinitely with a right foot injury - and that was a break for a Wake Forest team that he had tormented through the years.

Four of Kelly's five career 20-point games came against the Demon Deacons, who have allowed a 20-point Duke scorer in 17 of the last 18 meetings.

His primary replacements at power forward - freshman Amile Jefferson and junior Josh Hairston - combined for six rebounds and two points on 1-of-3 shooting.

But Hairston turned in some big hustle plays down the stretch. He blocked Harris' jumper with the score tied at 66 with roughly 3:15 left, then came up with rebound of Plumlee's block of Harris in the closing seconds.

"He just gave us a good unit out there for the time that he was in, (and) that's what he has to do," Krzyzewski said. "Every play was important tonight. Loose ball. Block. Taking a charge. Getting a defensive board. Those are big."
Courtesy of: http://www.goduke.com


Gators Throttle South Carolina for Ninth Straight Win - by Eurobasket News

GAINESVILLE, Fla. -- He wasnt mad at his team or displeased with their effort at practice Tuesday afternoon, yet Florida coach Billy Donovan had his players come back later that night to go over a few more things about the upcoming opponent.

It just so happened the 9 p.m. meeting coincided with the start of the much-anticipated game between Ole Miss, still unbeaten in Southeastern Conference at the time, and defending national champion Kentucky on ESPN.

The same Ole Miss team due in town Saturday.

Coach wanted us thinking about this game ... not that game, junior forward Will Yeguete (6'7''-F-91).

If the Gators were any more locked in for Wednesdays visit from South Carolina, they would had to have been in the Gamecocks locker room. How else would you explain the biggest bombing in a Southeastern Conference run of mushroom clouds?

Senior guards Kenny Boynton (6'2''-PG-91) and Mike Rosario (6'3''-G-90) scored 15 points, freshman Michael Frazier buried four 3-pointers and UFs defense stifled USC in a 75-36 beating of historic proportions to the delight of a paid crowd of10,533 at the OConnell Center.

In winning their ninth straight, the fourth-ranked Gators (17-2, 7-0) held the Gamecocks to their fewest points in Southeastern Conference play since the school entered the league for the 1991-92 season (thats 22 seasons). South Carolina scored 10 points in the first half, on 3-for-21 shooting (thats 14.3 percent), were forced into 17 turnovers and trailed by as many as 46 points.

Those 10 points for USC were the least surrendered by the Gators against an SEC foe in the shot-clock era that began in 1986.

We just try to rip teams hearts out early, Boynton said of his team's defense.

On offense, UF shot 53 percent from the floor and a rip-roaring 57 from 3-point range (12-for-21), with Frazier, Boynton and Rosario accounting for nine of those treys. Boynton also had a career-high seven assists.

Now the third team in UF history to start an SEC season 7-0 (joining the 2002-03 and 06-07 repeat national champs), this band of Gators has won its league games by an average margin of 28.2 points, with the closest contest a 17-point victory at Georgia a week earlier.

Pretty soon, this team has to be challenged, right?

Well get challenged when a team challenges us, but were just going to keep playing our hardest each game, junior point guard Scottie Wilbekin said. If its not a close game, you can look at it as not a challenge, but were still just trying to get better every game.

Better in this game meant jumping to an 11-2 lead and denying the Gamecocks (12-8, 2-5) a field goal until the 13:40 mark. After that first one, Rosario scored 10 straight points, including a rare 4-point play (a 3-ball from the wing, plus a foul) as the Gators rolled to a 33-10 halftime advantage.

They did the same thing [to us] theyve done to every opponent this year, South Carolina coach Frank Martin said. Theyre rock-solid. Theyre sound. What allows them to be so good defensively is how good they are on offense. They rarely take a bad shot. They rarely turn it over. If you try to guard them, they dont panic.

Opponents do. UFs full-court pressure forced six USC turnovers in the games first six minutes, setting the tone for a 22-2 edge in points off giveaways.

The Gators scored the first eight points of the second half on a jump hook from center Patric Young (8 points, 8 rebounds), then 3-pointers from Boynton and Rosario. After point guard Bruce Ellington (7 points, 7 turnovers) hit a 3, Young made a jump shot and Boynton canned another 3 to make the score 46-13, with Martin calling a timeout at the 16:46 mark.

At that point, Florida had 16 field goals; South Carolina had four.

Our main thing was not to let them go on a run, Boynton said. We wanted to get every rebound and get out and push it.

In other words, keep the pedal to the floor.

Coach Donovan is always talking about the process, said Frazier, who was 4-for-6 from the arc and also grabbed seven rebounds. Its not so much about the opponent. Its about how we play.

And how they keep playing, no matter the score.

What Ive tried to get across to these guys is [that] when youre up by a large margin it does not give you the right not to do your job, Donovan said. The scoreboard has nothing to do with your responsibility on the court.

UF's players not only are absorbing that message, but living it. They're doing so against an SEC that is now being ridiculed on a national scale for its lack of competitiveness. The Gators are helping feed that ridicule, but certainly are not part of it.

This is one locked-in team.

We were afraid of this game, Yeguete said. We were on edge and thats where Coach D wants us to be.

Theyll be afraid of the next one, too.

Donovan will make sure of it.

The more you win like this, the more you show what youre capable of, Donovan said. What you want to do as a basketball team is not go backward a step, but continue to grow, get better and improve and understand that thats the No. 1 priority -- getting better.

One of the SECs better teams is up next. But this one was first. Clearly, the Gators got the message.

The rest of the league is getting it, too.

Thats why hes going to be a Hall of Fame coach, Wilbekin said. Hes doing a good job of keeping us motivated. Plus, I think the guys on our team understand that in order to do what we want to do, we have to stay focused.
Courtesy of: http://www.gatorzone.com


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  NCAA3   


Albright Men Tied For First Place After Thrilling Win Over Alvernia - by Eurobasket News

The Albright College men's basketball team held off local rival Alvernia and moved into a tie for first place on Wednesday with a thrilling 57-54 road victory.

Albright (17-3, 10-3) and Alvernia (15-4, 10-3) now share first place in the Commonwealth Conference, two games clear of the field with five games left in the regular season.

After Alvernia's Lamont Clark drove for two to bring the hosts to within four, the Crusaders got the ball back but Kyle Jordan (6'4''-G/F-92) took a big charge on Brian Parker with two minutes remaining. Albright's Dave Singleton isolated for a jumper with one minute left but it just barely rimmed out.

After Singleton tacked on one free throw to make it 56-51 with 38 seconds left, Khalil Bennett drained a quick three-pointer at the other end. Reuel Moore made one-of-two, and Clark's three-point buzzer beater attempt hit the front rim with a chance to force overtime.

A packed and boisterous crowd of 1,712 fans watched the tense contest that ended with five of 10 athletes on the floor playing with four fouls.

Singleton finished with a double-double, totaling 12 points and 11 rebounds. Jordan had 11 points and six boards, while senior center Zach Benjamin (6'8''-F) added six points, seven rebounds and two blocks.

Jordan had a nice up-fake inside to open the second half scoring and give the Lions a 28-22 lead. Sam Marrella soon sank a three-pointer from dead center to push the gap to double-digits at 33-22.

Alvernia's first point of the second half came with 14:17 to play, on a free throw from Parker. Parker then converted a three-point play for the Crusaders' first field goal in the opening 6:34 of the second half, cutting the deficit to 37-26.

Clark scored to bring the Crusaders closer at 41-34, but a huge three-pointer from Moore, right in front of the Albright bench, restored a double-digit lead at 44-34.

A great one-handed tip-in from Benjamin off a Cornell Mickens miss made it 49-39 Lions, but Charles Cooper hit a second-chance three with under four minutes to play. Albright called timeout, leading just 53-47 with the home crowd going wild. The Alvernia student section exploded again when Terrance Bridgers threw down a thunderous dunk with three minutes left to make it 55-49.

Both teams struggled to get going in a tight first half that featured 19 fouls and just 17 made field goals. Albright led 26-22 at the break.

Alvernia's Chris Davis opened with a three-pointer to beat the shot clock buzzer, and the hosts led 5-0 before Benjamin got Albright on the board with a hook shot.

Jordan was left open and drained a rare triple (just his second trey attempt of the year) to tie the game at 5-5, then gave his side the lead with a spot-up jumper.

Singleton's pull-up jumper soon made it 11-8 Albright, and Pedro Perez took a charge at the other end. Midway through the first half, Calvert Gantz checked into the game and immediately hit a shot to tie the game at 15-15.

Perez hit a pair of three-pointers to open up a 21-15 Albright advantage. The Crusaders kept it close heading into the break, including a great dump pass from to Davis to Clark in the final two minutes of the period.

Alvernia was led by Clark and Parker, with a game-high 17 points each. Parker had a double-double with 12 rebounds.

Albright will face another rival when the Lions welcome Lebanon Valley to the Bollman Center on Saturday.
Courtesy of: http://d3hoops.com


Falcons Drop Thriller, Warriors' Tip Called Good - by Eurobasket News

Grantham, PA - Leading by a single point in the final seconds against on Wednesday night, Messiah College fell victim to a buzzer-beating tip-in by the Warriors' Michael Rudy as the final horn sounded. Rudy tipped in a desperation shot from Jerald WIlliams, giving Lycoming a sudden 67-66 win over the Falcons.

Rudy's tip was ruled good on the court, simultaneously causing a celebration by the Warriors and a stunned disbelief from the Falcons. Oddly, the officials never came together to confirm the ruling.

Video replays showed the ball still on Rudy's hand as the clock expired.

"This was a tough loss for us," Messiah head coach Rick Van Pelt said. "It could be easy for us to focus on that last play, but we can't-- and we won't. There are a number of things that we needed to do better tonight, and we'll focus on those things."

"I'm proud of our guys tonight," Van Pelt added. "They really battled, and we put ourselves in a position to get a big win. Sometimes, it doesn't go your way."

The ending seemed fitting for the thrilling match-up of the two Commonwealth foes, as each team battled hard to break their identical 7-5 conference records.

Messiah grabbed early momentum on their home court, taking an 18-11 on a three-pointer by Taylor Groff at the 13:27 mark of the first-half. Groff would add a fourth three-pointer a few minutes later to keep the Falcons in front 22-18.

Lycoming responded by taking a 26-25 lead, with Chris Foreman hitting two shots of his own from downtown. Foreman would collect 11 points in the first twenty minutes for the Warriors.

" (Foreman) was a tough match-up for us tonight," Van Pelt said. "He kept them in it in the first-half, and really spaced the court."

The Falcons, though, continued to execute against the Warriors' man-to-man offense, and took a 30-27 lead on two free-throws byChristyan DeVan with just over three minutes to the break. Layups in the half-court by Derek Mosley and Zac Hoy put Messiah up 36-31 on the their final two possessions, as they went in the intermission with the five-point lead.

The second-half was played as tightly as the first, with Ihsaan Davis putting Lycoming ahead 49-48 at the free-throw line with 8:28 left to play. From there, both Derek Mosley and Foreman hit three-pointers on back-to-back possessions for their teams. After Rudy hit a jumper to give Lycoming a 57-54 lead, Mosley scored on a turnaround in the post to again make it a one-point game.

But Foreman continued his hot streak from deep, hitting another two three-pointers to give the Warriors a 63-58 lead. His second of the pair came off a flare screen to the left wing with Brad Bolen quickly closing out.

The bucket would be Foreman's seventh made three-pointer on the night, as he finished with 25 points for the Warriors.

"I thought we did a pretty good job overall on our defensive end, but Foreman got to us," Van Pelt said. "We needed to not let him keep getting the looks that he was getting."

After Bolen scored on a full-court drive to the hoops, a paint score by Davis gave Lycoming a 65-60 lead with 1:35 left to play.

DeVan made it a one-possession game with a slashing drive on the right side, with Messiah calling a timeout to set up their full-court defense. Their move paid off, as Zac Hoy managed to force a jumpball on the Warriors' inbounds pass to secure possession for the Falcons. Bolen took advantage with another driving score, though he missed his free-throw in his attempt at a three-point-play.

Playing defense with a 14-second difference between the game clock and shot clock, DeVan committed an ill-advised foul to send Davis to the free-throw line for a one-and-one attempt. His shot was short, with Bolen's rebound setting up a drive to the hoop by Hoy.

Hoy was fouled before he made it to the rim, and made the front end of his one-and-one to knot the game at 65-65. With just seven seconds left, Hoy knocked in another free-throw to give the Falcons a 66-65 lead.

Now executing in the full-court, Lycoming's Jerald Williams was forced to the left corner for a desperation, leaning jumper from fifteen feet. His shot fell short of the rim, with Rudy's tip-in on the left side hitting off the backboard before dropping through the net.

The bucket set off a muffled celebration, as the Messiah-heavy crowd assumed the score would be waved off. But one of the three officials called the bucket good, with Lycoming rushing the court as the Falcons stood confused.

The win moves Lycoming to 8-5, keeping them in third place in the Commonwealth. Messiah falls to 7-6 in the conference, as they now stand in fourth place behind Alvernia (10-3), Albright (10-3), Lycoming, and Arcadia (8-5).

"This was a huge game for us, and it shows how close our conference is," Van Pelt said. "Every game we play is going to be a battle, and it's not easy to win. When you win, it feels great. And when you lose, you don't feel good about it. We'll need to improve and get ready for the next one."

Though ending in defeat, the Falcons did perform well in a few areas. They held Kevin Anthony and Anthony Martin-- two of Lycoming's more reliable scorers-- to just 19 combined points. In total, they held the Warriors to just 42.4% shooting from the field.

But Messiah also allowed 13 offensive rebounds to the Warriors, with Lycoming scoring 10 second-chance points in the second half alone. The Falcons also turned the ball over 19 times.

Foreman's 25 points were backed up by 12 points from Rudy and 10 points from Anthony. Groff led the Falcons with 18 points and eight rebounds, with Bolen and Mosley scoring 13 points and 12 points, respectively.

Messiah will look to rebound from the loss on Saturday, when they host Arcadia University for a 7:00 game. As mentioned, the Knights sit ahead of the Falcons at 8-5 in the Commonwealth.
Courtesy of: http://d3hoops.com


Offensive Woes Continue to Haunt York in Loss to Marymount - by Eurobasket News

ARLINGTON, VA The York College men's basketball team continued their recent struggles as the Spartans dropped a 67-44 decision t Marymount University in a Capital Athletic Conference contest Wednesday night in Arlington, VA.

The loss drops the Spartans in a last-place tie with the Saints, as both teams are now 2-6 in the CAC. The Spartans now stand at 7-13 overall while Marymount improves to 7-14.

The Spartans got off to a good start as the Green and White sprinted out to a 7-2 lead. The Spartans maintained the lead but wouldn't be able to push it any higher than five. With York leading 14-9, the Saints went on a 16-3 run, turning their five-point deficit into an eight-point lead. York halted the run with a pair of Jeremy Skoloda (6'2''-G) (Leola, Pa./Contestoga Valley) free throws but the Saints scored seven of the next ten points to take a 32-22 lead to the break.

The Spartans struggled from the field in the opening half as they went just 8-for-23 (34.8%) from the field while the Saints ripped the nets to the tune of 54.2% (13-for-24) shooting including a red-hot 4-for-5 from three.

The Saints came out of the break and pushed their lead to 15 just over four minutes into the second half. The Spartans continued to chip away but Marymount continued to answer back. York fashioned a modest 7-0 run midway through the half but Antonio Rouse hit back to back-to-back dagger threes to push the Saint lead back to 13 with 6:21 left in the game. Rouse's big shots kick started a 13-0 Saints run that effectively ended the contest. York got no closer than 18 the rest of the way.

Rouse led the Saints as the guard had 12 points, four assists, and three rebounds in his 25 minutes of work. Rouse was a very efficient 4-of-6 from the floor including 3-of-4 from downtown. Post player Reed Scott (6'7''-F) was the other Saint in double figures as he notched 10 points to go along with his six rebounds and his two blocked shots.

The Saints played 12 players and 10 of those players scored two points or more.

York was led by Skoloda as the senior was York's only double figure scorer with 13 points. Senior Todd Maciejewski (Red Lion, Pa./Red Lion) added a game-high nine rebounds to go along with his eight points while seniors Mitch Kemp (York, Pa./York Suburban) and Chad Styer (Elizabethtown, Pa./Elizabethtown) each added eight markers of their own.

The game continued a disturbing trend for the Green and White. After York romped over this same Marymount team on January 12, the Spartans are 1-4 in their last five games. During the slide, York is averaging just 50 points per game while they are allowing opponents 68.8 points per game. The culprit is the Spartans' shooting as York is making just 38.2% of their attempts from the floor, 23.6% from three and only 65.6% from the charity stripe. York has been held below 50 points in three of the five games. They are being outrebounded by over six caroms per game while they are committing an average of 16 turnovers per game.

In Wednesday's game, the Spartans shot just 33.3% (13-for-39) from the floor, 33.3% (4-for-12) from three and only 53.8% (14-for-26) from the stripe. Conversely, the Saints had their way with the Spartan defense as they shot 51.2% from the floor and a blistering 56.3% (9-for-16) from three.

The Saints finished the game with a 33-26 total edge on the glass while York had 15 turnovers, which Marymount turned into 13 points.

The road doesn't get any easier for the Green and White as they must travel to Salisbury to face the Sea Gulls in another key league contest. Tip time at Maggs Gymnasium is set for 4:00 pm on Saturday.
Courtesy of: http://d3hoops.com


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  NORWAY   


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

23-year old guard Thomas Ble (185-G-89) had an amazing evening in the last round for second-ranked Centrum and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 21.
He had a double-double of 33 points and 10 rebounds, while his team beat Froya Basket (#4, 9-10) 83-72. The game was between two of the league's top four teams. Centrum maintains the 2nd position in Norwegian league. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Centrum will need more victories to improve their 13-6 record. In the team's last game Ble had a remarkable 55.6% from 2-point range. He turned to be Centrum's top player in his first season with the team. Ble has impressive league stats. He is in league's top in points (8th best: 18.4ppg), rebounds (8th best: 6.3rpg) and averages solid 52.4% FGP. Worth to mention Ble played also at Eurobasket Summer League, which helped him get the job in pro basketball.

Second best performed player last round was Ronald Timus (197-G/F-84) of Ammerud Bskt. He is American swingman in his first season at Ammerud Bskt. In the last game Timus recorded impressive double-double of 28 points and 11 rebounds. Bad luck as Ammerud Bskt lost that game 79-102 to the higher-ranked Froya Basket (#4, 9-10). Ammerud Bskt are still at the very bottom. 16 lost games are too many comparing to just three victories Ammerud Bskt managed to get this year. Timus is a newcomer at Ammerud Bskt and quickly became one of team's most reliable players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 19.4ppg (#5). His other stats are also decent: 7.2rpg and 3.2apg.

Third place about best performers goes to another Centrum's star - forward Marko Lepovic (194-F-94). Lepovic showcased his all-around game by recording 11 points, fifteen rebounds (!!!) and four assists in the last round. He was another key player of Centrum, helping his team with a 83-72 win against #4 ranked Froya Basket in a game of the week. Centrum needs these victories very badly if they think about taking over top position in the standings. Their record at this point is 13 victories and 6 lost games. Lepovic has a great season in Norway. After 18 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in rebounds with 6.8rpg (7th best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Reno Silavs (180-PG-91) of Froya Basket - 29 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assists
5. Miilah Kombat (198-F-88) of Froya Basket - 23 points and 6 rebounds
6. Peter Bullock (198-F/C-82) of Froya Basket - 17 points and 18 rebounds
7. Reno Silavs (180-PG-91) of Froya Basket - 23 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assists
8. Ryan Ferranti (195-F/G-86) of Baerum Basket - 17 points, 9 rebounds and 3 assists
9. Elias Westerlund (197-F-88) of Asker Aliens - 19 points and 8 rebounds
10. Stian Mjos (182-PG-89) of Baerum Basket - 20 points, 8 rebounds and 3 assists

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


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  PHILIPPINES   


Global Port receives Japeth, Mercado in three-team trade - by Aris Ignacio

Versatile former national player Japeth Aguilar (208-C-85, college: W.Kentucky) finally gets his wish.

Aguilar, along with Meralco Bolts starting guard Solomon Mercado (181-PG-84, college: Biola, CA) will be teaming up in Global Port Batang Pier in separate deals approved by the PBA Commissioner's Office yesterday. The Talk N Text Tropang Texters forward was send to the Batang Pier for center Rabeh Al-Hussaini (199-F/C-88) while the Bolts sent Mercado, forward Yousef Al-Jamal and reserve players Kelly Nabong and Jaypee Belencion in exchange for improving guards Rey Guevarra (193-F-85), Joshua Vanlandingham (193-F), rookie forward Vic Manuel (193-F) and a 2015 first round pick.

Waived by the Santa Cruz Warriors in the NBA Developmental League, Aguilar had asked the Tropang Texters management to be traded to another team and will only come back to the league if his mother team had already consummated a deal.

Junel Baculi , who was tapped as head coach of Global Port replacing interim Glenn Capacio , admitted that because of the arrival of new players in the team, chemistry will be a main task that the coaching staff will look into with the opening of the new conference is just a week away. With Aguilar and Mercado joining the mix plus superstars Gary David (188-G/F-78) and former two-time league MVP Willie Miller (180-PG-77) as holdovers, Batang Pier looks formidable in paper but it poised to give rotation problems in the guard position, Baculi added. Global Port will meet the retooled Petron Blaze Boosters on the first game of a blockbuster double-header on the PBA Commissioner's Cup opening day on February 8.


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  POLAND   

DBE Stats Leaders

Points Per Game
 Walter HODGE
  Stelmet ZG
  (183-PG-86)
  Avg: 20.6
 1. Hodge, Stelmet ZG20.6 
 2. Dloniak, Siarka J.20.2 
 3. McCauley, Polph.17.4 
 4. Hosley, Stelmet ZG16.1 
 5. Mosley, Kotwica15.9 
 6. Dylewicz, Trefl So.15.6 
 7. Carter, Polpharma15.0 
 8. Blassingame, Assec.14.5 
 9. Chylinski, PGE T.14.2 
 10. Montgomery, Rosa13.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Nicchaeus DOAKS
  Siarka J.
  (202-F-87)
  Avg: 8.6
 1. Doaks, Siarka J.8.6 
 2. Harris, AZS K.8.4 
 3. Adams, Rosa Radom7.8 
 4. Stevic, Stelmet ZG7.8 
 5. McCauley, Polph.7.8 
 6. Gadri-N., Energa C.7.7 
 7. Cel, PGE Turow7.3 
 8. Boykin, Anwil7.2 
 9. Rothbart, Start G.7.1 
 10. Dylewicz, Trefl S.6.9 
Assists Per Game
 Krzysztof SZUBARGA
  Anwil
  (182-PG-84)
  Avg: 6.9
 1. Szubarga, Anwil6.9 
 2. Turner, Trefl Sopot6.7 
 3. Hodge, Stelmet ZG5.6 
 4. Blassingame, Assec.5.4 
 5. Jefferson, Kotwica4.9 
 6. Abernethy, Energa4.7 
 7. Koszarek, Asseco4.3 
 8. Skibniewski, AZS K.3.9 
 9. Chylinski, PGE T.3.8 
 10. Long, Siarka J.3.6 
Steals Per Game
 Walter HODGE
  Stelmet ZG
  (183-PG-86)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Hodge, Stelmet ZG2.1 
 2. Hosley, Stelmet ZG2.0 
 3. Jefferson, Kotwica1.8 
 4. Mosley, Kotwica1.7 
 5. Alexander, Siarka1.7 
 6. Szubarga, Anwil1.7 
 7. Jackson, PGE Turow1.6 
 8. Koszarek, Asseco1.6 
 9. Dylewicz, Trefl So.1.3 
 10. Arabas, Kotwica1.3 
Blocks Per Game
 Bertengeh GADRI-NICHOLSON
  Energa C.
  (208-C-83)
  Avg: 1.7
 1. Gadri-N., Energa C.1.7 
 2. Kulig, PGE Turow1.4 
 3. Doaks, Siarka J.1.3 
 4. Lapeta, Stelmet ZG1.3 
 5. Harris, AZS K.1.3 
 6. Looby, Trefl Sopot1.3 
 7. Zigeranovic, PGE T.1.0 
 8. Boykin, Anwil0.9 
 9. Rothbart, Start G.0.9 
 10. Alexander, Siarka0.9 


Anwil adds ex Rosa player - by Maciej Paszyn

After Arvydas Eitutavicius (188-PG-82, college: American) shoulder injury Anwil Wloclawek needed a role player on position point guard. For this reason club was looking for a guard with experience in TBL league. Team management decided to sign-up Nikola Vasojevic (195-G-86, agency: BeoExcell), who started this season in Rosa Radom. In 16 games Serbian PG scored 10,4 points and made 2,9 assists in average. He left the team when Rosa signed-up Nic Wise (178-PG-87, college: Arizona). Nikola realizes that he will be role player: I am pleased that I found my way to Anwil, because its great chance for me to show that I can play on the highest level. Im aware that I will be forced to heavy fight over every minute, but if I already run out of the court, I will certainly give everything from myself. Playing with Krzysztof Szubarga (182-PG-84), which I respect very much, will be also great challenge for me. I remember him from the court very well, and I think that hes one of the best point guards in the TBL. I hope that well create very good duet outside the basket said Vasojevic.

The contract is in force to the end of season.



AZS Koszalin could sign Alexander Franklin - by Eurobasket Center

AZS Koszalin (TBL) is about to agree terms with 25-year old American power forward Alexander Franklin (196-103kg-88, college: Siena) who currently plays Soles de Mexicali in Mexico. In 13 LNBP games this season he had 14.0ppg, 5.9rpg, 2.4apg and 1.6spg. Franklin ended the last season at Titanes (LNB) in Dominican Rep. league. But the most of that year Franklin spent at Indios (BSN) in Puerto Rican league. In 21 games he recorded 6.4ppg and 3.6rpg. He helped them to win the league title. The other team Franklin played that season for was Lobe_Huesca (LEB Gold) in Spanish league. In 19 games last year he was fifth best scorer with impressive 16.2ppg and averaged 6.4rpg, 2.7apg and 2.5spg (leader !!!). Another team he played that season for was JA Vichy (ProB) in French league. In 10 games he was fifth best scorer with 13.5ppg and had 5.6rpg, 1.9apg and 1.1spg (leader !!!).
The list of the past achievements is quite long as Franklin was voted Eurobasket.com All-Spanish LEB Gold Honorable Mention in 2011. He represented USA at the Olympic Games Additional Qualifying Round in Caracas (Venezuela) last year. His stats at that event were 2 games: 5.0ppg, 2.0rpg, 1.0apg.
He attended Siena College until 2010 and it will be his third season as a professional player.

By Eurobasket Data Center


PGE Turow adds Robinson to their roster - by Eurobasket News

PGE Turow Zgorzelec (TBL) added to their roster 27-year old American (has also Guinean passport) point guard Russell Robinson (185-90kg-86). He just played at Angelico Biella in Italian SerieA. In 15 games this season he recorded 12.6ppg, 2.3rpg, 2.1apg and 2.4spg. The last season Robinson played at Trabzonspor (TB2L) in Turkish league. In 18 games last year he averaged 13.4ppg, 2.4rpg, 3.2apg and 2.1spg (in top 2). He also played at JSF Nanterre (ProA) in French league earlier that season. In 18 games he averaged 13.4ppg, 2.4rpg and 3.2apg. The other team Robinson played that season for was FIATC Joventut (ACB) in Spanish league. In 34 games that year he averaged 9.6ppg, 2.4rpg, 2.8apg and 1.8spg.
In 2008 he was drafted by Reno Bighorns (D-League) in second round (23rd overall).
The list of the past achievements is quite long as Robinson won D-League West Division championship title in 2010. He was also voted Big 12 All-Defensive Team back in 2006,2007 and 2008.
Robinson is quite experienced player. He has played also professionally in USA, NBA (Cleveland Cavaliers), Turkey (Erdemir) and D-League (Maine Red Claws).
On Robinson: A combo guard who can score in a number of ways... Has the ball handling abilities to run the point... Brings toughness and tenacity... Has the potential to be solid defensively.

By Eurobasket Data Center


Gawrzydek's double-double lands him 1Liga Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News

25-year old center Kamil Gawrzydek (210-C-87) had an amazing evening in the last round for Sokol Lancut and receives a Eurobasket.com 1Liga Player of the Week award for round 21.
He had a double-double of 20 points and 15 rebounds, while his team outclassed Astoria Bydg. (#13, 8-13) with 26-point margin 97-71. Sokol Lancut is placed at 4th position in Polish 1Liga. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Sokol Lancut will need more victories to improve their 13-8 record. It was one of impressive evenings for Gawrzydek as usually he does not deliver so high stats. Kamil Gawrzydek averages this season 7.1ppg and 6.0rpg.

Second best performed player last round was Michal Woloszyn (202-F-84) of MKS DG. He is a forward in his second season at MKS DG. In the last game Woloszyn recorded impressive 29 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists. Bad luck as MKS DG was edged by the lower-ranked Spojnia (#10, 10-11) 72-70. MKS DG managed to keep the same 3rd spot in the standings. His team's 13-8 record is not bad at all. Woloszyn is well-known at MKS DG and he already established his position as one of the team's leaders.

Third place about best performers goes to forward Jakub Dluski (200-F-87) of league's second-best AZS Kutno. Dluski scored 20 points and grabbed sixteen rebounds (!!!). He was a key player of AZS Kutno, leading his team to a 74-67 win against the lower-ranked P.Cukier SIDEn (#9, 11-10). AZS Kutno is closer and closer to the top of the standings. They will still need more victories. But 16-4 record is not that bad... Dluski has a great season in Poland. After 20 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 15.5ppg (4th best) and rebounds with 8.9rpg (4th best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Karol Pytys (202-C-85) of AZS Radex - 25 points and 6 rebounds
5. Przemyslaw Luszczewski (195-F-80) of Start Lublin - 20 points and 10 rebounds
6. Wojciech Fras (203-F-91) of Astoria Bydg. - 15 points and 11 rebounds
7. Marcel Wilczek (204-F/C-86) of Start Lublin - 10 points and 16 rebounds
8. Tomasz Celej (198-F/G-78) of Start Lublin - 25 points and 5 rebounds
9. Lukasz Pacocha (182-PG-82) of AZS Radex - 13 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists
10. Adam Metelski (208-C-83) of AZS PP - 12 points and 17 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)


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


Balkman will not play for Guayama: - by Luis Modestti

Renaldo Balkman (201-F-84, college: S.Carolina) sent a letter to Brujos de Guayama where it states that he has no intentions of playing there this season or in the near future. He is open to playing for other teams in BSN.

Guayama extended a max offer to Balkman but it was declined on January 24. Despite that Guayama selected him with the first pick.

Balkman is currently active with Petron Blaze in the Philippines where he netted 28 points in a 90-83 win over Ginebra Kings during the preseason. He is expected to make his Commissioners Cup debut on February 8.


*****************************************************
  QATAR   

Standings

D1 Standings
 1. Al Rayyan 13-3 
 2. Al Sadd 13-3 
 3. Al Arabi 11-5 
 4. Al Jaysh 11-5 
 5. Al Gharafa 9-7 
 6. Al Wakrah 5-11 
 7. Al Shamal 4-12 
 8. Qatar 4-12 
 9. Al Ahli 2-14 

Regular Season: Round 18

Jan. 30: Al Sadd - Al Rayyan 71-61
Jan. 29: Al Shamal - Al Gharafa 62-58
Jan. 30: Al Ahli - Al Arabi 55-68
Jan. 29: Al Wakrah - Qatar 49-73

Semi-Finals: Round 1

Feb. 5: Al Rayyan - Al Jaysh
Feb. 5: Al Sadd - Al Arabi


D1 Stats

Points Per Game
 Chauncey LESLIE
  Qatar
  (183-G/F-81)
  Avg: 24.6
 1. Leslie, Qatar24.6 
 2. Ayeni, Al Wakrah24.1 
 3. Jalloh, Al Arabi22.8 
 4. Nwigwe, Al Shamal20.6 
 5. Byrd, Al Arabi19.6 
 6. Watson, Al Rayyan17.8 
 7. Musa, Al Rayyan17.0 
 8. Moliva, Qatar16.4 
 9. N''Diaye, Al Gharafa16.3 
 10. Mofunanya, Al Ar.15.9 
Rebounds Per Game
 Oumar SECK
  Qatar
  (--)
  Avg: 15.7
 1. Seck, Qatar15.7 
 2. Byrd, Al Arabi13.6 
 3. Mofunanya, Al Ar.13.6 
 4. Ayeni, Al Wakrah12.9 
 5. Moliva, Qatar11.0 
 6. Southall, Al Sadd10.4 
 7. Sarr, Al Ahli10.3 
 8. Zaidan, Al Ahli9.6 
 9. Adako, Al Gharafa9.4 
 10. Jalloh, Al Arabi8.2 
Assists Per Game
 Boney WATSON
  Al Rayyan
  (183-PG-78)
  Avg: 6.1
 1. Watson, Al Rayyan6.1 
 2. Williams, Al Shamal6.1 
 3. Leslie, Qatar5.3 
 4. De La Rosa, Al Sa.5.3 
 5. Abilmoni, Al Jaysh4.8 
 6. Jalloh, Al Arabi4.6 
 7. Nwigwe, Al Shamal4.2 
 8. El Hadary, Al Arabi3.8 
 9. Mohammed, Al Jaysh3.8 
 10. Mousa, Al Sadd3.7 
Steals Per Game
 Fadi Hani ABILMONI
  Al Jaysh
  (184-PG-)
  Avg: 2.9
 1. Abilmoni, Al Jaysh2.9 
 2. Leslie, Qatar2.6 
 3. Saad, Al Sadd2.5 
 4. Ayeni, Al Wakrah2.5 
 5. Musa, Al Rayyan2.3 
 6. Jalloh, Al Arabi2.3 
 7. Williams, Al Shamal2.1 
 8. N''Diaye, Al Gharafa2.1 
 9. Mohammed, Al Ahli2.1 
 10. Moliva, Qatar2.1 
Blocks Per Game
 William BYRD
  Al Arabi
  (201-G/F-85)
  Avg: 3.8
 1. Byrd, Al Arabi3.8 
 2. Southall, Al Sadd2.8 
 3. Sarr, Al Ahli1.2 
 4. Seck, Qatar1.2 
 5. Adako, Al Gharafa1.0 
 6. Ayeni, Al Wakrah0.9 
 7. Moliva, Qatar0.9 
 8. Ali Saeed, Al Ra.0.8 
 9. Marone Ngom, Al Ja.0.8 
 10. Zaidan, Al Ahli0.7 


D1 Round 18: Al Rayyan wins the Regular Season with 13-3 record - by Eurobasket News

The most crucial game of the last round was a loss of Al Rayyan (13-3) in Doha on Wednesday night. Visitors were defeated by Al Sadd (13-3) 71-61. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Al Rayyan. It was a key game for the top position in the league as both teams had the same 12-3 record before this meeting. It was a good game for Senegalese forward Ibrahima Thomas (210-87, college: Cincinnati) who led his team to a victory with 18 points and 9 rebounds. International swingman Khalid Suliman (198-87) contributed with 12 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. American point guard Boney Watson (183-78, college: Sam Houston St.) replied with 19 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists for Al Rayyan. Al Sadd have a solid four-game winning streak. They used an opportunity after Al Rayyan lost their game and moved up joining them at the top position which they share with defeated Al Rayyan.
Another interesting game was a derby match between two teams from Doha: Al Shamal (#7) and Al Gharafa (#5). Al Shamal (4-12) won against visiting Al Gharafa (9-7) 62-58. Nigerian-American guard Mezie Nwigwe (193-88, college: Robert Morris) had a double-double by scoring 17 points, 14 rebounds and 4 assists to lead the charge for the winners and Lyvann Obame chipped in 12 points and 14 rebounds during the contest. The best for the losing side was Nigerian forward Manny Adako (203-87, college: Northeastern, agency: Court Side) with a double-double by scoring 17 points and 10 rebounds. Newly promoted Al Shamal maintains seventh position with 4-12 record, which they share with Qatar. Al Gharafa at the other side keeps the fifth place with seven games lost.
The game between 6th ranked Al Wakrah (5-11) and eighth ranked Qatar Sports Club (4-12) in Al Wakrah on Tuesday ended with biggest points difference. Guests from Doha outscored Al Wakrah 73-49. Oumar Seck notched a double-double by scoring 14 points, 19 rebounds, 6 assists and 4 steals to lead the effort. Even 17 points and 5 rebounds by Temi Soyebo did not help to save the game for Al Wakrah. Qatar Sports Club moved-up to seventh place, which they share with Al Shamal. Loser Al Wakrah keeps the sixth position with 11 games lost.
Another interesting game was again a derby between two teams from Doha: Al Arabi (#4) and Al Ahli (#9). Al Ahli was defeated at home 55-68 and even the fact of playing on their own court did not help. The best player for the winners was William Byrd who had a double-double by scoring 22 points and 15 rebounds. Al Arabi's coach Hatem Mamlouk allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Al Arabi (11-5) moved-up to third place, which they share with Al Jaysh. Al Ahli at the other side stay at the bottom position with 14 games lost.

Al Ahli - Al Arabi 55-68

Another interesting game was again a derby between two teams from Doha: Al Arabi (#4) and Al Ahli (#9). Al Ahli was defeated at home 55-68 and even the fact of playing on their own court did not help. Al Arabi forced 19 Al Ahli turnovers. The best player for the winners was American swingman William Byrd (201-85, college: Ark.-Pine Bluff) who had a double-double by scoring 22 points and 15 rebounds. American-Nigerian forward Alvin Mofunanya (203-87, college: Fair Dickinson, agency: Dream Team Management) chipped in a double-double by scoring 14 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists. Four Al Arabi players scored in double figures. Al Arabi's coach Hatem Mamlouk allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. At the other side the best for losing team was Senegalese forward Ibou Gueye Sarr (204-83) who recorded a double-double by scoring 20 points and 16 rebounds and Guinean Youla Mohammed Beka added 14 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists respectively. Al Arabi (11-5) moved-up to third place, which they share with Al Jaysh. Al Ahli at the other side stay at the bottom position with 14 games lost.
Top scorers:
Al Ahli: I.Gueye Sarr 20+16reb+3ast, Y.Mohammed Beka 14+7reb+4ast, S.Mohammed 10+1reb+1ast, H.Zaidan 5+6reb+2ast, O.Ahmed Omar 4+3reb+3ast, R.Brock 1+1reb+1ast
Al Arabi: W.Byrd 22+15reb+3ast, A.Mofunanya 14+10reb+5ast, A.Jalloh 11+1reb+2ast, M.El Hadary 10+1reb+2ast, M.Faraj 8+1reb, H.Omar 3+8reb+4ast
gschID: 232442


Al Sadd - Al Rayyan 71-61

The most crucial game of the last round was a loss of Al Rayyan (13-3) in Doha on Wednesday night. Visitors were defeated by Al Sadd (13-3) 71-61. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Al Rayyan. It was a key game for the top position in the league as both teams had the same 12-3 record before this meeting. It was a good game for Senegalese forward Ibrahima Thomas (210-87, college: Cincinnati) who led his team to a victory with 18 points and 9 rebounds. International swingman Khalid Suliman (198-87) contributed with 12 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Five Al Sadd players scored in double figures. American point guard Boney Watson (183-78, college: Sam Houston St.) replied with 19 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists and international Erfan Ali Saeed (198-83) added 13 points and 11 rebounds in the effort for Al Rayyan. Al Sadd have a solid four-game winning streak. They used an opportunity after Al Rayyan lost their game and moved up joining them at the top position which they share with defeated Al Rayyan.
Top scorers:
Al Rayyan: B.Watson 19+7reb+7ast, E.Ali Saeed 13+11reb+1ast, T.Ngombo 10+9reb+4ast, M.Saleem 8+3reb, Y.Ismail Musa 7+9reb+1ast, M.Saleem Ambadi 4+2reb+1ast
Al Sadd: I.Thomas 18+9reb+2ast, D.Mousa 13+1reb+6ast, K.Suliman 12+8reb+3ast, A.Saad 10+7reb+2ast, M.Southall 10+11reb+2ast, C.De La Rosa 8+3reb+5ast
gschID: 232443


Al Wakrah - Qatar 49-73

The game between 6th ranked Al Wakrah (5-11) and eighth ranked Qatar Sports Club (4-12) in Al Wakrah on Tuesday ended with biggest points difference. Guests from Doha outscored Al Wakrah 73-49. Qatar Sports Club had a 36-24 advantage in offensive rebounds. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 24 assists comparing to just 11 passes made by Al Wakrah's players. Senegalese Oumar Seck notched a double-double by scoring 14 points, 19 rebounds, 6 assists and 4 steals to lead the effort and Cameroonian forward Gaston Moliva (202-85, college: Richmond) supported him with 17 points, 11 rebounds and 5 assists. Even 17 points and 5 rebounds by American point guard Temi Soyebo (183-84, college: NC-Wilmington) did not help to save the game for Al Wakrah. Temi Wale added 12 points and 11 rebounds. Qatar Sports Club moved-up to seventh place, which they share with Al Shamal. Loser Al Wakrah keeps the sixth position with 11 games lost.
Top scorers:
Al Wakrah: T.Soyebo 17+5reb+2ast, T.Wale 12+11reb, A.Abrahem 9+6reb+1ast, A.LMUFTA Sultan 5+2reb+2ast, M.Muftah 4+2reb, S.Mohammad 2+1reb
Qatar: G.Moliva 17+11reb+5ast, O.Seck 14+19reb+6ast, A.Khalifa 13+1reb+5ast, H.Jasemi 9+4reb, S.Al Malki 8+2reb, A.Abdallah 7+5reb+3ast
gschID: 232441


Al Shamal - Al Gharafa 62-58

Another interesting game was a derby match between two teams from Doha: Al Shamal (#7) and Al Gharafa (#5). Al Shamal (4-12) won against visiting Al Gharafa (9-7) 62-58. Nigerian-American guard Mezie Nwigwe (193-88, college: Robert Morris) had a double-double by scoring 17 points, 14 rebounds and 4 assists to lead the charge for the winners and Gabonese power forward Lyvann Obame (201, college: Monroe Coll.) chipped in 12 points and 14 rebounds during the contest. The best for the losing side was Nigerian forward Manny Adako (203-87, college: Northeastern, agency: Court Side) with a double-double by scoring 17 points and 10 rebounds and Egyptian guard Omar Salem (190) produced a double-double by scoring 12 points and 15 rebounds. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Newly promoted Al Shamal maintains seventh position with 4-12 record, which they share with Qatar. Al Gharafa at the other side keeps the fifth place with seven games lost.
Top scorers:
Al Gharafa: M.Adako 17+10reb+1ast, R.Wright 14+3reb+1ast, O.N'Diaye 13+9reb+3ast, O.Salem 12+15reb, M.Abdullah Ali 2+1reb, M.A hmad 0+2reb+2ast
Al Shamal: M.Nwigwe 17+14reb+4ast, H.Omer Ismail 15+3reb+2ast, L.Obame 12+14reb+3ast, C.Bere 11+3reb+1ast, T.Williams 7+9reb+6ast, S.Khalifa 0
gschID: 232440



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

27-year old swingman William Byrd (201-G/F-85) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Al Arabi and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 18.
He had a double-double of 22 points and 15 rebounds, while his team beat Al Ahli (#9, 2-14) 68-55. Al Arabi is placed at 3rd position in Qatari league. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Al Arabi will need more victories to improve their 11-5 record. It's Byrd's second year at Al Arabi and it's hard to imagine this team without him. University of Arkansas-Pine Bluff graduate has very impressive stats this year. Byrd is in league's top in points (5th best: 19.6ppg), rebounds (2nd best: 13.6rpg) and averages solid 3.8bpg and 60.7% FGP.

Second best performed player last round was Oumar Seck of Qatar. He is Senegalese in his second season at Qatar. In the last game Seck recorded impressive double-double of 14 points and 19 rebounds. Of course he lead Qatar to another comfortable win outscoring slightly higher-ranked Al Wakrah (#6, 5-11) 73-49. Qatar's 8th position in the standings has not changed. 12 lost games are too many comparing to just four victories Qatar managed to get this year. Seck is well-known at Qatar and he already established his position as one of the team's leaders.

Third place about best performers goes to another Qatar's star - forward Gaston Moliva (202-F-85). Moliva showcased his all-around game by recording 17 points, eleven rebounds (!!!) and five assists in the last round. He was another key player of Qatar, helping his team with a 73-49 easy win against slightly higher-ranked Al Wakrah (#6, 5-11). Qatar can only dream about fighting for top spots in the league. They have rather bad season and 4-12 record places them close to the bottom of the standings. Too bad for Moliva he does not play for a better team. But maybe if he did, his season stats would not be that high. Moliva has individually a great season in Qatar. After 16 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 16.4ppg (8th best) and rebounds with 11.0rpg (5th best). He also has 2.1spg and FGP: 50.7%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Boney Watson (183-PG-78) of Al Rayyan - 19 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists
5. Alvin Mofunanya (203-F-87) of Al Arabi - 14 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists
6. Mezie Nwigwe (193-G-88) of Al Shamal - 17 points, 14 rebounds and 4 assists
7. Michael Southall (210-C-82) of Al Sadd - 10 points, 11 rebounds and 2 assists
8. Ibrahima Thomas (210-F-87) of Al Sadd - 18 points, 9 rebounds and 2 assists
9. Ibou Gueye Sarr (204-F-83) of Al Ahli - 20 points, 16 rebounds and 3 assists
10. Omar Salem (190-G) of Al Gharafa - 12 points and 15 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)


*****************************************************
  ROMANIA   

Standings - D2

Liga I Stage Two Standings
Group I
 1. Brasov 0-0 
 2. CSU Galati 0-0 
 3. Ploiesti II 0-0 
 4. Steaua 0-0 
 5. Vabova 0-0 
Group II
 1. Concordia 0-0 
 2. Phoenix Corona 0-0 
 3. Politehnica 0-0 
 4. Rapid B. 0-0 
 5. Stiinta B. 0-0 
Stage One Standings



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


EuroLeague: Real outlast CSKA in Madrid - by Eurobasket News

Real Madrid - CSKA 86:78 (OT)

Real Madrid earned the sixth straight win in EuroLeague Top 16. They held off CSKA in overtime drama in Madrid to remain on top of Group E at a perfect 6-0 record. Jaycee Carroll (188-G-83, agency: Priority Sports) fired 31 points nailing 6/8 three-pointers to lead all scorers.
It was a tough battle from start to finish. CSKA enjoyed a 15:14 lead after ten minutes of action. Real stiffened defensively in the second term. The hosts held CSKA to 12 points in the period and surged ahead for a 33:27 halftime lead. CSKA opened the second half with five points in a row to narrow the deficit. Soon Kaun tied things up at 34. Zoran Zoran Erceg (210-PF-85) capped the period with two free throws as the Moscow team eked out a 44:43 lead at the third break. The lead changed hands for numerous times throughout the fourth quarter. Nikola Mirotic (207-F/C-91) gave Real a 65:62 lead with 93 seconds left in regulation. Sonny Weems answered with four points in a row as CSKA surged ahead 66:65. Rudy Fernandez (198-SF-85) sank a free throw to level things up at 66. Jaycee Carroll and Milos Teodosic (195-PG-87) exchanged misses from beyond the arc as the teams headed into overtime. Rudy Fernandez opened the extra period with a triple to set the tone. However CSKA quickly erased the deficit as Milos Milos Teodosic knotted things up at 71. Khryapa put the visitors ahead 74:73 with under three minutes to go. Jaycee Carroll immediately answered with a treble to make it 76:74. Kaun put CSKA on level terms at 76 but Rudy Fernandez nailed a free throw for a 77:76 Real lead. Sergio Llull (192-SG-87) added two free throws to make it 79:76 with 26 seconds remaining. Zoran Erceg missed a crucial three-pointer for CSKA and Jaycee Carroll followed with 7 consecutive points to seal the victory for the hosts. Rudy Fernandez came up with 20 points and 13 boards, while Nikola Mirotic and Sergio Llull had 10 points each for the winners. Zoran Erceg and Milos Teodosic answered with 13 points each for CSKA.

Real Madrid: Jaycee Carroll 31, Rudy Fernandez 20+13 boards, Nikola Mirotic 10, Sergio Llull 10
CSKA: Zoran Erceg 13, Milos Teodosic 13


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

Standings - A Liga

A Standings
 1. Mega Vizura 15-3 
 2. Vojvodina 14-4 
 3. Metalac 12-6 
 4. Sloboda Uzice 11-7 
 5. Konstantin 10-8 
 6. Vrsac 9-9 
 7. Radnicki Basket 9-9 
 8. Borac 8-10 
 9. OKK Beograd 8-10 
 10. Tamis 8-10 
 11. BKK Radnicki 6-12 
 12. Smederevo 6-12 
 13. Sloga 6-12 
 14. Jagodina 4-14 
Play in international cups:
 1. Crvena Zvezda - 
 2. Partizan - 
 3. Radnicki KG - 

Regular Season: Round 18

Jan. 30: Vojvodina - BKK Radnicki 82-74
Jan. 29: Radnicki Basket - Sloboda Uzice 81-61
Jan. 30: Tamis - Sloga 79-82
Jan. 30: Vrsac - Smederevo 72-65
Jan. 30: OKK Beograd - Metalac 71-77
Jan. 30: Borac - Konstantin 68-75
Jan. 29: Mega Vizura - Jagodina 113-76

Regular Season: Round 19

Feb. 2: OKK Beograd - Borac
Feb. 2: Metalac - Radnicki Basket
Feb. 2: Sloboda Uzice - Tamis
Feb. 2: Sloga - Vojvodina
Feb. 2: BKK Radnicki - Mega Vizura
Feb. 2: Jagodina - Vrsac
Feb. 2: Smederevo - Konstantin


Stats Leaders - 1A

Points Per Game
 Mladen SLJIVANCANIN
  Borac
  (200-G/F-85)
  Avg: 18.2
 1. Sljivancanin, Borac18.2 
 2. Marjanovic, Mega V.18.1 
 3. Popovic, Sloga17.7 
 4. Radovic, Vrsac15.7 
 5. Igrutinovic, BKK R.15.5 
 6. Popadic, Smederevo15.2 
 7. Nesovic, OKK B.14.0 
 8. Djordjevic, Smede.13.9 
 9. Kljajevic, Jagodina13.9 
 10. Zekovic, Vojvodina13.4 
Rebounds Per Game
 Boban MARJANOVIC
  Mega V.
  (222-C-88)
  Avg: 12.4
 1. Marjanovic, Mega V.12.4 
 2. Radovic, Vrsac8.9 
 3. Kljajevic, Jagodina6.3 
 4. Miceta, Tamis6.1 
 5. Zekovic, Vojvodina6.1 
 6. Knezevic, OKK B.6.0 
 7. Radenkovic, Smede.5.8 
 8. Todorovic, Borac5.7 
 9. Jevtovic, Sloboda5.7 
 10. Marelja, Sloga5.4 
Assists Per Game
 Marko POPOVIC
  Sloga
  (193-G-84)
  Avg: 7.4
 1. Popovic, Sloga7.4 
 2. Jereminov, Tamis5.9 
 3. Micic, Mega Vizura5.0 
 4. Sljivancanin, Borac4.7 
 5. Vasic, Sloboda Uzi.3.8 
 6. Nesovic, OKK B.3.8 
 7. Dangubic, Mega V.3.7 
 8. Velickovic, Konst.3.5 
 9. Malidzan, OKK B.3.5 
 10. Milosevic, Vrsac3.4 
Steals Per Game
 Stanoje KNEZEVIC
  OKK B.
  (202-PF-89)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Knezevic, OKK B.2.5 
 2. Kuzeta, Vojvodina2.2 
 3. Nesovic, OKK B.2.1 
 4. Zivanovic, Metalac2.0 
 5. Gacic, BKK Radnicki1.8 
 6. Boltic, BKK R.1.8 
 7. Majstorovic, Tamis1.8 
 8. Vujosevic, BKK R.1.7 
 9. Vasic, Sloboda Uzi.1.7 
 10. Bozic, Metalac1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Maksim STURANOVIC
  Radnic.
  (209-C-88)
  Avg: 1.4
 1. Sturanovic, Radnic.1.4 
 2. Filipovic, Jagodina1.3 
 3. Marjanovic, Mega V.1.3 
 4. Radovic, Vrsac1.1 
 5. Radenkovic, Smede.0.9 
 6. Jevtovic, Sloboda0.8 
 7. Marinkovic, OKK B.0.8 
 8. Cakic, Mega Vizura0.7 
 9. Buric, Tamis0.6 
 10. Djumic, Vojvodina0.6 


Standings - 1 Srpska Liga

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


Unics and Petrovic part ways - by Zoran Popovic

Management of Unics Kazan decides to part ways with coach Aco Petrovic . According to Sports news Uniks Management was unsatisfied with current results and last night lost match against Crvena Zvezda was trigger for that design. During the career Aco petrovic was coach of FMP Zeleznik, Hemofarm Vrsac, Lokomotiv Rostov na Donu, Crvena Zvezda, Zalgiris, Azovmash and two times coach of Unics Kazan. Aco Petrovic was assistant coach of Yugoslavian and Serbian National team.


A League Round 18: Sloboda is defeated by Radnicki Basket - by Eurobasket News

There was no lack of excitement in the last round games. The round ended with favorites losing the games and games ending by tiny margin.

The most important game in the last round took place in Beograd between third ranked Sloboda (11-7) and ninth ranked Radnicki Basket (9-9) on Tuesday night. Sloboda was crushed by Radnicki Basket on the road 81-61. The game was mostly controlled by Radnicki Basket. Sloboda managed to win third quarter 22-18. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Radnicki Basket forced 19 Sloboda turnovers. Guard Dejan Djokic (187-89) scored 17 points to lead the charge for the winners and guard Milos Bojovic (198-81, agency: Beo Basket) chipped in 18 points during the contest. Radnicki Basket's coach Milos Pejic used an eleven-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. The best for the losing side was power forward Bogdan Obrenovic (206-90, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) with 17 points and 8 rebounds. Radnicki Basket moved-up to sixth place, which they share with Vrsac. Sloboda at the other side dropped to the fourth position with seven games lost. Radnicki Basket is looking forward to face higher ranked Metalac (#3) in Valjevo in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Sloboda will play at home against Tamis in Pancevo and is hoping to win this game.
A League top team - Mega Vizura (15-3) had no problems winning another game. This time they crushed fourteenth ranked KK Jagodina (4-14) 113-76. The former international center Boban Marjanovic (222-88, agency: Beo Basket) notched a double-double by scoring 21 points and 14 rebounds to lead the effort and Andrija Bojic supported him with 18 points and 10 rebounds (on 8-of-9 shooting from the field). Mega Vizura's coach felt very confident that he used entire bench and allowed the starting five to rest. Even 28 points by Marko Puzic (198-85) did not help to save the game for KK Jagodina. Mega Vizura have a solid four-game winning streak. Mega Vizura maintains first position with 15-3 record. KK Jagodina lost sixth consecutive game. Newly promoted team stay at the bottom place with 14 games lost. Mega Vizura will play against BKK Radnicki (#11) in Beograd in the next round and are hoping to win another game. KK Jagodina will play at home against Vrsac and hopes to get back on the winning track.
The game in Beograd was also quite interesting. Third ranked Metalac (12-6) played at the court of 8th ranked OKK Beograd (8-10). Metalac managed to secure a 6-point victory 77-71 on Wednesday. The best player for the winners was Stefan Zivanovic who scored 24 points and 6 rebounds. Metalac's coach Dragan Nikolic allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. At the other side the best for losing team was Aleksej Nesovic who recorded 17 points, 9 assists and 4 steals. Metalac have a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain third position with 12-6 record having just three points less than leader Mega Vizura. Loser OKK Beograd keeps the eighth place with ten games lost. They share the position with Borac and Tamis. Metalac will meet at home Radnicki Basket (#7) in the next round. OKK Beograd will play against Borac in Cacak and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
The game in Cacak was also worth to mention about. Fifth ranked Konstantin (10-8) played at the court of 7th ranked Borac (8-10). Konstantin managed to secure a 7-point victory 75-68. It was a good game for Milovan Savic who led his team to a victory with 17 points and 8 rebounds. Konstantin's coach Bosko Djokic let to play all 12 players and allowed the starting five to get some rest. Newly promoted Konstantin maintains fifth position with 10-8 record. Borac at the other side dropped to the eighth place with ten games lost. Konstantin's next round opponent will be Smederevo Vizura (#12) on the road and are hoping to win another game. Borac will play against OKK Beograd (#9) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Important game to mention about took place in Pancevo. Thirteenth ranked Sloga (6-12) saved a 3-point victory on the road edging higher ranked Tamis (8-10) 82-79 on Wednesday evening. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Tamis. Aleksandar Marelja scored 18 points and 6 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners. Tamis' coach Nebojsa Biro rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Sloga moved-up to eleventh place, which they share with BKK Radnicki and Smederevo. Loser Tamis dropped to the eighth position with ten games lost. Sloga will face league's second-placed Vojvodina in Novi Sad in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game.

In the last two games of round 18 BKK Radnicki lost to Vojvodina on the opponent's court 74-82. Vrsac managed to outperform Smederevo in a home game 72-65.

OKK Beograd - Metalac 71-77

The game in Beograd was also quite interesting. Third ranked Metalac (12-6) played at the court of 8th ranked OKK Beograd (8-10). Metalac managed to secure a 6-point victory 77-71 on Wednesday. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But OKK Beograd won third quarter 21-19. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The game was decided in the last minutes when Metalac won last quarter 18-13. The best player for the winners was guard Stefan Zivanovic (196-89) who scored 24 points and 6 rebounds. Swingman Dragan Kruscic (198-86) chipped in 11 points. Four Metalac players scored in double figures. Metalac's coach Dragan Nikolic allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. At the other side the best for losing team was naturalized Bosnian point guard Aleksej Nesovic (189-85, agency: Beo Basket) who recorded 17 points, 9 assists and 4 steals and power forward Milos Pavlovic (210-84, agency: BeoExcell) added 13 points respectively. Metalac have a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain third position with 12-6 record having just three points less than leader Mega Vizura. Loser OKK Beograd keeps the eighth place with ten games lost. They share the position with Borac and Tamis. Metalac will meet at home Radnicki Basket (#7) in the next round. OKK Beograd will play against Borac in Cacak and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Metalac: S.Zivanovic 24+6reb+1ast, B.Bakic 14+2reb+1ast, S.Balmazovic 13+1reb+3ast, D.Kruscic 11+4reb+2ast, D.Mitrovic 6+3reb+2ast, V.Mijovic 5+2reb+4ast
OKK Beograd: A.Nesovic 17+4reb+9ast, M.Pavlovic 13+3reb+3ast, N.Jeftic 12+1reb+1ast, V.Popovic 9+5reb+1ast, M.Sutulovic 8+6reb+1ast, I.Vukadinov 5+2reb+1ast
gschID: 198597


Tamis - Sloga 79-82

Important game to mention about took place in Pancevo. Thirteenth ranked Sloga (6-12) saved a 3-point victory on the road edging higher ranked Tamis (8-10) 82-79 on Wednesday evening. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Tamis. The guests trailed by 9 points after three quarters before their 24-12 charge, which allowed them to win the game. Power forward Aleksandar Marelja (207-92) scored 18 points and 6 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and naturalized Bosnian guard Marko Popovic (193-84) chipped in 15 points and 6 assists during the contest. The best for the losing side was Ivan Miceta (205-81) with 19 points and 5 rebounds and guard Slobodan Lalic (197-86, agency: Beo Basket) scored 22 points. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Tamis' coach Nebojsa Biro rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Sloga moved-up to eleventh place, which they share with BKK Radnicki and Smederevo. Loser Tamis dropped to the eighth position with ten games lost. Sloga will face league's second-placed Vojvodina in Novi Sad in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game.
Top scorers:
Sloga: A.Marelja 18+6reb, M.Popovic 15+6ast, M.Blagojevic 12+4reb+1ast, M.Trivunovic 11+1reb+1ast, D.Vuletic 10+5reb+2ast, B.Popovic 9+5reb+2ast
Tamis: S.Lalic 22+3reb, I.Miceta 19+5reb+2ast, D.Majstorovic 13+9reb+2ast, N.Manojlovic 10+3reb+2ast, B.Jereminov 5+4reb+10ast, B.Mujkovic 4+1reb+1ast
gschID: 198595


Vojvodina - BKK Radnicki 82-74

Very expected game in Novi Sad where 11th ranked BKK Radnicki (6-12) was defeated by second ranked Vojvodina (14-4) 82-74 on Wednesday. BKK Radnicki trailed by 14 points after 3 quarters before a 21-15 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 74-82 at the end of the game. Montenegrin center Radomir Marojevic (207-81) scored 18 points and 5 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and guard Radovan Markovic (194-82) chipped in 16 points during the contest. Five Vojvodina players scored in double figures. The best for the losing side was point guard Luka Igrutinovic (193-92) with 13 points and 4 assists and point guard Bogic Vujosevic (189-92, agency: Beo Basket) scored 11 points and 4 assists. BKK Radnicki's coach Marko Icelic tested ten players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game. Vojvodina have a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain second position with 14-4 record behind leader Mega Vizura. BKK Radnicki lost sixth consecutive game. They keep the eleventh place with 12 games lost. Vojvodina will face Sloga (#13) in Kraljevo in the next round which should be an easy win for them. BKK Radnicki will play at home against the league's leader Mega Vizura.
Top scorers:
Vojvodina: R.Marojevic 18+5reb, R.Markovic 16+2reb+3ast, D.Zekovic 13+6reb, O.Kuzeta 11+7reb, N.Kalinic 10+2reb+4ast, B.Djumic 8
BKK Radnicki: N.Siladji 15+1reb, L.Igrutinovic 13+2reb+4ast, B.Vujosevic 11+2reb+4ast, M.Boltic 9+2reb+3ast, N.Bezbradica 7+9reb, S.Tapuskovic 7+1reb+1ast
gschID: 198594


Vrsac - Smederevo 72-65

Rather predictable result when tenth ranked Vrsac (9-9) defeated at home 12th ranked Smederevo Vizura (6-12) 72-65 on Wednesday. The hosts trailed by 3 points after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 5-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 72-65. Smederevo Vizura was plagued by 25 personal fouls down the stretch. Montenegrin power forward Nemanja Radovic (206-91, agency: Beo Basket) had a double-double by scoring 16 points and 11 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and forward Aleksandar Mitrovic (202-90) chipped in 15 points during the contest. The best for the losing side was center Stefan Djordjevic (206-89) with 16 points and 9 rebounds and power forward Danilo Sibalic (204-88) scored 18 points and 6 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players and allowed the starting five to get some rest. Vrsac moved-up to sixth place, which they share with Radnicki Basket. Smederevo Vizura lost third consecutive game. They dropped to the eleventh position with 12 games lost. Vrsac will face bottom-ranked KK Jagodina (#14) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Smederevo Vizura will play against Konstantin in Nis.
Top scorers:
Vrsac: N.Radovic 16+11reb, A.Mitrovic 15+4reb+3ast, D.Jeftic 13+5reb, V.Vuksanovic 7+6reb+1ast, N.Nikolic 6+4ast, J.Novak 6+7reb+3ast
Smederevo: D.Sibalic 18+6reb+1ast, S.Djordjevic 16+9reb, M.Popadic 7+2reb+4ast, S.Stojacic 7+3reb+1ast, M.Dimitrijevic 6+3reb+4ast, D.Rnic 4+3reb
gschID: 198592


Borac - Konstantin 68-75

The game in Cacak was also worth to mention about. Fifth ranked Konstantin (10-8) played at the court of 7th ranked Borac (8-10). Konstantin managed to secure a 7-point victory 75-68. Borac was ahead by 9 points at the halftime before a 24-7 third quarter run of Konstantin. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Borac to just 7 points in third quarter. It was a good game for naturalized Montenegrin center Milovan Savic (205-87) who led his team to a victory with 17 points and 8 rebounds. Filip Dumic contributed with 13 points and 7 assists for the winners. Konstantin's coach Bosko Djokic let to play all 12 players and allowed the starting five to get some rest. Guard Nemanja Prolovic (188-87) replied with 20 points and 5 rebounds and swingman Milan Trtic (201-86) added 12 points and 6 rebounds in the effort for Borac. Five Borac players scored in double figures. Newly promoted Konstantin maintains fifth position with 10-8 record. Borac at the other side dropped to the eighth place with ten games lost. Konstantin's next round opponent will be Smederevo Vizura (#12) on the road and are hoping to win another game. Borac will play against OKK Beograd (#9) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Konstantin: M.Savic 17+8reb, F.Dumic 13+1reb+7ast, M.Vitkovic 10+1reb+3ast, I.Cvetkovic 9+5reb, P.Despotovic 6+1reb, M.Trailovic 6+1reb
Borac: N.Prolovic 20+5reb+1ast, M.Bozovic 12+5reb+1ast, M.Trtic 12+6reb+2ast, D.Radovic 11+4reb+1ast, M.Radisavljevic 10+1reb+1ast, N.Todorovic 3+3reb+1ast
gschID: 198591


Radnicki Basket - Sloboda Uzice 81-61

The most important game in the last round took place in Beograd between third ranked Sloboda (11-7) and ninth ranked Radnicki Basket (9-9) on Tuesday night. Sloboda was crushed by Radnicki Basket on the road 81-61. The game was mostly controlled by Radnicki Basket. Sloboda managed to win third quarter 22-18. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Radnicki Basket forced 19 Sloboda turnovers. Guard