Lithuania - France 50-49 Lithuania are new U20 European champions. They survived a thriller against France in the title clash tonight to celebrate the first title since 1996. Egidijus Mockevicius (207-C-92) scored 11 points to lead the Baltic team. Lithuania looked to be en route to a rout in the opening quarter. They outscored France 24:11 in the first frame. France however slowed down their opponents. They limited Lithuania to 12 points and cut the deficit to 12 points at halftime 36:24. France got closer in the third quarter. After trailing by 16 points early in the stanza France managed to get within 7 points at the final intermission 36:43. France used a 7:1 run late in regulation to draw things level at 49 with 33 seconds remaining. Zygimantas Skucas (200-SF-92) knocked down one free throw to put Lithuania in front. France had a lot of time to save the game however Westermann committed a turnover and Lithuania triumphed at the end. Zygimantas Skucas finished with 10 points, while Vytenis Cizauskas added 9 points, 6 boards and 4 assists for the winners. Axel Toupane (200-G/F-92) answered with 16 points for France. Livio Jean-Charles and Rudy Gobert had 9 points each in the loss.
3-4 place
Serbia - Spain 66-67 Spain stepped up on the pedestal at U20 European Championship. They held off Serbia in a thrilling consolation final tonight. Jaime Fernandez (187-G-93) scored 16 points to lead the winners. Serbia and Spain stayed neck and neck throughout the opening quarter. The scoreboard read 18:18 after ten minutes. The lead changed hands for several times throughout close second quarter. Serbia eventually eked out a 33:32 halftime lead. Spain surged ahead midway through the third quarter. They maintained the lead and posted a 52:49 advantage at the final intermission. Serbia regained the lead and posted a 60:55 lead midway through the final term. Serbia were still up by two with 13 seconds remaining 66:64. But Alejandro Abrines drained a late three-pointer to ensure a tough win for Spain at the end. Francisco Guerra (214-C-92) posted 13 points, while Alejandro Abrines added 11 points for the winners. Luka Mitrovic (204-F/C-93) had 15 points and 10 rebounds for Serbia. Djordje Drenovac had 10 points in the losing effort.
5-6 place
Latvia - Germany 63-80 Germany earned the fifth place at U20 European Championship. They prevailed against Latvia on the final day of the competition. Johannes Voigtmann (210-C-92, agency: Limelight Hoops) scored 15 points to lead the winning team. Latvia led by three points after the opening quarter 16:13. Germany narrowed the gap in the second frame. They trailed by just a single point at halftime 32:33. Germany went on a decisive rally in the third quarter. They fired 26 points and clinched a 12-point lead before the final stanza. Germany stayed in charge throughout the fourth quarter and sealed a comfortable win at the end. Leon Tolksdorf (201-F-93) and Philipp Neumann (210-C-92) delivered 11 points each for the winners. Arturs Bricis (196-SG-92) answered with 16 points for Latvia. Marcis Vitols and Ojars Silins netted 9 points each in the losing case.
7-8 place
Greece - Slovenia 61-80 Slovenia entertained the home crowd with victory on the final day of U20 European Championship. The hosts fired past Greece to occupy the 7th overall position. Alen Omic (215-C-92) came up with 23 points and 10 rebounds to lead the home team. Slovenia led from start to finish. The hosts built a 20:11 lead after ten minutes. Slovenia boosted the margin in the second quarter. They secured a 39:29 halftime lead. Slovenia maintained the lead throughout the third quarter. The hosts secured a 13-point advantage with one period remaining. Slovenia scored 20 points in the fourth quarter and sealed the winning outcome at the end. Marko Pajic (204-F/C-92) had 15 points, while Luka Rupnik netted 13 points for the winners. Anastasios Antonakis (204-PF-92) answered with 20 points for Greece. Spyridon Motsenigos notched 14 points in the losing case.
Group G
Georgia - Sweden 67-81 Sweden celebrated victory on the final day of U20 European Championship. They overcame Georgia to clinch 5-1 record on top of classification round Group G. Charles Barton (192-PG-92), Viktor Gaddefors (203-SF-92) and William Gutenius (205-F/C-92) accounted for 15 points each for the winners. The teams stayed close throughout the opening quarter. The scoreboard read 21:21 after ten minutes. Sweden eked out a narrow 43:42 halftime lead. Sweden boosted the margin in the third term. They fired 27 points in the quarter to ensure a 17-point lead before the fourth frame. Georgia outscored the Scandinavian team in the final stanza but could not avoid the loss at the end. Eriksson banked 11 points for the winners. Duda Sanadze (196-G/F-92) answered with 27 points and 8 rebounds for Georgia. Merab Bokolishvili had 10 points in the loss.
Montenegro - Estonia 87-71 Montenegro finished their U20 European Championship campaign on a high note. They defeated Estonia in Group G action. Marko Mugosa (198-F-93) scored 24 points to lead the charge. Estonia ensured a quick start. They accounted for a 26:18 lead at the first break. Montenegro bounced back in the second quarter. They cut the distance to just 3 points at halftime 36:39. Montenegro pulled in front in the third term. They recorded a 56:53 lead with one quarter to go. Montenegro unloaded 31 points in the fourth quarter and rolled to a comfortable win at the end. Vukota Pavic (203-C-93) delivered 18 points for the Balkan team. Andrej Pajovic added 17 points for the winners. Martin Paasoja (191-G-93) answered with 24 points for Estonia. Jaan Puidet netted 16 points in the loss.
France and Lithuania to play for the title in Slovenia - Jul 21, 2012
SEMIFINALS
Spain - France 59-66 France entered the Final of U20 European Championship. They shot down the reigning champions Spain in the semifinal clash tonight. France will now take on Lithuania for the title. Hugo Invernizzi (196-G/F-93) provided 16 points to pace the winners. France led by a single point after the opening quarter 16:15. Spain however denied the deficit as the teams arrived at halftime tied at 31. Les Bleus pulled in front once again in the third term. Invirnizzi gave France a 43:33 lead midway through the third quarter. Alejandro Abrines helped Spain stay close as they narrowed the deficit at 3-point mark at the final break 44:47. France jumped to a 9-point lead midway through the final stanza. Spain never got closer than 4 points in the final minutes and had to surrender at the end. Leo Westermann (198-G-92, agency: Beo Basket) provided 12 points, while Kevin Thalien added 9 points in the victory. Daniel Diez (203-F-93) answered with 17 points and 13 boards for Spain. Alejandro Abrines had 15 points in the loss.
Serbia - Lithuania 68-73 Lithuania beat the odds and advanced into the U20 European Championship Final. They defeated Serbia in the first semifinal clash tonight. Serbia entered the encounter undefeated but determined performance from the Baltic side helped them punch the ticket into the title game. Zygimantas Skucas (200-SF-92) scored 14 points to lead the winners. Lithuania jumped to a 21:17 lead at the first break. Lithuania stayed in charge throughout the second quarter. They established a 37:30 halftime advantage. Serbia however picked up the tempo in the third quarter. They cut the deficit to a single point with one period remaining 53:52. Bogdan Bogdanovic (197-F-92) put Serbia in front 66:65 with just over a minute remaining in regulation. But Edgaras Ulanovas and Vytenis Cizauskas (190-SG-92) drained six free throws in the dying seconds to give victory to Lithuania. Vytenis Cizauskas accounted for 13 points, while Paulius Vaitiekunas and Edgaras Ulanovas had 11 points each for the winners. Bogdan Bogdanovic netted 16 points for Serbia. Aleksandar Cvetkovic provided 15 points in the losing case.
5-8 places
Germany - Slovenia 65-53 Germany sent hosting Slovenia to the second straight loss at the U20 European Championship. The teams clashed in 5th-8th place classification round tonight and Germany came out winners. Ole Wendt (190-PG-92, agency: Limelight Hoops) posted 18 points to lead the charge. Slovenia looked better in the opening quarter. They posted a 21:10 lead ten minutes after the start. But Germany turned things around in the second quarter. They took over and narrowed the gap at 5-point mark at halftime 30:35. The teams exchanged baskets throughout the third stanza. Slovenia ensured a 6-point lead before the final term. However Germany capped the regulation on a stunning 18:0 run to snatch the victory. Philipp Neumann (210-C-92) posted 14 points and 9 rebounds for Germany. Besnik Bekteshi added 9 points for the winners. Marko Pajic (204-F/C-92) and Miha Lapornik (192-G-93) responded with 10 points each for Slovenia. Alen Omic had 9 points in the loss.
Latvia - Greece 76-74 Latvia clinched a narrow win over Greece in the classification round of U20 European Championship. The Baltic team will now play for the fifth overall position on the final day of the tournament. Greece enjoyed a confident start to the game. The Hellenes posted a 24:16 lead after ten minutes. Latvia cut the deficit in the second quarter. The Baltic team narrowed the gap at 5-point mark at halftime 37:42. Latvia got closer in the third period. They trailed by only 2 points heading into the final stanza. Greece were up by two with 44 seconds remaining. But Bricis converted two free throws and then Arnolds Helmanis (201-PF-92) followed a three-pointer miss by Giannoulis Larentzakis (195-SG-93, agency: FCM) with a layup to seal the victory for Latvia. Arnolds Helmanis and Arturs Bremers (190-G-92) accounted for 12 points each for Latvia. Andris Misters added 11 points for the winners. Giannoulis Larentzakis answered with game-high 31 points for Greece. Petros Melissaratos provided 15 points and 9 rebounds in the losing case.
11-12 places
Russia - Ukraine 83-63 Russia claimed the 11th overall position at U20 European Championship. They overcame Ukraine in the final game at the tournament for both teams. Denis Zakharov (193-PG-93) scored 14 points to lead the effort. Russia led from start to finish. They posted a 19:14 lead at the first intermission. Russia boosted the margin in the second term. They established a 41:34 halftime lead. Russia kept Ukraine at distance throughout the third term. They piled up a comfortable 14-point lead heading into the fourth quarter 61:47. Russia outscored their opponents in the final frame and sealed an easy win at the end. Alexander Varnakov (185-PG-92) accounted for 13 points, while Gleb Goldyrev added 12 points for the winners. Olexandr Mishula (187-G-92) answered with 14 points for Ukraine. Vyacheslav Bobrov and Klym Artamonov netted 12 points each in the loss.
Group G
Estonia - Sweden 54-91 Sweden remains in U20 European Championship Division A. They knocked down Estonia to improve at 4-1 record in Group G tonight. Sweden thus secured the top two finish in the group and remained in Division A for the next season. Estonia will face Montenegro in the decisive battle for one remaining Division A spot. Six Swedish players scored in double figures to lead the winners. Viktor Gaddefors (203-SF-92) topscored with 13 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists. Sweden led from start to finish. They accumulated an 18:13 lead ten minutes into the game. The margin grew at 14-point mark at halftime. Sweden unleashed 29 points in the third quarter to secure a 29-point lead at the final break. Estonia never recovered suffering a heavy defeat at the end. Charles Barton, Jonathan Person, Tobias Borg and Marcus Eriksson nailed 12 points each for the winners. Oliver Metsalu (196-G-93) responded with 15 points for Estonia. Rait-Riivo Laane notched 10 points in the loss.
Montenegro - Georgia 83-82 Montenegro clinched an important third win in the classification round in Group G. They snatched a narrow victory over Georgia to improve at 3-2 record. Georgia fell at 1-4 record and practically got relegated into Division B. Marko Mugosa (198-F-93) accounted for 22 points to lead the charge. Montenegro stunned their opponents in the opening quarter. The Balkan team grabbed a 26:7 lead after ten minutes. Georgia however quickly stopped the bleeding and tried to bounce back. They cut the deficit at 8-point mark at the interval 40:32. Georgia narrowed the gap at 5-point mark at the final intermission. Beka Burjanadze and Duda Sanadze (196-G/F-92) eventually tied things up at 78 with just over a minute left in regulation. Danilo Nikolic and Grabovica immediately came up with four points in a row for Montenegro. Georgia got within one 82:83 but literally ran out of time to save the game. Vukota Pavic (203-C-93) had 15 points, while Danilo Nikolic added 14 points for Montenegro. Duda Sanadze delivered 20 points and 11 rebounds for Georgia. Beka Burjanadze netted 18 points in the loss.
Spain, Serbia, Lithuania and France reach semifinals in Slovenia - Jul 20, 2012
Quarterfinals
Serbia - Latvia 74-65 Serbia will play in U20 European Championship semifinal. They overcame Latvian counterparts tonight to stay in the title race. The Balkan team will now take on another Baltic side Lithuania in the semifinal clash. Luka Mitrovic (204-F/C-93) accounted for 16 points and 10 rebounds to pace the winners. Serbia started strongly. They held Latvia to 12 points in the first quarter posting a 6-point lead at the first break. The margin grew at 10-point mark early in the second quarter. But Latvia found the way to return into contest. Bremers even put the Latvian side in front 29:27. Nenad Miljenovic (194-G-93, agency: Beo Basket) capped the first half with two free throws to draw things level at 29. Vitols, Helmanis and Janis Timma (201-F/G-92, agency: FCM) put Latvia ahead by 7 points early in the second half 38:31. But Serbia answered right back to ensure a narrow 51:49 lead at the final intermission. Bogdan Bogdanovic (197-F-92) hit a triple to ignite a 13:0 run midway through the fourth frame as Serbia cleared off for good in this one. Nenad Miljenovic notched 14 points, while Bogdan Bogdanovic delivered 11 points for the winners. Janis Timma responded with 16 points for Latvia. Arturs Bricis had 15 points in the losing case.
Lithuania - Greece 79-43 Lithuania advanced into semifinal round of U20 European Championship. They knocked down Greece in the first quarterfinal of the day in Slovenia. Edgaras Ulanovas (197-G-92) accounted for 18 points to lead the winners. Lithuania opened the game with a stifling defence. They held Greece to 10 points in the first quarter posting a 5-point lead. Lithuania boosted the margin in the second quarter. The Baltic team accumulated a 38:23 halftime advantage. Lithuania cleared off in the third quarter. They unloaded 29 points to secure a comfortable 36-point cushion heading into the fourth frame. Lithuania never looked back afterwards coasting to the victory. Zygimantas Skucas (200-SF-92) delivered 14 points, while Vytenis Cizauskas added 11 points, 7 assists and 5 boards for the winners. Petros Melissaratos (205-F/C-93) answered with 15 points and 8 rebounds for Greece. Spyridon Motsenigos and Kostas Tsaprounis netted 6 points each in the loss.
Germany - Spain 47-73 Spain will play in the U20 European Championship semifinals. Daniel Diez (203-F-93) scored 22 points and grabbed 11 rebounds to lead Spain past Germany. The reigning champions led from start to finish. They built a 13:8 lead ten minutes into the game. The margin grew throughout the second quarter. Spain ensured a 33:24 halftime lead. Spain did not slow down in the third quarter. The defending champions ensured a 14-point buffer heading into the fourth frame. Spain held Germany to 8 points in the final quarter and sealed the victory at the end. Alejandro Abrines posted 13 points, while Jaime Fernandez (187-G-93) added 14 points for the winning side. Dennis Schroeder (185-PG-93) responded with 9 points for Germany. Philipp Neumann and Daniel Theis had 8 points each in the loss.
Slovenia - France 54-77 France advanced into U20 European Championship semifinals. They shocked hosting Slovenia handing those the first defeat at the tournament in the quarterfinal clash tonight. Leo Westermann (198-G-92, agency: Beo Basket) unleashed 21 points and issued 7 assists to lead Les Bleus. Slovenia got to a confident start. They posted a 19:15 lead at the first intermission. The teams stayed close throughout the second quarter. The hosts accounted for a 32:28 halftime lead. But things took a wrong turn for the home team in the third quarter. Leo Westermann knocked down 9 points to ignite a 26:8 run from Les Bleus as they posted a 54:40 lead with ten minutes remaining. Leo Westermann helped France gain a 66:42 lead midway through the fourth quarter and France never looked back en route to the victory. Axel Toupane (200-G/F-92) netted 19 points, while Rudy Gobert added 16 points and 12 rebounds for France. Klemen Prepelic (194-G-92) answered with 17 points for Slovenia. Gezim Morina netted 11 points in the loss.
9-12 Place
Russia - Italy 68-69 Italy overcame Russia in the classification round at U20 European Championship. Traini knocked down a free throw late in regulation to seal the victory for the Azzurri. Italy will now take on the winners of Ukraine vs. Turkey clash for the ninth overall position at the tournament. Russia got to a flying start. They piled up a 24:13 lead after ten minutes. Russia boosted the margin in the second term. They established a 40:25 halftime lead. But Italy turned the tables in the second half. They held Russia to 7 points in the third frame to cut the deficit to just two points at the final break. Italy gained a 62:54 lead midway through the fourth frame. Russia recovered and tied things up after three-pointer from Denis Zakharov. But Traini sank one free throw and clinched the victory for Italy. Amedeo Tessitori (205-C-94) posted 17 points, while Fabio Mian (196-F-92) had 13 points for the winners. Alexander Varnakov (185-PG-92) answered with 12 points for Russia. Denis Zakharov netted 10 points in the loss.
Turkey - Ukraine 74-47 Turkey will play for the 9th overall position at U20 European Championship. They held off Ukraine to set up the clash versus Italy. Ukraine will face Russia for the 11th overall position. Erbil Eroglu (195-PG-93) knocked down 14 points to lead Turkey. Turkey stunned Ukraine in the opening frame. They went on a 22:8 run to ensure a comfortable lead. Turkey stayed in control throughout the second quarter. They piled up a 40:22 halftime lead. Turkey maintained the lead throughout the third quarter. They ensured a 26-point lead at the final intermission. Turkey and Ukraine exchanged baskets throughout the fourth term as Ertugrul Erdogan team coasted to the victory. Ramazan Tekin (212-C-93) notched 12 points, while Ugur Dokuyan accounted for 10 points for the winners. Vyacheslav Bobrov (202-F-92) answered with 9 points and 10 rebounds for Ukraine. Olexandr Misyats had 8 points in the losing case.
Group G
Montenegro - Sweden 86-48 Montenegro clinched the second win at the U20 European Championship classification round. They overcame Sweden to improve at 2-2 record staying hopeful about remaining in Division A. Marko Mugosa (198-F-93) scored 23 points to pace the winners. Montenegro thumped their opponents in the first half. The Balkan team built a 21:9 lead at the first break. They stayed on top throughout the second quarter. Montenegro built a 41:22 halftime advantage. The Balkan side exploded with 33 points in the third term to boost the lead to 39-point mark at the final intermission and cruised to the victory at the end. Danilo Nikolic (206-C-93) posted 22 points and 11 rebounds for Montenegro. Vukota Pavic added 11 points in the victory. Marcus Eriksson (196-G/F-93) answered with 16 points for Sweden. Viktor Gaddefors, Tobias Borg and Fredrik Andersson notched 8 points each in the loss.
Georgia - Estonia 75-72 Georgia accounted for the first win at the U20 European Championship. They held off Estonia in the fourth round of action in classification round Group G. Beka Burjanadze (203-F-94) scored 22 points and grabbed 12 rebounds as Georgia improved at 1-3 record in the ladder. Estonia in the meantime fell at 2-2. The teams stayed close throughout the opening quarter. The scoreboard read 17:17 at the first break. Estonia pulled in front in the second quarter. They accumulated a 36:33 halftime lead. Estonia gained a 6-point lead midway through the third quarter but Georgia managed to narrow the deficit at 2-point mark 53:55. Beka Burjanadze scored 7 points early in the fourth period as Georgia pulled ahead 60:56. Estonia drew things level at 69 with under two minutes remaining. But Beka Burjanadze and Duda Sanadze dropped six free throws in the dying seconds to seal the victory for Georgia. Revaz Rogava (185-PG-93) notched 15 points, while Duda Sanadze added 11 points for the winners. Rannar Raap (190-G/F-92) answered with 15 points for Estonia. Oliver Metsalu had 14 points in the loss.
Quarterfinalists are set in Slovenia - Jul 18, 2012
Group E
Germany - Ukraine 74-81 Ukraine posted the first win at the Second Stage of U20 European Championship. They defeated Germany to finish at 1-4 record in Group E. Germany slipped at 3-2 record. Olexandr Mishula (187-G-92) stepped up with 18 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Ukraine led from start to finish. They ensured an 18:11 lead ten minutes into the game. Ukraine boosted the margin to 8 points at halftime 38:30. The teams increased the tempo in the third quarter. Ukraine and Germany exchanged baskets as Volodymyr Koval team led by 8 points with one quarter remaining. Germany got within three points with 14 seconds remaining in regulation but Mysiats and Bobrov sank four free throws in a row and sealed the victory for Ukraine. Sergiy Zagreba (212-C-94) posted 14 points, while Olexandr Misyats added 12 points for the winning side. Philipp Neumann (210-C-92) answered with 17 points for Germany. Johannes Voigtmann netted 14 points in the loss.
Russia - Serbia 61-84 Serbia finished the Second Stage of U20 European Championship on a winning note. They held off Russian counterparts to clinch the top position in Group E at 5-0 record. Russia fell at 2-3 record after the loss. Nenad Miljenovic (194-G-93, agency: Beo Basket) came up with 15 points to lead well-balanced effort from the Balkan team. Serbia cleared off in the first quarter. They accumulated a 22:13 lead after ten minutes of action. The teams traded baskets throughout the second quarter. Serbia managed to secure a 37:28 halftime lead. The third frame became decisive. The Serbian side unleashed 30 points in the stanza to pile up a comfortable 67:42 lead at the final intermission. Russia never recovered in the final term suffering a massive loss at the end. Bogdan Bogdanovic (197-F-92) accounted for 14 points, while Djordje Drenovac and Stefan Nastic had 12 points each in the victory. Denis Zakharov (193-PG-93) answered with 20 points for Russia. Alexander Varnakov chipped in 11 points in the loss.
Greece - France 72-55 Greece punched U20 European Championship quarterfinals ticket. They defeated France in a crucial battle in Group E to make it into the playoffs. The victory also left Russia out of title contention. Spyridon Motsenigos (193-SG-92) accounted for 18 points, 6 boards and 3 assists to pace the Hellenes. France held their opponents to 10 points in the opening quarter to take a 3-point lead. Greece bounced back and secured a 27:26 halftime advantage. Greece pulled in front in the third quarter. They exploded with 23 points and built a comfortable 15-point lead before the final frame. The Hellenes unloaded 22 points in the fourth quarter to keep their opponents at bay and celebrating a vital win at the end. Anastasios Antonakis (204-PF-92) accounted for 15 points, while Petros Melissaratos and Fotios Zoumpos had 12 points each in the victory. Leo Westermann (198-G-92, agency: Beo Basket) answered with 14 points for France. Hugo Invernizzi netted 11 points in the loss.
Group F
Slovenia - Spain 70-63 Slovenia ensured the sixth straight win at the U20 European Championship. They finished the Second Stage of the tournament with the victory over the reigning champions Spain to enter the quarterfinals undefeated. Alen Omic (215-C-92) accounted for 14 points and 8 rebounds to lead the winners. Slovenia led by four points at the first break 18:14. Spain got as close as a single point at halftime 31:32. However the hosts took over in the third term. Slovenia boosted the lead to 11 points midway through the period 45:34. Spain managed to trim the deficit. Alejandro Abrines (198-F-93) capped the frame with a three-pointer as Spain trailed by 9 points at the final intermission 43:52. Spain sparked the intrigue when they cut the deficit to four points 63:67 with 23 seconds to go in regulation. But Lapornik answered with a triple to calm things down. Klemen Prepelic (194-G-92) finished with 12 points, while Eva Rupnik added 10 points in the victory. Alejandro Abrines answered with 18 points for Spain. Jose Pozas had 14 points in the losing case.
Italy - Latvia 78-94 Latvia made a big step towards U20 European Championship quarterfinals as they marched past Italy on the final day of the Second Stage. Janis Timma (201-F/G-92, agency: FCM) stepped up with 25 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists in the victory. Latvia strongly started the game. The Baltic team built a 19:14 lead after ten minutes. Latvia unloaded 28 points in the second quarter to pull away. They ensured a 47:30 halftime lead. Latvia maintained the lead throughout the third quarter. They built a comfortable 71:47 lead with one period remaining. Italy managed to cut the deficit to 11 points but Latvia stayed calm and secured a confident win at the end. Ojars Silins (201-F-93) posted 22 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists, while Arturs Bricis added 18 points for the winners. Amedeo Tessitori (205-C-94) answered with 16 points for Italy. Fabio Mian and Marco Lagana had 13 points each in the loss.
Turkey - Lithuania 45-76 Lithuania clinched a vital win over Turkey in their quest for U20 European Championship quarterfinal birth. Edgaras Ulanovas (197-G-92) nailed 14 points and grabbed 6 rebounds to pace the winners. Both teams are now tied at 2-3 record and await the result of the last game of the day in Group F to get to know their fate. Lithuania gave little chance for their opponents in this one. The Baltic team started the game aggressively and secured a 22:14 lead after ten minutes. The margin grew deeper in the second quarter. Lithuania ensured a 46:23 halftime lead. Lithuania did not slow down in the third frame. They held Turkey to just 5 points and established a 32-point buffer with one quarter remaining. Turkey outscored Lithuania in the fourth quarter but to no avail. Rokas Giedraitis (198-SF-92) delivered 12 points, while Vytenis Cizauskas had 10 points in the victory. Samet Geyik (205-PF-93) responded with 12 points and 7 rebounds for Turkey. Safak Edge had 8 points in the loss.
Group G
Montenegro - Estonia 72-76 Estonia celebrated the second win at the U20 European Championship classification round. They knocked down Montenegrin counterparts to improve at 2-1 record. Jaan Puidet (192-G/F-92) scored 20 points and pulled down 6 boards to lead the charge. Montenegro fell at 1-2 record after the loss. Estonia enjoyed a narrow 20:19 lead after ten minutes. Montenegro pulled in front for a 38:36 halftime lead. The teams stayed close throughout the third quarter. Grabovica capped the period with a layup to ensure a 54:53 lead for Montenegro. The Balkan team stretched the lead to 5 points early in the fourth quarter. But Jaan Puidet and Saare triggered an 11:1 run late in regulation to give Estonia a 71:67 lead. Rauno Nurger (207-C-93) and Rannar Raap then went deadly in the dying seconds to seal the victory for Estonia. Rauno Nurger posted 12 points, while Rannar Raap contributed 10 points in the victory. Danilo Nikolic (206-C-93) answered with 24 points and 10 rebounds for Montenegro. Marko Mugosa finished with 20 points in the losing case.
Georgia - Sweden 64-87 Sweden registered the third straight win at the classification round of U20 European Championship. They knocked down Georgia to stay undefeated in Group G. Tobias Borg (183-PG-93) came up with 22 points to lead the winners. Georgia fell at 0-3 record. The teams stayed neck and neck throughout the opening quarter. The scoreboard read 21:21 at the first break. Sweden pulled ahead in the second quarter. The Scandinavians ensured a 43:39 halftime advantage. Sweden cleared off in the third quarter. They entered the fourth frame up by as many as 17 points 70:53. Georgia never recovered in the final frame and Sweden cruised to the victory at the end. Viktor Gaddefors (203-SF-92) accounted for 16 points and 11 rebounds, while Jonathan Person added 15 points for the winners. Beka Burjanadze (203-F-94) answered with 20 points and 9 rebounds for Georgia. Duda Sanadze had 18 points in the loss.
Results and Stats from Day 2 of Second Stage - Jul 17, 2012
Group E
Ukraine - France 62-75 France registered the second straight win at the Second Stage of U20 European Championship. They knocked down Ukrainian counterparts in Group E. France thus improved at 2-2 record, while Ukraine slipped at 0-4. Leo Westermann (198-G-92, agency: Beo Basket) accounted for 18 points and 5 assists to pace Les Bleus. France got to a sloppy start. Ukraine capitalized building a 21:15 lead ten minutes into the game. But France gradually adjusted their offence. They unloaded 26 points in the second quarter to gain a 4-point halftime lead. France boosted the lead in the third quarter. They ensured a 64:51 lead at the final break. The teams exchanged baskets throughout the fourth frame as France coasted to the victory. Axel Toupane (200-G/F-92) posted 13 points, while Hugo Invernizzi contributed 12 points for the winners. Artem Pustovyi (215-C-92, agency: Beo Basket) answered with 23 points for Ukraine. Vyacheslav Bobrov netted 11 points and grabbed 11 rebounds in the loss.
Serbia - Greece 86-69 Serbia secured the fifth straight win at the U20 European Championship. They fired past Greece to improve at 4-0 record in Group E. Nenad Miljenovic (194-G-93, agency: Beo Basket) came up with 16 points to lead the winners. Serbia and Greece traded baskets throughout the opening quarter. The scoreboard read 21:21 after ten minutes. Serbia pulled ahead for a narrow 38:37 halftime lead. The Balkan team surged ahead in the third quarter. Serbia unleashed 28 points to leave Greece far behind. The Hellenes faced a massive 17-point deficit before the fourth term. Serbia and Greece scored 20 points apiece in the final quarter as the Balkan team coasted to the victory. Bogdan Bogdanovic (197-F-92) accounted for 15 points, while Luka Mitrovic added 13 points and 10 rebounds for the winners. Anastasios Antonakis (204-PF-92) notched 21 points for Greece. Giannoulis Larentzakis had 16 points in the loss.
Germany - Russia 74-59 German U20 National Team registered the second straight win at the Second Stage of European Championhip in Slovenia. They overcame Russia to improve at 3-1 record in Group E. Russia in the meantime suffered the second loss in a row and fell at 2-2 record. Johannes Voigtmann (210-C-92, agency: Limelight Hoops) came up with 15 points to lead the winners. Russia enjoyed a 17:16 lead ten minutes into the game. But Germany turned things around in the second quarter. They went on a 12:2 run midway through the period to ensure a 30:25 lead. Germany finished the half up by 8 points 37:29. Germany maintained the lead throughout the third term. They accumulated a 50:41 advantage at the final intermission. Germany opened the fourth frame with 9 points in a row to clear off. They never looked back cruising to the victory at the end. Patrick Heckmann (198-G/F-92) accounted for 12 points, while Daniel Theis added 11 points in the victory. Vladislav Trushkin (201-F-93) answered with 11 points for Russia. Aleksandr Gudumak netted 9 points in the loss.
Group F
Spain - Italy 76-78 Italy recorded the first win at the second stage of U20 European Championship. They knocked down Spain in Group F to catch up with their opponents at 2-2 record in the ladder. Awudu Abass (196-G-93) came up with 24 points and 12 rebounds for the winners. Spain led by as many as 6 points after ten minutes 28:22. But Italy slowed the reigning champions down in the second frame. The Azzurri got within 4 points at halftime 39:35. Italy denied the deficit and pulled in front for a 57:56 lead with ten minutes remaining. Pozas gave Spain a 66:63 lead midway through the final frame but Italy surged back in front. The Azzurri posted a 74:66 lead with under two minutes to go. Daniel Diez (203-F-93) and Alejandro Abrines kept Spain hopeful narrowing the deficit to just two points 76:78 but Servera missed a potential winner and Italy got away with a narrow win. Andrea Traini (184-PG-92) posted 18 points for Italy. Marco Ceron added 7 points in the victory. Daniel Diez answered with 17 points for Spain. Alejandro Abrines finished with 14 points in the losing case.
Lithuania - Latvia 75-78 Latvia remained in the quest for the quarterfinal spot after they narrowly defeated Lithuania in Group F action. Arnolds Helmanis (201-PF-92) and Janis Timma (201-F/G-92, agency: FCM) scored 15 points each to pace the winners. Latvia jumped to a 21:20 lead ten minutes into the game. Lithuania denied the deficit and surged ahead for a 40:39 halftime lead. Latvia restored the advantage in the third quarter. They held their Baltic neighbours to just 13 points in the period to ensure a 3-point lead before the fourth frame. The lead changed hands for several times throughout intense final quarter. Janis Timma and Silins gave Latvia a 76:73 lead with 12 seconds to go. Redikas narrowed the deficit but Marcis Vitols went perfect from the stripe and sealed the victory for Latvia. Marcis Vitols posted 13 points for the winners. Edgaras Ulanovas (197-G-92) answered with 15 points for Lithuania. Arnas Butkevicius posted 14 points in the loss.
Turkey - Slovenia 71-72 Slovenia remained undefeated at U20 European Championship. The hosts knocked down Turkey for the fifth straight win tonight. Klemen Prepelic (194-G-92) came up with 29 points to lead the winners. Slovenia are now at 4-0 record, while Turkey slipped at 2-2 in Group F. Turkey grabbed a 21:19 lead ten minutes into the game. Slovenia erased the distance and eked out a narrow 41:39 halftime lead. The teams stayed neck and neck throughout the third quarter. Calban capped the period with six points in a row to give the visitors a 60:56 lead. The lead grew at 8-point mark midway through the final quarter 66:58. However Gezim Morina (204-C/F-92) scored 6 points in an 8:2 run from Slovenia that cut the margin to two points. Klemen Prepelic and Alen Omic put the hosts in front 70:69. Tekin gave the lead back to Turkey but Gezim Morina converted a layup to seal the victory for Slovenia. Gezim Morina accounted for 13 points, while Alen Omic posted 12 points and 9 rebounds in the victory. Berkay Candan (204-F-93) answered with 15 points for Turkey. Ayhan Onur Kentli had 9 points in the loss.
Group G
Sweden - Estonia 69-66 Sweden grab thrilling win over Estonia the Classification Round for 13th to 16th Place. The Scandinavian team overcame the Baltic state 69:66 at the U20 European Championship. Estonia took 18:15 lead after the first period and added 16-11 in the second frame. They could not however win the game although posting the victory in the last quarter. Sweden needed massive 25-13 surge in the third period to seal the victory. Jonathan Person (192-PG-93, agency: JEMsports) stepped up with 21 points and Marcus Eriksson notched 18. Viktor Gaddefors posted 12, while Charles Barton chipped in with 8. Martin Paasoja (191-G-93) answered with 14 points and 10 rebounds, whilst Oliver Metsalu added 12. Rait-Riivo Laane, Jaan Puidet and Rauno Nurger each scored 10. Sweden will play Georgia on Wednesday in Stozice Arena in Ljubljana, while Estonia will face Montenegro, who are also yet to open their victory count.
Georgia - Montenegro 65-81 Montenegro rolled over Georgia in the Classification Round for 13th to 16th Place. The Balkan team overcame the Georgian side 81:65 at the U20 European Championship in Division A. Montenegro did not waste time and went on a big lead. They had 26:8 surge in the first period and led 43:28 at the halftime. Georgia won the third period 22-21 as Pkhakadze reduced to 60:50. Vukota Pavic scored four free throws for 64:50 and then Danilo Nikolic (206-C-93) brought 68:58. Ratkovic was the last scorer for the winners in a 16-point victory. Marko Mugosa (198-F-93) led the way with 21 points and Danilo Nikolic added 18 points and 11 rebounds. Pavle Raickovic posted 14, while Vukota Pavic collected 8 points and 14 rebounds. Duda Sanadze (196-G/F-92) ended up with 22 points in the losing case and Beka Burjanadze had 20. On Wednesday, Montenegro will try to make it two victories in a row in their game against Estonia, while Georgia will seek a first victory against Sweden.
Start of Second Stage in Slovenia - Jul 16, 2012
Group E
Ukraine - Serbia 53-82 Serbia defeated Ukraine at the start of the Second Stage of U20 European Championship. The victory propelled Aleksandar Dzikic team at 3-0 record on top of Group E. Ukraine fell at 0-3 record. Serbia and Ukraine kept close throughout the opening quarter. The Balkan team eked out a 23:20 lead ten minutes into the encounter. Serbia managed to pull ahead in the second quarter. They established a 42:31 halftime advantage. The margin grew at 19-point mark midway through the third term. Serbia entered the fourth quarter up by 19 points 65:46. Serbia piled up a 24-point lead early in the fourth frame and cruised to the victory afterwards. Stefan Nastic (210-C-92) finished with 15 points to lead Serbia. Nenad Miljenovic (194-G-93, agency: Beo Basket) added 13 points, while Nemanja Besovic and Djordje Drenovac accounted for 10 points each in the victory. Artem Pustovyi (215-C-92, agency: Beo Basket) answered with 14 points for Ukraine. Klym Artamonov netted 13 points in the loss.
France - Russia 81-62 France earned the first win at the Second Round of the U20 European Championship in Slovenia. They overcame Russia for 1-2 record in Group E. Hugo Invernizzi (196-G/F-93) came up with 19 points to lead the charge. France strongly entered the game. They held their opponents to 9 points in the first frame to take a 9-point lead. France extended the advantage in the second quarter. They posted a 37:25 halftime advantage. Les Bleus maintained the lead throughout the third frame. They entered the fourth quarter up by 15 points and never looked back en route to the win. Leo Westermann (198-G-92, agency: Beo Basket) accounted for 17 points, 6 assists and 4 rebounds for France. Louis Labeyrie netted 14 points in the win. Aleksandr Gudumak (204-F-93) and Aleksandr Razumov notched 12 points each in the loss.
Greece - Germany 68-90 Germany registered the first win at the Second Stage of U20 European Championship. They knocked down Greece for 2-1 record in Group E. Philipp Neumann (210-C-92) stepped up with 24 points to lead the winners. Germany exploded with 28 points in the opening quarter to stun their opponents. The Hellenes found themselves trailing by 19 points after ten minutes. Germany boosted the lead in the second term. They accumulated a 48:27 halftime advantage. Germany kept Greece at bay throughout the third term. They entered the fourth frame up by 22 points. Greece never recovered and had to surrender at the end. Daniel Theis (206-C/F-92) posted 17 points, while Dennis Schroeder produced 11 points for the winners. Giannoulis Larentzakis (195-SG-93, agency: FCM) answered with 20 points for Greece. Anastasios Antonakis netted 17 points, grabbed 7 rebounds and issued 6 assists in the loss.
Group F
Lithuania - Spain 82-60 Lithuania handed Spain the first loss at the U20 European Championship. Edgaras Ulanovas (197-G-92) came up with 28 points and 6 rebounds to lead Lithuania to the opening win in Group F. Lithuania led from the start. They built a 20:18 lead at the first intermission. The Baltic team stretched the margin to 6 points at halftime 40:34. Lithuania left Spain behind in the third quarter. The Baltic team went on a decisive 24:10 run to establish a comfortable 20-point lead at the final intermission. Lithuania never looked back then cruising to the victory at the end. Egidijus Mockevicius (207-C-92) notched 20 points and 7 rebounds, while Paulius Vaitiekunas, Zygimantas Skucas and Vytenis Cizauskas netted 8 points each for Lithuania. Jaime Fernandez (187-G-93) answered with 15 points for Spain. Alejandro Abrines and Julen Olaizola chipped in 11 points each in the loss.
Italy - Turkey 68-95 Turkey victoriously opened the Second Stage of U20 European Championship. They stunned Italy to gain 2-1 record in Group F. Safak Edge (188-PG-92) came up with 18 points to lead the winners. Italy fell at 1-2 record after the defeat. Turkey opened the game with 18 points in a row to shock Italy. Turkey built a 25:8 lead after ten minutes. They stretched the margin to 24 points at the interval 52:28. Things did not change in the third quarter. Turkey maintained the lead posting a 73:52 advantage with one period remaining. Italy never recovered and had to surrender at the end. Ramazan Tekin (212-C-93) posted 16 points, while Ahmet Tuncer contributed 12 points for the winning side. Marco Lagana (193-G-93) answered with 20 points for Italy. Andrea Traini and Lorenzo Saccaggi had 7 points apiece in the loss.
Latvia - Slovenia 62-69 Slovenia posted the fourth straight win at the U20 European Championship. The hosts held off Latvia to improve at 3-0 record in Group F of the Second Stage of the tournament. Alen Omic (215-C-92) posted 14 points to pace the hosts. Latvia got to a flying start. The visitors grabbed a 20:14 lead after ten minutes. Slovenia quickly came back to life. They took over in the second quarter and tied things up at 37 at halftime. Slovenia surged ahead in the third quarter. They held the Baltic team to 13 points in the period to take a 4-point lead heading into the final frame. Latvia got within three points late in regulation however Rupnik, Matej Rojc (198-G-93) and Gezim Morina sealed the winning outcome for the hosts from the stripe. Gezim Morina and Matej Rojc finished with 11 points each for the winners. Janis Timma (201-F/G-92, agency: FCM) responded with 17 points for Latvia. Kaspars Silins netted 15 points in the loss.
Group G
Estonia - Georgia 87-73 Estonia clinched the first win at the U20 European Championship in Slovenia. They knocked down Georgia at the start of classification round action in Group G. Rauno Nurger (207-C-93) came up with 17 points and 9 rebounds for the winning team. Estonia led by just three points after the opening quarter 19:16. The Baltic team stretched the lead in the second quarter. They posted a 43:36 halftime advantage. Georgia narrowed the deficit in the third term. Beka Burjanadze (203-F-94) drew things level at 52 finally. Phhakadze then put Georgian in front 55:52 but Estonia quickly recovered and regained a 63:60 lead at the final intermission. They opened the fourth quarter on a 15:3 rally to clear off. Estonia then coasted to the victory at the end. Jaan Puidet (192-G/F-92) accounted for 14 points, while Martin Paasoja and Rannar Raap contributed 13 points each for the winners. Beka Burjanadze answered with 21 points for Georgia. Irakli Alkhanaidze netted 17 points in defeat.
Montenegro - Sweden 64-72 Sweden recorded the first win at the U20 European Championship. They knocked down Montenegro in classification round Group G. Marcus Eriksson (196-G/F-93) scored 21 points to lead the winners. Montenegro jumped to an early lead. They ensured a 20:11 lead after ten minutes. Sweden cut the deficit in the second quarter. The Scandinavian team narrowed the deficit at 3-point mark at the interval 31:28. Sweden got within two points at the third break 50:52. Sweden tipped off the fourth frame on a 14:2 rally to ensure a 64:54 lead. They never looked back claiming an important victory at the end. Viktor Gaddefors (203-SF-92) posted 20 points and 10 rebounds for Sweden. Tobias Borg and Jonathan Person netted 11 points each in the win. Marko Mugosa (198-F-93) answered with 19 points for Montenegro. Danilo Nikolic netted 18 points in the loss.
The end of preliminary round in Slovenia - Jul 14, 2012
Group A
France - Serbia 67-70 Serbia recorded the third straight win at the U20 European Championship. They defeated France to improve at 3-0 record and clinched the top position in Group A. Nemanja Besovic (221-C-92) came up with 17 points for the winners. The teams stayed neck and neck throughout the opening quarter. France pulled ahead in the second frame. Les Bleus ensured a 31:25 halftime advantage. But Serbia picked up the tempo in the third term. They erupted for 29 points in the third frame to take a 5-point lead at the final intermission. France narrowed the gap and eventually pulled in front for a 67:66 lead with just over two minutes remaining. Aleksandar Cvetkovic (183-PG-93) and Nemanja Besovic answered with four points in a row sealing the victory for Serbia. Aleksandar Cvetkovic produced 14 points, while Nenad Miljenovic added 13 points for the winners. Livio Jean-Charles (204-PF-93) answered with 17 points for France. Louis Labeyrie had 16 points in the loss.
Montenegro - Germany 55-71 German U20 National Team earned the second win at the European Championship in Slovenia. They held off Montenegro to improve at 2-1 record in Group A. Montenegro fell at 0-3 record after the loss. Mathis Monninghoff (200-F/G-92, college: Gonzaga) posted 15 points to lead the winners. Montenegro had their backs against the wall and started the game aggressively. They limited Germany to 12 points in the opening quarter to take a 6-point lead. Germany denied the deficit and eked out a 34:33 halftime advantage. Germany went on a 21:6 run in the third frame to clear off. They established a 16-point cushion heading into the fourth frame. Montenegro failed to recover and had to surrender at the end. Johannes Richter (206-PF-93) notched 13 points, while Leon Tolksdorf added 10 points for the winners. Vukota Pavic (203-C-93) answered with 15 points for Montenegro. Danilo Nikolic led all scorers with 18 points in the loss.
Group B
Greece - Russia 64-66 Russia snatched a tough win over Greece in the third round of action at U20 European Championship in Slovenia. Russia went on an 8:0 run in the last two and a half minutes of regulation to sneak past Greece and remain undefeated at the tournament. Greece fell at 2-1 record in Group B. Russia jumped to a 19:16 lead ten minutes into the game. The Hellenes answered right back posting a 38:37 halftime advantage. The Hellenes dominated the third quarter. They held their opponents to just 9 points in the quarter taking a 12-point lead before the fourth frame. Greece still enjoyed a 6-point buffer with just over two minutes remaining in regulation but a late heroics from Goldyrev and Vladislav Trushkin (201-F-93) sealed the win for Russia. Vladislav Trushkin finished with 15 points, while Aleksandr Gudumak (204-F-93) added 12 points for the winners. Spyridon Motsenigos (193-SG-92) answered with 17 points for Greece. Giannoulis Larentzakis delivered 15 points in the loss.
Estonia - Ukraine 69-72 Ukraine finished third in Group B at the U20 European Championship Division A in Slovenia. The Ukrainian team edged Estonia 72:69 in Day 3 opener. Estonia finished the group without victories. Ukraine started the game better and reached 21:15 after the first 10 minutes of the game. Olexandr Misyats nailed three at the start of the second and Artem Pustovyi (215-C-92, agency: Beo Basket) made two free throws for 28:20. Later Olexandr Mishula (187-G-92) nailed two three-pointers in a row and Puidet closed the half at 39:31. Klym Artamonov (183-PG-93) and Olexandr Mishula scored for 51:45, but the victory was not that easy for Ukraine. Rauno Nurger and Rannar Raap closed the third frame at 56:48, while Martin Paasoja (191-G-93) cut it to 2 points. Rait-Riivo Laane made two free throws for 67:66, but Ukraine won the game as Krutous and Klym Artamonov scored the last points at the very end. Artem Pustovyi stepped up with 22 points and 17 boards, while Olexandr Mishula netted 13. Vyacheslav Bobrov poured in 12, whilst Klym Artamonov and Olexandr Misyats scored 8 apiece. Martin Paasoja answered with 18 points in the losing case and Rannar Raap added 16. Rait-Riivo Laane brought 11, whilst Rauno Nurger nailed 10.
Group C
Georgia - Spain 49-111 Spain claimed the third straight win at the U20 European Championship. They knocked down Georgia to finish the preliminary round undefeated on top of Group C. Jorge Sanz (188-PG-93) and Daniel Diez (203-F-93) led the winners scoring 17 points each. Georgia suffered the third straight loss and would play in relegation round. Spain fired 29 points in the opening quarter to surge ahead. They recorded a 16-point lead after ten minutes. The margin grew at 29-point mark at the interval 54:25. Spain controlled the tempo after the big break. They unloaded 32 points in the third term to ensure a 42-point buffer and never looked back en route to the win. Jaime Fernandez accounted for 15 points for Spain. Beka Burjanadze (203-F-94) delivered 15 points for Georgia. Duda Sanadze accounted for 10 points in the loss.
Turkey - Latvia 64-61 OT Turkey outscore the Baltic side at the U20 European Championship Division A in Slovenia. The Turkish team improved to 2-1 record in Group C after a thrilling 64:61 victory. Latvia meanwhile fell at 1-2 record on the third place in the group. It was the decisive game for the second place in the group. Turkey grabbed 20:17 lead after the first period, but Latvia bounced back with 20-15 in the second frame. Moreover the Baltic State added defensive 9-6 in the third quarter for 5-point advantage before the fourth quarter. They could however score in the last four minutes and allowed Cantitiz and Samet Geyik (205-PF-93) to tie the score at 54:54. In overtime Safak Edge (188-PG-92) scored a buzzer-beater for the final success. Safak Edge stepped up with 14 points to lead all the winners. Samet Geyik nailed 10, while Ayhan Onur Kentli chipped in with 8. Ojars Silins (201-F-93) finished the game with 24 points in defeat and Arturs Bricis nailed 16.
Group D
Slovenia - Lithuania 87-81 Slovenia posted the third straight win at the U20 European Championship. They knocked down Lithuania to finish the preliminary round undefeated. The hosts claimed the top spot in Group C. Klemen Prepelic (194-G-92) and Alen Omic (215-C-92) accounted for 20 points each in the victory. Slovenia grabbed a narrow 17:15 lead after ten minutes. They boosted the lead in the second quarter. Slovenia established a 42:30 halftime lead. Lithuania tried to recover in the third term. They erupted for 28 points to cut the deficit at 7-point mark at the final intermission. Lithuania got within three points midway through the fourth frame but Slovenia quickly boosted the margin to 12 points and never looked back en route to the victory. Marko Pajic accounted for 16 points for the home team. Vytenis Cizauskas (190-SG-92) answered with 16 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists for Lithuania. Edgaras Ulanovas had 14 points in the loss.
Sweden - Italy 62-87 Italy posted the second straight win at the U20 European Championship. They knocked down Swedish counterparts to improve at 2-1 record in Group D. Fabio Mian (196-F-92) scored 16 points and collected 9 rebounds to lead the winners. Sweden suffered the third loss in a row. The Scandinavian team fired 24 points in the opening quarter to take a 6-point lead. But the Azzurri slowly denied the deficit. They trailed by just two points at halftime 34:36. Italy went on a 25:12 run in the third quarter to ensure a 59:48 lead at the final break. Sweden could not recover as they conceded 28 points in the fourth frame and had to surrender at the end. Marco Lagana notched 12 points, while Andrea Traini and Amedeo Tessitori posted 10 points each in the victory. Tobias Borg (183-PG-93) answered with 23 points for Sweden. Viktor Gaddefors (203-SF-92) provided 18 points and 12 rebounds in the loss.
Results and Stats from Day 2 in Slovenia - Jul 13, 2012
Group A
Montenegro - France 68-102 Six players score in double digits as France rout Montenegro at Day 2 of the U20 European Championship in Division A. France erupted with 102:68 win for 1-1 record. France erupted with 34 points in the first period showing an outstanding game and percentage in the court. They added 21-10 in the second frame and led 55:33 at the halftime. The French outfit did not slow down in the second half and also won both quarters. They reached three digit numbers after the last two shots in the game. Luka Radovic and Pelos scored in the last minute of the game for the final result bringing 102:68 victory. Axel Toupane (200-G/F-92) paced all the winners with 17 points and Vincent Pourchot (222-C-92) nailed 16. Livio Jean-Charles ended up with 14 points, while Louis Labeyrie and Dzenan Kurtic posted 11 each. Vukota Pavic (203-C-93) produced 16 points in the losing effort and Luka Radovic had 14. Andrej Pajovic delivered 11 and Marko Mugosa scored 10.
Germany - Serbia 45-69 Serbia clinched the second consecutive win at the U20 European Championship. Bogdan Bogdanovic (197-F-92) knocked down 21 points to lead the winners. Germany fell at 1-1 record after the loss in Group A. Serbia grabbed the lead early on. They posted an 18:9 lead at the first break. Serbia stretched the margin to 13-point mark at halftime 35:22. Serbia maintained the lead throughout the third frame. They ensured a 20-point buffer at the interval 52:32. Germany never recovered in the fourth quarter as Serbia coasted to the victory at the end. Aleksandar Cvetkovic (183-PG-93) nailed 13 points, while Djordje Drenovac added 10 points in the winning case. Patrick Heckmann (198-G/F-92) answered with 12 points for Germany. Philipp Neumann netted 11 points in the loss.
Group B
Estonia - Greece 69-91 Greece registered the second straight win at the start of the U20 European Championship. They knocked down Estonia tonight to seal the next round appearance. Giannoulis Larentzakis (195-SG-93, agency: FCM) stepped up with 28 points and 10 rebounds to lead the winners. The Hellenes left Estonia far behind in the opening quarter. Greece ignited a 28:13 run to clear off. They stretched the lead to as many as 17 points at halftime 45:28 at the interval. Estonia slowed their opponents down a bit in the third term. The Baltic team cut the deficit to 16 points at the final intermission. But Greece unloaded 25 points in the fourth quarter to seal a comfortable win at the end. Anastasios Antonakis (204-PF-92) finished with 23 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists, while Fotios Zoumpos added 14 points for the winners. Rannar Raap (190-G/F-92) answered with 13 points for Estonia. Rait-Riivo Laane netted 12 points and 6 assists in the loss.
Ukraine - Russia 75-81 Russia improved to 2-0 record in Group B of the U20 European Championship. The team needed 81:75 win over Ukraine to keep them winless. Russia won the opening tip 4:0 and Razumov later scored for 13:8. Tikhonin and Denis Zakharov (193-PG-93) later closed the first period at 22:13 and then Vladislav Trushkin (201-F-93) brought 30:19. Klym Artamonov and Vyacheslav Bobrov reduced to 33:29, while Zaryazhko closed the half at 40:34. Ukraine managed to cut it to 7 points midway through the third frame, but Russia erupted for 64:51 lead after thirty minutes. Gleb Goldyrev and Denis Zakharov kept the difference at 10 points, while Vladislav Trushkin made the final result in the game. Vladislav Trushkin top-scored for the winners with 15 points and Denis Zakharov nailed 13. Gleb Goldyrev posted 12, while Artem Vikhrov delivered 9. Olexandr Mishula (187-G-92) ended up with 23 points in the losing effort and Vyacheslav Bobrov collected 15 points and 11 rebounds. Artem Pustovyi had 14, whilst Klym Artamonov delivered 9.
Group C
Spain - Latvia 64-51 Spain recorded the second straight win at the U20 European Championship in Slovenia. The reigning champions took care of Latvian counterparts in Group C. Jaime Fernandez (187-G-93) scored 19 points as Spain improved at 2-0 record, while Latvia fell at 1-1. The teams stayed neck and neck throughout the first half. The scoreboard read 11:11 ten minutes into the game. Spain eked out a 22:21 halftime lead. Spain increased the tempo in the third quarter. They delivered 21 points in the third frame to ensure a 43:36 lead at the final break. Spain unloaded 21 points in the fourth quarter sealing a comfortable win at the end. Daniel Diez (203-F-93) notched 15 points for Spain. Jose Pozas contributed 10 points in the victory. Davis Coders (188-PG-92) responded with 11 points for Latvia. Arnolds Helmanis finished with 8 points in the loss.
Georgia - Turkey 67-103 Turkey started Day 2 at the U20 European Championship with the victory over Georgia. The team improved to 1-1 record after 103:67 win. The score was tied at 7:7 and then Beka Burjanadze gave Georgia their lead at 9:7. Turkey meanwhile replied with a 13-0 run and then closed the period at 25:16. Georgia replied with 22-16 in the second frame and reduced to 3 points at the halftime. Turkey started the third quarter with six unanswered points in the first 30 seconds as part of a 14-2 run, after which the Turkish side never looked back. Turkey added 36-17 in the last quarter to score three digit number. Berkay Candan (204-F-93) exploded with 36 points and 10 rebounds, while Ramazan Tekin (212-C-93) and Safak Edge (188-PG-92) nailed 12 each. Samet Geyik followed them with 8 points in a win. Duda Sanadze (196-G/F-92) replied with 25 points in the losing effort and Irakli Alkhanaidze as well as Beka Burjanadze poured in 12 each. Nodar Tenieshvili ended up with 10 points in a loss.
Group D
Sweden - Slovenia 69-70 Slovenia withheld a furious challenge from Sweden to record the second straight win at the U20 European Championship. Alen Omic (215-C-92) scored 24 points to pace the hosts. Sweden in the meantime suffered the second straight loss at the tournament. The lead changed hands throughout the opening quarter. The teams appeared tied at 18 after ten minutes. Sweden grabbed a 22:18 lead early in the second quarter but the hosts quickly denied the deficit. Slovenia capped the first half with five points in a row to take a 38:35 lead. Slovenia boosted the lead to 5 points midway through the third quarter. They arrived at the final break up by one 49:48. The teams continued to go neck and neck throughout the final frame. Klemen Prepelic (194-G-92) gave Slovenia a 63:61 lead with under two minutes remaining. However Borg and Marcus Eriksson answered with five straight points to put Sweden in front. Klemen Prepelic and Marko Pajic returned the lead to the hosts 70:69 with 11 seconds remaining. Marcus Eriksson had a chance to save the game for the Scandinavians but missed a late jumper. Klemen Prepelic accounted for 13 points, while Marko Pajic added 11 points for the winners. Jonathan Person (192-PG-93, agency: JEMsports) answered with 20 points for Sweden. Marcus Eriksson netted 14 points in the loss.
Italy - Lithuania 89-82 Italy celebrated the first win at the U20 European Championship. They knocked down Lithuania in what can be crucial game for both teams. Marco Ceron (194-G-92) exploded with 29 points to pace the Azzurri. Both teams are now tied at 1-1 record in Group D. Lithuania aggressively opened the game. They scored first seven points in the game and maintained the lead throughout the opening quarter. Lithuania posted a 24:15 lead at the first break. The margin grew at 10-point mark early in the second quarter. But Italy managed to recover as they narrowed the deficit to just a single point 38:39 at halftime. Marco Ceron put the Azzurri in charge at the start of the second half. Italy gradually built a 67:58 advantage at the final intermission. The margin grew at 20-point mark midway through the fourth quarter. Lithuania cut the distance to 7 points but still lost the game. Amedeo Tessitori (205-C-94) posted 15 points, while Marco Lagana contributed 11 points for the winners. Edgaras Ulanovas (197-G-92) answered with 23 points for Lithuania. Vytenis Cizauskas had 15 points in the loss.
Results and Stats from Day 1 in Slovenia - Jul 12, 2012
Group A
Serbia - Montenegro 91-73 Serbia recorded the first win at the U20 European Championship. They knocked down Montenegro in Balkan clash in Group A. Serbia stunned their opponents in the first quarter. They went on a 27:11 run to clear off. Serbia poured in 25 points in the second frame to stay in charge. They accumulated an 18-point halftime lead. Montenegro changed the complexion of the game after the big break. They stiffened defence holding Serbia to 13 points in the third term. Montenegro cut the deficit to 9 points with a period remaining. But the Serbs exploded with 26 points in the fourth quarter to seal the victory. Nemanja Besovic (221-C-92) accounted for 18 points, while Nenad Miljenovic (194-G-93, agency: Beo Basket) added 16 points for the winners. Vukota Pavic (203-C-93) answered with 15 points for Montenegro. Marko Mugosa had 14 points in the loss.
France - Germany 52-54 German U20 National Team snatched a narrow victory over French counterparts at the start of the European Championship in Slovenia. Johannes Voigtmann (210-C-92, agency: Limelight Hoops) came up with 10 points to pace well-balanced effort from the winners. It was a well-matched battle from start to finish. Germany won on a late layup from Dennis Schroeder. France jumped to a 12:4 lead early in the encounter. Germany cut the deficit to trail by a single point 11:12 at the first break. Bekteshi scored five points in a row midway through the second term to put Germany in front 20:17. The German side ensured a 28:26 halftime lead. The lead changed hands throughout intense third quarter. Germany eked out a 41:40 lead heading into the fourth frame. The teams went neck and neck and Thalien drew things level at 52 with just under two minutes to go in regulation. Schroder came up with a late layup for Germany and sealed the victory for the team. Mathis Monninghoff (200-F/G-92) provided 9 points, while Patrick Heckmann and Dennis Schroeder contributed 8 points each in the victory. Axel Toupane (200-G/F-92) answered with 11 points for France. Livio Jean-Charles netted 10 points in the loss.
Group B
Greece - Ukraine 89-86 OT Greek U20 National Team recorded the initial win at the European Championship. They survived overtime thriller to tame Ukraine. Anastasios Antonakis (204-PF-92) scored 21 points to lead the Hellenes. The teams traded leads throughout the opening quarter. Shundel capped the period with a jumper to knot things up at 24. The teams stayed neck and neck throughout the second quarter. Panagiotaras finally put Greece ahead 41:39 at halftime. Ukraine pulled in front in the third term. Klym Artamonov, Pavlo Krutous and Shundel gave them a 58:51 lead. Ukraine entered the fourth period up by 6 points 65:59. Greece trailed by six points with just over two minutes remaining in regulation but Tsaprounis, Giannoulis Larentzakis (195-SG-93, agency: FCM) and Anastasios Antonakis forced overtime scoring six points in a row. Spyridon Motsenigos unloaded 8 points in the extra period to seal the victory for Greece. Spyridon Motsenigos accounted for 19 points, while Giannoulis Larentzakis added 16 points for the winners. Artem Pustovyi (215-C-92, agency: Beo Basket) answered with 19 points for Ukraine. Pavlo Krutous, Klym Artamonov and Olexandr Misyats finished with 13 points each in the loss.
Russia - Estonia 86-58 Russia clinched a comfortable win in the first game at the U20 European Championship in Slovenia. They knocked down Estonian counterparts in Group B. Vladislav Trushkin (201-F-93) scored 16 points and grabbed 6 rebounds for the winners. Russia cleared off to a 21:14 lead after ten minutes. They fired 26 points in the second term to boost the margin to 14 points. Russia controlled the tempo in the third quarter. They secured a 69:45 lead heading into the fourth frame. Russia did not slow down in the final period and raced to the victory at the end. Alexander Varnakov (185-PG-92) knocked down 12 points, while Alexander Tikhonin added 11 points for the winners. Oliver Metsalu (196-G-93) answered with 11 points for Estonia. Jaan Puidet provided 10 points in the loss.
Group C
Turkey - Spain 60-79 Spanish U20 National Team tipped off their European Championship campaign with win. The reigning champions marched past Turkey in Group C. Daniel Diez (203-F-93) scored 21 points to lead the winners. Turkey surprised their opponents early in the game. They grabbed a 21:18 lead after ten minutes. But Spain reacted with a massive 29:14 run in the second quarter to accumulate a 12-point lead at halftime 47:35. Spain controlled the tempo in the third quarter. They ensured a 14-point buffer before the final stanza 63:49. Spain held their opponents to 11 points in the final period to seal a confident win at the end. Alejandro Abrines (198-F-93) posted 13 points, while Jaime Fernandez and Alejandro Barrera had 12 points each for the winners. Safak Edge (188-PG-92) answered with 12 points for Turkey. Ugur Dokuyan and Samet Geyik provided 10 points each in the loss.
Latvia - Georgia 88-50 Latvia left no chance for Georgia in the opening game at the U20 European Championship for both teams. Janis Timma (201-F/G-92, agency: FCM) stepped up with 21 points, 10 rebounds, 6 steals and 4 assists as Latvia cruised to the first win in Group C. Latvia left their opponents behind in the first term. The Baltic team triggered a 21:11 run in the first ten minutes. The gap just kept on growing in the second quarter. Latvia accumulated a 40:22 halftime lead. Latvia stayed in full control in the second half. They posted a 62:35 advantage with one quarter remaining and never looked back en route to the victory. Ojars Silins (201-F-93) knocked down 12 points, while Marcis Vitols added 11 points for Latvia. Merab Bokolishvili (198-G-92) notched 15 points for Georgia. Duda Sanadze provided 12 points in the loss.
Group D
Slovenia - Italy 81-68 Slovenia enjoyed the start of the home U20 European Championship. The hosts held off Italian counterparts in Group D opener. Marko Pajic (204-F/C-92) scored 16 points to lead the home team. Slovenia jumped ahead early in the game. They posted a 23:17 lead after ten minutes. The hosts maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. Slovenia enjoyed a 43:34 halftime lead. The teams exchanged baskets throughout the third term. Italy finally denied the deficit as Marco Lagana (193-G-93) drew things level at 46. But Slovenia finished the period strongly to regain a 9-point lead 63:54. Lapornik and Klemen Prepelic (194-G-92) opened a 15-point lead early in the final quarter and Slovenia never looked back en route to the win. Klemen Prepelic accounted for 14 points, while Luka Rupnik and Alen Omic added 13 points each for Slovenia. Marco Lagana replied with 18 points for Italy. Andrea Traini netted 14 points in the losing case.
Lithuania - Sweden 80-71 Lithuania celebrated the first win at the U20 European Championship. They held off Sweden in Group D opener. Dovydas Redikas (195-G-92) nailed 24 points, made 7 steals and issued 3 assists to lead the Baltic team. Sweden pulled ahead early in the encounter. The Scandinavians relied on a high-flying game from Marcus Eriksson (196-G/F-93) to lead 21:17 at the first break. Lithuania denied the deficit and ensured a 41:39 halftime lead. The margin grew over 10-point mark in the third term. Lithuania ensured a 61:50 lead at the final intermission. Sweden cut the deficit to 7 points in the fourth quarter but Lithuania hang on to eke out victory at the end. Vytenis Cizauskas (190-SG-92) posted 23 points and 10 rebounds, while Paulius Vaitiekunas and Zygimantas Skucas had 6 points each in the win. Marcus Eriksson answered with 30 points for Sweden. Jonathan Person had 11 points in the loss.
Division B: Croatia shock the Czechs to win the title - Jul 22, 2012
FINAL
Croatia - Czech Republic 88-80 Croatia shock the Czechs to win the title in Division B at the U20 European Championship. The Croatian side won the Final 88:80 and clinched the top place in Division B. Both teams will head to the top Division next year. On July 18th Czech Republic easily rolled over Croatia in the start of the Second Stage at the U20 European Championship in Division B. That time Czech Republic improved to 2-0 record in Group F after 92:67 win. Tonight Croatia won the opening period 20-16 and added 21-12 in the third quarter. They did not mind 25-26 in the last stanza to clinch the trophy. Vukovic stepped up with 27 points and Henrik Sirko (198-F-93) nailed 26. Roko Rogic (187-PG-92) ended up with 16 points, while Franko Sango (200-PF-92) added 6. Bohacik replied with 22 points in the losing effort, whilst Ondrej Balvin (216-C-92) collected 20 points and 12 boards. Kriz added 16 points and 19 rebounds and Mares nailed 9.
3rd place
Bulgaria - Israel 67-101 Israel destroys the hosts for the third place at the U20 European Championship in Division B in Sofia. The Israeli team overwhelms Bulgaria 101:67, while both teams will play in the top Division next year. Israel took 23:20 after the first period and added the same result in the second frame. Moreover the second half was a nightmare for Bulgaria that could not match the team from Israel. The latter produced a 24-16 surge in the third period and finished the game with 31-11 in the last stanza. Sean Labanowski (202-F/C-92) brought three digit number for the winning side at the very end. Shawn Dawson (193-SF-93) paced all the winners with 26 points, while Timor and Solomon posted 15 apiece. Liraz Ariely (185-G-92, agency: Gross Zeev ISA) netted 13 and Lavie scored 11. Pavlin Ivanov (195-G-93, agency: Beo Basket) finished the game with 21 points in the losing effort. Dimitrov scored 13, whilst Todor Zahariev (187-G-92) notched 7.
5-6 places
Poland - United Kingdom 83-53 Poland leave no chance to Great Britain in the game for the 5th place at the U20 European Championship in Division B. The Polish side won 83:53 and sent the team from Great Britain to the 6th place. Poland hoped to play for the higher place and dreamed to advance to the top Division. They started the game with 23-14 and added 19-18 in the second period 10-point advantage at the halftime. Poland did not even think of slowing down and won the second half as well. They posted a 21-11 victory in the third quarter and finished the game with 20-10 in the last stanza. Maciej Kucharek (204-SF-93) brought the last 4 points for the winners from the free throw line. Gielo stepped up with 14 points and 10 rebounds, while Mateusz Ponitka (196-G-93) notched 12. Piotr Niedzwiedzki (210-F-93) poured in 10, while Zyskowski and Kowalczyk had 8 each. Alasdair Fraser (203-F-92) delivered 14 points in defeat, while Devon Van Oostrum (190-G-93) brought 13.
7-8 places
Finland - Belgium 70-84 Belgium clinched 7th place in Sofia at the U20 European Championship in Division B. The team overcame Finland 84:70 at the Classification Game for 7th to 8th Place. Belgium proved their ambitions in the first quarter and grabbed 20:14 after the first period. They added 22-20 in the second quarter for 42:34 lead at the halftime. Moreover Belgium did not stop in the third quarter and produced a 19-12 surge for 61:46 advantage when Steinbach nailed three at the end. Finland meanwhile managed to win the last stanza and reduced to final 14 points. Steinbach stepped up with 22 points and Lasisi added 16. Obasohan Ojomoh (183-PG-93) notched 15, while Schwartz had 10 points and 16 rebounds. Murphy notched 29 points in the losing effort as Finland finished on the 8th spot. Heinonen had 13 and Caven delivered 12.
9-10 places
Austria - Portugal 57-66 Portugal finished 9th in Division B after the last victory at the U20 European Championship. The team won over Austria 66:57 as the latter finished on the 10th place. Portugal looked better in the opening period and took 28:18 at the end of it. Belo later increased to 34:20, but the win was not too easy for them. Austria replied with a 10-0 run and reduced to 4 points. Diesner and Wildner exchanged the late baskets in the second quarter for 39:34. In the third frame Portugal bounced back with an 11-0 run as the team scored three straight three-pointers. They added defensive 11-9 in the last period to seal the last victory at the tournament. Miguel Cardoso (184-PG-93) stepped up with 18 points and Santos added 13. Filip Kramer (200-SF-92) finished the game with 13 points in defeat and Hopfgartner notched 12. Luka Gvozden (184-PG-93) poured in 10, while Ngoy scored 5.
11-12 places
Slovakia - Denmark 62-81 Slovak Republic lost to Denmark in the last game for both teams at the U20 European Championship in Division B. The Danish side finished on the 11th place after 81:62 win. Slovak Republic finished the tournament on the 12th place. Although it was not the game for the top places, both teams showed their best in their last meeting. Denmark grabbed 23:20 lead and dominated the rest of the game. They needed a 26-14 surge to take 15 point deficit at the halftime. Slovak Republic replied with 15-11 in the third quarter as Brutovsky reduced to 49:57 before Birketoft closed the quarter at 60:49. Denmark meanwhile posted 21-13 in the last stanza to seal the victory. Olsen top-scored for the winners with 17 points, while Reinholt posted 13. Hertz and Sami Eleraky (210-C-93) delivered 12 points each and the latter also added 10 rebounds. Peter Kancir (187-G-92) netted 18 points in the losing effort, while Luley had 11. Dedecek and Jaroslav Moravek (204-F/C-92) scored 9 points each in defeat.
13-14 places
Holland - Belarus 52-64 Belarus edged the Dutch side in their last game at the U20 European Championship. The team won over Netherlands 64:52 to finish on the 13th place. Belarus took 17:11 in the first period and led 6 points at the halftime. Zakhar scored for 39:33, while Vitali Liutych (198-SG-92) brought 42:37. Later Suhaniaka and Zakhar closed the period at 54:39. Belarus did not mind 10-13 in the last quarter and won the game by 12 points. Vitali Liutych and Matthew Van Tongeren were the last players to score for their teams. Zakhar top-scored for the winners with 14 points and 10 rebounds, while Vitali Liutych also scored 14. Suhaniaka posted 11 and Ruzgaitis had 10. Kasper Averink (183-PG-93, agency: Arete Sports Agency) ended up with 14 points, while Sam De Haas and Matthew Van Tongeren poured in 7 each.
Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Croatia and Israel clinch promotion to Division A - Jul 21, 2012
SEMIFINALS
Czech Republic - Israel 72-61 Czech Republic and Israel head to Division A, while the Czechs proved their ambitions from the start of the tournament. The team overcame Israel 72:61 in the Semifinal game of the U20 European Championship in Division B. Czech Republic opened the game with 15:12 and improved to 7 points early in the second. Jaromir Bohacik (197-G/F-92) scored for 24:17 and Martin Kriz (202-F-93) brought 33:24. Later Ondrej Balvin (216-C-92) and Timor exchanged the late baskets in the quarter for 37:31 at the halftime. Czech Republic also won the third period 20-19 and increased to 7 points after three quarters. They needed 15-11 in the last stanza to win the game. Ondrej Balvin top-scored for the winners with 20 points and 16 rebounds, while Martin Kriz added 20 points and 15 rebounds. Jaromir Bohacik notched 16 and Mares had 9. Or Solomon (197-F-93) ended up with 16 points and 15 boards in the losing case, whilst Timor scored 15. Oz Blayzer (199-F-92) nailed 11 and Dawson delivered 9.
Bulgaria - Croatia 79-85 Croatia upset the hosts, while both teams head to Division A of the U20 European Championship. The Croatian team overcame Bulgaria 85:79 and will play in top division next year with 3 other Semifinalists. More than 1500 fans to support Bulgaria in Sofia. The hosts started with 24:13 and dominate the first half. Croatia only managed to reduce to 9 points at the end of the second period as Roko Jurlina (194-G-93) scored for 45:36. The third quarter belonged to Croatia and after 29-17 in it, the guests grabbed 65:62. Rogic scored for 72:64, while Vukovic brought 76:68. Krstanovic and Sirko brought the final victory for the winners. Sirko paced all the winners with 29 points, while Vukovic collected 12 points and 10 rebounds. Rogic had 10, whilst Roko Roko Jurlina and Markulin delivered 9 each. Pavlin Ivanov (195-G-93, agency: Beo Basket) answered with 19 points in the losing effort and Georgi Boyanov (200-F-93) brought 12. Zahariev and Dimitrov poured in 11 each, whilst Simeonov scored 10.
5-8 places
Poland - Finland 83-70 Poland step closer to the 5th place at U20 European Championship in Division B. The team overcame Finland 83:70 in the start of the Classification Round for 5th to 8th Places. Poland went on a 4-0 run and Michalak scored for 8:2. Gielo and Karnowski brought 21:18, while Akpaso tied the game at 21:21. Later Michalak and Vaenerberg exchanged the late baskets in the first period and Jaroslaw Zyskowski (201-G-92) drove a lay-up for 34:26 early in the second. Akpaso again reduced to 42:41, while Jaroslaw Zyskowski closed a 10-0 run at the half for 52:41. Poland added 20-15 in the third period and led 14 points in the start of the fourth period. Finland answered with 14-11 in the frame but lost the game. Gielo top-scored for the winners with 17 points, while Karnowski nailed 14. Jaroslaw Zyskowski delivered 13 and Michalak as well as Mateusz Ponitka (196-G-93) had 11 each. Alex Murphy (203-F-93) poured in 30 points in the losing effort, whilst Akpaso scored 13.
United Kingdom - Belgium 101-100 OT Great Britain needed overtime to beat Belgium at the U20 European Championship in Division B. Great Britain grabbed 101:100 victory over Belgium and will play tomorrow for the 5th place. Belgium grabbed 23:17 after the first period. Great Britain however played better in the second frame and after 29-18 in the second quarter took 46:41 advantage. Moreover Great Britain added 21-18 in the third frame for 67:59 after 30 minutes. Obasohan Ojomoh (183-PG-93) however managed to help Belgium and sent the teams to overtime after the last two shots in the fourth quarter. Great Britain produced a 14-13 surge in overtime to seal the victory. Alasdair Fraser (203-F-92) stepped up with 37 points and Sayers nailed 20. Van Oostrum Devon collected 13 points, 12 assists and 8 rebounds, while Hart posted 13. Schwartz replied with 26 points and 15 rebounds in defeat and Obasohan Ojomoh as well as Boukichou scored 20. Lecomte delivered 14, whilst Lasisi added 13.
15-16 places
FYR Macedonia - Switzerland 71-80 Switzerland clinch 15th place in Division B of the U20 European Championship. The Swiss side finished the tournament with the win over F.Y.R. of Macedonia 80:71 as the latter ended up on the 16th place. Both teams realized the importance of the last game at the tournament. They desired to finish on the higher place and showed their best on Saturday night. F.Y.R. of Macedonia took 19:18 after the first 10 minutes in the court and added 12-9 in the second frame for 4-point lead at the halftime. The second half however belonged to the Swiss side. They won the third period 28-17 and finished the game with 25-23 in the last stanza. Evrard Atcho (207-C/F-92) erupted with 27 points and 10 rebounds, while Savoy added 22. Marko Mladjan (206-F-93) finished the game with 11 points and Bozovic scored 8. Boban Stajic (185-PG-93) produced 25 points in defeat and Goran Markovski (195-G/F-92) added 21.
17-18 places
Luxembourg - Hungary 94-86 Luxembourg sent Hungary to the last spot in Sofia as they beat them in the last game for both teams. Luxembourg outscored Hungary 94:86 at the Classification Game for 17th to 18th Place. Luxembourg took 16:14 after the first period and added 28:27 at the second period. Steffen and Bellwald scored for 55:49 and the latter also brought 64:58. Hungary started to play better in the end of the frame and grabbed 69:68 at the end of the quarter. Tursics and Meszaros gave Hungary 73:70 advantage, but Hungary could not win. Luxembourg won the quarter 26-17 and clinched the 17 places in Sofia. Louis Arendt (187-F/G-93) top-scored for the winners with 18 points and Max Schmit (182-PG-92) netted 15. Steffen delivered 13 points in a winning effort. Mate Meszaros finished the game with high 27 points and Peter Jakab (187-G-93) delivered 17. Somenek ended up with 15, whilst Tursics notched 8.
Division B: Classification Round for 9th to 18th Places went to an end - Jul 20, 2012
Group G
Holland - Slovakia 47-55 Slovak Republic edged Netherlands in Sofia in the last game for the Classification Round for 9th to 18th Place in Division B in U20 European Championship. The winning side finished second in Group G with 3-1 record, while Netherlands are third with 2-2 record. Netherlands won the first period 13-10 and Ivan Filipan (193-G/F-92) nailed three for 16:12. Slovak Republic however needed to keep the opponents scoreless for the last 4 minutes in the second frame and grabbed 23:21 lead at the halftime. Slovak Republic added 13-11 in the third quarter and Jan Brutovsky (188-G-93) brought 36:32. Another 19-15 in the last quarter brought the final victory for Slovakia. Moravek top-scored for the winners with 13 points and 10 rebounds, while Dedecek added 13. Jan Brutovsky delivered 11 and Luley notched 7. Joel Brandt (195-F-92) replied with 16 points in the losing effort and Ivan Filipan had 7.
Austria - FYR Macedonia 77-85 OT Austria wins Group G although falls to F.Y.R. of Macedonia at the Classification Round for 9th to 18th Place in Division B of the U20 European Championship. F.Y.R. of Macedonia won over the group leader 85:77 for 2-2 record to finish fourth. Austria meanwhile is on top with 3-1 record. F.Y.R. of Macedonia won the opening tip 21-17 and added 18-17 in the second frame. Austria needed a 18-14 in the third period and finished the fourth quarter with 19-18 as Friedrich tied the game at 71:71. F.Y.R. of Macedonia produced a 14-6 surge in overtime to seal the victory. Goran Markovski (195-G/F-92) paced all the winners with 31 points and 17 rebounds, while Boban Stajic (185-PG-93) posted 18. Ivanovikj delivered 15 and Dinevski ended up with 7 points. Hopfgartner erupted with 26 points and 13 rebounds in defeat and Filip Kramer (200-SF-92) had massive 19 points and 19 caroms. Friedrich notched 12, whilst Albert Ngoy (180-PG-93) chipped in with 9.
Group H
Hungary - Denmark 55-77 Denmark keep Hungary winless in Group H of the U20 European Championship in Division B. The Danish side meanwhile improved to 3-1 record after 77:55 victory. Hungary finished on the bottom of the group with 0-4 record. Denmark was the favorite of the game and started with 20:14 lead. Hungary did not give and Somenek tied the game at 30:30 midway through the second period. Bodor even gave the lead for Hungary, but Philip Hertz (210-C/F-92) brought 34:32 from the free throw line. The third quarter belonged to the winning team that needed a 24-12 surge to win the game. They added 19-10 in the last stanza to seal the win. Philip Hertz top-scored for the winners with 23 points and Dossing netted 18. Dennis Levene (201-F-92) and Eleraky followed them with 11 points each. Peter Jakab (187-G-93) delivered 20 points in defeat and Krisztian Tursics (185-G-92) scored 8.
Portugal - Switzerland 42-52 Portugal wins Group H despite the loss from the Switzerland at the Classification Round for 9th to 18th Place in Division B of the U20 European Championship. The latter won 52:42 and finished fourth with 2-2 record. Switzerland won the opening tip 4-0 and Brian Savoy (192-SG-92) later brought 11:3. Bozovic delivered two for 15:8 and Jeremy Landenbergue (182-PG-93) nailed three for 24:12. Switzerland added 19-15 in the second frame and led 30:19 at the halftime. Brian Savoy made another three free throws later in the third quarter for 35:26, while Cardoso closed the frame at 40:34. Portugal could not score for the first 7 minutes in the last stanza and allowed the opponents to take 43:34 advantage. Evrard Atcho (207-C/F-92) and Ventura scored the last points for their teams for the final result. Brian Savoy paced all the winners with 16 points, while Evrard Atcho collected 13 points and 14 rebounds. Marko Mladjan (206-F-93), Jeremy Landenbergue and Bozovic followed them with 6 points apiece. Grosso delivered 10 in defeat and Cardoso scored 7.
Semifinals are set in Division B - Jul 19, 2012
Group E
Belgium - Israel 66-69 Israel grab the last ticket to Final Four of the U20 European Championship in Division B. The team overcame Belgium 69:66 in a thriller to take 2-1 record in Group E. It was the game for the last ticket from Group E to the semifinal. Both teams started strong, but Belgium took 22:11 after the first 10 minutes. Moreover they added 20-15 in the second frame and enjoyed 16-point advantage at the halftime. Belgium made everything they could to win the game but reduce to 3 final points. They won the third quarter 19-13 and added 21-14 in the last stanza. Elias Lasisi (192-G/F-92) gave them 66:64 lead, but Solomon and Bar Timor (191-PG-92, agency: Avi Zilberman) brought the victory for the opponents. Bar Timor top-scored for the winners with 20 points and Solomon nailed 16. Blayzer collected 14 points and 14 rebounds, while Dawson added 10. Elias Lasisi erupted with 34 points in the losing effort as Belgium finished with 1-2 record on the last place in the group. Khalid Boukichou (208-C-92) had 12 points and 10 rebounds, whilst Ojomoh scored 11.
Poland - Bulgaria 70-78 Sofia sent the hosts to the Semifinals of the U20 European Championship in Division B. Bulgaria overcame the Polish players 78:70 and sent them out of Top Four. It was a tough game and could send only one team to the Semifinal. Although two of them deserved a spot there, Bulgaria managed to grab the victory. They started with 22-21, but the game was tied at the halftime. In the second half Bulgaria produced two victories. They won the third quarter 18-15 and finished the game with 21-16 in the last stanza. Pavlin Ivanov (195-G-93, agency: Beo Basket) paced all the winners with 35 points, while Angel Natskin (182-PG-93) netted 11. Dimitrov delivered 10 and Boyanov scored 9. Ponitka and Tomasz Gielo (205-F-93) scored 20 points each in defeat and the latter also added 12 rebounds. Piotr Niedzwiedzki (210-F-93) followed them with 8 points in a loss.
Group F
Finland - Croatia 69-94 Croatia destroy Finland for the Semifinal ticket at the U20 European Championship in Division B. Croatia needed 94:69 win to take 1-2 record as well as two other teams including Finland. Due to the better difference, Croatia managed to climb higher than Finland and Great Britain. Croatia needed a big win and started with 23:7. They enjoyed 16-point lead at the halftime and added 28-17 in the third period. Finland won the last stanza 26-24 but it was not enough to advance to the semis. Stipe Krstanovic (204-F/C-93) top-scored for the winners with 20 points and Sirko added 17. Roko Rogic (187-PG-92) and Vukovic followed them with 14 points, whilst Markulin scored 12. Aleksi Akpaso (192-SG-92) finished the game with 16 points and Joonas Caven (211-C/F-93) posted 14. Vaenerberg notched 11, while Villematti Kopio (182-PG-92) delivered 10.
Czech Republic - United Kingdom 91-75 Czech Republic heads to the semis of the U20 European Championship in Division B. The team added another win at the tournament edging Great Britain 91:75 and sending them out of the Top 4. Czech Republic continued the streak and proved the ambitions for Division A. They started with 24-19 in the first period and had 5-point lead at the half-time. The third quarter was decisive in the game and brought 29-16 in the third period. Great Britain managed to win the last stanza 19-21 and finished third in the group. Bohacik top-scored for the winners with 24 points, while Martin Kriz (202-F-93) collected 21 points and 10 rebounds. Michal Sotnar (189-PG-92) nailed 12 and Fait as well as Vaclav Honomichl (189-G-92) added 9 each. Devon Van Oostrum (190-G-93) ended up with 20 points in the losing effort, whilst Fiorentinos had 18. Hart scored 13 and Chuku delivered 10.
Group G
Slovakia - Luxembourg 76-52 Slovak Republic closed Day 7 with the win at the U20 European Championship in Division B. The winning side improved to 2-1 record in Group G after 76:52 victory over Luxembourg. The latter fell at 0-4 record on the bottom of the group. Luxembourg surprised the opponents with 15:14 in the first period, but could not keep the lead. Maurizio Galata (203-F-92) and Viktor Dedecek (200-F-93) scored for 18:15 and then Slovak Republic pushed the tempo for good. Maurizio Galata and Matus Luley (195-F-92) closed the half at 32:25 and then Slovak Republic added 18-17 in the third quarter. Viktor Dedecek nailed three for 60:44, while Maurizio Galata added few more for 65:44. Slovak Republic also won the end of the game with an 8-0 run to seal a comfortable victory. Maurizio Galata top-scored for the winners with 21 points and Galad as well as Moravek posted 11 each. Matus Luley collected 10 points and 11 rebounds in defeat. Arendt ended up with 23 points in the losing effort, while Max Schmit and Welter had 8 each.
Holland - Austria 61-64 Austria conquer Group G of the Classification Round for 9-18 places at the U20 European Championship in Division B. The Austrian side won over Netherlands 64:61 for 3-0 record. Netherlands suffered the first loss and fell at 2-1 record. Both teams struggled for the victory that ensured the top place in the group. Both of then scored 16 points each in the first period and only after that Austria needed 14-9 surge to win the half 30:25. Moreover Zulic and Hopfgartner increased the lead at 10 points and Friedrich scored for 41:33. Netherlands however was too late to give up and grabbed 46:45 advantage early in the last period. Bart Stolk (206-C-93) scored for 53:50 and Aarts added two for 55:52. Austria meanwhile responded with 11-0 run and took 63:55. No matter how hard the Dutch team tried to recover they could not win the game. Hopfgartner paced all the winners with 23 points and Friedrich added 13. Bart Stolk finished the game with 22 points, while Ivan Filipan (193-G/F-92) scored 14 in defeat.
Group H
Switzerland - Belarus 78-89 Belarus pip Switzerland in Sofia at the U20 European Championship in Division B. The winning team improved to 2-2 record after 89:78 victory. The Swiss team fell at 1-2 record in Group H. Belarus started with 31:15 and never looked behind after. They added 30-25 in the second frame as Yauheni Suhaniaka (200-F-92) closed the half at 61:40. Zakhar and Vitali Liutych (198-SG-92) opened the third quarter for 64:40, while Vitali Liutych delivered two fro 71:44. Bozovic and Yauheni Suhaniaka closed the third period at 78:57. Switzerland meanwhile won the last stanza 21-11 to reduce the gap to 11 points. Vitali Liutych top-scored for the winners with 33 points. Robertas Ruzgaitis (198-F-93) followed him with 20, while Yauheni Suhaniaka added 13. Savoy and Atcho ended up with 17 points each in the losing effort. Bozovic scored 13, while Marko Mladjan (206-F-93) had 11.
Portugal - Hungary 61-55 Portugal grab 3-0 record in Group H at the U20 European Championship in Division B. The team overcame Hungary 61:55 in Sofia. The latter fell at 0-3 record. Hungary won the opening tip 5-1 and then Zoltan Czinger (215-C-93) scored for 7:4. Portugal meanwhile finished the first period with a 6-0 run and took 13:9 advantage. Again Hungary took the lead in the second period and erupted with a defensive 14-3 run. Kovacs and Zoltan Czinger closed the half at 23:16, but Hungary could not win. Wildner tied the game at 28:28, while Akos Lakosa (193-G-92) and Tursics tied it again at 37:37. Portugal dominated the last period and produced a 24-18 in it. Cardoso finished the game from the free throw line for the final result. Wildner top-scored for the winners with 21 points and Cardoso added 15. Jakab answered with 12 points and Zoltan Czinger posted 10.
Second Stage starts in Division B - Jul 18, 2012
Group E
Bulgaria - Belgium 62-82 Belgium beat the hosts of the U20 European Championship in Division B. Belgium surprised Bulgaria 82:62 in the start of the Second Stage. Belgium looked better in the first period and grabbed 22:20 lead. Thanks to more than 700 fans Bulgaria bounced back with 17-12 in the second period and took 37:34 at the halftime. Belgium however proved their ambitions in the second half. They won the third period 18-12 and added 30-13 in the last stanza. Elias Lasisi (192-G/F-92) and Steinbach led the way with 19 points each, while Schwartz netted 17. Obasohan Ojomoh (183-PG-93) collected 10 points, 11 rebounds and 8 assists. Pavlin Ivanov (195-G-93, agency: Beo Basket) finished the game with 11 points and Simeonov as well as Dimitrov had 10 points each. Tenchev and Boyanov poured in 9 points apiece.
Israel - Poland 76-73 Israel beat Poland and tied all the records in Group E at 1-1. Israel grabbed a narrow 76:73 victory as four teams in the group will play for the top place in the next games. Both teams nailed 22 points each in the first period and then Poland managed to grab 1-point lead at the halftime. Mateusz Ponitka (196-G-93) made a dunk and after Or Solomon (197-F-93) sent the teams to the lockers at 39:38 Polish lead. The third quarter was decisive in the game and brought 22-12 for the Israeli team. Blayzer nailed three and then added a free throw for 60:51 advantage. No matter how hard the Polish team tried to tie the game they could reduce only to 2 points. Later Altit and Karnowski exchanged for the final result. Dawson top-scored for the winners with 19 points and Or Solomon netted 17. Bar Timor (191-PG-92, agency: Avi Zilberman) posted 15, while Guy Lavie (188-PG-92, agency: Ronsport) chipped in with 11. Karnowski finished the game with 19 points in the losing effort, while Mateusz Ponitka and Michalak added 15 apiece.
Group F
Croatia - Czech Republic 67-92 Czech Republic easily rolled over Croatia in the start of the Second Stage at the U20 European Championship in Division B. Czech Republic improved to 2-0 record in Group F after 92:67 win. Czech Republic erupted with 26:8 after the first period and added massive 30-8 in the second frame. They did not care a lot about the second half and as a result Croatia won both quarters. At first Croatia won the third period 21-19 and then finished the game with 29-17 in the last period. It was enough however to reduce to 25 points. Vaclav Honomichl (189-G-92) nailed the last 7 points for the winners to seal a 92:67 victory. Martin Kriz (202-F-93) top-scored for the winners with 22 points and 15 rebounds, while Balvin added 19 points and 10 boards. Jaromir Bohacik (197-G/F-92) scored 19, whilst Sotnar and Vaclav Honomichl posted 11 each. Krstanovic delivered 19 points in defeat, while Sirko scored 16. Rogic notched 13 and Vukovic nailed 7.
United Kingdom - Finland 64-67 Finland open Day 6 successfully at the U20 European Championship. The Finnish side beat Great Britain 67:64 in the start of the Second Stage. Finland started with 20:18 in the first period, but the team from Great Britain bounced back with 19-13 in the second frame as they grabbed 37:33 halftime advantage. Devon Van Oostrum (190-G-93) increased the lead at 41:33, but his team could not win. Seppala and Dolenc reduced to 55:53 and Finland kept the opponents scoreless for about 10 minutes. Aleksi Akpaso (192-SG-92) and Kopio closed the game from the free throw line for the narrow win. Alex Murphy (203-F-93) paced all the winners with 14 points and Caven netted 13. Aleksi Akpaso delivered 12, while Kopio added 9. Fraser ended up with 21 points in the losing effort. Devon Van Oostrum posted 20, while Sayers had 7.
Group G
FYR Macedonia - Slovakia 60-80 Slovak Republic tastes the initial win in Sofia at the U20 European Championship in Division B. The team overcame F.Y.R. of Macedonia 80:60 at the Classification Round for 9th to 18th Place. Slovak Republic had nothing to lose and started with 21:18 in the first period. They added 18-10 in the second frame and never looked behind after. F.Y.R. of Macedonia replied with 21-19 in the third quarter but could not match the opponents in the last stanza. Slovak Republic finished the game with 22-11 in the last to win the campaign. Moravek top-scored for the winners with 18 points and 12 rebounds, while Galata collected 16 points and 11 boards. Peter Kancir (187-G-92) nailed 13 and Luley had 12. Stajic ended up with 12 points in the losing effort and Krstevski as well as Markovski had 10 each. Aleksandar Kostadinov (200-PF-93) followed them with 8 points in a loss.
Austria - Luxembourg 108-64 Austria takes 2-0 in Group G of the Classification Round for 9th to 18th Place in Division B. The Austrian side celebrated a 108:64 victory over Luxembourg. Austria won the opening tip 8:0 and Daniel Friedrich (182-PG-92) scored for 14:2. Mair and Bellwald closed the first period at 26:18, while Gvozden drove a lay-up for 32:18. Later Kutschera and Hopfgartner sent the teams to the lockers at 51:35. Austrai played even better in the second half and produced two victories. They won the third period 29-11 and finished the game with 28-18 in the last stanza. Daniel Friedrich paced all the winners with 21 points, while Kramer collected 20 points and 14 boards. Erwin Zulic (200-F-92) nailed 16 and Hopfgartner had 13 points and 11 rebounds. Luc Breuskin (186-F-92) ended up with 14 points in defeat, while Tom Welter (186-G-93) scored 11.
Group H
Denmark - Switzerland 78-47 Denmark destroy the Swiss side in Sofia at the Classification Round for 9th to 18th Place. The Danish side did not have any difficulties reaching 78:47 win at the U20 European Championship. Denmark improved to 2-1 record, while Switzerland is with 1-1 record. Denmark won all the quarters in the game and easily started with 27-16 in the first period. They added 19-9 in the second quarter to take 46:25 after Soren Dossing (185-G-92)'s three-pointer. Denmark produced a 19-13 surge in the third period and finished the game with 13-9 in the last stanza. Soren Dossing and Olsen top-scored for the winners with 15 points each. Levene notched 10, while Alexander Birketoft (202-C-93) added 9. Savoy ended up with 9 points in the losing effort, while Jules Stalder (190-SG-93) and Bozovic scored 8 each.
Hungary - Belarus 60-70 Belarus won over Hungary in Division B of the U20 European Championship. The team improved to 1-2 record after 70:60 victory at the Classification Round for 9th to 18th Place. It was Hungary that started with 18:15 in the first period. Both teams nailed another 15 points in the second frame for 3-point advantage at the halftime. Vitali Liutych (198-SG-92) tied the game at 34:34 and he closed a run at 45:L36 midway through the third quarter. Suhaniaka made a free throw to close the third quarter at 50:43. Belrus led 17 points in the middle of the last stanza but satisfied with 10. Kovacs and Krisztian Tursics (185-G-92) reduced to 70:60 that was the final result in the game. Vitali Liutych top-scored for the winners with 25 points, while Anton Papruha (190-PG-93) nailed 12. Aheyenka followed them with 11 points in a win. Meszaros produced 14 points in the losing case and Kovacs added 8.
The End of Preliminary Round in Sofia - Jul 16, 2012
Group A
Bulgaria - Austria 75-62 Bulgaria wins Group A and heads to the Second Round with a perfect record. The hosts of the U20 European Championship in Division B overcame Austria 75:62 in the last game of the group. The hosts of the tournament opened the game with 16-9 and showed their dominance in the second quarter as well. Bulgaria produced a comfortable 30:23 surge in the second frame for 46:32 at the halftime. Moreover Bulgaria won the third quarter 18-13 and led 19 points after three quarters. Austria bounced back with 17-11 in the last period but could not match the favorites in the game. Georgi Boyanov (200-F-93) top-scored for the winners with 19 points and Pavlin Ivanov (195-G-93, agency: Beo Basket) notched 14. Tencho Tenchev (202-F-93) chipped in with 13, while Dimitrov collected 10 points and 10 rebounds. Kramer ended up with 13 points and 10 boards, while Maximilian Hopfgartner (206-PF-92) added 12 in defeat.
Slovakia - Israel 60-79 Israel opened Day 5 with the win over Slovak Republic at the U20 European Championship in Division B. Israel advanced to the Second Round with 2-1 record after 79:60 victory. Slovak Republic will play in the Classification Round for 9-18 places. Israel took 20:12 after the first period and added 22-17 in the second frame. The winning side never looked behind and produced a 21-7 in the third period. Slovak Republic won the last stanza 24-16 and reduced to 19 points at the end. Altit paced all the winners with 18 points and Solomon netted 13. Lavie poured in 9, while Ram Elias-Pour (207-C-93) and Timor added 8 each. Maurizio Galata (203-F-92) replied with 17 points in the losing effort as Slovak Republic finished the group with 0-3 record. Tot posted 11 and Dedecek notched 8.
Group B
FYR Macedonia - Holland 56-61 Netherlands beat F.Y.R. of Macedonia to close Day 5 at the U20 European Championship in Division B. The Dutch team overcame the opponent 61:56 in the last game of the First Round. Both teams will continue at the Classification for 9-18 places. Netherlands started with 16:13, but the game was tough for them in the second frame. F.Y.R. of Macedonia needed 14-9 in the second frame for 37:35 halftime advantage. The second half however belonged to the Dutch team. They won the third period 20-16 and finished the game with 16-13 in the last quarter. Goran Markovski (195-G/F-92) nailed three for 57:56, while Kasper Averink (183-PG-93, agency: Arete Sports Agency), Sam De Haas (193-G/F-92, agency: Court Side, college: St.Bonaventure) and Bart Stolk (206-C-93) closed the game for the winners. Goran Markovski top-scored for the winners with 26 points and Pajic had 12. Kasper Averink answered with 18 points in defeat, while Filipan and Bart Stolk added 11 apiece.
Poland - Luxembourg 119-64 Poland wins Group B in Division B at the U20 European Championship. The Polish side destroyed Luxembourg 119:64 in the last game for 4-0 record on top. The latter finished the group undefeated. Poland expected to win the game and proved it with 30:22 in the first period. They added massive 34-18 in the second frame for 64:40 at the halftime. Mateusz Ponitka (196-G-93) nailed three in the start of the third quarter and led to 28:9 in the period. Moreover Poland needed a 27-15 in the last stanza for three digits on the board. Mateusz Ponitka stepped up with 26 points, while Michalak and Przemyslaw Karnowski (214-C-93) had 23 points each. Tomasz Gielo (205-F-93) followed them with 11 points for a perfect record. Arendt answered with 21 points in defeat, Tim Schmit (195-F/G-95) added 12 and Schmit Max scored 11.
Group C
Croatia - Denmark 75-54 Croatia headed to Second Stage after the win over Denmark at the end of Day 5 in Sofia. Croatia overcame Denmark 75:54 at the U20 European Championship in Division B. Croatia easily opened the game with 15:6 lead and never looked behind after. They erupted with 26-14 in the second frame and enjoyed 41:20 halftime advantage. The tempo had slowed down in the second half and both teams showed equal game in the court. At first Croatia won the third period 18-17, while Denmark replied with 17-16 in the last period. Roko Rogic (187-PG-92) and Esben Reinholt (196-G-93) exchanged the shots in the end of the game for the final result. Roko Rogic led the way with 18 points and 10 rebounds, while Sango had 17. Stipe Krstanovic (204-F/C-93) notched 14 and Sirko finished the game with 7 points. Philip Hertz (210-C/F-92) delivered 11 in defeat and Esben Reinholt poured in 10.
Portugal - Belarus 64-63 Portugal edged Belarus in Sofia at the U20 European Championship 64:63. Both teams are eliminated from the Second Stage and will play for 9-18 places. Portugal won another heart-breaker in the tournament. After a thrilling 74:73 win over Denmark last night, the team trailed 9 points after the first period but won the game. Portugal produced a 23-17 and then added 15-14 in the third quarter. Vitali Liutych (198-SG-92) later tied the game at 60:60 and then gave his team 63:62 lead. Santos and Cardoso made one free throw each for the total success. Wildner top-scored for the winners with 25 points and Cardoso notched 9. Vitali Liutych ended up with 24 points in defeat, while Ruzgatis had 9. Portugal finished the group with 2-2 record, while Belarus ended up with 1-3 record.
Group D
Czech Republic - Switzerland 65-58 Czech Republic sent Switzerland to the Classification Round at the U20 European Championship in Division B. The Czechs won the group with 3-0 record after 65:58. Switzerland finished last in the group with 1-2 record. Ondrej Balvin (216-C-92) and Mladjan exchanged the early baskets and then the Czechs posted a 5-0 run. Jaromir Bohacik (197-G/F-92) scored for 12:7 and Halada nailed three for 22:19. Switzerland played better in the second frame, however Ondrej Balvin tied the game at 33:33 at the halftime. Also in the third period the teams stayed close to each other and only Ondrej Balvin's shot at the end of the frame gave his team 52:50 lead. Czech Republic won the last stanza 13-8 and sealed the third straight win. Ondrej Balvin paced all the winners with 17 points and 13 rebounds for a perfect record. Jaromir Bohacik nailed 13, while Kriz notched 12. Savoy produced 26 points in the losing effort and Bozovic notched 8.
Hungary - Finland 85-70 Finland into Round 2 despite loss from Hungary at the U20 European Championship in Division B. Hungary won 85:70 but it was not enough to advance to the Second Stage. Both teams finished with 1-2 record as well as Switzerland, but only Finland will play for 1-8 places. Finland won the opening period 20:14 but lost the rest of the game. Hungary replied with 24-14 in the second frame and produced two victories in the second half. They needed a 21-16 in the third period and won the last stanza 26-20 in the last period. Meszaros top-scored for the winners with 14 points and Bence Bodor (206-F/C-92, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) netted 11. Laszlo Polyak (190-G-93) followed them with 10 points for the initial victory. Alex Murphy (203-F-93) finished the game with 15 points and Caven scored 14. Villematti Kopio (182-PG-92) posted 13, whilst Heinonen had 9.
Results and Stats from Day 4 in Bulgaria - Jul 15, 2012
Group B
Luxembourg - FYR Macedonia 68-87 FYR Macedonia opened win count at the U20 European Championship in Division B. They knocked down Luxembourg to improve at 1-2 record in Group B. Goran Markovski (195-G/F-92) notched 26 points and 19 rebounds to lead the winners. Luxembourg remained winless at 0-3 record. FYR Macedonia strongly entered the game. They left Luxembourg behind after ten minutes 19:7. FYR Macedonia maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. They established a 41:28 halftime lead. The Balkan team erupted for 29 points in the third term to ensure a 19-point lead heading into the fourth quarter. Luxembourg never recovered as FYR Macedonia cruised to the victory at the end. Predrag Pajic (198-SG-93) accounted for 16 points, while Boban Stajic and Igor Ivanovic (185-PG-93) had 14 points each in the win. Tom Steffen (194-F-93) answered with 21 points and 11 rebounds for Luxembourg. Tim Schmit had 16 points in the loss.
Holland - Belgium 33-77 Belgium recorded the third win at the U20 European Championship in Division B. They knocked down Netherlands to improve at 3-1 record on top of Group B. Obasohan Ojomoh (183-PG-93) came up with 21 points to lead the winners. Netherlands fell at 1-2 record after the loss. Belgium enjoyed a 15:8 lead after ten minutes of action. They held the Dutch team to 3 points in the second quarter to take a massive 30-point halftime lead 41:11. Belgium stayed dominant in the second half. They stretched the lead to 40 points at the third break and never looked back en route to the victory. Amaury Gorgemans (212-C-92) accounted for 12 points, while Loic Schwartz (198-G/F-92) added 11 points in the winning case. Ivan Filipan (193-G/F-92) answered with 8 points for Netherlands. Roel Aarts (201-PF-93) had 4 points in the loss.
Group C
Denmark - Portugal 73-74 Portugal closed Day 4 with the win over Denmark at the U20 European Championship in Division B. Miguel Cardoso (184-PG-93) made one free throw at the end of the game that was enough for 74:73 victory. Denmark opened the game with 20:17, but trailed one point at the halftime. Wildner scored last 12 points in the second period for 41:40 halftime advantage. Denmark meanwhile scored the last points in the third period and grabbed 58:56 lead after three quarters. Wildner later scored for 71:63, but the victory was not that easy for Portugal. Esben Reinholt (196-G-93) tied the game at 73:73 in the last minute, while Hertz had a chance to bring the win. He missed a three-pointer as Denmark lost 73:74. Wildner led the way with 24 points and Fernandes posted 15. Miguel Cardoso also brought 15 points, while Pedro Belo (214-C/F-92) delivered 7. Esben Reinholt and Olsen answered with 16 points each in the losing effort. Eleraky collected 11 points and 11 rebounds, while Bigum had 9.
Belarus - United Kingdom 69-61 Belarus surprise Great Britain in Day 4 of the U20 European Championship. Belarus tasted the initial victory in Group C after 69:61 victory. Great Britain meanwhile suffered the first loss and dropped at 1-3 record. Great Britain was the favorite of the game and started with 17:15 lead. Sayers increased to 27:22, but Belarus won the rest of the half. Vitali Liutych (198-SG-92) closed the half from the free throw line for 34:33 halftime advantage. In the third quarter Aliaksandr Semianiuk (209-F-93) and Vitali Liutych nailed threes for 52:43 and then Belarus also added 4-0 run in the start of the last stanza. Although Great Britain finished the game with a 6-0 run they managed only to cut it to 8 points. Vitali Liutych stepped up with 21 points and Henadziy Zakhar (198-SF-92) netted 12. Aliaksandr Semianiuk poued in 10 points and Papruha notched 9. Fraser replied with 16 points in the losing effort, while Onyejebolise Chuku (196-F-93) collected 13 points and 13 boards. Washington followed them with 12 points in a loss.
Results and Stats from Day 3 in Bulgaria - Jul 14, 2012
Group A
Bulgaria - Slovakia 69-61 Bulgaria outsmart Slovak Republic at the U20 European Championship Division B. The hosts of the tournament improved to 2-0 record after 69:61 win in Group A. Slovak Republic fell at 0-2 record in the group. Bulgaria should thank the fans for their support that saw 25:18 lead at the end of the first period. The hosts added 19-16 in the second frame and led 10 points at the halftime when Georgi Boyanov (200-F-93) and Galata exchanged the late baskets in the half. Slovak Republic did not give up and responded with 19-13 in the third quarter to reduce to 57:53 at the end of thirty minutes. They tried hard to take the lead but Bulgaria pushed the tempo for good to win the game. Dimitar Dimitrov (202-F-93) top-scored for the winners with 18 points and 11 rebounds, while Tenchev nailed 16. Simeonov delivered 13 and Alexandros Vezenkov (204-F/G-95) scored 8. Tot ended up with 14 points, whilst Galata poured in 12. Jaroslav Moravek (204-F/C-92) collected 11 points and 13 rebounds and Luley nailed 8.
Austria - Israel 39-75 Israel start Day 3 with the win over Austria. The team tied both records at 1-1 after a comfortable 75:39 victory at the U20 European Championship Division B in Sofia. Israel took the lead from the very beginning and dominated the court. They finished the first period with 22-12 and never looked behind after. Both teams nailed 12 points each in the second frame as Dawson closed the half at 34:24. The third period was a nightmare for the Austrian team that scored only 5 points. Israel erupted with 19 and Altit scored for 53:29. Israel added 22-10 in the last stanza to win the game. Bar Timor (191-PG-92, agency: Avi Zilberman) paced all the winners with 17 points and Lavie notched 11. Or Solomon (197-F-93) delivered 9, while Ariely scored 8. Filip Kramer (200-SF-92) posted 9 points in the losing effort and Mair added 6.
Group B
Belgium - Luxembourg 103-56 Belgium needed a strong second half to edge Luxembourg at the U20 European Championship Division B. The team improved to 2-1 record after a comfortable 103:56 win. Belgium opened the game with 11 consecutive points and Schwartz nailed three for 21:7. Schmit and Arendt closed the first period at 24:12, while Khalid Boukichou (208-C-92) scored for 28:16. Schmit reduced to 30:24, but then Obasohan Ojomoh (183-PG-93) and Elias Lasisi (192-G/F-92) closed the half at 43:31. Later the court was dominated by only one team-Belgium. They erupted with 35-11 in the third quarter and Obasohan Ojomoh scored for 78:41. Belgium added 25-14 in the last stanza for the final result. Tomorrow Belgium will face Netherlands at the Arena Armeec II. Luxembourg will take on F.Y.R. of Macedonia in the second game.
FYR Macedonia - Poland 49-83 Poland thrash F.Y.R. of Macedonia in Sofia in day 3 at the U20 European Championship Division B. The Polish side proved the ambitions for the top division after 83:49 victory. They improved to 3-0 record on top of the group, while the losing side fell at 0-2 record. Poland flew with 21:4 lead in the first period and continued their dominance in the whole game. F.Y.R. of Macedonia managed to reduce to 15 points after 19-17 in the second frame. Przemyslaw Karnowski (214-C-93) and Michalak brought 46:31 and Gielo closed the run at 54:31. Goran Markovski (195-G/F-92) and Kowalczyk later exchanged the baskets to close the third period at 65:37. Poland added 18-12 in the last stanza to seal the victory. Gielo top-scored for the winners with 13 points and 10 rebounds, while Sokolowski netted 12. Michalak and Piotr Niedzwiedzki (210-F-93) followed them with 11 points apiece. Goran Markovski answered with 22 points and 11 rebounds in defeat and Boban Stajic (185-PG-93) added 7.
Group C
United Kingdom - Denmark 71-60 Great Britain pip Denmark at the U20 European Championship Division B. They improved to 3-0 record in Group C after 71:60 victory. Both teams were undefeated before the meeting with each other. Great Britain started with 18-12, but allowed the opponents to reduce the gap. Denmark bounced back with 20-16 to cut it to 34:32 at the halftime. Hertz later gave Denmark 44:41 lead, while Devon Van Oostrum (190-G-93) tied it all at 44:44. The latter also gave his team 50:44 advantage after three quarters and then Fraser scored for 58:47. Devon Van Oostrum and Dossing exchanged the late baskets at the end of the game for the final result. Devon Van Oostrum stepped up with 18 points for the winners. Fraser nailed 17, while Sayers added 13. Esben Reinholt (196-G-93) answered with 15 points in the losing effort as Denmark tied its record at 1-1. Anders Haas (185-PG-92) notched 10, while Eleraky collected 9 points and 11 rebounds.
Portugal - Croatia 65-79 Croatia keep Portugal winless at the U20 European Championship Division B. Croatia beat them 79:65 for 2-1 record in Group C. Portugal meanwhile fell at 0-2. Croatia was too good for the opponent in the first period and grabbed 28:14 lead. They dominated the first half and added a 16-15 burst in the second frame as Luka Panduric (192-G-93) scored for 44:27. Portugal was too far to give up and erupted with 20-3 run when Wildner reduced to 47:44. Moreover Grosso and Sergio Lugo Santos (198-F-92) closed the third period at 56:54. Later Sergio Lugo Santos tied it all at 60:60, but Croatia responded with a 10-0 run and Franko Sango (200-PF-92) brought 75:62. Sirko meanwhile scored the last points in the winning effort. Sirko led the way with 17 points and Rogic as well as Luka Panduric poured in 12 apiece. Krstanovic collected 11 points and 10 rebounds, while Franko Sango posted 10. Sergio Lugo Santos delivered 14 points in defeat and Wildner added 11.
Group D
Switzerland - Finland 64-90 Finland beat Switzerland to tie both records at U20 European Championship Division B. The Finnish side needed 90:64 win for the initial win. The first quarter belonged to the Swiss side that grabbed 25:15 after the first 10 minutes. In the rest of the game Finland however dominated the court. They needed a 26-8 burst to take 41:33 halftime advantage. Moreover Finland won the third and the last quarters. They produced a 24-14 in the third quarter and finished the game with 25-17 in the last period. Marko Mladjan (206-F-93) and Valimaa exchanged the late baskets for their teams to bring the final result on the board. Markus Molenius (203-F-92) stepped up with 20 points for the winners and Caven added 18. Murphy delivered 15, while Seppala notched 12. Savoy and Marko Mladjan ended up with 16 points in the losing effort. Bozovic delivered 9, whilst Jeremy Landenbergue (182-PG-93) scored 8.
Czech Republic - Hungary 82-51 Czech Republic stun Hungary to stay perfect at the U20 European Championship Division B. The Czechs improved to 2-0 record after 82:51 win in Group D. Hungary meanwhile fell at 0-2. Czech Republic opened the game with a confident lead and reached 21-12 after the first period. They added massive 24-8 in the second frame and enjoyed 45:20 halftime advantage. The second half also belonged to the favourites. They won the third period 21-16 and finished the game with 16-15 in the last stanza. Urbanek and Meszaros exchanged the last successful shots at the end of the game for the final result in the game. Martin Kriz (202-F-93) top-scored for the winners with 13 points, while Ondrej Balvin (216-C-92) and Bohacik nailed 10 apiece. Vaclav Honomichl (189-G-92) followed them with 9 points. Kovacs and Kerpel-Fronius finished the game with 9 points each in defeat.
Results and Stats from Day 2 in Bulgaria - Jul 13, 2012
Group B
Poland - Belgium 71-59 Poland rout Belgium in Sofia in Day 2 of the U20 European Championship in Division B. The Polish side improved to 2-0 record after 71:59 in Group B. Amaury Gorgemans (212-C-92) brought Belgium the first lead and as it became clear after it was the last one. Grzegorz Grochowski (178-PG-93) closed an 8-0 run for the Polish team and then Ponitka scored for 20:10 at the end of the first period. Piotr Niedzwiedzki (210-F-93) and Bonarek scored for 28:20 and Gielo sent the teams to the lockers at 38:27. Both teams nailed 19 points each in the third quarter for 57:46 at the end of three quarters. Poland added 14-13 in the last stanza for the final result. Ponitka paced all the winners with 18 points and 16 rebounds. Przemyslaw Karnowski (214-C-93) nailed 14, while Grzegorz Grochowski posted 10. Obasohan Ojomoh (183-PG-93) answered with 21 points in the losing case and Amaury Gorgemans scored 12.
Luxembourg - Holland 56-64 OT Netherlands spoil Luxembourg's opener in Day 2 of the U20 European Championship in Division B. The Dutch team recovered from the loss in the first game from Poland and beat Luxembourg 64:56. Netherlands started with 20-8 in the first period and added 15-13 in the second frame. The second half however belonged to Luxembourg that managed to tie the game. They produced a 15-11 surge in the third frame and erupted with 19-9 in the fourth quarter as the board showed 55:55. In overtime Netherlands needed 9-1 to win the game. Sam De Haas top-scored for the winners with 13 points, while Ivan Filipan (193-G/F-92) and Stolk netted 10. Kasper Averink (183-PG-93, agency: Arete Sports Agency) collected 9 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists. Max Schmit (182-PG-92) delivered 18 points in defeat and Arendt had 9.
Group C
Croatia - United Kingdom 78-90 Great Britain surprise Croatia in Bulgaria at U20 European Championship in Division B. The team improved to 2-0 record in Group C after 90:78 victory. Croatia won the first period 15:13 but could not win the first half. Great Britain bounced back with 22-19 and Stewart brought his team 35:34 at the halftime. Moreover Great Britain added narrow 27-25 win in the third period and grabbed 3-point lead at the end of three quarters. Panduric nailed three for 67:64 lead for Croatia, but Great Britain needed a 26-12 finish to win the second straight game. Devon Van Oostrum (190-G-93) top-scored for the winners with 27 points and Fraser notched 17. Louis Sayers (199-SF-92) posted 14, while Washington added 13. Rogic finished the game with 20 points for Croatia that fell at 1-1 record. Bruno Markulin (192-SF-92) had 12 and Panduric chipped in with 10. The next game for GB is against Denmark, who started their tournament earlier in the day with a 79:77 victory over Belarus.
Denmark - Belarus 79-77 Denmark grabbed 79:77 win over Belarus in their start at U20 European Championship in Division B. The Danish side improved to 1-0 record while for Belarus it was the second straight loss. The teams exchanged several leads in the opening period and then Belarus won the end of the frame. Pronin and Robertas Ruzgatis (197-PF-93) scored for 25:19 and Robertas Ruzgatis opened the second frame at 28:22. Bigum tied the game at 28:28 and Eleraky gave Denmark 38:33 advantage. Philip Hertz (210-C/F-92) and Rungby scored for 49:39 but then Azaare closed the third period at 59:58 for Belarus. The latter led in the whole last stanza, but failed to win the game. Eleraky tied the game at 77:77 and then Esben Reinholt (196-G-93) brought the victory for Denmark. Philip Hertz led the way with 18 points and Haas nailed 16. Esben Reinholt delivered 12, while Dossing posted 10. Liutych finished the game with 19 points and Robertas Ruzgatis scored 17. Papruha poured in 11, while Zakhar collected 9 points and 10 boards.
Results and Stats from Day 1 in Bulgaria - Jul 12, 2012
Group A
Israel - Bulgaria 69-78 The hosts edge Israel at the U20 European Championship in Division B. Bulgaria outscore Israel 78:69 in Group A. A shaky start to the opening quarter saw Bulgaria jump out to a 17-4 lead. Surprisingly for the hosts, those points were the last in the first 10 minutes. Israel erupted with a 19-0 run to take 23:17 lead at the halftime. Bulgaria later replied with an 8-0 run as Dimitrov scored for 25:23. Again Israel played better at the end of the frame and grabbed 39:29 lead. In the third period Bulgaria produced a 29-17 surge and took 58:56 advantage. Guy Lavie (188-PG-92, agency: Ronsport) tied the game at 60:60 and he scored for 63:65. Bulgaria pushed the tempo for good and added a 6-0 run for 71:63. Pavlin Ivanov (195-G-93, agency: Beo Basket) made the last four points from the free throw line for the total success. Pavlin Ivanov paced all the winners with 23 points, while Dimitrov collected 14 points and 15 rebounds. Angel Natskin (182-PG-93) netted 11, while Boyanov collected 10 points and 10 rebounds. Guy Lavie notched 24 points in defeat and Timor added 18.
Slovakia - Austria 59-64 Austria opened their European Championship in Division B with victory. They knocked down Slovakia in Group A. Daniel Friedrich (182-PG-92) came up with 13 points to lead the winners. Austria surged ahead in the opening quarter. They posted a 22:15 lead after ten minutes. Slovakia narrowed the margin in the second term. They got within 5 points at halftime 29:34. But Austria regained control in the third period. They held Slovakian side to 11 points in the quarter posting an 11-point lead before the fourth frame. The margin grew at 13-point mark midway through the final quarter before Slovakia went on an 11:3 run to sweeten the pill at the end. Dennis Kramer (208-F-92) posted 12 points and 16 rebounds, while Maximilian Hopfgartner (206-PF-92) added 11 points in the victory. Jaroslav Moravek (204-F/C-92) answered with 14 points and 12 rebounds for Slovakia. Maurizio Galata (203-F-92) netted 13 points and grabbed 9 rebounds in the loss.
Group B
Holland - Poland 39-97 Poland overwhelm Netherlands at the U20 European Championship in Division B. The Polish side erupted with 97:39 win in the opener for the high ambitions in Sofia. It was Holland that won the opening tip in the game as Stolk scored for 6:4. Later on the court was dominated by only one team-Poland. Kowalczyk closed the first period at 23:7 and then Ponitka brought 30:11. Grzegorz Grochowski (178-PG-93) and Sokolowski delivered their points for 36:18 and Sam De Haas (193-G/F-92, agency: Court Side, college: St.Bonaventure) sent the teams to the lockers at 38:21. Poland erupted with 34-11 in the third period for 72:32 after three quarters. Wojciechowski and Sokolowski scored for 76:34, while Piotr Niedzwiedzki (210-F-93) brought 87:36. Poland tried to reach three digits but enjoyed 97:39 victory. Ponitka and Gielo paced all the winners with 14 points each. Piotr Niedzwiedzki notched 11, while Zyskowski added 10. Sam De Haas replied with 10 points in the losing effort and Stolk added 9.
Belgium - FYR Macedonia 79-49 Belgium leave no chance to F.Y.R. of Macedonia in the start of the European Championship in Division B. Belgium overcame the opponents 79:49 in Sofia. A shaky start to the opening quarter saw Belgium jump out to a 21-5 lead. Kostadinov closed the period at 21:7 and then Boukichou increased to 27:10. Amaury Gorgemans (212-C-92) scored the last six points for the winners at the first half for 38:20. In the third period F.Y.R. of Macedonia played better and managed to grab 20-18 in the frame. Dinevski and Lecomte exchanged the late free throws for 56:40 after three quarters. Belgium added 23-9 in the last stanza to seal the victory. Amaury Gorgemans paced all the winners with 17 points and 10 rebounds, while Ojomoh added 16. Arne Steinbach (182-PG-92) ended up with 10 points and Lasisi posted 9. Goran Markovski (195-G/F-92) delivered 11 in defeat and Ivanovikj notched 10.
Group C
Belarus - Croatia 73-77 Croatia beat Belarus thanks to the second half at the U20 European Championship in Division B. The Croatian side made the first step back to Division A with a 77:73 win. Belarus won the opening tip 10:4 and Vitali Liutych (198-SG-92) gave his team the biggest lead at 16:6. Croatia managed to reduce and Matic closed the period at 22:19. Moreover Bruno Markulin (192-SF-92) tied the game at 26:26 and Sirko gave Croatia a 37:36 lead. Suhaniaka later sent the teams to the lockers at 38:38. Belarus led in the majority of the third period but could not keep the score for good. Krstanovic and Vukovic brought 57:54 for Croatia after thirty minutes and Sirko delivered three for 65:59. Pronin brought Belarus back at 74:72, however Sirko and Luka Panduric (192-G-93) made the final result in the game. Vukovic paced all the winners with 17 points and Bruno Markulin netted 15. Sirko delivered 13, whilst Matic added 9. Vitali Liutych ended up with 28 points in the losing case, while Anton Papruha (190-PG-93) and Semianiuk posted 8 apiece.
United Kingdom - Portugal 76-64 Great Britain U20 won their opener at the European Championship B Division game on Thursday afternoon. The team overcame Portugal U20 76:64 in Group C opener. Jonah Callenbach (194-F/G-93) scored the first 5 points in the game and later gave Portugal 12:3 lead. Cardoso made four free throws midway through the period and v closed the frame at 21:14. Portugal also led in the whole second period, but allowed the opponents to reduce to 32:28 at the halftime. Both teams nailed 17 points each in the third quarter, while the last frame became decisive in the game. Great Britain U20 erupted with 31-15 to seal the victory. Devon Van Oostrum (190-G-93) top-scored for the winners with 26 points, while Fraser collected 16 points and 11 rebounds. Hart nailed 11 and three other players scored 5 each. Jonah Callenbach ended up with 17 points in defeat and Cardoso added 16. Fernandes delivered 10, whilst Wildner had 6.
Group D
Finland - Czech Republic 59-74 Czech Republic wins their opener in Sofia at the U20 European Championship in Division B. The Czechs rolled over Finland 74:59 mostly due to the last period. Czech Republic started the game with 18-12 and scored another 18 points in the second frame. They grabbed 36;26 lead at the halftime but slowed down a bit in the third period. Finland produced a 20-16 surge and reduced to 6 points. Due to 22-13 in the last stanza Czech Republic sealed the victory in Group D. Finland lost also the rebounds (34-59). Both teams were missing a lot of 3-pointers and FTs, but Czech R. was shooting and hitting 2-pointers with 65 % accuracy. Jaromir Bohacik (197-G/F-92) led the way with 25 points and Kriz nailed 14. Michal Sotnar (189-PG-92) followed them with 10, while Halada delivered 8. Villematti Kopio (182-PG-92) ended up with 23 points for Finland and Murphy scored 11.
Hungary - Switzerland 53-60 Switzerland pip Hungary at the U20 European Championship in Division B. The Swiss side grabbed 60:53 win in Sofia. Mladjan and Meszaros exchanged the early lead and then Bozovic tied the game at 6:6. Switzerland grabbed 13:10 at the end of the first period, while Laszlo Polyak (190-G-93) tied it again at 18:18. Although Hungary won the second period 14-12, the opponents enjoyed 25-24 lead at the halftime. Moreover Hungary needed 21-15 in the third quarter to take 45:40 after three quarters. Somenek scored for 53:50, but could not score anymore in the game. Switzerland finished with 10-0 run to win their opener. Brian Savoy (192-SG-92) stepped up with 23 points for the winners. Mladjan netted 15, while Bozovic added 10. Laszlo Polyak finished the game with 14 points in defeat and Meszaros had 11. Jakab delivered 10 and Balazs Kerpel-Fronius (195-G/F-92) chipped in with 4.
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