Turkey - Croatia 81-74 Turkey completed their sizzling U18 European Championship with victory in the title game tonight. They came from behind against Croatia to claim the first ever Gold at the tournament. Kenan Sipahi (198-PG-95) netted 19 points and issued 6 assists to lead the winners. Croatia fount the right rhythm early in the encounter. Bosnjak and Lovro Mazalin (203-SF-97, agency: Beo Basket) gave them a 22:12 lead midway through the opening frame. Kenan Sipahi and Sanli cut the deficit at 6-point mark at the end of the first period. Okben Ulubay (200-F-97) and Demir put Turkey in front early in the second period. The lead changed hands for several times throughout the second term. Kenan Sipahi uttered the last word in the first half to give Turkey a 38:37 lead. Kenan Sipahi nailed 13 points in the third term for Turkey as they grabbed a 61:55 advantage into the fourth term. Croatia could not get closer than 6 points throughout the final period as Turkey marched to the historic win at the end. Okben Ulubay posted 12 points, while Metecan Birsen added 11 points for Turkey. Lovro Mazalin answered with 15 points for Croatia. Paolo Marinelli chipped in 14 points in the loss.
3-4 Place
Spain - Latvia 57-56 Juan Hernangomez drained a three-pointer with just two seconds left in regulation to propel Spain to a hard-fought victory over Latvia in the consolation final at the U18 European Championship. Agusti Sans (195-SG-95) posted 18 points to lead Spain in scoring. It was an exciting matchup. Latvia got to the better start. The hosts grabbed a 17:12 lead after ten minutes. They stretched the lead in the second term. Latvia accumulated a 32:25 halftime advantage. But Spain revived the intrigue in the third term. The visitors held Latvia to 11 points in the quarter and got within 2 points at the final break. Marc Garcia drained a triple to level things up at 54 with 24 seconds remaining in regulation. Plavnieks sank two free throws to give Latvia the lead but Juan Hernangomez hit from beyond the arc to seal the win for Spain. David Iriarte (206-F/C-95) produced 11 points, while Marc Garcia posted 9 points in the win. Davis Geks (191-SG-95) answered with 13 points for Latvia. Kristaps Porzingis had 11 points and 15 boards in the loss.
5-6 Place
Lithuania - Serbia 63-56 Lithuania claimed the victory on the final day of the U18 European Championship. They outscored Serbia to clinch the 5th position at the tournament. Domantas Sabonis (205-F/C-96) and Paulius Valinskas (191-SG-95) had 12 points each to lead the winners. Lithuania found themselves trailing by four points after the opening quarter 9:13. The Baltic team picked up the tempo in the second frame. They cut the deficit at three-point mark 28:31 at halftime. Lithuania broke through in the third term. They went on a massive 22:10 run in the quarter to secure a 50:41 advantage at the final break. Milenko Veljkovic (216-C-95) and Ljubenkovic dragged Serbia within three points 54:57 with just over a minute remaining in regulation. But Paulius Valinskas and Suliauskas dropped four free throws to win the game for Lithuania. Lukas Grabauskas delivered 9 points for the winners. Milenko Veljkovic answered with 20 points and 15 boards for Serbia. Vasilije Vucetic had 10 points in the loss.
7-8 Place
Russia - France 51-89 France wrapped up their U18 European Championship campaign on a high note. Les Bleus fired past Russia to gain the 7th overall position. Paul Rigot (201-F/G-95) scored 23 points and grabbed 11 boards to lead France. Russia played well in the first period. They accumulated an 18:13 lead after ten minutes. But France responded with a 29-point tally in the second term to gain a 42:31 halftime lead. France stretched their lead in the third term. Les Bleus rallied to a comfortable 68:40 advantage at the final intermission. France held Russia to just 11 points in the fourth term and cruised to the victory at the end. Damien Inglis (204-PF-95) delivered 20 points and 17 rebounds, while William Pfister and Etienne Ory had 12 points each for the winners. Viacheslav Fedorchenko (190-G-95, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) answered with 16 points, 10 boards and 5 assists for Russia. Ilia Popov dropped 10 points in the loss.
9-10 Place
Italy - United Kingdom 59-69 England came up with another impressive performance at their debut U18 European Championship Division A campaign. They shot down Italy to occupy the 9th position. Luke Nelson (192-G-95) posted 20 points to lead the winning side. Italy looked the better side in the first period. The Azzurri gained a 15:11 lead after ten minutes. Italy maintained the lead throughout the second frame. They registered a 29:25 halftime lead. But England turned the tables in the third term. They opened it on a 7:2 run to surge ahead. England opened a double-digit lead late in the period. Pierfrancesco Oliva put the Azzurri within 8 points 38:46 at the final break. Italy got within four points midway through the fourth period however Luke Nelson drained two timely three-pointers and England never looked back en route to the victory. Morayoninuoluwa Soluade (198-F/G-95) posted 13 points, while Jules Dang added 11 points for the winners. Jacopo Vedovato (205-C-95) responded with 11 points for Italy. Pierfrancesco Oliva had 9 points in the loss.
11-12 Place
Greece - Czech Republic 85-65 Greece finished at the 11th position at the U18 European Championship. The Hellenes recorded a comfortable 20-point win over Czech counterparts on the final day of the tourney. Konstantinos Mitoglou (200-PF-96) notched 15 points and 8 rebounds for Greece. Greece led by two points after ten minutes of action 17:15. They stretched the lead in the second frame. The Hellenes arrived at the interval up by 9 points 41:32. The margin grew in the third term. Greece stayed dominant as they piled up a 21-point advantage before the final stanza. Czech Republic scored 21 points in the fourth frame but could not avoid the loss at the end. Vasileios Toliopoulos (185-PG-96) chipped in 12 points, while Michail Liapis, Dimitrios Stamatis and Thomas Kottas finished with 10 points each for the winners. Jiri Soula (187-SG-95) answered with 13 points for Czech Republic. Prokop Slanina had 12 points in the defeat.
13-14 Place
Bosnia - Ukraine 96-85 2OT Bosnia and Herzegovina will stay in U18 European Championship Division A in the next season. They survived a double-overtime thriller against Ukraine to clinch the 13th place avoiding relegation. Ukraine will have to play in Division B next season. Imran Polutak (209-C-96) nailed 29 points and grabbed 21 boards to pace the winners. Ukraine was the dominant side in the first half. They grabbed an 18:16 lead after ten minutes. Ukraine boosted their lead in the second frame. They established a 44:28 halftime lead. But Bosnia and Herzegovina refused to surrender. They went on a massive 31:16 run in the third period to cut the deficit at a single point 59:60 at the third break. The teams stayed neck and neck throughout the fourth frame. Oleksandr Kobets gave Ukraine a 74:71 lead with 13 seconds remaining. But Gacic scored a free throws and then Imran Polutak tipped the ball in after Gacic missed his second attempt to force overtime. The teams combined for just 10 points in the first extra period and had to enter the second overtime to decide on the winner. Bosnia and Herzegovina exploded with 17 points in it and snatched a crucial victory. Stefan Lakic (196-F/G-95) finished with 17 points, while Aleksandar Lazic added 14 points for the winners. Oleksandr Kobets answered with 21 points for Ukraine. Igor Boyarkin chipped in 19 points in the loss.
15-16 Place
Slovenia - Bulgaria 75-82 Bulgaria claimed the first win at the U18 European Championship. Incidentally it happened on the last day of the tournament. They outgunned Slovenia to clinch the 15th place at the championship. Aleksandar Vezenkov (205-SF-95) tallied 32 points and 16 boards to pace the winners. Bulgaria fired 26 points in the first frame but Slovenia stuck around. They trailed by just one points 25:26 at the first break. Slovenia erased the deficit as the teams entered the second half tied at 44. The teams stayed close throughout the third term. Bulgaria and Slovenia were locked at 63-all after thirty minutes. Aleksandar Vezenkov scored 6 points in a row midway through the final term to give Bulgaria a 78:71 lead. Bulgaria protected the lead in the dying minutes to escape with the victory at the end. Evgeni Hadzhirusev finished with 19 points, while Aleksandar Milov had 12 points for the winners. Jan Dolensek (202-PF-95) and Ziga Zatezic responded with 13 points each for Slovenia.
Croatia and Turkey advance into Final - Jul 27, 2013
Semifinal
Turkey - Spain 77-75 Turkey snatched a narrow victory over Spain in the second semifinal clash at the U18 European Championship in Riga tonight. Kerem Kanter (203-PF-95) posted 22 points and 8 rebounds to lead Turkey into the championship game. They will now face Croatia for the title. Spain will play versus Latvia in the consolation final tomorrow. Spain dominated throughout three first quarters. They took a 22:19 lead after ten minutes of action. Alberto Martin (185-PG-95) boosted the margin to double digits midway through the second term 35:23. Turkey managed to cut the deficit at 7-point mark at the interval 34:41. Spain stayed in control throughout the third period. They established a 53:44 lead heading into the final stanza. But Turkey went on a massive 24:2 run early in the fourth period to take a 68:56 lead. Hernangomez and Sans tried to revive the intrigue as their back-to-back three-pointers put Spain within one with 3 seconds remaining. But Sipahi sank one free throw to seal the win for Turkey at the end. Dogukan Sanli (191-G-95, agency: 1x1 Sports) chipped in 16 points, while Kartal Ozmizrak added 10 points for the winners. Alberto Martin, Jose Nogues (204-PF-95) and Ilimane Diop provided 12 points each in the loss.
Latvia - Croatia 68-72 Croatia earned the victory over hosting Latvia to reach Final at the U18 European Championship. Paolo Marinelli (191-G-95) nailed 16 points, grabbed 5 boards and distributed 5 assists to lead the winners. Latvia aggressively started the game. The hosts built a 23:18 lead after ten minutes. They dominated throughout the second frame. Latvia established a 39:30 halftime lead. But Croatia turned things around in the third period. The Balkan team ignited a 20:9 run to arrive at the final intermission up by 2 points 48:50. Croatia nailed 10 points straight points at the start of the final stanza to secure a 60:48 lead. Ivars Zvigurs (198-SF-95) and Geks cut the deficit at just two points 63:65 with less than two minutes remaining. However Domagoj Bosnjak accounted for 5 points and Paolo Marinelli added two more from the stripe as Croatia escaped with the victory. Karlo Zganec (206-C/F-95, agency: XL Basketball Agency) had 15 points and 12 rebounds, while Domagoj Bosnjak added 13 points and 11 rebounds in the win. Ivars Zvigurs answered with 18 points for Latvia. Andzejs Pasecniks had 17 points in the loss.
5-8 Place
Russia - Lithuania 77-84 Lithuania will play for the fifth place at the U18 European Championship. They outgunned Russian counterparts in Riga today. Domantas Sabonis (205-F/C-96) posted 19 points to lead the winners. Russia looked better side early in the game. They posted a 24:19 lead ten minutes into the game. Russia stayed in charge throughout the second frame. They accumulated a 42:35 halftime lead. But the Baltic team gradually came back into the contest. Lithuania narrowed the deficit to a single point 57:58 at the final break. Lithuania unloaded 27 points in the fourth quarter and sealed the win at the end. Zydrunas Jurgutis (180-PG-95) netted 17 points, while Ricardas Verbickas added 15 points for the winners. Alexander Martynov (195-G/F-95) answered with 20 points for Russia. Sergey Zhulkov chipped in 16 points in the loss.
Serbia - France 77-66 Serbia will play for the fifth position at the U18 European Championship. They held off France to set up the clash versus Lithuania on Sunday. France will face Russia on the final day of the tournament. Ognjen Jaramaz (191-PG-95) stepped up with 26 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. Serbia started off strong. They nailed 24 points in the opening frame and gained a 7-point lead after the starting quarter. France cut the deficit in the second period. Les Bleus adjusted defensively and got within one 35:36 at halftime. France put their noses in front early in the third term but not for long. Serbia used a 13:2 run to secure a 53:44 lead midway through the third term. The Balkan team entered the fourth period up by 6 points 56:50. Dejan Davidovac and Ognjen Jaramaz gave Serbia a 62:52 lead early in the fourth frame and they never looked back en route to the victory. Vasilije Vucetic (206-C/F-96) provided 14 points, while Dejan Davidovac added 13 points for the winners. Damien Inglis (204-PF-95) answered with 21 points and 7 rebounds for France. Etienne Ory and Lenny Charles-Catherine had 9 points apiece in the defeat.
9-12 Place
Czech Republic - United Kingdom 62-85 England clinched the second straight win at the U18 European Championship. They knocked down Czech Republic in the classification round today. Luke Nelson (192-G-95) topscored with 22 points for the winners. England eked out a 20:19 lead after ten minutes of action. They stretched the gap in the second period. England arrived at the interval up by 8 points 43:35. Czech Republic struggled to get closer in the third term. England accounted for a 62:53 lead at the final intermission. They went on a massive 23:9 run in the final quarter and sealed the victory at the end. Jules Dang (195-PG-96) netted 12 points, while Tyrell Isaacs added 11 points for the winning side. Jiri Soula (187-SG-95) answered with 15 points for Czech Republic. Martin Peterka had 10 points and 11 rebounds in the loss.
Italy - Greece 82-62 Italy edged Greece in the 9th-12th place classification round at the U18 European Championship. The Azzurri will now take on the winners of Czech Republic vs. England clash for the ninth position at the tournament. Simone Fontecchio (197-SF-95) netted 19 points and grabbed 6 boards to lead the winners. The Hellenes snatched a 21:18 lead after the starting period. Italy picked up the tempo in the second term. They ignited a 20:12 run to build a 38:33 halftime advantage. The Azzurri maintained the lead throughout the third period. They arrived at the final intermission up by 7 points 58:51. Italy went on a 24:11 rally in the final term to seal the victory. Tommaso Laquintana (187-PG-95) provided 19 points for Italy. Vittorio Nobile added 10 points for the winners. Dimitrios Stamatis (192-G-96) and Georgios Papadionysioy had 11 points each in the loss.
13-16 Place
Bulgaria - Bosnia 57-72 Bosnia and Herzegovina stepped closer to avoiding relegation at the U18 European Championship. They overcame Bulgaria and would fight for the rescuing 13th position in the ladder. Davor Karamatic (200-F-95) posted 23 point and 8 rebounds to lead the winners. Bulgaria got to the better start in the first period. They posted a 16:12 lead after ten minutes. Bosnia and Herzegovina cut the deficit in the second term. They got within a single point at halftime 30:29. The breakthrough for Bosnia happened in the third term. They went on a massive 25:9 run in the quarter to gain a 15-point lead heading into the fourth term. The teams traded baskets throughout the final stanza as Bosnia secured the victory at the end. Sandro Gacic (196-SG-96) netted 20 points, while Nedim Tunovic added 6 points for the winners. Aleksandar Vezenkov (205-SF-95) answered with 18 points and 8 rebounds for Bulgaria. Evgeni Hadzhirusev chipped in 9 points in the losing case.
Slovenia - Ukraine 63-68 Ukraine gained a crucial win at the U18 European Championship. They overcame Slovenia in Riga today to stay hopeful of their Division A spot for the next season. Ukraine will fight against relegation versus Bosnia and Herzegovina tomorrow. Slovenia lost their Division A spot with the loss tonight. Yevgen Sakhniuk (201-PF-95) posted 17 points for the winners. Ukraine eked out a 13:11 lead after ten minutes of action. They boosted the gap in the second term. Ukraine accumulated a 32:27 halftime lead. Slovenia however denied the deficit in the third term. Matic Rebec (180-PG-95) put them in front 37:36. Slovenia led by as many as six points but Ukraine evened things up at 46 heading into the fourth frame. Ukraine opened the fourth frame with eight points in a row to surge ahead. Matic Rebec and Jure Ritlop erased the deficit and gave Slovenia a 56:54 lead. Slovenia led by five points 60:55 with under three minutes remaining. But Ukraine sparked an 11:0 rally to clinch a 66:60 lead with 50 seconds remaining. Zatezic drained a triple but Yevgen Sakhniuk sank a jumper after an offensive rebound to seal the win for Ukraine. Stanislav Kudrya (189-PG-95) chipped in 15 points, while Andrii Shalamov added 12 points for the winners. Matic Rebec answered with 20 points, 10 assists and 6 boards for Slovenia. Jure Ritlop and Jan Dolensek had 11 points each in the loss.
Croatia, Latvia, Turkey and Spain reach semifinals in Latvia - Jul 26, 2013
Quarterfinals
France - Spain 59-68 Spain completed semifinal picture at the U18 European Championship. They defeated France to set up the clash versus Turkey tomorrow. Marc Garcia (197-SF-96) notched 18 points to lead the winners. Spain jumped to an early lead. They scored first nine points of the game. France cut the deficit but trailed 13:18 after ten minutes. Spain maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. They established a 34:26 halftime advantage. Les Bleus got within one point 34:35 early in the third term. Eliezer and Pontens capped the quarter with five straight points to ensure a 50:49 lead for France. Nogues and Marc Garcia drained triples early in the fourth frame to put Spain back in charge. Marc Garcia nailed seven straight points for the Spaniards to secure a 67:57 lead with just over two minutes remaining. France scored just two points in the reminder of the contest as Spain claimed the victory. Agusti Sans (195-SG-95) and Alberto Martin netted 12 points each for Spain. Guerschon Yabusele (200-PF-95) and Axel Bouteille (198-F-95) tossed in 14 points apiece for France.
Latvia - Lithuania 71-54 Latvia advanced into the semifinal stage of the U18 European Championship. The hosts outscored Lithuania today. Kristaps Porzingis (210-C-95) scored 17 points and grabbed 8 rebounds to lead the winning side. Latvia held their Baltic neighbours to just 11 points in the first frame to gain a 5-point lead. Lithuania picked up the tempo in the second period. They fired 24 points and tied things up at 35 after twenty minutes. Latvia regained the lead in the third period. They used a 9:1 run to take a 46:39 lead. The hosts entered the fourth period up by 9 points 56:47. Gluditis gave the home side a 64:49 lead for the home side midway through the fourth frame. Lithuania could not recover in the reminder of the contest as Latvia cruised to the victory. Rolands Smits (202-F/C-95) posted 12 points, while Ivars Zvigurs and Andzejs Pasecniks had 10 points each for the winners. Gediminas Zalalis (205-C-95) answered with 13 points for Lithuania. Domantas Sabonis had 11 points and 10 rebounds in the loss.
Turkey - Serbia 71-67 Turkey claimed the semifinal appearance at the U18 European Championship. They knocked down Serbia to book the semifinal ticket. Metecan Birsen (205-SF-95) posted 13 points and 11 rebounds to lead the winning side. Serbia got to a slightly better start to the game. They snatched a 21:17 lead after ten minutes of action. But Turkey responded adequately and erased the deficit in the second frame. Turkey pulled ahead for a 38:36 halftime advantage. Turkey and Serbia exchanged baskets throughout the third period. The lead changed hands for several times before Dogukan Sanli (191-G-95, agency: 1x1 Sports) made it 51:49 for Turkey with ten minutes remaining. Ugurlu opened the fourth frame with four straight points to ensure a 6-point lead for Turkey. Dogukan Sanli made it 67:57 for Turkey with just over four minutes remaining. Jaramaz and Rade Zagorac (201-G/F-95) dragged Serbia within 5 points 62:67 but Metecan Birsen drained a timely three-pointer to keep Turkey in charge. Brano Djukanovic and Jaramaz sparked hope for Serbia cutting the deficit at three-point mark 67:70 but Serbia failed to convert in the final 23 seconds of regulation and lost the battle. Dogukan Sanli chipped in 13 points, while Okben Ulubay had 12 points for the winners. Rade Zagorac answered with 18 points and 7 rebounds for Serbia. Brano Djukanovic had 12 points in the loss.
Russia - Croatia 72-82 Croatia have become the first semifinalists at the U18 European Championship in Latvia. They overcame Russia in the first quarterfinal clash at the tournament. Paolo Marinelli (191-G-95) posted 22 points and 9 assists to lead the charge. Croatia started the game strong. They gained a 19:8 lead late in the first period. Croatia accumulated a 23:12 advantage after ten minutes. The margin kept on growing throughout the second period. Croatia ensured a 44:29 halftime lead. Marko Arapovic and Paolo Marinelli gave Croatia a 48:29 advantage early in the third period. But Russia refused to give up. They narrowed the deficit at 8-point mark at the final break 48:56. Viktorov and Viacheslav Fedorchenko (190-G-95, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) dragged Russia within six points 70:76 with just over a minute remaining. However Mazalin dunked and then Paolo Marinelli sank two free throws to give Croatia a 10-point cushion with 39 seconds remaining. Coric added two more points and Croatia got away with the victory at the end. Karlo Zganec (206-C/F-95, agency: XL Basketball Agency) netted 15 points, while Marko Arapovic added 12 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Viacheslav Fedorchenko answered with 23 points and 9 rebounds for Russia. Alexander Martynov chipped in 19 points in the loss.
9-16 Place
Bosnia - Greece 36-63 Greece celebrated victory in the 9th-16th place classification round of U18 European Championship. They defeated Bosnia and Herzegovina to secure the Division A birth for the next season. Dimitrios Stamatis (192-G-96) netted 19 points to lead the Hellenes. Greece set the tone early in the game. They registered a 19:10 lead after ten minutes. The Hellenes boosted the gap in the second frame. Greece arrived at halftime up by 17 points 34:17. Greece kept their opponents at bay throughout the third term. They established a 48:30 advantage at the final break. Bosnia and Herzegovina managed just 6 points in the fourth period and had to surrender at the end. Georgios Diamantakos (214-C-95) netted 13 points, while Georgios Papadionysioy chipped in 8 points for the winners. Imran Polutak (209-C-96) and Davor Karamatic (200-F-95) answered with 8 points apiece for Bosnia and Herzegovina.
United Kingdom - Ukraine 71-58 England clinched the crucial win in their U18 European Championship campaign. They outgunned Ukraine to secure Division A birth for the next season. Luke Nelson (192-G-95) provided 19 points to lead the winners. Ukraine will fight against relegation in the classification round for 13th-16th place. Ukraine snatched a narrow 15:14 lead after ten minutes. England surged ahead in the second period. They sneaked to a 31:30 halftime lead. England extended their lead in the third term. They held Ukraine to 15 points in the period and established a 52:45 advantage heading into the fourth term. England kept Ukraine at distance throughout the final period. They limited their opponents to just 13 points in the quarter and raced to the victory at the end. Kingsley Okoroh (216-C-95) posted 16 points and 15 rebounds, while Jules Dang added 11 points for the winners. Oleksandr Kobets (192-SF-96) responded with 11 points for Ukraine. Yevgen Sakhniuk chipped in 9 points in the loss.
Czech Republic - Slovenia 87-79 Czech Republic avoided the jittery classification round for the 13th-16th place as they edged Slovenia in the classification game today. Prokop Slanina (204-C-95) posted 21 points and 16 boards to lead the winners. Czech Republic will now play for the 9th place at the tournament. Slovenia will try to avoid relegation in the 13th-16th place classification round. Czech Republic poured in 20 points in the first period and built a 5-point lead. Slovenia dropped 24 points in the second term to cut the deficit at 3-point mark 42:39. Slovenia stayed aggressive in the third term. They erased the deficit and squared things at 62-all with ten minutes remaining. Ziga Zatezic put Slovenia in front at the start of the fourth frame. But Czech Republic used an 11:2 run midway through the final stanza to surge ahead. They kept Slovenia at safe distance throughout the final minutes and secured the victory at the end. Radovan Kouril (185-PG-95) posted 18 points, while Martin Peterka and Jiri Soula finished with 16 points each for the winners. Matic Rebec (180-PG-95) answered with 21 points, 8 assists and 6 boards for Slovenia. Ziga Zatezic chipped in 19 points in the losing case.
Italy - Bulgaria 67-57 Italy will fight for the 9th position at the U18 European Championship. They defeated Bulgaria in the classification round today and avoided the relegation scares in the final days of the tournament. Simone Fontecchio (197-SF-95) posted 13 points and 10 rebounds to lead the charge. Italy unloaded 25 points in the opening frame to take the lead. They enjoyed a 5-point advantage heading into the second period. The Azzurri went on a commanding 20:8 run in the second term to ensure a 45:28 halftime lead. But Bulgaria were not done just yet. Aleksandar Vezenkov (205-SF-95) and Venelin Hristov sparked a 22:10 surge from Bulgaria as they cut the deficit at 5-point mark at the final break. Aleksandar Vezenkov put Bulgaria within three points early in the fourth term 52:55. But Italy capped the regulation with five points in a row and snatched a tough win at the end. Lorenzo Baldasso (190-G-95) chipped in 12 points, while Tommaso Laquintana and Daniel Donzelli had 7 points apiece in the victory. Aleksandar Vezenkov answered with 12 points and 13 boards for Bulgaria. Venelin Hristov had 12 points in the loss.
Eight teams remain in title race in Latvia - Jul 24, 2013
Group E
Russia - France 70-60 Russia wrapped up their Second Stage campaign at U18 European Championship with victory. They fired past France to earn the top position in Group E. Russia will now take on Croatia in the playoffs. France will face Spain in the quarterfinals. Russia claimed a 19:16 lead after ten minutes. But Les Bleus turned things around in the second frame. They pulled in front for a 33:28 advantage at halftime. Russia cut the deficit in the third term. They got within two points at the final intermission. Zhulkov and Gavrilov put Russia in front early in the fourth frame. France quickly regained the advantage but not for long. Russia used a 15:0 run to gain a 68:57 lead with 14 seconds remaining. Viacheslav Fedorchenko (190-G-95, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) provided 16 points to lead Russia. Alexander Martynov (195-G/F-95) added 15 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists for the winners. Damien Inglis (204-PF-95) answered with 9 points for France. Axel Bouteille and Etienne Ory had 8 points each in the loss.
Czech Republic - Serbia 70-99 Serbia claimed the third straight win at the U18 European Championship. They outmuscled Czech Republic to punch quarterfinal ticket. Brano Djukanovic (194-SG-95) netted 20 points to lead the winners. Czech Republic got eliminated from the title race with the loss. Serbia fired 23 points in the opening quarter to post a 7-point lead. They stayed red hot offensively in the second frame. Serbia dropped 25 points and piled up a 48:33 halftime advantage. Serbia did not slow down after the big break. They erupted for 25 points in the third term to gain a 19-point buffer before the fourth stanza. Czech Republic could not slow down their opponents as Serbia cruised to the victory at the end. Ognjen Jaramaz (191-PG-95) nailed 19 points, while Milenko Veljkovic added 10 points for the winners. Prokop Slanina (204-C-95) answered with 14 points for Czech Republic. Martin Peterka had 13 points in the loss.
Lithuania - Bosnia 78-60 Lithuania clinched the quarterfinal ticket at the U18 European Championship. They fired past Bosnia and Herzegovina to improve at 3-2 record in Group E. Bosnia and Herzegovina got eliminated from the title race falling at 0-5 record. Lithuania enjoyed a 20:15 lead after ten minutes of action. The Baltic team stretched the gap in the second frame. They secured a 43:31 halftime advantage. Lithuania controlled the tempo in the third term. They arrived at the final intermission up by 16 points. Lithuania kept Bosnia and Herzegovina at safe distance throughout the fourth frame and marched to the victory at the end. Domantas Sabonis (205-F/C-96) posted 14 points and 10 rebounds to lead the winners. Haroldas Saprykinas (188-SG-95) and Augustas Suliauskas (180-PG-95) had 12 points each for the winners. Imran Polutak (209-C-96) answered with 17 points for Bosnia and Herzegovina. Sandro Gacic nailed 14 points in the loss.
Group F
Croatia - Italy 92-78 Croatia clinched a vital win over Italy in the final game of the Second Stage at U18 European Championship. The winners clinched the fourth position in Group F. Croatia will now take on Russia in the playoffs. Italy will play in the classification round now. Croatia set the tone early in the game. They opened the game with seven straight points. They ensured a 21:18 lead after ten minutes. Domagoj Bosnjak (197-F/G-95) opened a double-digit lead midway through the second frame. Croatia maintained it to enter the second half up by 10 points 40:30. Croatia did not loosen the grasp in the third period. They boosted the margin at 16-point mark at the final intermission 71:55. Fontecchio opened the fourth frame with back-to-back triples to keep Italy hopeful. But Tomislav Gabric (201-PF-95, agency: XL Basketball Agency) answered with his consecutive triples midway through the fourth frame and Croatia raced to the victory at the end. Domagoj Bosnjak finished with 26 points to lead the winners. Tomislav Gabric added 17 points in the victory. Marco Spissu (181-G-95) and Tommaso Laquintana answered with 14 points each for Italy.
Turkey - Spain 68-76 Spain claimed the second win at the U18 European Championship Second Stage and booked the place in the quarterfinals. They overcame Turkey for 3-2 record in Group F. Agusti Sans (195-SG-95) nailed 18 points to lead the winners. Turkey slipped at 4-1 record on top of the ladder. Spain gained an 18:14 lead after ten minutes of action. Turkey quickly erased the deficit as they sank 22 points for a 36:33 halftime lead. Spain cut the deficit and eventually tied things up at 54-all after thirty minutes of action. Spain used an 11:0 run early in the fourth frame to claim a 10-point lead and never looked back en route to the win. David Iriarte (206-F/C-95) netted 17 points, while Alberto Abalde added 14 points for Spain. Kerem Kanter (203-PF-95) responded with 11 points for Turkey. Akif Guven had 10 points in the losing effort.
Latvia - United Kingdom 68-56 Latvia overcame England in the final game of the U18 European Championship Second Stage for both teams. Kristaps Porzingis (210-C-95) netted 17 points to lead the winners. Latvia improved at 3-2 record in Group F. England fell at 1-4 record outside the quarterfinal zone. Latvia secured a 17:13 lead ten minutes into the game. The hosts boosted the gap in the second term. Latvia held England to 8 points and ensured a 37:21 halftime cushion. They kept England at bay throughout the third term. Latvia piled up a 56:38 advantage before the fourth quarter. England cut the distance in the final period but still finished way short of win. Rolands Smits (202-F/C-95) nailed 13 points, while Davis Geks added 11 points and 10 boards for the winning side. Luke Nelson (192-G-95) answered with 19 points for England. Tyrell Isaacs and Jules Akodo had 10 points each in the loss.
Group G
Slovenia - Greece 62-76 Greece registered the third consecutive win at the U18 European Championship. They fired past Slovenia for 3-0 record on top of Group G. Slovenia fell at 1-2 record in the third position in the group. Georgios Diamantakos (214-C-95) nailed 21 points and grabbed 15 rebounds to lead the charge. Greece claimed a 19:10 lead after ten minutes of action. But Slovenia struck back in the second frame. They narrowed the deficit at 2-point mark at halftime 30:32. Slovenia pulled ahead early in the third term. The Hellenes needed a strong rally late in the period to snatch a 53:52 lead at the final break. Ioannis Kouzeloglou (204-PF-95) and Chatzinikolas drained back-to-back triples early in the fourth frame to put Greece up by 9 points 61:52. Dimitrios Stamatis knocked down 5 straight points to spark a 9:0 run from Greece that gave them a comfortable 70:53 lead with just over three minutes remaining. They never looked back en route to the victory. Ioannis Kouzeloglou provided 19 points, while Dimitrios Stamatis added 17 points for the winners. Matic Rebec (180-PG-95) answered with 23 points for Slovenia. Jure Ritlop had 7 points in the loss.
Bulgaria - Ukraine 56-66 Ukraine claimed the third win at the U18 European Championship in Latvia. They defeated Bulgaria for 2-1 record in Group G. Illya Sydorov (183-PG-96) posted 20 points to lead the winners. Bulgaria fell at 0-3 record after the defeat. Bulgaria led by four points after the opening frame 18:14. Ukraine picked up the tempo to cut the deficit in the second term. Ukraine trailed by three points at halftime 39:36. Bulgaria held their opponents to just 8 points in the third term to balloon the lead. They ensured a 5-point advantage at the final intermission. Ukraine opened the fourth frame on a 12:2 run to surge ahead. They held Bulgaria to only 7 points in the fourth period and snatched victory at the end. Oleksandr Antypov (202-F-95) netted 11 points, while Pavel Lebedintsev contributed 10 points and 11 rebounds for the winners. Aleksandar Vezenkov (205-SF-95) answered with 24 points and 9 rebounds for Bulgaria. Nikolay Vangelov chipped in 8 points in the loss.
Day 2 of Second Stage in Latvia - Jul 23, 2013
Group E
Lithuania - Russia 59-68 Russia survive Lithuanian battle at the U18 European Championship. Russia posted a 68:59 win for 3-1 record in Group E. Lithuania meanwhile dropped at 2-2 record and will need a victory tomorrow in order to advance to the Quarterfinals. Russia have booked a spot in the U18 European Championship quarter-finals. They started the game with an 18-7 lead but saved 8 points advantage at the halftime. Alexander Martynov (195-G/F-95) opened the second half for 35:25 lead and Viacheslav Fedorchenko (190-G-95, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) scored for 41:32. Gavrilov later scored three free throws for 48:34 deficit. Lithuania closed the game with a 25-20 run but managed to reduce to final 9 points. Viacheslav Fedorchenko stepped up with 21 points for the winners and Ivan Viktorov netted 14. Alexander Martynov brought 12, whilst Ilya Popov had 6. Ricardas Verbickas (186-G-95) answered with 15 points in defeat and Domantas Sabonis had 12. Haroldas Saprykinas nailed 10 points and Augustas Suliauskas added 7.
France - Czech Republic 71-73 Czech Republic claimed a valuable victory over France at the Second Stage of the U18 European Championship. Prokop Slanina (204-C-95) posted 18 points and 10 rebounds to lead Czech team to 2-2 record in Group E. France slipped at 3-1 record after the loss. Czech Republic stayed dominant throughout the first half. They enjoyed a 21:15 lead after ten minutes of action. Czech Republic maintained the lead throughout the second frame. They ensured a 42:35 halftime advantage. But Les Bleus turned things around in the third term. France stiffened defensively and spurred ahead for a narrow 56:54 lead at the final break. But Matej Svoboda and Peterka connected from beyond the arc as Czech Republic quickly regained the lead in the fourth frame. Pechacek soon made it an 8-point game. Damien Inglis (204-PF-95) and Axel Bouteille (198-F-95) dragged France within two 71:73 late in regulation but Czech Republic held on to snatch the victory. Jiri Soula (187-SG-95) finished with 13 points, while Radovan Kouril and Matej Svoboda netted 11 points each for the winners. Axel Bouteille responded with 21 points for France. Damien Inglis chipped in 14 points in the losing effort.
Bosnia - Serbia 51-77 Serbia earned the second consecutive win at the U18 European Championship in Latvia. They bruised Bosnia and Herzegovina for 2-2 record in Group E. Vasilije Vucetic (206-C/F-96) paced balanced effort with 10 points. Bosnia and Herzegovina fell at 0-4 record in the ladder. Serbia jumped to an early 22:9 lead. They held Bosnia to 7 points in the second period to ensure a 45:16 halftime advantage. Serbia boosted their lead in the third term. They arrived at the final intermission up by as many as 32 points. Bosnia and Herzegovina outscored their opponents in the fourth frame but could not threaten Serbia at the end. Dejan Davidovac and Bozidar Babovic produced 9 points each for the winning side. Imran Polutak (209-C-96) answered with 16 points for Bosnia and Herzegovina. Dino Alic chipped in 11 points in the loss.
Group F
United Kingdom - Italy 37-57 Italy rout England on Tuesday night of the U18 European Championship in Division A. The Italian side improved to 2-2 record after a 57:37 win. England meanwhile fell at 1-3 record in Group F. Both teams entered the game with 1-2 records and looked forward achieving the second victory. Italy erupted with a 12-2 surge in the first period and had 8-point advantage at the halftime. Moreover Italy dominated the second half as well and posted two victories. They came up with 12-8 run in the third quarter and finished the game with 21-13 rally. Simone Fontecchio (197-SF-95) paced all the winners with 19 points and Nicola Akele (195-G-95) nailed 10. Tommaso Laquintana (187-PG-95) delivered 9, whilst Jacopo Vedovato had 8. Kingsley Okoroh (216-C-95) answered with 8 points in defeat and Morayoninuoluwa Soluade had 7. Jules Dang Akodo delivered 6 points in the losing effort.
Latvia - Turkey 62-64 Turkey just prevailed over Latvia at the U18 European Championship today. Okben Ulubay (200-F-97) nailed 19 points to lead Turkey as they climbed at 4-0 record on top of Group F. Latvia fell at 2-2 record after the defeat. The hosts surged ahead in the opening frame. Latvia ensured a 20:13 lead following ten minutes of action. Turkey cut the deficit in the second stanza. They got within 4 points at the interval 34:30. Turkey erased the deficit in the third term. Solid defence helped them enter the fourth frame tied with Latvia at 47. The lead changed hands throughout intense fourth frame. Okben Ulubay sparked a 10:0 run for Turkey as they claimed a 64:59 lead with 31 seconds remaining. Andzejs Pasecniks (211-C-95, college: VEF skola) dropped a three-pointer to put Latvia closer but they ran out of time. Metecan Birsen (205-SF-95) chipped in 10 points, while Kartal Ozmizrak had 9 points for the winners. Andzejs Pasecniks answered with 24 points for Latvia. Kristaps Porzingis had 13 points and 12 boards in the loss.
Spain - Croatia 64-63 Spain secured the first win at the Second Stage of the U18 European Championship. They narrowly defeated Croatia for 2-2 record in Group F. Agusti Sans (195-SG-95) came up with 25 points to lead the winning team. Croatia fell at 1-3 record after the defeat. The Croats opened the game with five straight points. They dominated throughout the opening quarter and raced to a 17:11 lead after ten minutes. Spain cut the deficit in the second frame but could not pull ahead. Croatia arrived at the interval up by two points 37:35. Agusti Sans triggered a 14:0 run in the third period as Spain surged ahead for a 52:43 lead. Tomislav Gabric (201-PF-95, agency: XL Basketball Agency) and Mazalin erased the deficit and put team on level terms at 54. Ilimane Diop (209-C-95), Marc Garcia and Agusti Sans gave Spain a 64:56 advantage with under three minutes remaining. However Marko Arapovic (208-C/F-96) and Mazalin restored the intrigue trimming the deficit to a single point 63:64. Agusti Sans and Bosnjak traded misses in the dying seconds as Spain got away with a tough win. Ilimane Diop accounted for 12 points, while Jose Nogues, Juan Hernangomez and Marc Garcia had 6 points each for the winners. Tomislav Gabric and Marko Arapovic answered with 13 points each for Croatia.
Group G
Ukraine - Greece 51-76 Greece registered the second consecutive win at the classification round Group G of the U18 European Championship. They overwhelmed Ukraine for 2-0 record. Alexandros Spyridonidis (190-PG-95) nailed 18 points for the winners. Greece eked out a 16:13 lead after ten minutes. Ukraine turned things their way in the second frame. They surged ahead and snatched a 28:27 halftime advantage. But the Hellenes struck back after the big break. Greece went off the locker rooms firing from all guns. They unleashed 34 points in the third stanza to ensure a massive 24-point lead heading into the fourth frame. Ukraine could not recover from the blow as Greece marched to the victory in the fourth stanza. Georgios Diamantakos (214-C-95) netted 16 points, while Dimitrios Stamatis chipped in 13 points for the winners. Oleksandr Antypov (202-F-95) answered with 12 points for Ukraine. Igor Boyarkin had 10 points in the losing case.
Bulgaria - Slovenia 77-85 Slovenia celebrated the first win at the classification round of U18 European Championship. They defeated Bulgaria for 1-1 record in Group G. Matic Rebec (180-PG-95) nailed 29 points, issued 13 assists, grabbed 8 rebounds and made 4 steals to orchestrate victory. Bulgaria slipped at 0-2 record. The teams traded baskets throughout the opening frame. Bulgaria and Slovenia were tied at 22-all after ten minutes. Things did not change in the second frame. The teams went neck and neck throughout the reminder of the first half. The scoreboard read 37:37 at halftime. Bulgaria pulled ahead in the third period. They erupted for 30 points and gained a 7-point lead at the final intermission. But Slovenia found the way to recover. Matic Rebec nailed 10 points in the quarter triggering a 25:10 run that sealed the win for his team. Ziga Zatezic (196-SG-95) finished with 14 points, while Domen Janc added 10 points for the winners. Aleksandar Vezenkov (205-SF-95) answered with 30 points and 10 rebounds for Bulgaria. Aleksandar Milov chipped in 11 points in the loss.
<<>><<>>
Second Stage starts in Latvia - Jul 22, 2013
Group E
Serbia - Russia 102-57 Serbia celebrated a comfortable win over Russia at the start of the Second Stage at the u18 European Championship. Aleksa Jugovic (190-G-95) nailed 23 points as Serbia jumped at 1-2 record in Group E. Russia fell at 2-1 record after the defeat. Serbia eked out a 21:18 lead after intense first quarter. The Balkan team started to get away in the second frame. They held Russia to 7 points to gain a 39:25 halftime advantage. Russia collapsed defensively in the third term. Serbia accounted for 34 points in the period and raced to a 73:41 lead at the final break. Serbia unloaded 29 points in the fourth period and sealed a comprehensive win at the end. Milenko Veljkovic (216-C-95) notched 20 points and 10 rebounds, while Brano Djukanovic added 13 points in the victory. Viacheslav Fedorchenko (190-G-95, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) responded with 14 points and 12 rebounds for Russia. Vladislav Staratelev had 9 points in the losing case.
Bosnia - France 42-60 France posted the fourth consecutive win at the U18 European Championship. They opened the Second Stage campaign with a comfortable win over Bosnia and Herzegovina. Axel Bouteille (198-F-95) dropped 18 points to lead the charge. France spurred ahead early in the game and recorded an 18:10 lead after ten minutes. But Bosnia and Herzegovina narrowed the deficit in the second stanza. They got within five points at halftime 26:31. Les Bleus mounted the pressure on their opponents in the third period. France jumped to a 10-point advantage at the final intermission. Les Bleus held their opponents to just 4 points in the fourth quarter and secured the winning outcome. Cyrille Eliezer-Vanerot (198-SF-96) chipped in 9 points, while Etienne Ory, Damien Inglis and Petr Cornelie added 6 points each for the winners. Stefan Lakic (196-F/G-95) and Davor Karamatic (200-F-95) responded with 12 points apiece for Bosnia and Herzegovina. Gacic delivered 8 points in the losing case.
Czech Republic - Lithuania 57-96 Lithuania victoriously opened the Second Stage of the U18 European Championship in Latvia. They knocked down Czech Republic in Group E opener. Lithuania improved at 2-1 record, while Czech Republic fell at 1-2. Lithuania came up with a barrage of three-pointers in the opening quarter to clear off. The Baltic team exploded with 30 points in the first ten minutes and piled up a 21-point lead. Czech Republic stopped the bleeding in the second frame. They narrowed the deficit at 19-point mark at halftime. But Lithuania mounted the pressure in the third term. They unloaded 26 points in the period and entered the fourth stanza up by 25 points 74:49. Lithuania did not slow down in the fourth term and cruised to the victory at the end. Ricardas Verbickas (186-G-95) and Haroldas Saprykinas (188-SG-95) nailed 17 points each for Lithuania. Lukas Grabauskas added 14 points in the winning case. Martin Peterka (206-PF-95) answered with 15 points for Czech Republic. Prokop Slanina had 12 points in the loss.
Group F
United Kingdom - Spain 75-66 OT England gained the second win at the U18 European Championship. Luke Nelson (192-G-95) scored 29 points, grabbed 6 boards and 5 assists to carry England past Spain at the start of the Second Stage of the tournament. It was a close battle from start to finish. England snatched an 18:14 lead after ten minutes. Spain reacted with an aggressive defensive effort in the second frame. They held England to 10 points and surged ahead for a 28:33 halftime lead. Spain boosted the margin at 8-point mark at the third intermission. But England erased the deficit in the fourth frame. Jules Akodo (186-G-96) put them in front 61:59 with just over three minutes remaining. Garcia and Sans gave Spain a 63:61 lead but Isaacs sank a jumper to force overtime. England held Spain to just 3 points in the extra period and claimed a loud victory at the end. Jules Akodo and Morayoninuoluwa Soluade delivered 10 points each for the winning side. Ilimane Diop (209-C-95) answered with 20 points for Spain. Alberto Martin had 17 points in the losing case.
Italy - Turkey 68-75 Turkey claimed the victory at the start of the Second Stage at U18 European Championship. They knocked down Italy to improve at 3-0 record on top of Group F. Italy fell at 1-2 record after the defeat. Metecan Birsen (205-SF-95) netted 17 points to lead the winners. Turkey exploded with 26 points in the opening frame to gain an 8-point lead. Italy turned things around in the second stanza. They went on a 21:11 run to establish a 39:37 halftime lead. The teams stayed neck and neck throughout the third quarter. The Azzurri entered the fourth frame up by two points 46:44. But it was not enough. Turkey used a 15:5 run midway through the fourth frame to gain a 71:65 lead. They never looked back en route to the victory. Emircan Kosut (216-C-95) chipped in 12 points, while Kenan Sipahi contributed 10 points and 8 assists for the winners. Daniel Donzelli (199-SG-96) answered with 15 points for Italy. Simone Fontecchio chipped in 12 points in the losing case.
Croatia - Latvia 65-72 Latvia celebrated victory at the start of the U18 European Championship Second Stage. They held off Croatia for 2-1 record in Group F. Croatia secured a narrow 20:19 lead after ten minutes. Latvia surged ahead in the second period. The hosts held their opponents to 13 points and registered a 36:33 halftime lead. Latvia boosted the gap in the third term. The Baltic team stayed aggressive defensively in the quarter as Croatia managed just 10 points. Latvia built an 11-point lead heading into the final stanza. Croatia nailed 22 points in the fourth frame but could not overcome the deficit. Kristaps Gluditis (192-G-95) netted 15 points, while Kristaps Porzingis (210-C-95), Davis Geks and Rihards Lomazs dropped 10 points each for the winners. Marko Arapovic (208-C/F-96) answered with 15 points for Croatia. Karlo Zganec had 14 points and 12 rebounds in the loss.
Group G
Greece - Bulgaria 88-65 Greece registered the first win at the classification round of U18 European Championship. They outgunned Bulgaria for 1-0 record in Group G. Georgios Diamantakos (214-C-95) nailed 22 points and grabbed 10 rebounds for the winners. Greece eked out a 22:19 lead after ten minutes. Bulgaria stiffened defensively in the second frame and did not allow the Hellenes to run away. Greece enjoyed a 35:32 halftime lead. But Greece stepped on the gas in the third period. They erupted for 28 points and cleared off to a 16-point distance at the final break. Greece fired 25 points in the fourth quarter and raced to the victory at the end. Dimitrios Stamatis (192-G-96) netted 18 points, while Alexandros Spyridonidis added 12 points in the victory. Aleksandar Milov (197-G-95) responded with 18 points for Bulgaria. Aleksandar Vezenkov added 13 points in the loss.
Slovenia - Ukraine 60-65 Ukraine registered the second consecutive victory at the U18 European Championship in Latvia. They overcame Slovenian counterparts at the start of the classification round in Group G. Illya Sydorov (183-PG-96) nailed 19 points to lead the winners. Ukraine grabbed a 15:12 lead after ten minutes of action. Slovenia cut the deficit and eventually pulled ahead in the second quarter. They accumulated a 35:27 halftime advantage. Slovenia boosted the gap in the third term. They accounted for a 53:42 advantage before the final stanza. But Ukraine opened the fourth frame on a 19:2 run to take a 61:55 lead. Yevgen Sakhniuk (201-PF-95) and Kobets sealed the win for Ukraine late in regulation. Yevgen Sakhniuk posted 12 points and 14 rebounds, while Igor Boyarkin added 11 points in the win. Ziga Zatezic (196-SG-95) answered with 19 points for Slovenia. Matic Rebec had 16 points in the losing effort.
The End of Preliminary Round in Latvia - Jul 20, 2013
Group A
Lithuania - Serbia 74-70 OT Lithuania outplayed Serbia for the second win at the U18 European Championship in Latvia. Lithuania thus gained 2-1 record in the second place in Group A. Serbia fell at 1-2 record and occupied the third position in the standings. Domantas Sabonis (205-F/C-96) posted 22 points and 22 rebounds to lead the effort for Lithuania. Serbia got to the better start. They accumulated a 22:16 lead after ten minutes of action. Lithuania cut the deficit in the second frame. Aggressive defence helped the Baltic team get within 3 points at halftime 31:34. Serbia stretched the gap in the third term. They entered the fourth quarter up by 7 points. But Lithuania found the way to recover. Domantas Sabonis organized a 7:0 run from Lithuania as they spurred ahead 62:60 midway through the final term. Vasilije Pusica (190-G-95) gave Serbia a 64:62 lead but Domantas Sabonis capped regulation with a layup to force overtime. Haroldas Saprykinas and Grabauskas teamed up for 8 points in the extra period to win the game for Lithuania. Augustas Suliauskas (180-PG-95) netted 14 points, while Haroldas Saprykinas added 9 points for the winners. Vasilije Pusica answered with 19 points for Serbia. Aleksa Jugovic had 11 points in the loss.
Slovenia - France 51-66 France claimed the third consecutive victory at the start of the U18 European Championship. They knocked down Slovenia to claim the top position in Group A. Charly Pontens (189-G-95) led balanced offensive effort with 11 points. Slovenia fell at 0-3 record after the defeat and would fight against relegation. France jumped to a 25:10 lead after ten minutes of action. Slovenia bounced back in the second frame. They picked up the tempo and cut the deficit to 7 points at halftime 27:34. Slovenia got even closer in the third term. They trailed by just 5 points at the final intermission. However Les Bleus organized an 18:8 rally in the fourth frame to seal the win. William Pfister (204-PF-95) and Cyrille Eliezer-Vanerot (198-SF-96) chipped in 10 points each for France. Jan Novak (185-PG-95) answered with 12 points for Slovenia. Jure Ritlop delivered 11 points in the losing effort.
Group B
Greece - Russia 74-70 Greece celebrated the first win at the U18 European Championship in Latvia. They held off Russia in the final game of their preliminary round campaign. Greece could not progress through into the Second Stage of the tournament. Georgios Diamantakos (214-C-95) stepped up with 33 points and 15 rebounds to lead the winners. Russia enjoyed a 21:19 lead after ten minutes of action. But the Hellenes denied the deficit in the second term. They surged ahead for a 36:31 halftime advantage. Greece maintained the lead throughout the third period. They accumulated a 7-point lead at the final intermission. Viacheslav Fedorchenko (190-G-95, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) scored 7 points in a row for Russia midway through the final stanza to put them within one 65:66. Alexander Martynov (195-G/F-95) later sank three free throws to tie things up at 68. However Dimitrios Stamatis (192-G-96) nailed four points for Greece in the final 90 seconds of the game to seal the victory. He finished with 14 points for the Hellenes. Alexandros Spyridonidis added 7 points for the winning side. Alexander Martynov and Viacheslav Fedorchenko answered with 17 points each for Russia.
Bosnia - Czech Republic 65-69 Czech Republic gained the second win at the U18 European Championship. They overcame Bosnia and Herzegovina to improve at 2-1 record in Group B. Adam Pechacek notched 18 points to lead the winners. Both Czech Republic and Bosnia made it into the Second Stage of the competition. Bosnia posted a 16:14 lead after ten minutes of action. Czech Republic erased the deficit and pulled ahead for a narrow 28:26 halftime lead. Bosnia increased the tempo in the third term. They exploded with 23 points in the period to enter the fourth stanza up by 5 points. But Adam Pechacek nailed two triples early in the fourth term to put Czech Republic in front. Soula and Svoboda made it 60:53 for the Czech team with under two minutes remaining. Radovan Kouril (185-PG-95) and Martin Peterka went deadly from the stripe in the dying seconds and sealed the win for Czech Republic. Martin Peterka finished with 17 points and 11 boards for Czech Republic. Radovan Kouril added 14 points for the winners. Bojan Lulic (196-SF-95) answered with 13 points for Bosnia. Stefan Lakic netted 12 points in the loss.
Group C
Italy - Latvia 70-69 Italy handed the first defeat to hosting Latvia at the U18 European Championship. Simone Fontecchio (197-SF-95) capped the regulation with a layup to snatch the win for Azzurri. The victory propelled Italy at 2-1 record but they remained third in Group C ladder. Italy posted a 20:15 lead after ten minutes of action. Latvia stepped on the gas in the second frame. They fired 26 points to narrow the gap at just two-point mark at halftime 43:41. Latvia surged ahead in the third term. The hosts limited the Azzurri to only 8 points in the period and gained a 7-point lead before the fourth frame. Latvia led by 9 points midway through the final stanza but Marco Spissu drained two triples and Tommaso Laquintana added another one as Italy tied things up at 66. Geks and Simone Fontecchio exchanged baskets before Andzejs Pasecniks (211-C-95, college: VEF skola) made it 69:68 for Latvia with 57 seconds remaining. But Simone Fontecchio converted a layup to seal the win for the Azzurri. Simone Fontecchio finished with 28 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Marco Spissu added 12 points in the victory. Armands Ginters answered with 17 points for Latvia. Andzejs Pasecniks had 16 points in the loss.
Bulgaria - Spain 57-69 Spain advanced into the Second Stage of the U18 European Championship. They overcame Bulgarian counterparts on the final day of the preliminary round. Spain improved at 2-1 record, while Bulgaria slipped at 0-3 in Group C. Alberto Abalde netted 19 points for the winning side. Spain eked out just a one-point lead after ten minutes of action 19:18. They stretched the lead in the second frame. Spain accumulated a 43:29 halftime advantage. The teams traded baskets throughout the third term. Spain made it 57:43 at the final break. Bulgaria cut the deficit in the fourth frame but came up way short of victory at the end. David Iriarte (206-F/C-95) chipped in 18 points, while Jose Nogues (204-PF-95) added 16 points for the Spaniards. Aleksandar Vezenkov (205-SF-95) topscored with 28 points and 9 rebounds for Bulgaria. Aleksandar Milov had 5 points in the loss.
Group D
Ukraine - Turkey 89-88 OT Yevgen Sakhniuk (201-PF-95) nailed a late jumper in overtime and Ukraine escaped with a tough overtime victory over Turkey. The victory however did not allow Ukraine to progress into the Second Stage. Yevgen Sakhniuk delivered 21 points and 10 rebounds for the winners. Turkey slipped at 2-1 record after the defeat. Ukraine got a 7:2 start to the game. But Turkey quickly erased the deficit and teams went neck and neck throughout the opening frame. They entered the second stanza tied at 23. The lead changed hands throughout the second period. Ukraine had the last laugh as they snatched a 39:36 halftime advantage. Guven and Okben Ulubay (200-F-97) quickly put Turkey in front in the third term. Dogukan Sanli made it 55:45 for Turkey midway through the period. They entered the final stanza up by 11 points 64:53. But Ukraine managed to erase the deficit. Shalamov drained a triple to level things up at 75 with under two minutes remaining in regulation. Ozmizrak sank a free throw to give Turkey a narrow lead but Igor Boyarkin (185-PG-95) answered with a freebie to send the game into overtime. The teams traded baskets before Yevgen Sakhniuk nailed a decisive jumper and sealed the win for Ukraine. Igor Boyarkin finished with 15 points, while Oleksandr Antypov added 13 points in the win. Okben Ulubay responded with 22 points, 7 assists and 6 boards for Turkey. Dogukan Sanli chipped in 20 points in the loss.
United Kingdom - Croatia 65-89 Croatia clinched a comfortable win over England on the final day of the preliminary round at U18 European Championship. The victory allowed Croatia to occupy the second position in Group D. Both teams progressed into the Second Stage of the tournament. Croatia quickly gained the lead and raced to a 21:12 advantage after ten minutes. They kept England at distance throughout the second frame. The Balkan team accumulated a 46:33 halftime lead. Croatia extended the margin in the third period. They established a comfortable 25-point lead at the final break. England managed to outscore their opponents in the fourth frame but could not avoid the loss. Tomislav Gabric (201-PF-95, agency: XL Basketball Agency) delivered 21 points for the winners. Dorian Jelenek (200-SF-95) added 16 points for the Croats. Luke Nelson (192-G-95) answered with 25 points for England. Morayoninuoluwa Soluade and Kingsley Okoroh had 10 points each in the loss.
Division A: Results and Stats from Day 2 in Latvia - Jul 19, 2013
Group A
France - Serbia 65-62 France edged Serbia for the second straight win at the start of the U18 European Championship. Les Bleus remained on top of Group A. Damien Inglis (203-PF-95) was instrumental in the victory tallying 20 points, 9 rebounds, 8 assists. Serbia led by six points after ten minutes of action 22:16. The Balkan team maintained the lead throughout the second period. They ensured a 38:32 halftime advantage. But Inglis and Etienne Ory (178-PG-96) opened the second half with back-to-back three-pointers to erase the deficit. They also triggered a 13:0 run from Les Bleus as they gained a 45:38 lead. Serbia managed to erase it as the teams entered the fourth frame tied at 52. Serbia led by two points 60:58 with just over five minutes to go in regulation. Inglis and Etienne Ory made it then 63:60 for France. Aleksa Jugovic cut the distance but Bouteille scored the final two points in the game sealing the victory for Les Bleus. Etienne Ory finished with 17 points, while Guerschon Yabusele contributed 6 points for the winners. Rade Zagorac (201-G/F-95) answered with 13 points for Serbia. Aleksa Jugovic had 11 points and 8 assists in the loss.
Slovenia - Lithuania 69-74 Lithuania claimed the opening win at the U18 European Championship. They fired past Slovenia for 1-1 record in Group A. Paulius Valinskas (191-SG-95) nailed 14 points to lead the winners. Slovenia suffered the second straight defeat at the tournament. Slovenia got to a storming start to the game. They ensured a 30:12 lead after ten minutes. But Lithuania found the way to bounce back. They tuned in defensively and held their opponents to just 7 points in the second term. Lithuania cut the deficit at three-point mark at halftime. Slovenia extended their lead to double digits again in the third frame. Matic Rebec made it 53:43 for the hosts. Ritlop capped the period with a layup to give Slovenia a 57:47 lead. But Lithuania went on a massive 20:3 run midway through the fourth frame to take a 69:62 lead. They did not surrender the advantage in the reminder of the contest and sealed the victory at the end. Domantas Sabonis (205-F/C-96) added 12 points and 14 rebounds for the winning side. Ziga Zatezic (196-SG-95) answered with 23 points for Slovenia. Matic Rebec had 20 points and 8 assists in the losing effort.
Group B
Czech Republic - Russia 69-71 Russia eked out the second straight win at the U18 European Championship in Latvia. They held off pesky Czech Republic today to stay on top of Group B. Alexander Martynov (195-G/F-95) and Viacheslav Fedorchenko (190-G-95, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) had 22 points each to lead the winners. Czech Republic fell at 1-1 record after the defeat. The Czech team was in control throughout the first half. They grabbed a 24:18 lead after the starting quarter. Czech Republic stretched the gap in the second frame. They established a 48:38 halftime advantage. Czech Republic held Russia to just 12 points in the third term to secure what seemed to be a comfortable 12-point lead before the final stanza 62:50. But Russia refused to surrender. Viacheslav Fedorchenko drained backt-to-back three-pointers midway through the final stanza to put Russia within three 63:66. Alexander Martynov, Viacheslav Fedorchenko and Maleyko gave Russia a 71:68 lead with under two minutes remaining. Pechachek nailed a free throw but missed the second one and later Radovan Kouril (180-PG-95) missed a jumper as Russia got away with the win. Alexander Gankevich netted 8 points for Russia. David Radovan Kouril answered with 11 points for Czech Republic. Marek Mares had 9 points in the losing effort.
Bosnia - Greece 52-51 Bosnia and Herzegovina celebrated the first win at the U18 European Championship. They held off Greece for 1-1 record in Group B. Aleksandar Lazic (198-F/G-96) nailed 13 points to lead the Balkan team. The Hellenes fell at 0-2 record after the defeat. Bosnia and Herzegovina limited their opponents to just 6 points in the first frame to take a 2-point lead. Bosnia maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. They recorded a 23:19 halftime advantage. Greece cut the deficit in the third term. The Hellenes pulled ahead for a 32:31 advantage before the fourth frame. Aleksandar Lazic, Lakic and Imran Polutak (205-C-96) gave Bosnia and Herzegovina a 48:43 lead with three minutes remaining. Dimitrios Stamatis (192-G-96) and Chatzinikolas dragged Greece within one 51:52 with 39 seconds remaining. Lulic missed two free throws but Dimitrios Stamatis could not capitalize missing a jumper late in regulation. Imran Polutak had 10 points, while Sandro Gacic added 8 points for the winning side. Georgios Diamantakos (214-C-95) answered with 13 points and 11 rebounds for Greece. Dimitrios Stamatis chipped in 10 points in the loss.
Group C
Bulgaria - Italy 48-97 Italy recorded the first win at the U18 European Championship in Latvia. The Azzurri recovered after the starting loss and thrashed Bulgaria for 1-1 record in Group C. Simone Fontecchio (197-SF-95) posted 21 points to pace the winners. Bulgaria fell at 0-2 record after the defeat. Italy opened the game with an aggressive defence and held Bulgaria to just 6 points in the first ten minutes. The Azzurri unloaded impressive 30 points in the second period to take a 47:20 halftime lead. Italy stayed red hot in the third term. They poured in 27 points in the period to pile up a 75:36 advantage at the final intermission. Italy limited Bulgaria to just 12 points in the fourth frame and raced to the victory at the end. Nicola Akele netted 16 points, while Pierfrancesco Oliva (202-SF-96) chipped in 12 points for the winning side. Aleksandar Vezenkov (205-SF-95) answered with 21 points for Bulgaria. Evgeni Hadzhirusev had 11 points in the loss.
Spain - Latvia 61-66 Latvia claimed the second consecutive victory at the start of the U18 European Championship. The hosts upset Spain to take 2-0 record on top of Group C. Andzejs Pasecniks (211-C-95, college: VEF skola) tallied 18 points and 13 rebounds to lead the winning side. Latvia eked out a 13:11 lead after the starting quarter. The hosts stayed in front throughout the second frame. Latvia accumulated a 28:25 halftime advantage. The teams traded baskets throughout intense third term. Latvia arrived at the final intermission up by three points 47:44. Latvia went on a 10:0 run early in the fourth frame to ensure a 57:46 advantage with just over six minutes remaining. Spain responded with a furious run to level things up at 61. Davis Geks answered with a triple to silence Spain and then sank two free throws to seal the victory for the home team. Kristaps Gluditis (192-G-95) netted 13 points, while Kristaps Porzingis and Davis Geks added 11 points each for Latvia. Alberto Martin (185-PG-95) answered with 16 points for Spain. Alberto Abalde delivered 12 points in the losing case.
Group D
Croatia - Turkey 76-84 Turkey registered the second straight win at the U18 European Championship campaign. They held off Croatia to remain on top of Group D. Kenan Sipahi (198-PG-95) netted 21 points, grabbed 7 rebounds and issued 6 assists to lead the winners. Croatia fell at 1-1 record after the defeat. Croatia looked confident start at the start of the game. They fired 27 points in the opening ten minutes to ensure a 5-point lead. Turkey stopped the rot in the second frame. They adjusted defensively and cut the deficit to 2 points at halftime 45:43. Turkey exploded with a 22:12 rally in the third term. They surged ahead and secured an 8-point buffer before the fourth stanza. Baykan and Emircan Kosut (216-C-95) gave Turkey a 72:57 lead early in the fourth frame. Croatia sparked the intrigue as they managed to clip the deficit at 5-point mark 71:76 with just over three minutes to go. However Kenan Sipahi and Kanter netted four points and Turkey raced to the win at the end. Cedi Osman (195-SG-95) and Emircan Kosut delivered 13 points each for Turkey. Domagoj Bosnjak (197-G/F-95) answered with 19 points for Croatia. Tomislav Gabric had 14 points in the loss.
United Kingdom - Ukraine 93-81 England earned the historic victory in Liepaja today. They overcame Ukraine for the first ever success in Division A of the U18 European Championship. Luke Nelson (190-G-95) accounted for 25 points to lead the winning side. Ukraine posted 22 points in the first frame to take a one-point lead. Ukraine stretched the lead in the second quarter. They established a 41:34 halftime advantage. But England turned things around in the third frame. They erupted for 25 points and surged ahead for a 59:57 advantage at the final break. Luke Nelson, Isaacs and Benjamin Mead gave England a 71:61 lead midway through the fourth frame. Ukraine narrowed the margin at 5-point mark but England stayed calm as they soon opened a double-digit advantage. Kingsley Okoroh (216-C-95) made it 91:78 for England with 27 seconds remaining and they cruised to the victory in the reminder of the contest. Kingsley Okoroh posted 14 points, while Benjamin Mead had 11 points for the winners. Yevgen Sakhniuk (201-PF-95) and Andrii Shalamov (96) netted 20 points each for Ukraine as they slipped at 0-2 record.
Division A: Results and Stats from Day 1 in Latvia - Jul 18, 2013
Group A
Serbia - Slovenia 88-56 Serbia claimed the first win at the U18 European Championship. They held off Slovenia in Group A action in Ventspils. Rade Zagorac (201-G/F-95) netted 13 points to lead the charge. Serbia quickly cleared off in the opening frame. They posted a 22:10 lead after ten minutes of action. Serbia extended the lead in the second frame. They ensured a 46:21 halftime advantage. The Serbian team kept Slovenia at distance throughout the third period. They secured a comfortable 64:38 buffer heading into the fourth frame. Serbia unloaded 24 points in the final stanza to seal the win. Ognjen Jaramaz (191-PG-95) and Stefan Ljubenkovic (95) finished with 12 points each for Serbia. Pusica had 11 points, 9 rebounds and 9 assists in the victory. Jure Ritlop (203-PF-95) chipped in 9 points for Slovenia. Ziga Zatezic and Janc had 7 points each in the loss.
Lithuania - France 58-67 France got to the winning start of their U18 European Championship campaign. They held off ambitious Lithuania in the opener in Group A. Charly Pontens (189-SG-95) fired 19 points to lead Les Bleus. France held Lithuania to 11 points in the first period to take a 5-point lead. Les Bleus stretched the gap in the second quarter. They arrived at halftime up by 11 points 33:22. But the Baltic team tuned in offensively in the third term. They organized a 23:16 rally in the third quarter to cut the deficit 4-point mark at the final break. France however responded with a stifling defence in the fourth frame and escaped with the win at the end. Axel Bouteille (197-F-95) netted 14 points, while Olivier Yao-Delon and Petr Cornelie had 6 points each for the winners. Domantas Sabonis (205-F/C-96) answered with 19 points and 16 boards for Lithuania. Augustas Suliauskas, Ricardas Verbickas and Lukas Grabauskas had 8 points each in the loss.
Group B
Russia - Bosnia 68-55 Russia clinched the first win at the U18 European Championship in Latvia. They defeated Bosnia and Herzegovina in the opening day of the competition. Mikhail Maleyko (206-PF-96) and Alexander Martynov (195-G/F-95) stepped up with 13 points each to lead the winning team. Bosnia and Herzegovina snatched a 20:16 lead after ten minutes of action. Russia improved defensively in the second quarter. They held their opponents to just 7 points in the period and surged ahead for a 28:27 halftime lead. Russia outgunned the Bosnian counterparts 22:10 in the third term to take off. Bosnia and Herzegovina struggled to catch up with their opponents in the final period as Russia marched to the victory. Alexander Gankevich (201-PF-95) netted 12 points, while Fedorchenko added 11 points in the win. Imran Polutak (205-C-96) answered with 12 points for Bosnia and Herzegovina. Stefan Lakic and Bojan Lulic provided 9 points each in the loss.
Greece - Czech Republic 67-68 Czech Republic claimed a narrow win at the start of the U18 European Championship. They snatched a tough one-point victory over Greece. Martin Peterka (201-PF-95) scored 19 points and 11 rebounds to lead the charge. Czech Republic confidently opened the game. They held Greece to just 13 points in the first period and posted a 4-point lead. But the Hellenes gradually adjusted their performance. They cut the deficit to just one point 28:29 at halftime. Czech Republic maintained the lead in the third term. They entered the fourth frame up by three points. Greece denied the deficit as Kouzeloglou drained a three-pointer for a 52:52 tie. But Martin Peterka answered with a triple and Czech Republic quickly cleared off to a 7-point lead. Radovan Kouril (180-PG-95) made it 66:58 for the Czech team with under two minutes remaining. Anastasios Spyropoulos and Kouzeloglou hit two three-pointers to narrow the gap but Greece simply ran out of time and lost the clash. Radovan Kouril had 17 points, 6 assists and 4 boards for Czech Republic. Alexandros Spyridonidis (190-PG-95) answered with 15 points for Greece. Anastasios Spyropoulos chipped in 12 points in the losing effort.
Group C
Italy - Spain 61-88 Spain recorded the first win at the U18 European Championship. They knocked down Italy in the opener in Group C. Juan Hernangomez (198-F-95) scored 18 points to pace the winners. Spain made sure they grabbed the initiative early in the game. They erupted for 28 points in the first period to build a 12-point lead. Italy slowed their opponents down in the second frame. But Spain secured a 44:32 halftime lead. Spain boosted the lead in the third term. They ensured a comfortable 20-point advantage before the fourth period. Spain nailed 20 points in the fourth term and sealed the win at the end. Agusti Sans (195-SG-95) posted 16 points, while Alberto Abalde added 14 points for the winners. Tommaso Laquintana (187-PG-95) answered with 16 points for Italy. Simone Fontecchio and Daniel Donzelli chipped in 12 points each in the loss.
Latvia - Bulgaria 85-57 Latvia claimed the opening win at the U18 European Championship. They defeated Bulgaria to gain 1-0 record in Group C. Andzejs Pasecniks (211-C-95, college: VEF skola) provided 16 points and 11 rebounds to lead the hosts. Latvia got to a brisk start to the game. They poured in 24 points in the opening ten minutes and recorded a 4-point lead. The hosts unloaded 27 points in the second frame to extend the lead. They accumulated a 51:35 halftime advantage. Latvia did not loosen the grip in the third period. They held Bulgaria to 12 points in the quarter and boosted the margin to as many as 22 points. Latvia went on a 16:10 run in the final period and sealed the victory. Kristaps Porzingis (210-C-95) had 15 points and 11 boards, while Davis Geks had 11 points for the winning side. Aleksandar Vezenkov (205-SF-95) answered with 24 points and 17 rebounds for Bulgaria. Martin Vasiliev and Angel Peychinov netted 9 points apiece in the defeat.
Group D
Ukraine - Croatia 49-81 Croatia gained the opening win at the U18 European Championship in Latvia. They fired past Ukraine in Group D opener. Karlo Zganec (206-F/C-95, agency: XL Basketball Agency) nailed 19 points to lead the winning side. Croatia gained a 16:8 lead after the opening quarter. Ukraine improved their performance in the second period. They cut the deficit at 7-point mark at the interval 23:30. However Croatia stamped their authority in the third period. The Balkan team went on a 26:14 run to clear off to a 19-point lead at the final intermission. Croatia finished off their opponents with a 25:12 run in the fourth period. Lovro Mazalin (203-SF-97, agency: Beo Basket) chipped in 14 points, while Marko Arapovic provided 10 points and 12 rebounds in the victory. Illya Sydorov and Oleksandr Kobets (192-SF-96) responded with 12 points each for Ukraine.
Turkey - United Kingdom 76-58 Turkey celebrated the first win at the U18 European Championship in Latvia. They defeated England in their starting game. Kenan Sipahi (198-PG-95) posted 15 points to lead the winning side. Turkey accumulated a 21:18 lead after the opening quarter. But England capitalized on a sloppy offensive effort from the Turkish team to deny the deficit in the second frame. The English team grabbed a 36:34 halftime lead. Turkey regained the lead pretty quickly in the second half. They opened the half with a 7:0 run to spur in front. Turkey fired 21 points in the period to gain a 3-point lead. They exploded with a 21:6 rally in the final stanza to seal the winning outcome. Cedi Osman (195-SG-95) netted 14 points, while Metecan Birsen chipped in 13 points and grabbed 14 rebounds for the winning side. Jules Akodo (186-G-96) answered with 12 points for England. Dwayne Lautier-Ogunleye delivered 11 points in the losing case.
Montenegro wins Division B in Strumica - Jul 28, 2013
FINAL
Poland - Montenegro 63-64 Montenegro wins Division B in Strumica at the U18 European Championship. They overcame Poland 64:63 in a thrilling Final as both teams secure Division A promotion for year 2014. Both teams deserved the Final game and now head to the top division. Poland started the game with 13-11 lead and led 4 points at the halftime. Montenegro replied with a 21-16 rally in the third period as the board showed 46:45 after three quarters. Mikolaj Witlinski (207-F/C-95) gave Poland later 61:54 but his team could not win. Draskovic Milovan scored the last 5 points for the winners including the fatal three-pointer for 64:63 win. Zoran Nikolic (208-C-96, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) top-scored for the winners with 19 points and 11 rebounds, while Draskovic Milovan and Popovic Petar posted 11 each. Radunovic Mihailo ended up with 7 points in a win. Mikolaj Witlinski answered with 18 points and 12 rebounds in a loss, whilst Przemyslaw Zolnierewicz (194-G/F-95) added 13. Kulka Grzegorz netted 10, whilst Adrian Krawczyk (183-PG-95) had 8.
3rd place
Belgium - FYR Macedonia 70-45 Belgium gets promotion to Division A as the third team of the U18 European Championship from Division B. The team overcame FYR Macedonia 70:45 in the game for the Bronze medals and will play in the top division next year. The hosts finished 4th at the tournament in Strumica. Belgium took 26:20 lead in the first period and posted a massive 18-7 surge in the second frame. FYR Macedonia replied with 12-8 rally in the third period but could not come closer. Belgium closed the game with a 18-6 burst to seal the most important victory. Kesteloot Vincent top-scored for the winners with 25 points and 18 rebounds, while Ismael Bako (208-C-95) and Hemeleers Sam added 10 each. Nikolov Kristijan brought 13 points in defeat and Andrej Magdevski (190-PG-96) notched 12. Daniel Nacevski (194-SF-95) followed them with 10 points.
5-6 places
Sweden - Israel 68-84 Israel clinch 5th place in Division B at the U18 European Championship. The team overcame Sweden 84:68 in the Classification Round and finished with a step higher. Israel won the opening quarter 19-17 and then erupted with 25-11 surge in the second period. Sweden looked better in the second half and managed to be the competitor in the game. The Scandinavian team won the third period 23-22, while Israel posted 18-17 rally in the last stanza. Joensson Martin and Sorkin exchanged the last points for the final result. Joaquin Szuchman (191-G-95) paced all the winners with 19 points and Segev Itay, Gal Gelinski (193-F/G-95) and Sharon Naor nailed 12 each. Idan Zalmanson (206-C/F-95) chipped in with 11 points in a win. Ludvig Hakanson (190-PG-96) replied with 19 points in defeat and Joensson Martin had 15. Peltier Jordan brought 10 points as Sweden finished on the 6th place.
7-8 places
Holland - Estonia 68-75 Estonia rout Holland to finish the campaign at the U18 European Championship in Division B. The Estonian side needed a 75:68 win for the 7th place. The Dutch side meanwhile ended up on the step lower. Both teams managed to win two quarters of the game. At first Estonia won the first period 16-13 and then Holland replied with a 15-11 rally in the third period. The latter looked better in the third period and needed a 26-17 rally for 54:44 advantage after 30 minutes. Estonia however erupted with a 31-14 surge in the last stanza to seal the victory. Karl-Robin Jurjens (203-F-96) paced all the winners with 17 points and Sten Olmre (194-SG-95) nailed 14. Sutt Saimon notched 13, whilst Russak Jaagup had 11. Dijkhuizen Jaron ended up with 19 points and 13 rebounds in defeat and Daan Rosenmuller (193-G/F-95) had 12. Pim De Vries and Robert Boezeman (198-F/C-96) produced 9 points each in a loss.
9-10 places
Finland - Portugal 69-60 Finland overcame Portugal for the 9th position at the U18 European Championship in Division B. The Nordic side needed a 69:60 win at the Classification Round for 9-10 places. Finland started stronger and took 20:15 lead at the end of the first period. Portugal meanwhile bounced back with 18:15 run in the second frame as Relvao Daniel reduced to 35:33 at the halftime. Finland pushed the tempo in the third period and Shawn Hopkins (195-G/F-95) nailed three for 50:37 advantage. Hirvonen Tuomas and Nuno Ferreira (180-SG-95) exchanged the late baskets for the final result in the game. Hirvonen Tuomas stepped up with 20 points for the winners and Shawn Hopkins nailed 16. Henttonen Juho-Matti delivered 15, whilst Madsen Alexander had 8. Nuno Ferreira answered with 17 points in defeat and Sergio da Silva (191-SG-96) brought 10. Meireless Pedro and Relvao Daniel followed them with 8 points apiece.
11-12 places
Belarus - Germany 43-70 Germany clinch 11th place in Strumica at the U18 European Championship in Division B. The German side finished with 70:43 win over Belarus. The latter clinched 12th place at the tournament. Germany won the first period 17-11 and added massive 19-9 in the second frame. The German side continued their high performance in the second half and posted another two victories. They won the third period 14-11 and finished the game with 20-12. Schlueter Lars stepped up with 13 points for the winners and Zinn Robert as well as Christian Sengfelder (201-F/C-95) had 12 points each. Ebert Constantin followed them with 8 points. Yauheni Beliankou (197-SF-95) answered with 17 points in defeat and Salash Maksim as well as Kazlou Siarhei had 10.
13-14 places
Hungary - Norway 77-67 Hungary wrapped up their U18 European Championship campaign on a high note. They toppled Norway to claim the 13th overall position. Bruno Bazso (185-SF-95) and Tibor Ban had 15 points each to lead the winning team. Norway opened the game with six straight points. But Hungary capped the starting quarter with 10 points in a row to grab a 22:18 lead. Bonitzer quickly stretched the gap at 7-point mark. Hungary maintained the advantage but led by just a single point at halftime 38:37. Hungary used a 7:0 run midway through the third term to open a double-digit lead. They entered the fourth period up by 9 points 62:53. Bonitzer and Benke gave Hungary a 70:56 lead early in the final term and they cruised to the victory afterwards. Janos Velkey (192-G-95) produced 14 points, while Gyorgy Goloman (204-PF-96) added 13 points and 13 boards for the winners. Anders Nymo answered with 16 points for Norway. Mikkel Kolstad had 11 points in the loss.
15-16 places
Switzerland - Romania 62-58 Switzerland claimed the 15th position at the U18 European Championship in Division B. They knocked down Romania in the final game at the tournament for both teams. Noe Anabir posted 13 points to lead the winners. Switzerland got to a storming start. They held Romania to just 6 points in the first period and accumulated a 10-point lead. Switzerland maintained control in the second term. They piled up a 39:18 halftime advantage. Romania however stopped the rot in the third term. They went on a 25:12 rally in the quarter to cut the deficit at 8-point mark 43:51. Brosser and Andrei Ciordas (203-PF-95) put Romania within one 54:55 midway through the fourth frame. Romania still trailed by just one point with 19 seconds left in regulation but Patrick Bianchi nailed three free throws in the dying seconds to seal the win for the Swiss team. He finished with 10 points for the winners. Arnaud Cotture (201-PF-95) added 8 points in the victory. Vlad Cobzaru (201-C-95) answered with 17 points for Romania. Andrei Ciordas had 13 points in the losing effort.
17-18 places
Denmark - Slovakia 83-68 Denmark successfully finished the campaign as they beat Slovakia at the U18 European Championship in Division B. The Danish side needed an 83:68 win for the 17th place. Slovakia meanwhile moved to one step lower. Denmark posted a 21:16 start and added 18-14 rally in the second frame. Moreover Denmark added similar 22-19 in the third and the last quarters. It gave them 83:68 total win and the 17th place at the tournament. Rasmus Hansen (203-PF-95) top-scored for the winners with 19 points and Christensen Mathias as well as Nielsen Johannes nailed 17 each. Tobias Christensen (193-G/F-95) followed them with 13 points in a win. Norbert Janicek (206-C-96) answered with 16 points in defeat and Masiar Marek brought 15. Janosik Juraj scored 14 and Matych Miroslav added 6.
19-20 places
Austria - Luxembourg 66-73 Luxembourg overcame Austria in the last game of their U18 European Championship campaign. They needed a 73:66 win to take the 19th position. Austria ended up on the 20th spot after the loss. Both teams exchanged the narrow wins in the first two quarters. At first Austria won the first period 19-17 and then Luxembourg bounced back with 20-18 rally. In the second half Luxembourg posted 18 points in the third period and then again 18 points in the last period. Austria only scored 15 and 14 points respectively that was not enough to catch up. Timothy Kauffmann (195-SF-96) top-scored for the winners with 20 points and Gutenkauf Philippe nailed 16. Schmit Tim brought 13, whilst Hilger Max had 9. Georg Wolf (188-SG-95) brought 15 points in defeat and Soldo Marko had 9. Marvin Ogunsipe (204-PF-96) followed them with 8 points in a loss.
21-22 places
Georgia - Scotland 94-68 Georgia escape the last spot with the win over Scotland at the U18 European Championship. Georgia posted a final 94:68 win to finish on the 21st place. Scotland debuted well and showed good effort anyway. Both teams wanted to finish the campaign with the win and did their best. Georgia opened the game with 23-16 run and then added 21-18 rally in the second period. Moreover Georgia dominated the second half and posted another two victories. They posted 26-17 in the third period and ended up with 24-17 rally. Kakhaber Tomaradze (193-SG-95) top-scored for the winners with 20 points and Dvali Giorgi netted 12. Sandro Sanadze (188-PG-95) posted 11, while Gamreklidze Ucha added 9. Malcolm Fraser ended up with 22 points in the losing effort and Sim Nicholas added 15. Gregor Gray (193-G/F-96) brought 11, whilst Mullan Ronan ended up with 7 points.
Poland and Montenegro punch the tickets to Division A - Jul 27, 2013
SEMIFINAL
Poland - Belgium 80-62 Poland punch the ticket to Division A for the next year. They overcame Belgium at the U18 European Championship in Division B and will play in the Final after an 80:62 win. Belgium will have another chance tomorrow to become the third team to advance to Division A as they face FYR Macedonia. Belgium surprised Poland with 21-17 rally in the first period, but then Poland pushed the tempo for good. They won the second period 26-15 and added 15-12 run in the third quarter. Moreover Poland won the last stanza 22-14 to ensure the total success. Jeszke Damian top-scored for the winners with 23 points and Mikolaj Witlinski (207-F/C-95) as well as Wadowski Igor added 17 each. Zolnierewicz Przemyslaw poured in 11 points in a win. Vincent Kesteloot (200-F-95) answered with 25 points in defeat and Boxus Romain brought 10. Peeters Philippe netted 8 and Hemeleers Sam chipped in with 7.
FYR Macedonia - Montenegro 60-62 Montenegro head to Division A for the next year. They needed a thrilling 62:60 win over FYR Macedonia in the Semifinal clash and advanced to the Final. The hosts will have another chance to advance to Division A for the next year as they will need to beat Belgium tomorrow in the age for the third place. Montenegro will take on Poland in the Final game. It was a real thriller in the court. More than 2000 fans came to support their team, but the victory jumped to another team at the end of the game. Nikolov Kristijan gave FYR Macedonia 57:54 lead, but then Milovan Draskovic (211-C-95, agency: Interperformances) tied the game at 60:60. He also made two more three for the final result. Nikolov Kristijan and Magdevski Andrej top-scored for the winners with 13 points each, while Ljubomir Mladenovski (207-C-95) collected 11 points and 11 rebounds. Dvojakovski Oliver followed them with 10 points. Milovan Draskovic answered with 16 points in defeat and Djurovic Luka as well as Nikolic Zoran had 8 each. Raicevic Marko ended up with 7 points in a loss.
13-16 places
Romania - Norway 56-76 Norway rout Romania at the Classification Round of the U18 European Championship in Division B. The Nordic side needed a 76:58 win and will play against Hungary in the game for 13th place. Romania meanwhile will take on Switzerland in the game for 15th position. Romania surprised the opponents with 21-20 lead in the first period and then added 12-9 rally in the second frame. Norway however dominated the second half and posted two victories. They won the third period 22-12 and finished the game with 25-11 surge. Kolstad Mikkel top-scored for the winners with 25 points and Berg Sjur collected 16 points and 16 rebounds. Anders Nymo (180-PG-96) netted 12 and Stockman Matz had 8. Bogdan Pogacean (197-C-95) answered with 18 points in defeat and Vlad Cobzaru (201-C-95) nailed 15. Ciordas Andrei followed them with 10 points in a loss.
Hungary - Switzerland 82-46 Hungary smash Switzerland at the Classification Round for 13-16 places of the U18 European Championship in Division B. Hungary won 82:46 and will take on Norway in the game for 13th place tomorrow. Switzerland will play against Romania for 15th place. Hungary pulled a 19-12 lead in the first period and added 16-11 in the second frame. They never looked behind and erupted with a 24-7 surge in the third period. Moreover Hungary won the last stanza 82:46 to ensure a 36-point win. Mate Illes (186-PG-95, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) top-scored for the winners with 14 points and Benke Szilard netted 11. David Boinitzer (197-F-95) poured in 10, while Goloman Gyorgy and Janos Velkey (192-G-95) had 9 each. Verga Alessandro ended up with 13 points in defeat and Anabir Noe had 12. Bianchi Patrick posted 6 points, while Arnaud Cotture (201-PF-95) added 5.
5-8 places
Estonia - Israel 64-84 Israel edge Estonia in Division B at the U18 European Championship. Israel posted an 84:64 win at the Classification Round for 5-8 places. Tomorrow Israel will take on Sweden in the game for the 5th place. Estonia meanwhile will play against Holland for 7-8 places. Israel erupted with a 33-21 lead in the first period to take the full control of the court. They added 26-17 rally in the second frame and enjoyed a 59:38 lead at the halftime. Israel managed to save the victory although Estonia looked better in the second half. Joaquin Szuchman (191-G-95) stepped up with 21 points, while Or Cahal (190-G-95) and Segev Itay nailed 14 each. Karl-Robin Jurjens (203-F-96) answered with 12 points in defeat and Kotsar Maik-Kalev had 9. Saimon Sutt (201-SG-95) poured in 8, whilst Olmre Sten notched 7.
Holland - Sweden 64-74 Hakanson Ludvig leads Sweden over Holland at the Classification Round for 5-8 places. He scored 23 points as his team won 74:64 and will take Israel tomorrow for the 5th place. Holland meanwhile will play against Estonia for 7-8 places. Sweden won the first period 17:12 and added massive 24-14 rally in the second period. Holland replied with two victories in the second half, but it was not enough to win the game itself. Holland reduced to 60:47 after Pim De Vries closed the third period with a three. Liem brought 68:61, but then Hakanson Ludvig ensured 10-point total success for the Scandinavian side. Erik Johansson (194-F-96), Lindstrom Valter and Mattias Markusson (210-C-96) each scored 8 points. Pim De Vries replied with 18 points in defeat and Daan Rosenmuller (193-G/F-95) notched 14. Julius van Sauers added 9 and Aarts Tom scored 8.
9-12 places
Finland - Belarus 78-68 Finland beat Belarus in Strumica at the Classification Round for 9-12 places. The Nordic side needed a 78:68 win and will take on Portugal in the game for 9th place tomorrow. Belarus will play against Germany for 11-12 places. It was Belarus to start with 25-13 surge and then erupted with 25-16 rally in the second frame. It was not however enough to win the game after a 50:29 lead. Finland bounced back with 24-9 burst in the third period and had a fantastic 25-9 surge at the end. Henttonen Juho-Matti paced all the winners with 19 points and Hirvonen Tuomas as well as Alexander Madsen (199-F/C-95) had 13 each. Hanninen Ville followed them with 10 points. Salash Maksim replied with 15 points in defeat and Yeusiyevich Tsimafei notched 12. Yauheni Beliankou (197-SF-95) delivered 10, while Kazlou Siarhei had 9.
Portugal - Germany 53-52 Meireless brings Portugal the win over Germany at the U18 European Championship in Division B. He scored two free throws at the very end for 53:52 win at the Classification Round for 9-12 places. Portugal will take on Finland tomorrow for the 9th spot. Germany meanwhile will take on Belarus in the game for 11-12 places. Both teams scored 19 points each in the first period and the Germany took 6-point halftime advantage after a 15-9 rally in the second frame. Portugal won the third period 12-10 and finished the game with 13-8 run. Pedro Meireless (184-G/F-95) stepped up on the free throw line at the end of the game and nailed two for the final result. Marques Pedro top-scored for the winners with 10 points and Pedro Meireless nailed 9. Insaly Isaias collected 7 points and 11 rebounds, while Francisco Amiel (186-PG-96) also scored 7. Wimberg Jan Niklas delivered 12 points in defeat and Joschka Ferner (201-PF-96) notched 10. Akpinar Ismet brought 6 and Schlueter Lars added 5.
Division B: The Semifinals are set - Jul 25, 2013
Group E
Estonia - Poland 52-67 Poland have qualified into the semifinal stage of the U18 European Championship in Division B from the top spot in Group E. They fired past Estonia to gain 3-0 record on top of the ladder. Damian Jeszke nailed 12 points to lead the Polish side. Poland jumped to a 17:13 lead after ten minutes of action. They maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. Poland accumulated a 31:24 halftime lead. Things got worse for Estonia in the third term. They managed just 3 points in the period to face a massive 30-point deficit before the fourth frame. Estonia went on a 25:10 run in the fourth quarter but just sweetened the pill at the end. Pawel Dzierzak (186-PG-95), Damian Szymczak (186-G-95) and Grzegorz Kulka had 9 points each for the winners. Jaagup Russak (185-G-96) answered with 16 points for Estonia. Simon Sutt had 6 points in the loss.
Holland - FYR Macedonia 55-69 FYR Macedonia advanced into the semifinal stage of the U18 European Championship in Division B. They outscored FYR Macedonia to clinch 2-1 record in Group E. Kristijan Nikolov nailed 17 points to lead the hosts. FYR Macedonia grabbed a 15:10 lead after ten minutes of action. They maintained the advantage throughout the second stanza. FYR Macedonia raced to a 29:20 halftime lead. The teams traded baskets throughout the third term. FYR Macedonia secured a 51:42 advantage at the final intermission. The hosts held the Dutch team to 13 points in the fourth frame and sealed the winning outcome. Andrej Magdevski (190-PG-96) netted 15 points, while Ljubomir Mladenovski chipped in 13 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. Pim De Vries (193-F/G-95) answered with 12 points and 8 rebounds for Netherlands. Julius van Sauers dropped 11 points in the loss.
Group F
Montenegro - Israel 63-60 Montenegro grabs the last ticket to the semis of the U18 European Championship in Division B. They needed a 63:60 victory over Israel in the last game of the Group Stage. It was the battle for the last Semifinal ticket. Both teams entered the game with 1-1 record and needed just a win to advance to the Top Four. Montenegro won the first period 25:13 and added 20-18 rally in the second frame. Israel tried harder in the second half and won the third period 18-10. Trailing 62:54 at the end of the game, Zalmanson reduced to 62:60 with 40 seconds to go. Djurovic made one free throw for 63:60 and then Gelinski missed the final three-pointer to tie the game. Zoran Nikolic top-scored for the winners with 14 points and Luka Djurovic (190-G-95) and Vaso Milovic scored 12 each. Milovan Draskovic (211-C-95, agency: Interperformances) followed them with 8 points. Idan Zalmanson (206-C/F-95) netted 16 points in defeat and Nimrod Levi (204-C-95) scored 15.
Belgium - Sweden 66-59 Belgium advanced to the Semifinals of the U18 European Championship in Division B. The team overcame Sweden in the last game of Group F for 2-1 record. Sweden finished the group with 1-2 record. It was the game for the Semifinal ticket to the tournament. Belgium grabbed 19-8 lead in the first period and had 38:27 halftime advantage. Kesteloot Vincent scored five points in a row early in the third period and then Romain Boxus (198-SF-96) increased the lead to 15 points. Hakanson Ludvig later closed the quarter for 56:42 and he reduced to 5 points with 2 minutes to go. Belgium however did not allow the opponents to come closer and won the game 66:59. Kesteloot Vincent stepped up with 15 points and Eyenga Alexandre nailed 12. Romain Boxus poured in 10 points, while Sander Van Caeneghem and Mathijs Gijbels (206-C/F-95) added 7 each. Larsson Alexander ended up with 16 points in defeat and Peltier Jordan netted 15. Hakanson Ludvig delivered 10, whilst Jadersten Henrik had 6.
Group G
Norway - Finland 61-87 Hirvonen Tuomas erupts with a triple-double for Finland against Norway at the Classification Games for 9th to 16th Place. He collected 15 points, 12 rebounds and 12 assists in an 87:61 win. Norway surprised the opponents with a narrow 21-17 lead in the first period, but the game was dominated by Finland in the rest of the game. Finland won the second frame 30-16 and added 20-14 in the third quarter. Moreover Finland added 20-10 rally in the last stanza for the final result. Hopkins Shawn top-scored for the winners with 25 points and Henttonen Juho-Matti netted 22. Alexander Madsen (199-F/C-95) followed them with 8 points and 13 rebounds. Johannes Dolven (197-PF-96) ended up with 14 points in defeat, whilst Matz Stockman (208-C/F-95) and Berg Sjur brought 8 each.
Germany - Hungary 74-70 Germany outscored Hungary in Group G of the Classification Games for 9th to 16th Place. The German team posted a 74:70 win to finish second with 2-1 record. Hungary suffered their first loss and ended up with the same record but on the third place. Hungary grabbed 27:18 lead at the end of the first period, but could not win the game. Germany replied with a 21-15 rally in the second frame and needed the final push in the last stanza to seal the victory. Germany posted a 17-10 rally to seal the win. Akpinar Ismet top-scored for the winners with 19 points and Bjoern Rohwer (211-C/F-95) nailed 11. Wimberg Jan Niklas and Joschka Ferner (201-PF-96) notched 9 points each. Goloman Gyorgy collected 18 points and 10 rebounds in defeat, whilst Benke Szilard had 17. Janos Velkey (192-G-95) delivered 15 points in a loss.
Group H
Belarus - Romania 55-63 Romania defeat Belarus in Strumica at the end of Group H campaign at the Classification Games for 9th to 16th Place. Romania won 63:55 as both teams finished the group with 1-2 records at the U18 European Championship in Division B. Romania won the first period 10-9, but Belarus replied with 17-13 rally in the second frame. Moreover the latter posted a 22-17 run in the third period to take 48:40 lead after three quarters. Romania however pushed the tempo in the last period and sealed the victory. They needed a 23-7 surge to take the final 8-point win. Cobzaru Vlad top-scored for the winners with 15 points and 11 rebounds, while Bogdan Pogacean (197-C-95) and Ciordas Andrei nailed 10 points each. Mirel Dragoste (180-PG-95) followed them with 9 points. Roman Rubinshteyn (193-PG-96) delivered 11 points in defeat and Chumakou Kiryl scored 10. Salash Maksim and Yeusiyevich Tsimafei had 7 in a loss.
Portugal - Switzerland 65-46 Portugal wins Group H of the U18 European Championship in Division B. The Portuguese team beat Switzerland 65:46 at the Classification Games for 9th to 16th Place. The Swiss side finished last with 1-2 record. Switzerland started the game with 10:9 lead and had 1-point advantage at the halftime. Portugal however dominated the second half and posted two same quarters for the final result. They needed 21-11 in the third period to take the lead and also won the last stanza 21-10. Camara Luis top-scored for the winners with 14 points and Guimaraes Joao netted 13. Benvindo Mendes (200-C-96) brought 10, while Meireless Pedro had 7. Alessandro Verga (191-PF-95) and Bianchi Patrick netted 10 points each in a loss. Damjanovic Vuk scored 9, while Anabir Noe added 6.
Group I
Georgia - Denmark 50-77 Denmark edge Georgia on Thursday opener at the U18 European Championship in Division B. The Danish side won Group I of the Classification Games for 17th to 22nd Place with 2-0 record. Georgia ended up with 0-2 record. Both teams nailed 18 points each in the first period, but then Denmark took control of the game. They won the second period 23-13 and added 17-4 surge in the third quarter. Moreover Denmark posted a 19-15 rally in the last stanza for the final result. Tobias Christensen top-scored for the winners with 19 points and 13 rebounds, while Rasmus Hansen netted 16. Sebastian Petersen (185-G-95) brought 14 and Frederik Benzon (185-PG-96) nailed 6. Kakhaber Tomaradze ended up with 9 points and Aleksandre Bolkvadze had 8. Sandro Sanadze (188-PG-95) followed them with 7 points in a loss.
Group J
Luxembourg - Slovakia 69-72 Slovak Republic open Thursday action with the win over Luxembourg at the U18 European Championship in Division B. Slovakia won the game 72:69 and won Group J with 2-0 record. Luxembourg ended up with 1-1 record. Slovak Republic started the game with 16-7 lead and saved 6 points in the halftime. They added 26-20 in the third period, but Luxembourg looked better in the last stanza. The latter managed to catch up with the opponents and tied the game at 61:61. Filip Stojanovic (196-C-95) gave his side 65:64, but then Hlivak tied the game at 69:69. He also scored the last point in the game for the final 72:69 win. Norbert Janicek (206-C-96) stepped up with 16 points for the winners and Jakub Meress nailed 12. Miroslav Matych posted 11, while Boris Belavy had 7. Timothy Kauffmann (195-SF-96) answered with 21 points in defeat, whilst Philippe Gutenkauf and Filip Stojanovic netted 14 each. Gruen followed them with 10 points in a loss.
The End of Preliminary Round in Strumica - Jul 22, 2013
Group A
FYR Macedonia - Finland 68-62 F.Y.R. of Macedonia advanced to the Quarterfinals with the 68:62 win over Finland. The hosts of the U18 European Championship in Division B needed the second victory to reach Last Eight Stage. Finland meanwhile finished the group with 1-3 record. Both teams scored 14 points in the first period and F.Y.R. of Macedonia repeated their result in the second frame. Finland scored 13 and trailed 1 point at the halftime. F.Y.R. of Macedonia managed to win the third period 11-9 and finished the game with 29-26 run. Andrej Magdevski (190-PG-96) stepped up with 23 points for the hosts and Nikolov Kristijan netted 16. Nacevski Daniel delivered 11, while Dario Mitrov (192-SG-95) brought 9. Hirvonen Tuomas answered with 20 points in defeat and Henttonen Juho-Matti scored 11. Oskar Michelsen (204-PF-95) had 8, while Madsen Alexander chipped in with 7.
Denmark - Poland 64-74 Poland beat Denmark in Day 5 opener of the U18 European Championship in Division B. The Polish team won Group A with 4-0 record and advanced to the next stage. Denmark finished the group with 1-3 record. Poland won the first period 23-16, but saved only 3 points at the halftime. Denmark posted 17 points in the third and the last quarters and it was not enough to seal the win. Poland won the third period 21-17 and finished the game with 20-17. Damian Jeszke (202-F-95) top-scored for the winners with 16 points and Zolnierewicz Przemyslaw nailed 15. Mikolaj Witlinski (207-F/C-95) brought 10, whilst Krawczyk Adrian scored 9. Nielsen delivered 15 points in defeat and Rasmus Hansen (203-PF-95) added 12. Christensen Tobias brought 11 points in a loss.
Group B
Norway - Georgia 80-67 Norway keep Georgia winless at the U18 European Championship in Division B. Norway needed an 80:67 win to finish Group B with 2-3 record. Georgia meanwhile lost all five games. Georgia looked better in the first half and managed to win both periods. They started with 21-15 and added 20-19 rally in the second frame. Norway replied with a 21-19 run in the third period and dominated the last quarter. They posted a massive 25-7 surge to seal the victory. Dolven Johannes top-scored for the winners with 24 points and 15 rebounds, while Mikkel Kolstad (184-G-95) nailed 21. Berg Sjur collected 12 points and 11 rebounds, whilst Even Skjellaug (190-G-95) had 8. Zakradze Luka replied with 13 points in defeat and Bolkvadze Aleksandre brought 11. Archili Puluzashvili (200-C-95) notched 9, whilst Revazashvili Maizer and Sanadze Sandro had 8 apiece.
Estonia - Austria 67-59 Estonia misses the Quarterfinal stage with 4-1 record in Group B of the U18 European Championship in Division B. They overcame Austria 67:59 in the last game of the group but could not make it to the next stage. Germany and Holland took the first two places with the same record. Austria finished the group with 1-4 record. Estonia won the first period 16-9 and added 14-12 in the second frame. They also won the third period 16-15, but Austria replied with a 23-21 run in the last period. Saimon Sutt (201-SG-95) top-scored for the winners with 19 points and Karl-Robin Jurjens (203-F-96) netted 17. Kask Karl-Martin brought 10 and Sten Olmre (194-SG-95) had 9. Richter Fabian answered with 16 points in defeat, while Poltl Jakob collected 15 points and 14 rebounds. Marvin Ogunsipe (204-PF-96) scored 14, while Soldo Marko had 7.
Holland - Germany 48-65 Germany beat Holland, both advance to the Quarterfinals of the U18 European Championship in Division B. The German side finished first in the Group with 4-1 record after a 65:48 win. The Dutch side ended up with the same record on the second place. The situation was unclear in Group B. The German side needed a confident win in order to advance and grabbed 19-9 lead at the end of the first period. Moreover they added 23-20 run in the second frame and Robert Zinn (195-SG-95) scored for 42:29 at the halftime. Germany posted a 13-9 rally in the third period and later both teams scored 10 points each in the final period. Joschka Ferner (201-PF-96) led the way with 12 points and Ilzhoefer Stefan notched 10. Akpinar Ismet and Robert Zinn brought 8 points each in a win. Julius van Sauers (200-SF-95) answered with 14 points in the losing effort and Pim De Vries had 9. Dijkhuizen Jaron scored 6, whilst Robert Boezeman (198-F/C-96) collected 5 points and 10 rebounds.
Group C
Switzerland - Slovakia 58-57 Switzerland pip Slovakia in Group C to finish with 3-2 record. The Swiss side posted a 58:57 victory at the U18 European Championship in Division B. Slovakia ended up with 1-4 record. It was the last game of the First Stage in Strumica. Switzerland started the game with 21-17 and added 11-9 rally in the second frame. Alessandro Verga (191-PF-95) gave Switzerland 34:26 lead early in the third period, while Masiar later reduced to 37:36 margin. Derval Botuna closed the frame at 49:42 advantage after three quarters. Slovakia grabbed the lead in the last period when Boris Belavy (199-SF-95) scored for 53:52. Anabir however brought the win for his side at the very end. Derval Botuna, Alessandro Verga and Bianchi Patrick scored 10 points each for the winners. Boris Belavy ended up with 13 points in the losing effort. Hlivak Dalibor notched 11, while Janicek Norbert produced 8 points in a loss.
Scotland - Sweden 46-100 Sweden posts 100 points to overwhelm Scotland at the last game of the Group Stage in Division B. The Scandinavian team won 100:46 and advanced to the Quarterfinals at the U18 European Championship. Sweden erupted with 29-12 surge in the first period and never looked behind. They delivered 20-9 burst in the second period and enjoyed a 49:20 lead after Adam Ramstedt (206-SF-95)'s shot. Musie Caleb scored two free throws for 73:26 and then Joensson Martin closed the third period at 77:31. Andreas Von Uthmann (196-F-96) brought Sweden three-digit number as he nailed a three-pointer with a minute to go. Malcolm Fraser and Sim Nicholas reduced to the final 100:46 result. Joensson Martin stepped up with 19 points and Adam Ramstedt netted 18. Andreas Von Uthmann poured in 12 points, whilst Markusson Mattias and Musie Caleb had 10 each. Sim Nicholas ended up with 15 points in defeat and Winning Malcolm scored 9. Malcolm Fraser brought 8 points for Scotland could not win any games.
Romania - Israel 48-75 Israel wins Group C of the U18 European Championship in Division B. The group-leader finished with a 75:48 win over Romania and improved to 5-0 record. Romania meanwhile finished third with 2-3 record. Israel continued their winning streak and looked great in the game. They won the first period 21-14 and had 16-12 rally in the second frame. Moreover Israel posted two victories in the second half and increased the win to final 27 points. Zanzuri nailed the last three-pointer in the game for the final result. Joaquin Szuchman (191-G-95) top-scored for the winners with 14 points and Sharon Naor nailed 11. Cahal Or had 9, whilst Zalmanson Idan notched 8. Vlad Cobzaru (201-C-95) replied with 11 points and 12 rebounds, whilst Pogacean Bogdan had 9. Marius Ciotlaus (196-SF-96) followed them with 9 points in a loss.
Group D
Luxembourg - Montenegro 52-69 Montenegro conquer Group D of the U18 European Championship in Division B. The team won the group with 4-0 record after a 69:52 victory over Luxembourg. The latter ended up with 0-4 record on the bottom of the group. Montenegro was the favorite of the game and proved it from the very beginning. They started the game with 21-9 lead and had 10-point halftime advantage. Both teams nailed 15 points each in the third period and then Montenegro added 20-13 rally in the last stanza. Petar Popovic (188-PG-96) and Gutenkauf exchanged the final shots in the end of the game. Dozic Aleksandar and Milovan Draskovic (211-C-95, agency: Interperformances) stepped up with 13 points each, while Djurovic Luka, Nikolic Zoran and Petar Popovic had 9 each. Stojanovic Filip replied with 12 points in defeat and Schmit Tim nailed 10. Gruen Thomas and Timothy Kauffmann (195-SF-96) collected 7 points each in a loss.
Belarus - Belgium 54-68 Belgium clinched the last ticket from Group D to the Quarterfinals of U18 European Championship. The team overcame Belarus 68:54 and finished second with 3-1 record. Belarus meanwhile ended up with 1-3 record. Belgium opened the game with 20-11 lead and managed to win also the second frame. After 19-17 rally, Vincent Kesteloot (200-F-95) made 39:28 score at the halftime. He later scored for 49:33, but Maksim Salash (206-F/C-96) closed the third period at 52:42. Chumakou even reduce to 4 points, while Belgium needed a 10-0 run later in the quarter to seal the victory. Vincent Kesteloot poured in 28 points to lead all the winners. Vanwijn Hans had 9 and Sander Van Caeneghem added 8. Maksim Salash top-scored for Belarus with 20 points and Beliankou Yauheni nailed 17. Yelisei Matsiushonak (193-G-95) followed them with 5 points in a win.
Division B: Results and Stats from Day 4 in Strumica - Jul 21, 2013
Group A
Finland - Hungary 55-56 Goloman Gyorgy brings the win for Hungary against Finland at the U18 European Championship in Division B. He top-scored in the game and also ensured the last points for 56:55 win. Hungary improved to 2-2 record, while Finland fell at 1-2 record in Group A. Hungary erupted with a 27-14 surge in the first period, but the victory was not that easy for them. Finland replied with an 18-7 rally in the second period and added 11-9 run in the third period. Henttonen Juho-Matti gave Finland 53:49 lead with 5 minutes to go, but Hungary needed a 7-2 push to seal the victory. Bruno Bazso (185-SF-95) scored 12 points and Velkey Janos added 10. David Boinitzer (197-F-95) delivered 6 points in a win. Henttonen Juho-Matti replied with 22 points in the losing effort and Michelsen Oskar had 13. Tuomas Hirvonen (179-PG-96) collected 11 points, 10 assists and 8 rebounds.
Poland - FYR Macedonia 66-59 Poland rout FYR Macedonia in Day 4 of the U18 European Championship in Division B. The Polish side improved to 3-0 record after a 66:59 win. The hosts of the tournament fell at 1-2 record in Group A. Poland posted a narrow 15:14 win in the first period and added 23-15 rally in the second frame. Moreover Poland won the third period 12-11, while the hosts did their best to recover at the end. FYR Macedonia closed the game with a 19-16 run and reduced to 7 final points. Witlinski Mikolaj top-scored for the winners with 15 points and 18 rebounds, while Jeszke Damian also scored 15 points and had 11 boards. Grzegorz Kulka (203-PF-96) followed them with 7 points. Nikolov Kristijan replied with 14 points in defeat and Ljubomir Mladenovski (207-C-95) collected 13 points and 10 rebounds. Andrej Cvetkovski (186-PG-96) ended up with 10 points in a loss.
Group B
Austria - Norway 56-59 Norway beat Austria to tie both records at 1-3 at the U18 European Championship in Division B. Norway celebrated the initial 59:56 win in Group B. Austria won the first period 16-7 and led 8 points at the halftime. Poltl Jakob closed an 8-0 run early in the third period as Austria enjoyed a 36:20 lead. Norway however was too far to give up and won the game. They overcame the deficit immediately in the third period as Kolstad Mikkel gave Norway 41:39 lead after three quarters. He scored another three at the end of the fourth period for 58:53 and then Anders Nymo (180-PG-96) ensured the last points. Johannes Dolven (197-PF-96) paced all the winners with 22 points and 17 rebounds, while Kolstad Mikkel added 12. Anders Nymo and Berg Sjur added 5 points each. Poltl Jakob erupted with 19 points and 20 rebounds in defeat, while Ogunsipe Marvin notched 12. Soldo Marko scored 8, whilst Wolf Georg and Marc Goetzinger (184-PG-96, college: Wuerzburg) had 6 apiece.
Holland - Estonia 76-67 Holland beat Estonia in the top game of Group B at the U18 European Championship. The Dutch side improved to 4-0 record after a 76:67 win. Estonia meanwhile fell at 3-1 record. Both teams entered the game with 3-0 records and desired to remain undefeated. Holland dominated the first half and won both periods. They came up with 24-16 rally in the first period and added 19-13 in the second quarter. Moreover Holland celebrated a 16-15 rally in the third period, while Estonia managed to reply with a 23-17 rally at the end. Dijkhuizen Jaron and Julius van Sauers (200-SF-95) top-scored for the winners with 13 points each while Robert Boezeman (198-F/C-96) netted 11. Rosenmuller Daan and Butter Rens scored 9 points each in win. Sten Olmre (194-SG-95) finished the game with 21 points and 11 rebounds, whilst Maik-Kalev Kotsar (199-F/G-96) and Jurjens Karl-Robin had 9 apiece. Kurvits Kristofer followed them with 8 points.
Germany - Georgia 86-62 Germany keep Georgia winless at the U18 European Championship in Division B. The German side improved to 3-1 record after an 86:62 win. Georgia meanwhile fell at 0-4 record. Both teams scored 17 points each in the first period and then German enjoyed a 20-10 surge in the second frame. They increased to 20 points after a 25-15 burst in the third period and also posted 24-20 run in the last period. Georgia closed the game with a 5-0 run as Zakradze posted the final points in defeat. Wimberg Jan Niklas paced all the winners with 18 points, while Akpinar Ismet and Ferner Joschka had 14 each. Ilzhoefer Stefan ended up with 12 points. Aleksandre Bolkvadze (195-SF-95) answered with 19 points in defeat, while Sanadze Sandro and Kakhaber Tomaradze (193-SG-95) posted 8 each. Lortkipanidze Erekle delivered 6 points in a loss.
Group C
Romania - Switzerland 82-83 Switzerland claimed the second win at the U18 European Championship in Division B. They came from behind to snatch a dramatic win over Romania in Group C. Both teams are now tied at 2-2 record. Clayton Le Sann notched 25 points to lead the winners. Romania unloaded 28 points in the first period to gain a 2-point lead. They maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. Romania secured a 47:41 halftime advantage. They stretched the margin in the third term. Romania entered the final stanza up by 13 points 69:56. But Switzerland turned things around in the fourth frame. Damjanovic scored three points to trigger an 18:2 run that crowned the regulation and brought victory for Switzerland. Noe Anabir (198-F/C-95) netted 14 points, while Luka Mandic and Arnaud Cotture (201-PF-95) had 10 points each for the winners. Vlad Cobzaru (201-C-95) responded with 19 points for Romania. Andrei Ciordas (203-PF-95) netted 18 points in the loss.
Slovakia - Scotland 78-55 Slovak Republic opened win count at the U18 European Championship in Division B. They overcame Scotland for 1-3 record in Group C. Norbert Janicek (206-C-96) produced 21 points and 10 boards for the winners. Slovak Republic exploded with 27 points in the opening frame to take a 14-point lead. Slovak Republic maintained the tempo in the second quarter. They accumulated a 46:22 halftime advantage. Scotland stopped the rot in the third term. They adjusted offensively and narrowed the deficit at 21-point mark at the final intermission. But Slovak Republic held their opponents to 11 points in the fourth period and sealed the win at the end. Miroslav Matych had 16 points, while Juraj Janosik and Jakub Meress dropped 10 points apiece in the victory. Malcolm Winning (186-SG-96) answered with 17 points for Scotland. Fraser Malcolm (186-SF-96) chipped in 9 points in the loss.
Israel - Sweden 79-78 Israel clinched the fourth consecutive win at the start of the U18 European Championship. They snatched a tough win over Sweden to remain perfect on top of Group C. Or Cahal nailed 17 points to lead the winners. Sweden got to a dreamy start to the game. They unleashed 30 points in the opening quarter to enjoy a 20-point lead after ten minutes. Israel tuned in after the break. They erupted for 28 points and cut the deficit at 8-point mark at halftime 38:46. The Israelis narrowed the distance in the third term. They trailed by 6 points heading into the final period. It all came down to the final seconds in this one. Israel spurred in front to lead by three points 76:73 with under two minutes remaining. But Loftberg and Valter Lindstrom (180-PG-95) put Sweden up by two 78:76 with 4 seconds remaining. But Or Cahal drained a buzzer-beating three-pointer to win the game for Israel. Idan Zalmanson chipped in 16 points, while Itay Segev added 10 points in the victory. Valter Lindstrom answered with 23 points for Sweden. Ludvig Hakanson (190-PG-96) had 19 points and 7 rebounds in the losing effort.
Group D
Belgium - Portugal 65-43 Belgium rout Portugal in Strumica at Day 4 of the U18 European Championship. Belgium grabbed a 2-1 record after a 65:43 win. Portugal meanwhile dropped at 2-2 record in Group D. Pereira and Romain Boxus (198-SF-96) exchanged the early baskets in the start of the game and then Meireless Pedro gave Portugal 11:7 advantage. Belgium answered with 11 consecutive points and grabbed 18:14 lead at the end of the first period. Belgium also won the second frame 13-9 and led 31:23 at the halftime. Portugal managed to grab 11-8 run in the third period, but Belgium pushed the tempo at the end of the game and needed a 26-9 surge to seal the victory. Andy Van Vliet top-scored for the winners with 17 points and Ordane Kanda-Kanyinda (183-PG-96) and Vanwijn Hans as well as 10 each. Romain Boxus poured in 7 points in a win. Benvindo Mendes (200-C-96) replied with 11 points in defeat and Meireless Pedro brought 7.
Montenegro - Belarus 89-86 Montenegro earn the third straight win at the U18 European Championship in Division B. The team overcame Belarus 89:86 to grab 3-0 record in Group D. Belarus meanwhile fell at 1-2 record. It was the second overtime loss in three games for Belarus. They started the game well and reached 22-17 lead at the end of the first period. Moreover Belarus added 20-12 rally in the second frame and grabbed 42:19 lead at the halftime. Montenegro however dominated the rest of the game and managed to win the game. Montenegro won the third period 26-14 and added 20-19 for the tie score at the fourth period. In overtime they needed a 14-11 run to win the game. Popovic Petar top-scored for the winners with 18 points and Djurovic Luka nailed 12. Aleksandar Dozic (199-F-96) and Nikolic Zoran brought 11 each, while Draskovic Milovan had 10. Salash Maksim answered with high 25 points in defeat and Yauheni Beliankou (197-SF-95) scored 23. Kazlou Siarhei collected 19 points and 11 boards, whilst Pavel Harachka (185-PG-95) netted 5.
Division B: Results and Stats from Day 2 in Strumica - Jul 19, 2013
Group A
Denmark - Hungary 68-72 Hungary tastes initial success in Strumica at the U18 European Championship in Division B. The Hungarian team improved to 1-1 record after a 72:68 win over Denmark. The latter remained winless at the tournament. Hungary scored the first 5 points in the game and led 18:12 after the first period. They added 23-13 surge in the second frame and increased to massive 41:25 lead at the halftime. Denmark however was too far to give up and posted two victories in the second half. They won the third quarter 20-17 and came up with 23-14 rally in the last stanza. Denmark reduced to 4 points, but could not come closer. Janos Velkey (192-G-95) stepped up with 25 points for the winners and Goloman Gyorgy collected 19 points and 10 rebounds. Ban followed them with 11 points in a win. Hansen Rasmus ended up with 22 points in the losing effort and Tobias Christensen (193-G/F-95) had 16 points and 12 rebounds. Sebastian Petersen (185-G-95) and Benzon notched 7 points each in a loss.
Poland - Finland 64-52 Poland open winning account at the U18 European Championship in Division B. The Polish side posted a 64:52 win over Finland in Day 2 of the tournament. The Nordic side fell at 1-1 record. Poland scored only after 3 minutes of the opening quarter but then managed to grab 18:9 lead. They added massive 25-9 surge and took 43:18 halftime advantage. Finland however was too far to give up and came up with two victories in the second half. Finland won the third period 15-9 and finished the game with 19-12. It was however enough only to reduce to final 64:52 score. Jeszke Damian stepped up with 19 points and Damian Szymczak (186-G-95) nailed 9. Olejniczak Dominik and Zolnierewicz Przemyslaw brought 8 points each. Oskar Michelsen (204-PF-95) delivered 9 points in defeat, while Ventoniemi Henri and Hopkins Shawn scored 8 apiece.
Group B
Germany - Austria 79-35 Germany stun Austria in Day 2 of the U18 European Championship in Division B. The German machine posted a comfortable 76:35 win for 2-0 record in Group B. Germany started the game with 25:9 lead as Bjoern Rohwer (211-C/F-95) closed the first period from the free throw line. Zinn nailed three early in the second frame for 31:10 advantage. He gave later Germany 47:22 lead before the teams disappeared in the lockers. Germany also dominated the second half and posted two victories. They won the third period 13-7 and finished the game with 19-6 surge. Lukas Meisner (201-SF-95) and Ilzhoefer Stefan top-scored for the winners with 13 points each. Bjoern Rohwer and Sengfelder Christian nailed 10 points in a win. Poltl Jakob replied with 10 points in defeat, while Fabian Richter (192-F/G-95) brought 5.
Estonia - Norway 59-54 Estonia secure the second straight win in Strumica at the U18 European Championship in Division B. The Estonians overcame Norway 59:54 and took 2-0 record in Group B. The Nordic side fell at 0-2 record. Estonia managed to score 14 points in the first, second and third quarters. They won the first period 14-11, then added 14-12 and led 28:23 at the halftime. Fourteen points however were not enough in the third period as Norway posted 21. Only due to 17-10 rally in the last stanza Estonia won the game. Olmre Sten stepped up with 17 points for the winners and Sutt Saimon notched 15. Kask Karl-Martin brought 10, while Kruus Sander added 7. Sjur Berg (198-F-96) scored 13 points for Norway and Dolven Johannes collected 9 points and 12 rebounds. Mikkel Kolstad (184-G-95) netted 7, whilst Nymo Anders and Stockman Matz had 6 each.
Holland - Georgia 71-60 Holland improved to 2-0 record in Group B of the U18 European Championship. The Dutch side posted a 71:60 victory over Georgia in Day 2. The latter meanwhile fell at 0-2 record. Holland scored 19 points in the first period and added the same number of points in the second frame. It was enough to take 38:25 lead after the first two quarters. Georgia remained alive in the game after a 17-14 rally in the third period, but Holland needed a final 19-18 rally to seal the victory. Daan Rosenmuller (193-G/F-95) top-scored for the winners with 20 points and Julius van Sauers collected 12 points and 10 rebounds. Dijkhuizen and Pim De Vries (193-F/G-95) followed them with 9 points each. Kakhaber Tomaradze (193-SG-95) scored 13 points for Georgia and Zakradze Luka notched 10. Maizer Revazashvili (202-C-96) poured in 7, whilst Bolkvadze Aleksandre and Sanadze Sandro delivered 6 apiece.
Group C
Israel - Slovakia 119-67 Israel closed Day 2 with the win over Slovakia at the U18 European Championship in Division B. They needed an easy 119:67 win for 2-0 record in the group. Slovakia meanwhile suffered their second straight loss. Israel had a fantastic game tonight. They nailed 33 points in the first period and then erupted with a 40-11 surge in the second frame. Levi Nimrod nailed three at the end of the half for 73:30 halftime advantage. Israel added 33-23 rally in the third period to reach 53-point lead. Slovakia only managed to win the last stanza 14-13 and reduced to final 119:67 result. Levi Nimrod top-scored for the winners with 25 points and Idan Zalmanson (206-C/F-95) netted 19. Ziv Iftach scored 16, whilst Kahal Or and Naor Sharon (193-PG-95, agency: Z.A.G. - Law Offices) added 10 each. Senohradsky Jozef and Meress Jakub tallied 11 points each in a loss, while Marek Masiar (183-F-96) scored 10.
Switzerland - Scotland 78-68 Clayton Le Sann leads Switzerland over Scotland at the U18 European Championship in Division B. he was unstoppable with 28 points to bring his side 78:68 win. Switzerland improved to 1-1 record while Scotland fell at 0-2. Switzerland looked better in the first period and took 17:14 lead. They added 23-18 rally in the second period and had 8-point advantage after two quarters. Both teams nailed 20 points in the third period, while the Swiss side added 2=18-16 rally in the last stanza. Verga Alessandro posted 13 points for the winners and Anabir Noe collected 10 points and 14 rebounds. Patrick Bianchi (180-PG-95) followed them with 11 points in the winning effort. Malcolm Fraser replied with 17 points in defeat, whilst Malcolm Winning (186-SG-96) scored 13. Sim Nicholas posted 11 and Rowan Neil chipped in with 9.
Romania - Sweden 63-81 Sweden overcame Romanian team in Day 2 of the U18 European Championship in Division B. The Scandinavian team improved to 2-0 record after an 81:63 victory. Romania suffered their first loss and dropped at 1-1 record. Both teams entered the game undefeated and looked forward to achieve the second win. Sweden took 25:13 lead at the end of the first period and added 19-14 rally in the second frame. Moreover the latter needed a 23-14 surge in the third period and did not mind a 14-22 push from the opponents in the end of the game. Lofberg Johan and Larsson Alexander top-scored for the winners with 16 points each. Ludvig Hakanson (190-PG-96) poured in 14, while Lindstrom Valter added 11. Ciordas Andrei delivered 13 points for Romania and Adrian Oprea (193-F-95) notched 9. Cobzaru Vlad scored 8, whilst Mirel Dragoste (180-PG-95) and Bogdan Pogacean (197-C-95) notched 7 apiece.
Group D
Luxembourg - Portugal 46-74 Portugal leave no chances for Luxembourg at the end of the second day of the U18 European Championship in Division B. Portugal grabbed 2-0 record in Group D after a 74:46 win. Luxembourg meanwhile fell at 0-2 record. Portugal was the favorite of the game and won all four quarters. They started with 15-12 and added 19-12 rally in the second frame. Moreover Portugal posted a 19-16 run in the third period and erupted with a massive 21-6 surge in the last stanza. Marques Pedro top-scored for the winners with 15 points and Ferreira Nuno collected 14 points and 15 rebounds. Pedro Meireless (184-G/F-95) netted 10, whilst Amiel Francisco and Camara Luis brought 8 apiece. Thomas Gruen (194-PG-95) answered with 22 points in defeat, while Timothy Kauffmann (195-SF-96) scored 6. Stojanovic Filip, Max Hilger (187-PG-95) and Schmit Tim added 4 each.
Montenegro - Belgium 58-51 Montenegro start Division B campaign from Day 2 at the U18 European Championship. They managed to beat Belgium 58:51 for 1-0 record. The latter dropped at 1-1 record in Group D. Montenegro erupted in the start of the game but did not look great at the end of it. Montenegro grabbed a 24:11 surge and led 11 points at the halftime. Moreover Montenegro posted a 18-7 rally in the third period as Milovic Vaso closed the frame at 53:31. Belgium meanwhile shocked the opponents with a 20-5 burst in the last stanza to reduce to final 7 points. Milovic Vaso and Draskovic Milovan top-scored for the winners with 12 points each, while Luka Djurovic (190-G-95) netted 11. Kesteloot Vincent brought 16 points in defeat and Hemeleers Sam had 8. Sami Demirtas (190-SG-96) posted 7 points, while Boxus Romain ended up with 5.
Division B: Results and Stats from Day 1 in Strumica - Jul 18, 2013
Group A
Finland - Denmark 64-43 Finland wins the battle of Nordic countries at the U18 European Championship in Division B. The Finnish side overcame Denmark 64:43 in Strumica. Finland won the first period 17:10 and never looked behind after. They added 15-6 surge in the second frame as Juho-Matti Henttonen (195-C-96) closed the half at 32:16. Reinholt reduced to 11 points midway through the third period, while Hirvonen closed the third period at 44:28. Finland also won the last stanza 20-15 and earned the first victory at the tournament. Aidoo made two free throws at the very end for the final 64:43 win. Oskar Michelsen (203-PF-95) top-scored for the winners with 18 points and Bjerregard netted 13. Kortelainen delivered 12, while Juho-Matti Henttonen scored 8. Kelly Mathias ended up with 8 points in defeat, while Mathias Christensen (197-F-95) and Petersen Sebastian netted 7 each.
Hungary - FYR Macedonia 64-76 Andrej Magdevski (190-G-96) leads FYR Macedonia over Hungary at the start of the U18 European Championship in Division B. He collected 23 points, 9 rebounds and 7 assists in a 76:64 win. FYR Macedonia started the game with 20:10 lead and added 15-12 rally in the second frame. Hungary tried to recover in the game and posted 23-19 comeback in the third period. The hosts meanwhile replied with a 22-19 in the last stanza and sealed the victory. Andrej Magdevski made two free throws at the very end for the final result. Kiril Nikolovski (210-F/C-88) brought 18 points and Mitrov netted 13. Nacevski Daniel delivered 12 points in the winning effort. Gyorgy Goloman (204-PF-96) answered with 17 points in defeat, while Janos Velkey (192-G-95) had 15. Ban brought 13, whilst Boinitzer added 7.
Group B
Georgia - Estonia 57-73 Estonia rout Georgia in Day 1 of the U18 European Championship in Division B. The Estonian team managed to earn the 73:57 win for 1-0 record in Group B. Puluzashvili Archili and Rain Koort (194-SF-95) exchanged the baskets in the early tip and then Estonia took 18:10 lead at the end of the first period. They started the second period with a 6-0 run for 24:10 advantage. Georgia reduced to 6 points later in the half, but Rain Koort closed the period at 40:31. Estonia won the third period 16-11 and added 17-15 rally in the end of the game. Kask Karl-Martin top-scored for the winners with 22 points and Saimon Sutt (200-SG-95) nailed 14. Rain Koort delivered 10, while Jurjens netted 8. Lortkipanidze Erekle answered with 13 points in defeat and Puluzashvili Archili scored 8. Gamreklidze Ucha followed them with 7 points.
Austria - Holland 45-65 Holland open the winning account in Strumica at the U18 European Championship in Division B. The Dutch side posted a 65:45 victory at the start of the tournament. Holland scored the first 6 points of the game and erupted for 22:3 surge at the end of the first period. Nguyen closed the run at 24:3, while Dijkhuizen scored for 29:9 midway through the second frame. Jakob Poltl (213-C-95) meanwhile scored last three points in the first half for 33:12 halftime advantage. Austria managed to win the third period 18-14 and reduced to 47:30 after three quarters. Holland however needed a 18-13 rally in the last stanza for the final result in the game. Rosenmuller top-scored for the winners with 17 points and Dijkhuizen nailed 10. Jakob Poltl answered with 11 points and 15 rebounds in defeat, while Marko Soldo (194-G/F-95) notched 9. Richter Fabian scored 6 and Moschik Ian as well as Sliskovic Marin had 4 each.
Norway - Germany 57-68 Germany beat Norway in the opener at the U18 European Championship in Division B. The German side started the campaign with a 68:57. Norway surprised the opponents with 14-12 run in the first period, while both teams were tied at the halftime. The second half fully belonged to the German team that managed to post two victories. Germany won the third quarter 19-17 and finished the game with 22-13 surge. Kovalev gave Germany 68:53 lead, while Berg nailed four in a row for the final result in the game. Joschka Ferner (201-PF-96) paced all the winners with 17 points and Sengfelder netted 12. Jan Niklas Wimberg (202-G-96, agency: Pro One Sports) brought 11, while Akpinar Ismet had 9. Sjur Berg (198-F-96) ended up with 21 points and Johannes Dolven (197-PF-96) collected 13 points and 11 rebounds. Stockman Matz followed them with 9 points in a loss.
Group C
Sweden - Switzerland 98-47 Sweden demolish Switzerland in the opener of the U18 European Championship in Division B. The Scandinavian team did not leave any chances in a 98:47 win. Sweden took control from the first minutes and grabbed 24:12 lead at the end of the first period. Sweden added 21-11 surge for 45:23 halftime advantage. Moreover Sweden dominated the second half and posted two comfortable victories. They had 28-14 burst in the third period and finished the game with 25-10 rally in the last stanza. Andreas Von Uthmann (196-F-96) scored the last points for the winners as Sweden was satisfied with 98 points at the end. Ludvig Hakanson (190-PG-96) stepped up with 25 points for the winners and Caleb Musie (168-PG-95) netted 15. Valter Lindstrom brought 14, while Andreas Von Uthmann added 11. Clayton Le Sann and Arnaud Cotture notched 12 points in defeat, while Noe Anabir netted 6.
Slovakia - Romania 75-76 Romania survive Division B opener at the U18 European Championship. The team grabbed a 76:75 win over Slovakia for 1-0 record in Group C. Romania started with 22-18 lead in the first period, but Slovakia replied with a 22-17 run for 1-point halftime advantage. Romania later tied the game at the end of the third period as Tanasie and Hupka exchanged the shots for 56:56. Vlad Cobzaru (201-C-95) later closed the run for 73:66 and then his team managed to seal the victory. Vlad Cobzaru top-scored for the winners with 22 points and Ciordas Andrei nailed 16. Dragoste Mirel netted 10, while Mircea Onea (183-PG-96) had 7 and Ciotlaus Marius scored 6. Janicek Norbert replied with 17 points in the losing effort and Matych Miroslav had 13. Dalibor Hlivak (187-G-95) brought 11 points and Senohradsky Jozef notched 8.
Scotland - Israel 27-86 Israel overwhelm Scotland in the opener of the U18 European Championship. Israeli team started Division B campaign with an 86:27 victory. Israel posted a 15:10 lead but added massive storm in the rest of the game. Israel won the second period 22-5 and enjoyed a 37:15 halftime advantage after a Zuckerman shot. Israel added massive 23-7 surge in the third period and then had 26-5 burst in the last stanza. Sorkin closed the game for a 59-point victory. Zalmanson Idan top-scored for the winners with 16 points and Segev Itay collected 15 points and 12 rebounds. Sorkin Roman netted 12, while Ziv Iftach and Yonatan Mor (204-C) scored 8 each. Rowan Neil netted 10 points in a loss and Sim Nicholas scored 7.
Group D
Belgium - Luxembourg 102-50 Belgium stun Luxembourg in Division B of the U18 European Championship. Belgium won all the quarters of the game to close Day 1 with a 102:50 win. Belgium started the game with 22-11 and never looked behind after. They added massive 27-11 surge in the second frame and enjoyed a 49:22 halftime advantage. Moreover Belgium won the third period 27-14 and finished the game with 26-14 end. With two minutes to go Belgium managed to score three-digit number on the board. Kesteloot Vincent top-scored for the winners with 24 points and Boxus Romain netted 22. Andy Van Vliet (210-C-95) followed them with 15, while Sami Demirtas (189-G-96) had 11. Schmit Tim scored 12, whilst Gutenkauf Philippe notched 10. Kauffmann Timothy brought 8 points in a loss.
Portugal - Belarus 74-68 Portugal down Belarus in Day 1 of the U18 European Championship in Division B. Portugal trailed in the whole game but managed to tie the game at the end of the fourth period and then did not have any problems in overtime in a 74:68 win. Portugal led 11:10 in the first quarter but the Belarus took 17:11 lead at the end of the frame. The latter closed their run at 24:11 when Beliankou made a successful shot. Belarus increased to 14 points, but closed the half at 39:27. Portugal started to catch up with the opponents and cut it to 44:41 after three quarters. Trailing 52:59 with 2 minutes to go, Meireless and Luis Camara (194-SF-96) scored for 61:61 and then took an easy win in overtime. Luis Camara top-scored for the winners with 19 points and Meireless netted 18. Ferreira scored 9, while Sergio da Silva (191-SG-96) notched 8. Beliankou had high 26 points and 10 rebounds, while Chumakou delivered 10. Yeusiyevich brought 9 and Matsiushonak added 5.
by
Search
InStat FREE TRIAL
Your promo code is eurobasket Click for FREE TRIAL to InStat
