Italy clinch first ever title in Tallinn - Jul 21, 2013
FINAL
Italy - Latvia 67-60 Italy clinched their first ever U20 European Championship Gold. They came from behind to outscore Latvia in the championship game in Tallinn tonight. Amedeo Della Valle (192-SG-93) scored 19 points to lead the Azzurri. Latvia jumped to a 7:2 lead early in the game. They raced to a 13:9 advantage after ten minutes. Jakovics and Krumins gave Latvia an 18:9 lead early in the second frame. The margin grew at double-digits midway through the second term. Awudu Abass capped the half with a jumper as Italy trailed by 8 points at halftime 23:31. However things changed drastically in the third term. Italy stepped on the gas to change the complexion of the encounter. The Azzurri went on a 9:1 run to take a 38:36 lead. Latvia regained the advantage moments later but not for long. Lagana, Amedeo Della Valle and Awudu Abass gave Italy a 46:42 lead at the final break. Janis Berzins (201-SF-93, agency: Players Group) and Vecvagars connected for 8 points in a row as Latvia gained a 52:50 lead midway through the fourth frame. Amedeo Della Valle answered with a triple to put Italy back in charge. Amedeo Della Valle scored 8 points in a row for the Azzurri to give them a 63:54 lead with 73 seconds left in the game. Vecvagars and Janis Berzins sparked hope for Latvia but Amedeo Della Valle and Stefano Tonut sealed the win from the stripe for Italy. Aristide Landi had 13 points, while Stefano Tonut and Awudu Abass delivered 10 points each for the winners. Janis Berzins answered with 26 points and 15 rebounds for Latvia. Andrejs Grazulis tossed in 10 points in the losing effort.
3-4 Place
Russia - Spain 63-70 Spain stepped onto the pedestal at the U20 European Championship. Alfonso Alonso team clinched Bronze medals after they defeated Russia in the consolation final tonight. Daniel Diez (203-F-93) came up with 19 points to lead the charge. Spain poured in 23 points in the first period to gain a 6-point lead. They kept Russia at distance throughout the second period. Spain accumulated a 37:28 halftime lead. The Spaniards boosted the gap in the third frame. They registered a 13-point cushion heading into the fourth stanza. Russia got within five points midway through the final frame but Spain held on to the advantage and escaped with the win at the end. Guillem Vives (191-PG-93) dropped 17 points, while Sebastian Saiz added 15 points and 13 rebounds in the victory. Aleksandr Gudumak (203-PF-93) responded with 20 points and 10 rebounds for Russia. Denis Zakharov tallied 16 points and 10 rebounds in the loss.
5-6 Place
Turkey - Greece 60-74 Greece earned the 7th position at the U20 European Championship. They outgunned Turkey in the final game at the tournament for both teams. Ioannis Papapetrou (203-SF-94) came up with 21 points to lead the charge. Turkey snatched a 13:12 lead after ten minutes of action. But the Hellenes increased the tempo in the second period. They spurred ahead for a 35:24 halftime advantage. Turkey managed to narrow the deficit in the third term. They got within 7 points at the final intermission 45:52. But the Hellenes did not allow their opponents to threaten the margin. Dimitrios Agravanis (208-PF-94, agency: FCM) helped Greece to a double-digit lead early in the fourth quarter and they rolled to the victory at the end. Dimitrios Agravanis netted 17 points, while Eleftherios Bochoridis added 12 points, 11 boards and 6 assists in the win. Berkay Candan (205-SF-93) answered with 17 points, while Erbil Eroglu had 10 points in the loss.
7-8 Place
Lithuania - Montenegro 84-51 Lithuania earned the 7th spot at the U20 European Championship. They knocked down Montenegro on the final day of the tournament. Paulius Semaska (184-PG-93) chipped in 20 points for the winning side. Lithuania set the tone early. They grabbed a 17:11 advantage after ten minutes. The Baltic team stretched the gap in the second quarter. They registered a 39:20 halftime lead. Things got just worse for Montenegro in the second half. Lithuania dominated in every facet of the game and piled up a 27-point lead at the final intermission. Lithuania dropped 23 points in the fourth quarter and secured a comfortable win at the end. Mindaugas Kacinas (210-C-93) netted 18 points, while Rytis Juknevicius, Laimonas Chatkevicius and Martynas Paliukenas had 11 points each for the winners. Vukota Pavic (203-C-93, agency: Dynamics Global Management) answered with 19 points for Montenegro. Danilo Nikolic tallied 14 points and 11 rebounds in the loss.
9-10 Place
Slovenia - France 69-78 France finished 9th at the U20 European Championship. They defeated Slovenian counterparts at the final game at the tournament. William Howard (201-SF-93) accounted for 19 points to lead the charge. Slovenia surged ahead in the starting period. They registered a 22:17 lead after ten minutes. But Les Bleus quickly erased the deficit and spurred in front for a 42:35 halftime advantage. Slovenia did not allow their opponents to run away in the third term. They cut the deficit at 4-point mark at the final intermission. Rupnik and Miha Lapornik (196-SG-93) (196-SG-93) gave Slovenia a 66:63 lead midway through the final term. But William Howard, Boris Dallo and Mouhammadou Jaiteh (205-C-94, agency: Fusion Sports) regained the advantage for France and Les Bleus marched to the win at the end. Mouhammadou Jaiteh finished with 16 points, while Boris Dallo added 14 points in the victory. Miha Lapornik answered with 19 points for Slovenia. Ziga Dimec had 17 points in the loss.
11-12 Place
Croatia - Germany 65-76 Germany clinched the 11th position at the U20 European Championship. They knocked down Croatia on the final day of the tournament in Tallinn. Mauricio Marin (193-SG-94, agency: LUMANI 10.7) came up with 15 points to lead the winners. Croatia led by double digits early in the game. They entered the second frame up by 13 points 24:11. The margin grew at 17-point mark late in the first half. Germany entered the second half trailing by 14 points 27:41. But they used an 11:1 run in the third quarter to cut the deficit to three points 43:46. Bogdan Radosavljevic put Germany in front 52:51 before Domagoj Samac (206-F-93) and Henrik Sirko made it 56:52 for Croatia at the end of the third term. Germany capped the regulation with ten straight points and eked out a tough win at the end. Stephan Haukohl (205-SF-93) had 12 points, while David Brembly and Bogdan Radosavljevic added 11 points each for the winners. Domagoj Samac answered with 20 points and 12 boards for Croatia. Henrik Sirko netted 15 points in the loss.
13-14 Place
Serbia - Bulgaria 76-70 Serbia went on a furious 29:9 run in the fourth frame to steal the victory over Bulgaria in Tallinn today. The victory helped Serbia clinch 13th place at the U20 European Championship. Mihajlo Andric (202-F-94, agency: Beo Basket) nailed 23 points to lead the winners. Serbia confidently opened the game. They posted a 19:13 lead after ten minutes of action. Bulgaria reacted with a 24:15 run in the second term. They erased the deficit and pulled ahead for a 37:34 halftime lead. Bulgaria cleared off in the third term. Serbia managed just 13 points in the period to face a 14-point deficit with ten minutes remaining. Aleks Simeonov (200-PF-93) opened a 16-point lead for Bulgaria early in the fourth term but Serbia reacted with a 19:5 run to narrow the gap. Mihajlo Andric scored 11 points in the final three minutes of regulation to carry Serbia to the victory. Luka Mitrovic (205-PF-93) posted 21 points and 11 rebounds, while Nemanja Krstic and Ivan Marinkovic added 12 points apiece for the winners. Aleks Simeonov answered with 22 points for Bulgaria. Dimitar Dimitrov had 13 points in the loss.
15-16 Place
Sweden - Israel 81-82 Tom Maayan hit a jumper with 24 seconds remaining in regulation to propel Israel past Sweden in the clash for the 15th place at the U20 European Championship. Egor Koulechov (195-F-94) notched 18 points to lead the winners. Israel registered a 24:19 lead after ten minutes of action. Sweden narrowed the deficit in the second term. The Scandinavian side trailed by four points at halftime 40:44. The teams exchanged baskets throughout the third term. Israel entered the final stanza up by four points. Tobias Borg and Spires denied the deficit early in the fourth frame. Tobias Borg gave Sweden a 79:73 lead with under four minutes remaining. But Egor Koulechov, Mayor and Tom Maayan tied things up at 79. Or Solomon (202-PF-93) put Israel in front 80:79. Tobias Borg pulled Sweden in front 81:80 with 39 seconds remaining. But Tom Maayan had the last word in the game as his jumper sealed the win for Israel. Or Solomon had 15 points, while Tomer Ginat added 13 points for the winners. Marcus Eriksson (200-SG-93) answered with 18 points for Sweden. Tobias Borg tossed in 15 points in the loss.
17-18 Place
Czech Republic - Ukraine 75-68 Czech Republic clinched the vital win at the U20 European Championship. They overcame Ukraine in the battle for Division A birth for the next season. Tomas Kyzlink (195-SG-93) finished with 21 points to lead the winners. Ukraine got relegated into Division B with the defeat. Ukraine, who beat Czech Republic in the classification round, got to a confident start. They enjoyed a 15:5 lead in the opening frame. Ukraine entered the second frame up by five points 20:15. Czech Republic improved their defensive performance in the second quarter. They got within four points at halftime 33:29. The Czech team surged ahead in the third term. They held Ukraine to 12 points in the period and accumulated a 49:45 lead with ten minutes to go. Klym Artamonov (186-PG-93) dragged Ukraine within one midway through the final stanza. But Tomas Kyzlink drained a three-pointer and Martin Kriz added several points to give Czech Republic a 67:60 lead with just over two minutes to go. Fait made it a double-digit lead for the Czechs as they rallied to the victory at the end. Samuel Faifr (200-PF-93) and Martin Kriz had 16 points apiece for the winners. Klym Artamonov answered with 25 points and 9 assists for Ukraine. Vladyslav Koreniuk chipped in 15 points and 15 boards in the defeat.
19-20 Place
Georgia - Estonia 70-79 Estonia entertained the home crowd with the victory on the final day of the U20 European Championship. The hosts held off Georgia to clinch the 19th place at the tournament. Martin Paasoja (194-SG-93) netted 20 points, grabbed 8 rebounds and issued 4 assists to lead the home side. Estonia dropped 23 points in the first frame to gain a 7-point lead. They stayed aggressive offensively in the second frame. Estonia secured a 5-point lead at halftime 44:39. The hosts held Georgia to just 10 points in the third term to boost the gap at 18-point mark. Georgia went on a furious comeback rally in the fourth term but Estonia hung on to snatch victory at the end. Rait-Riivo Laane (187-G-93) netted 18 points, while Rauno Nurger had 16 points and 10 rebounds for the winners. Irakli Mikeladze (182-PG-94) answered with 18 points for Georgia. Nodar Gogodze and Kakhaber Jintcharadze had 12 points apiece in the loss.
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Latvia and Italy to clash for title in Tallinn - Jul 20, 2013
Semifinals
Russia - Italy 68-77 Italy will play in the U20 European Championship Final. They outgunned Russia in the semifinal clash tonight. Italy will face Latvia for the title tomorrow. Awudu Abass (196-SF-93, agency: Players Group) came up with 18 points to lead the Azzurri. Italy eked out an 18:16 lead after ten minutes. The Azzurri maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. They established a 40:34 halftime advantage. The teams traded baskets throughout the third term. Italy secured a 55:49 lead heading into the fourth frame. Awudu Abass and Matteo Imbro gave the Azzurri a 63:49 lead early in the final term. Russia fought bravely but could not overcome a massive deficit as Italy coasted to the win at the end. Amedeo Della Valle (192-SG-93) chipped in 12 points, while Marco Lagana and Matteo Imbro had 10 points each for the winners. Alexander Zakharov (204-F/G-93) answered with 19 points for Russia. Aleksandr Gudumak had 15 points in the loss.
Latvia - Spain 64-63 Latvia claimed the ticket into the championship game of the U20 European Championship. They continued their impressive Tallinn campaign with a thrilling victory over Spain in the semifinal clash tonight. Janis Berzins (201-SF-93, agency: Players Group) stepped up with 14 points and 12 rebounds to lead the winners. Latvia had to deal with a slow start. Spain quickly surged ahead and accumulated a 21:13 lead after ten minutes. But Latvia picked up the tempo in the second frame. The Baltic team narrowed the distance to just a single point at halftime 35:36. Latvia pulled in front in the third term. They limited Spain to just 13 points in the period to gain a 51:49 lead heading into the fourth frame. Spain quickly surged ahead early in the fourth term. They ensured a 58:55 lead midway through the final term. Silins scored four points in a row for Latvia to give them a 62:60 lead. Vives tied things up at 62 but Andrejs Grazulis put Latvia in front again at 64:62. Vives then split free throws and Spain failed to capitalize on two missed free throws from Janis Berzins. Ingus Jakovics (186-PG-93, college: Liepaja-2) and Andrejs Grazulis netted 12 points each for the winners. Jaime Fernandez (186-G-93) answered with 17 points for Spain. Daniel Diez had 14 points and 15 rebounds in the loss.
5-8 Place
Turkey - Lithuania 70-68 Turkey narrowly defeated Lithuania in the classification round of U20 European Championship. Samet Geyik (205-PF-93) dunked the ball with second left in regulation to propel Turkey to win. Turkey will now face Greece for the 5th overall position at the tournament. Lithuania will wrap their campaign against Montenegro tomorrow. Turkey controlled the rhythm in the first half. They gained an 18:12 lead after ten minutes Turkey boosted the gap in the second quarter. They accumulated a 38:30 halftime advantage. Lithuania narrowed the deficit in the third term. The Baltic team got within three points at the final intermission. Lithuania opened the fourth frame on a 9:0 run to pull in front. Turkey erased the deficit and grabbed the lead back but Paulius Semaska (184-PG-93) gave Lithuania a 68:65 advantage with 53 seconds remaining. Altin drained a triple to level things up at 68 and then Samet Geyik dunked for the victory. Erbil Eroglu (194-PG-93) chipped in 14 points, while Ramazan Tekin netted 12 points in the win. Ignas Vaitkus (189-SF-93) answered with 13 points for Lithuania. Paulius Semaska had 12 points in the defeat.
Montenegro - Greece 52-67 Greece will play for the fifth overall position at the U20 European Championship. They outgunned Montenegro to set up the clash with Turkey on the final day of the tournament. Montenegro will face Lithuania tomorrow. The Hellenes set the tone early in this one. Greece gained a 26:10 lead after ten minutes of action. Montenegro slowly built up the tempo in the second frame. They cut the deficit at 11-point mark at halftime 26:37. Greece stretched the gap in the third period. They accumulated an 18-point buffer before the fourth frame. Montenegro limited Greece to 11 points in the final stanza but could not threaten the margin and surrendered at the end. Ioannis Papapetrou notched 18 points to lead the winners. Dimitrios Agravanis (208-PF-94, agency: FCM) netted 16 points in the victory. Danilo Nikolic (206-C-93) and Vasilije Vusovic (191-SG-94) responded with 10 points each for Montenegro. Marko Mugosa had 9 points in the loss.
Latvia, Spain, Russia and Italy reach semifinal stage in Tallinn - Jul 19, 2013
Quarterfinals
Italy - Lithuania 75-72 OT Italy survived overtime drama to reach the semifinal stage at the U20 European Championship. The Azzurri overcame Lithuania in the quarterfinal thriller in Tallinn today. Eric Lombardi (200-PF-93) posted 16 points and 10 rebounds to lead Italy. Lithuania nailed 23 points in the opening quarter to gain a 5-point lead. The Baltic team controlled the tempo in the second quarter. They held Italy to just 9 points in the frame to gain a 33:27 halftime advantage. But Italy turned things around in the third quarter. The Azzurri went on a 19:11 run to snatch a 46:44 lead at the third break. The lead changed hands throughout dramatic fourth frame. Kariniauskas gave Lithuania 65:61 lead with 18 seconds remaining in regulation. Awudu Abass (196-SF-93, agency: Players Group) answered with a triple to put Italy within one. Paliukenas sank two free throws but Amedeo Della Valle drained a late three-pointer to send the game into overtime. Marco Lagana nailed 4 points in the extra period and Italy held their opponents to 5 points in the extra period to rally to the victory. Awudu Abass chipped in 14 points, while Marco Lagana added 9 points in the win. Osvaldas Olisevicius (200-PF-93) replied with 14 points for Lithuania. Laimonas Chatkevicius and Mindaugas Kacinas netted 10 points apiece in the loss.
Greece - Spain 60-82 Spain reached the semifinal stage at the U20 European Championship. They knocked down Greece to set up the clash with Latvia in the semis. Daniel Diez (203-F-93) knocked down 23 points and grabbed 9 rebounds to lead the winners. Spain were up by four points after the starting quarter 20:16. Greece stuck around in the second frame. The Hellenes got within three points at halftime 37:40. But Spain took off in the third term. They ignited a massive 22:8 run to establish a 17-point advantage at the final intermission. Spain kept the Hellenes at distance throughout the fourth term. They knocked down 20 points and sealed the winning outcome at the end. Jaime Fernandez (186-G-93) produced 21 points and 6 assists, while Alejandro Suarez added 14 points for the winning side. Giannoulis Larentzakis (195-SG-93, agency: FCM) answered with 15 points for Greece. Eleftherios Bochoridis chipped in 13 points in the losing case.
Latvia - Montenegro 78-73 Latvia advanced into the semifinal stage of the U20 European Championship. They fired past Montenegro today. Kaspars Vecvagars (193-PG-93) came up with 25 points to lead the Baltic team. Montenegro set their ambitions high at the tournament and surged ahead to prove it early in the encounter. The Balkan team exploded with 27 points in the first frame to take a 7-point lead. Latvia stiffened defensively in the second quarter. They held Montenegro to just 10 points in the period and accumulated a 39:37 halftime advantage. The teams traded baskets throughout low-scoring third period. Latvia secured a 2-point lead heading into the fourth term. Jakovics and Kaspars Vecvagars gave Latvia a double-digit lead midway through the fourth frame. The gap soon grew at 14-point mark and Latvia held on to it until the final buzzer. Andrejs Grazulis (202-C-93) and Ojars Silins (208-PF-93) netted 15 points each for Latvia. Milos Latkovic (196-SF-93) answered with 18 points for Montenegro. Vukota Pavic delivered 15 points in the loss.
Turkey - Russia 70-82 Russia became the first semifinalists at the U20 European Championship in Estonia. They held off Turkey in the first quarterfinal of the day in Tallinn. Denis Zakharov (193-PG-93) stepped up with 24 points and 6 assists to lead the winners. Russia grabbed the lead right from the start. They outgunned somewhat sloppy Turkish side for a 26:7 lead at the first break. Turkey picked up the tempo in the second period but Russia matched their effort. The scoreboard read 50:31 at halftime. Turkey cut the deficit by just one point in the third term. They poured in 24 points in the fourth frame but Russia easily withstood the challenge and claimed the victory. Maksim Sakharov (195-SG-93) netted 14 points, while Artem Komolov added 13 points in the win. Ramazan Tekin (214-C-93) answered with 15 points for Turkey. Ahmet Tuncer responded with 13 points for the losing side.
9-12 Place
France - Germany 71-62 France claimed the victory over Germany in the classification round at the U20 European Championship. They shot down Germany to set up the clash versus Slovenia for the 9th position. Germany will wrap up their campaign against Croatia. Germany stayed in charge throughout the first half. They led by two points 13:11 after ten minutes. Germany extended their lead in the second frame. They accumulated a 33:30 halftime advantage. But Les Bleus spurred in front in the third frame. They netted 21 points to sneak into a 51:47 lead after three quarters of action. France did not allow Germany any closer throughout the fourth frame and marched to the win at the end. Mouhammadou Jaiteh (205-C-94, agency: Fusion Sports) had 16 points to lead France. Hugo Invernizzi (196-SF-93) and William Howard (201-SF-93) contributed 15 and 14 points respectively. Bogdan Radosavljevic (213-C-93) answered with 15 points for Germany. Mauricio Marin had 10 points in the loss.
Croatia - Slovenia 78-90 Slovenia prevailed against Croatia in the classification round at the U20 European Championship in Tallinn. The winners will now play for the ninth overall position at the tournament. Miha Lapornik (196-SG-93) notched 19 points to lead Slovenia. Croatia enjoyed a 23:19 lead after ten minutes of action. But Slovenia cut the deficit in the second frame. They got within one point at halftime 42:41. The lead changed hands throughout the third term. But Croatia secured a 61:59 advantage heading into the fourth quarter. Ziga Dimec, Miha Lapornik and Bolcina organized a 10:0 run to put Slovenia up by 8 points with three minutes remaining. They maintained the lead in the reminder of the contest and secured the winning outcome at the end. Luka Rupnik (186-PG-93) had 18 points and 10 assists, while Ziga Dimec added 18 points for the winners. Antonio Boban (204-PF-93) and Domagoj Samac (206-F-93) answered with 18 points apiece for Croatia.
13-16 Place
Bulgaria - Israel 76-69 Bulgaria earned the fourth consecutive win at the U20 European Championship. They defeated Israeli counterparts to set up the clash versus Serbia for the 13th overall position at the tournament. Aleks Simeonov (200-PF-93) netted 16 points to lead the charge. Bulgaria registered a 21:14 lead after ten minutes of action. Israel slowed down their opponents in the second frame. The Israelis got within 6 points at the interval 36:30. But Bulgaria stepped on the gas in the third term. They gained a 12-point lead at the final break. Egor Koulechov and Rafael Menco (201-SF-94, agency: Avi Zilberman) dragged Israel within five points midway through the fourth frame but Bulgaria delivered when it mattered the most and escaped with the win at the end. Dimitar Stoyanov (187-G-93) netted 15 points, while Pavlin Ivanov had 11 points for the winners. Rafael Menco replied with 17 points for Israel. Igor Mayor chipped and Egor Koulechov chipped in 10 points apiece in the loss.
Serbia - Sweden 82-65 Serbia prevailed against Sweden in the classification round of the U20 European Championship today. Nemanja Krstic (202-SF-93) came up with 22 points to lead the winners. Serbia will now take on Bulgaria for the 13th overall position at the tournament. Sweden will wrap up their campaign against Israel. Serbia opened the game with four straight points and maintained the lead throughout the starting quarter. They registered a 23:12 lead after ten minutes. Serbia cleared off to a 14-point distance at halftime 41:27. The Balkan team extended the lead in the third period. They arrived at the final intermission up by 22 points 63:41. Sweden fired 24 points in the fourth frame but could not avoid the loss at the end. Ivan Marinkovic (209-PF-93) netted 13 points and grabbed 12 boards, while Nemanja Bezbradica added 12 points for the winners. Marcus Eriksson (200-SG-93) answered with 28 points for Sweden. Arvid Isaksson had 8 points in the loss.
17-20 Place
Estonia - Czech Republic 68-94 Czech Republic overcame Estonia to stay hopeful of securing Division A place for the next season. They will now face Ukraine in the decisive game in Tallinn. Estonia got relegated with the loss and would face Georgia for the 19th place at the tournament. Czech Republic fired 27 points in the first frame to take a 3-point lead. They stayed in charge throughout the second period. Czech Republic accounted for a 48:39 halftime advantage. They unloaded 28 points in the third term to grab a 23-point lead before the fourth frame. Estonia could not recover from the blow scoring just 15 points in the final stanza and losing the game. Martin Kriz (204-PF-93) stepped up with 24 points and 14 rebounds for Czech Republic. Karel Ausprunk (203-C-94) added 14 points in the victory. Oliver Metsalu (197-SG-93) answered with 16 points for Estonia. Rait-Riivo Laane chipped in 13 points in the losing effort.
Ukraine - Georgia 75-47 Ukraine are now step away from punching Division A ticket for the next season. They outscored Georgia to enter the fight with Czech Republic for Division A survival. Vladyslav Koreniuk (207-C-94) posted 26 points and 19 rebounds to lead the winners. Ukraine dominated the game. They snatched a 14:10 lead after the opening frame. Ukraine kept Georgia at bay throughout the second frame. They registered a 33:20 halftime advantage. Ukraine boosted the lead in the third term. They went on a 22:9 rally to ensure a comfortable 55:29 advantage at the final intermission. Ukraine nailed 20 points in the fourth frame to seal the win at the end. Maksym Lutsenko (197-SF-93) finished with 13 points and 14 boards, while Klym Artamonov added 11 points for the winners. Valeri Kvantaliani (204-PF-94) answered with 11 points and 12 rebounds for Georgia. Revaz Rogava chipped in 9 points in the defeat.
Quarterfinals are set in Tallinn - Jul 17, 2013
Group E
Turkey - Greece 72-70 Turkey claimed the second win at the Second Stage of the U20 European Championship. They sneaked past Greek counterparts to clinch the top position in Group E. Greece suffered the first defeat at the tournament and occupied the second position in Group E ladder. Erbil Eroglu (194-PG-93) nailed 23 points to lead the winners. Turkey will now take on Russia, while Greece will face Spain in the quarterfinal stage. Turkey stunned the Hellenes with a strong start. They raced to a 20:11 lead after ten minutes. Turkey and Greece exchanged baskets throughout the second period. Turkey ensured a 36:27 halftime lead. But Greece turned the tables in the third period. They went on a 12:0 run to surge ahead 41:39. Ioannis Papapetrou made it 54:47 late in the period. Turkey cut the deficit at just one point 53:54 at the final break. Turkey used an 11:0 run early in the fourth quarter to surge ahead. Greece pulled within two points with 83 seconds remaining. But Tayfun Erulku (192-SG-94) converted a three-point play and won the game for Turkey. Tayfun Erulku chipped in 19 points, while Ramazan Tekin added 11 points for the winning side. Eleftherios Bochoridis (196-PG-94) answered with 24 points for Greece. Ioannis Papapetrou had 20 points in the loss.
Lithuania - Croatia 70-65 Lithuania clinched the quarterfinal ticket at the U20 European Championship. They knocked down Croatia in the final game at the Second Stage of the tournament to claim the third position in Group E. Vaidas Kariniauskas (197-SF-93) scored 24 points and issued 9 assists for the winners. Croatia fell at 1-4 record at the bottom of the ladder. Lithuania and Croatia exchanged baskets throughout the opening quarter. The teams were locked at 14-all after ten minutes. Lithuania pulled ahead in the second frame. The Baltic team gained a 33:27 halftime lead. Croatia cut the deficit in the third period. They got within 5 points at the final break. Luka Panduric (190-PG-93) put Croatia within three points early in the fourth term. However Lithuania answered with 9 points in a row to clear off. Luka Panduric put Croatia within five points late in regulation however Junkevicius and Chatkevicius sealed the win for the Baltic team. Martynas Paliukenas (195-SF-93) netted 16 points, while Rytis Juknevicius added 11 points in the victory. Luka Panduric and Domagoj Samac answered with 13 points each for Croatia.
Montenegro - Germany 75-64 Masan Vrbica (190-G/F-94) nailed 30 points to lead Montenegro past Germany in Group E of the U20 European Championship in Tallinn. Montenegro therefore made it into the quarterfinal stage. Germany slipped at 2-3 record just outside the playoff zone. Montenegro lost two of their opening games in Group E. But they entered this one full of confidence. The Balkan team cleared off to a 22:12 lead after ten minutes. They maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. Montenegro ensured a 40:28 halftime lead. Germany picked up the rhythm in the third term. They were able to cut the deficit at 9-point mark at the final intermission. But Montenegro exploded with 21 points in the fourth period to seal the win. Milos Latkovic (196-SF-93) netted 16 points, while Danilo Nikolic added 9 points in the winning effort. Bogdan Radosavljevic (213-C-93) answered with 22 points for Germany. David Brembly tossed in 11 points in the loss.
Group F
France - Latvia 79-74 France stopped Latvian winning streak but failed to qualify for the U20 European Championship quarterfinals. William Howard (201-SF-93) nailed 17 points to pace Les Bleus. Latvia suffered the first defeat in Tallinn. It did not prevent them from clinching the top spot in Group F though. Latvia will now take on Montenegro in the quarterfinals. France fired 27 points in the opening quarter to surge ahead. They recorded an 8-point lead after ten minutes. The teams traded baskets throughout highly intense second frame. France secured a 48:40 halftime lead. Les Bleus held Latvia to just 11 points in the third term to boost the gap at 15-point mark. But Latvia were able to cut the deficit to 2 points with 17 seconds remaining. Harley nailed three late free throws to seal the win for France. Alexandre Chassang (202-PF-94) netted 14 points, while Hugo Invernizzi added 12 points for the winning side. Peteris Rekis (197-PF-93) answered with 16 points for Latvia. Andrejs Grazulis had 12 points in the losing effort.
Spain - Slovenia 72-75 Slovenia came up with a strong performance at the U20 European Championship today. They knocked down Spain but came up short of desired quarterfinal birth. Slovenia had to win by 16 points or more to qualify into the playoffs. Spain in the meantime finished in the third position in the ladder. Slovenia controlled the game according to plan in the opening quarter. They grabbed a 23:14 lead after ten minutes of action. Slovenia did not allow Spain to get any closer in the second frame. Slovenia ensured an 11-point halftime buffer 41:30. But Spain turned things their way in the third quarter. They went on an 11:2 run midway through the period to cut the deficit to three points 45:48. Guillem Vives (191-PG-93) drained back-to-back triples to put Spain in front 51:50. Luka Rupnik (186-PG-93) capped the period with a free throw as the teams entered the fourth frame tied at 51. Guillem Vives drilled another triple early in the fourth quarter as Spain jumped ahead. But Slovenia went on a 10:0 run midway through the period to regain the lead. Luka Rupnik made it 68:60 for Slovenia soon after. But Guillem Vives once again connected from beyond the arc to keep Spain in the game. He added two more triples to his shooting frenzy as Spain narrowed the gap at just one point 71:72 with 37 seconds remaining. Lapornik and Luka Rupnik hit three free throws to make it 75:71 for Slovenia and they escaped with the win at the end. Luka Rupnik delivered 20 points for Slovenia. Ziga Dimec (212-C-93) added 17 points, while Tomaz Bolcina had 13 points and 13 boards for the winners. Guillem Vives answered with 24 points for Spain. Daniel Diez had 21 points and 9 boards in the losing effort.
Italy - Russia 88-70 Italy will play at the quarterfinal stage of the U20 European Championship. They breezed past Russia today to clinch 3-2 record in Group F. Russia fell at 2-3 record but can still qualify if Spain beat Slovenia later today. Aristide Landi (203-PF-94) stepped up with 26 points to lead the winners. Italy stepped on the gas early in the game. They unloaded 27 points in the opening quarter to gain a 13-point lead. Russia narrowed the gap in the second frame. They got within 10 points at halftime 35:45. But Italy stayed red hot offensively in the second half. They unloaded 26 points in the third period piling up a 17-point advantage before the final term. Italy held Russia to 16 points in the fourth period and claimed an important victory at the end. Awudu Abass (196-SF-93, agency: Players Group) produced 18 points, while Amedeo Della Valle added 13 points for the winners. Aleksandr Gudumak (203-PF-93) answered with 17 points for Russia. Vladislav Trushkin chipped in 14 points in the loss.
Group G
Israel - Czech Republic 77-76 Israel claimed a key victory in their U20 European Championship campaign. They nipped Czech Republic to retain their Division A spot for the next season. Tom Maayan (188-PG-93) scored 16 points to lead the winners. Czech Republic fell at 0-3 record in Group G and would fight against relegation in the next stage. Israel set the tone early in the game. They fired 20 points in the first ten minutes and recorded a 20:15 lead. But Czech Republic bounced back in the second quarter. They ignited a 23:12 rally to ensure a 38:32 halftime lead. Czech Republic maintained the lead throughout the third term. They entered the fourth period up by 7 points 54:47. But Israel found the way to recover. They went on a 13:2 run midway through the period to ensure a 60:58 lead. Israel then sparked a 6:0 run to gain a 71:64 advantage with under two minutes remaining. Ausprink and Martin Kriz (204-PF-93) (204-PF-93) dragged Czech Republic within two points with 6 seconds remaining. But Or Solomon converted a timely jumper and Kyzlinks three-pointer could not change a thing. Golan Gutt (192-SG-94) had 14 points for Israel. Shawn Dawson added 13 points for the winners. Samuel Faifr (200-PF-93) and Martin Kriz responded with 22 points each for Czech Republic.
Serbia - Ukraine 75-69 Serbia celebrated the key win in the classification round at U20 European Championship. They knocked down Ukraine to reach the games for the 13th-16th places. Ukraine will try to avoid relegation in the battle for the 17th-20th spots. Sasa Avramovic (194-PG-93, agency: Beo Basket) scored 19 points to lead the winners. Serbia stormed into the game. They unloaded 28 points in the first period to gain a 9-point advantage. Ukraine slowed their opponents down in the second quarter. Vladyslav Koreniuk (207-C-94) dragged his team within 3 points at halftime 43:40. Ukraine opened the second half on a 13:0 run to gain a 53:43 lead. But Serbia recovered well enough to gain a 60:58 lead at the final intermission. They did not allow Ukraine to deny the deficit in the final frame and cruised to the victory at the end. Pavle Reljic (195-G-93) finished with 11 points, while Krstic added 10 points for Serbia. Koreniuk answered with 16 points and 16 boards for Ukraine. Artamonov had 16 points in the losing effort.
Group H
Bulgaria - Estonia 68-58 Bulgaria registered the third straight win at the classification round of U20 European Championship. They upset hosting Estonia to win Group H. Bulgaria therefore secured Division A place for the next season. Estonia will fight against relegation in the 17th-20th places classification round. Bulgaria eked out a 19:17 lead after ten minutes. The teams slowed down in the second frame. They teamed up for just 18 points in the quarter as Bulgaria remained in front 28:26. Bulgaria cleared off to an 8-point distance midway through the third term. However Martin Paasoja and Mihkel Schleicher (205-C-93) dragged the hosts within one point 46:47 at the final break. Oliver Metsalu put the home side in front early in the fourth period. The lead changed hands for several times before Minkov and Karamfilov gave Bulgaria a 59:54 lead. Dimitar Dimitrov sparked a 9:0 run from the visitors as they accumulated a 68:56 lead and rolled to the victory. Pavlin Ivanov (195-SG-93, agency: Beo Basket) posted 16 points, while Dimitar Dimitrov added 12 points and 14 boards in the victory. Mihkel Schleicher responded with 12 points for Bulgaria. Oliver Metsalu and Martin Paasoja chipped in 11 points each in the loss.
Georgia - Sweden 62-66 Sweden claimed a crucial win over Georgia in the classification round at the U20 European Championship. The Scandinavian team improved at 2-1 record in Group H and avoided relegation. They will now figth for the 13th overall position at the tournament. Georgia will play against relegation in the 17th-20th place classification round. Georgia got to a slightly better start to the game. They ensured a 19:16 lead after the opening quarter. But Sweden erased the deficit in the second frame. The scoreboard read 35:35 at halftime. Sweden and Georgia exchanged baskets throughout the third term. They entered the fourth frame tied at 52-all. The lead changed hands for several times throughout the fourth frame. Finally Nicholas Spires (210-C-94) and Jonathan Person hit four points in a row and Sweden kept Georgia scoreless in the final three minutes of the game to snatch the victory. Niklas Larsson (199-SF-94) netted 15 points to lead Sweden. Nicholas Spires added 12 points and 15 boards, while Jonathan Person contributed 11 points for the winning side. Revaz Rogava (191-G-93) answered with 19 points for Georgia. Otar Pkhakadze had 16 points in the defeat.
Day 2 of Second Stage in Tallinn - Jul 16, 2013
Group E
Greece - Montenegro 70-47 Greece earned the sixth straight win at the U20 European Championship. They knocked down Montenegro to improve at 4-0 record on top of Group E. Ioannis Papapetrou (203-SF-94) finished with 17 points to lead the winners. Montenegro slipped at 1-3 record after the defeat. Greece earned a 16:12 lead after ten minutes of action. They held Montenegro to just 7 points in the second frame and registered an 11-point halftime lead 30:19. The Hellenes went on a stunning 29:7 run in the third term to clear off. They entered the final period up by 33 points and never looked back en route to the victory. Giannis Antetokounmpo (208-G/F-94, agency: FCM) produced 12 points and 12 rebounds, while Dimitrios Agravanis added 11 points for the winners. Vukota Pavic (203-C-93, agency: Dynamics Global Management) answered with 12 points for Montenegro. Milija Mikovic netted 10 points in the loss.
Lithuania - Turkey 48-52 Turkey snatched a narrow win over Lithuania on the second day of the Second Stage at the U20 European Championship. The victory propelled Turkey at 3-1 record, while Lithuania fell at 2-2 record in Group E. Turkey gained a 14:10 lead after the opening stanza. They maintained the lead throughout the second frame. Turkey enjoyed a 27:22 halftime advantage. Turkey kept the Baltic team at bay throughout the third period. Lithuania scored just 4 points in the quarter to face a 9-point deficit before the final stanza. The margin grew at 12-point mark midway through the fourth term. Lithuania managed to narrow the gap late in regulation but never threatened the Turkish lead. Samet Geyik (205-PF-93) chipped in 21 points to lead the winners. Erbil Eroglu (194-PG-93) added 10 points, while Berkay Candan and Ramazan Tekin added 7 points each for Turkey. Vaidas Kariniauskas (197-SF-93) answered with 9 points for Lithuania. Ignas Vaitkus had 8 points in the loss.
Croatia - Germany 66-61 Croatia claimed the first win at the Second Stage of the U20 European Championship. They defeated Germany to catch up with their opponents at 1-3 record in Group E. Matej Buovac (200-G/F-93) nailed 16 points to lead the winners. Croatia spurred ahead early in the encounter. They gained a 10:3 lead midway through the first period. Croatia posted an 18:9 lead after ten minutes. Germany slowed their opponents down in the second quarter. They ignited a 17:11 run to cut the deficit three points at halftime 26:29. Tolksdorf and David Brembly (197-SG-93) gave Germany a 30:29 lead early in the third period. The teams exchanged baskets before Croatia capped the term with a 6:2 run stealing a 49:43 lead. Croatia opened the fourth frame on a 6:0 run to boost the gap at 12-point mark 55:43. Germany responded with a massive 11:0 rally to jump ahead 59:58. But Boban drained a triple to stop the rot and then Henrik Sirko (200-F-93) and Juraj Segaric converted five free throws to seal the victory for Croatia. Henrik Sirko netted 13 points, while Juraj Segaric added 12 for the winners. David Brembly responded with 13 points for Germany. Alexander Blessig had 11 points in the defeat.
Group F
Spain - France 70-52 Spain clinched a confident win over France at the Second Stage of the U20 European Championship. The victory allowed Spain gain 2-2 record in Group F. France suffered the second consecutive defeat and slipped at 1-3 record. Spain stayed dominant throughout the first quarter. They recorded a 17:7 lead after ten minutes. France stopped the rot in the second period. They got within 7 points at halftime 29:22. But Spain regained control in the third term. They exploded with 23 points to secure a 14-point lead before the fourth term. Spain dropped 18 points in the final stanza and sealed a comfortable victory at the end. Guillem Vives (191-PG-93) nailed 16 points and issued 7 assists for the winners. Daniel Diez (203-F-93) added 15 points for Spain. Alexandre Chassang (202-PF-94), Hugo Invernizzi and Mouhammadou Jaiteh had 11 points each for France.
Latvia - Italy 88-81 Latvia clinched the sixth straight victory at the U20 European Championship. They fired past Italy for 4-0 record on top of Group F. Ojars Silins (208-PF-93) nailed 25 points and grabbed 10 rebounds to pace the charge. Italy slipped at 2-2 record after the defeat. Latvia opened the game with seven straight points. They soon opened a 13:2 lead and maintained it throughout the opening quarter. The Baltic team entered the second period up by 7 points 23:16. Latvia kept Italy at distance throughout the second quarter. They ensured a 42:32 halftime advantage. The Baltic team erupted for 28 points in the third term to boost the lead at 16-point mark at the final intermission. The Azzurri cut the deficit at 7-point mark with under two minutes remaining but could not get any closer in the reminder of the contest. Ingus Jakovics (186-PG-93, college: Liepaja-2) had 17 points, while Janis Berzins added 16 points for the winners. Awudu Abass (196-SF-93, agency: Players Group) answered with 21 points for Italy. Matteo Imbro had 18 points in the losing case.
Slovenia - Russia 69-88 Russia claimed the second consecutive win at the Second Stage of the U20 European Championship. They knocked down Slovenia to gain 2-2 record in Group F. Slovenia on the other hand suffered the second straight defeat and slipped at 1-3 record. Denis Zakharov (193-PG-93) came up with 20 points to pace the winners. The teams stayed neck and neck throughout the first period. Slovenia and Russia entered the second quarter tied at 19-all. Russia stepped on the gas in the second period. They exploded with 25 points to gain a 44:37 halftime lead. Russia took off in the third term. They went on a 23:14 run to ensure a comfortable 16-point lead at the final intermission 67:51. Russia poured in 21 points in the fourth quarter and sealed the victory at the end. Vladislav Trushkin (200-SF-93) nailed 15 points, while Maksym Sakharov added 14 points for the winning side. Ziga Dimec (212-C-93) and Miha Lapornik (196-SG-93) tossed in 14 points apiece in the loss.
Group G
Israel - Serbia 62-66 Serbia clinched the third straight win at the U20 European Championship. They defeated Israel to improve at 2-0 record in Group G. Israell fell at 1-1 record in the ladder. Ivan Marinkovic (209-PF-93) came up with 15 points and 10 rebounds to pace the winners. Serbia eked out an 18:16 lead after the opening quarter. They boosted the gap in the second frame. The Balkan team accumulated a 36:28 halftime advantage. Israel finally found the right rhythm in the third quarter. They went on a 19:14 rally and cut the deficit 3 points at the final break. Serbia however limited their opponents to just 15 points in the fourth stanza and raced to the win at the end. Luka Mitrovic (205-PF-93) and Nenad Miljenovic delivered 11 points apiece for the winners. Tom Maayan answered with 11 points for Israel. Egor Koulechov (195-F-94) topscored with 16 points and 13 boards in the loss.
Czech Republic - Ukraine 83-89 Ukraine celebrated the first win at the classification round Group G at the U20 European Championship. They prevailed against Czech Republic in Tallinn today. Vladyslav Koreniuk scored 22 points to lead the winners. It was all about Ukraine in the first three periods. They poured in 29 points in the first ten minutes to gain a 10-point lead. Ukraine stretched the gap to as many as 15 points at the interval 41:56. Ukraine stayed in control throughout the third quarter. They raced to a comfortable 23-point lead before the final stanza. But Czech Republic did not surrender. They ignited a massive rally in the final period to get within 6 points 81:87 with 52 seconds remaining. But Klym Artamonov sank two free throws to calm things down as Ukraine got away with the victory. Anatoliy Shundel (194-SG-93) chipped in 21 points, while Klym Artamonov netted 18 points, 9 assists and 3 boards in the victory. Martin Kriz (204-PF-93) answered with 25 points for Czech Republic. Samuel Faifr banked 12 points in the loss.
Group H
Estonia - Sweden 69-77 Sweden snapped three-game losing skid at the U20 European Championship. They beat Estonia to improve at 1-1 record in classification round Group H. Both teams are now tied at the second position in the ladder. The hosts confidently opened the game. Estonia ensured a 23:18 lead after ten minutes of action. The hosts boosted the gap in the second frame. They accumulated a 42:32 halftime advantage. But the Scandinavian team turned things around in the third term. They triggered a 25:12 rally to surge ahead. Estonia could not recover from the blow in the final period. They scored just 15 points and yielded at the end. Marcus Eriksson (200-SG-93) provided 24 points to lead Sweden. Jonathan Person (190-PG-93) added 16 points for the winning side. Rait-Riivo Laane (187-G-93) answered with 21 points for Estonia. Rauno Nurger had 16 points in the loss.
Bulgaria - Georgia 85-44 Bulgaria posted the second straight win at the start of the classification round at the U20 European Championship. They outgunned Georgia to take 2-0 record on top of Group H. Kris Minkov (198-SG-94) chipped in 15 points to lead the effort. Bulgaria started the game in a convincing manner. They outscored Georgia 21:9 in the opening ten minutes. Bulgaria stayed red hot offensively in the second frame. They erupted for 27 points to ensure a 48:21 halftime lead. Georgia struggled to match their opponents in the second half. Bulgaria opened a comfortable 66:30 lead heading into the fourth period. They did not slow down and coasted to the victory at the end. Kiril Kirilov, Aleks Simeonov and Dimitar Dimitrov provided 12 points each for the winners. Otar Pkhakadze (190-PG-93) answered with 14 points for Georgia. Temuri Phkhadze chipped in 10 points in the loss.
Second Stage starts in Tallinn - Jul 15, 2013
Group E
Germany - Turkey 71-65 Germany defeated Turkey at the start of the Second Stage at the U20 European Championship. Bogdan Radosavljevic (213-C-93) nailed 19 points to lead the winners. Germany jumped at 1-2, while Turkey slipped at 2-1 record in Group E. Germany stayed in charge throughout the first half. They registered an 18:13 lead after the opening quarter. Turkey lagged behind throughout the second period. They faced an 8-point halftime deficit 29:37. Turkey stepped on the gas in the third term. They cut the deficit at 4-point mark with ten minutes remaining. But Germany exploded with 20 points in the fourth term and escaped with victory at the end. Leon Tolksdorf (202-SF-93) netted 12 points, while Kenneth Ogbe added 10 points for Germany. Ramazan Tekin (214-C-93) answered with 15 points for Turkey. Samet Geyik chipped in 12 points in the loss.
Montenegro - Lithuania 56-63 Lithuania registered the first win at the Second Stage of the U20 European Championship. They overcame Montenegro for 2-1 record in Group E. Mindaugas Kacinas (210-C-93) nailed 15 points to lead the winners. Lithuania capped the regulation with an 11:0 run and snatched what seemed to an improbable victory after the first half. It was all going Montenegro way in the first half. The Balkan team posted a 17:5 lead after the opening ten minutes. They stretched the margin at 13-point mark at the interval 34:21. But Lithuania came back to life in the second half. They narrowed the gap at 7-point mark at the final intermission. Lithuania then burst out with an 11:0 rally late in regulation and sealed the victory. Vaidas Kariniauskas (197-SF-93) delivered 11 points, while Martynas Paliukenas added 10 points for the winners. Marko Mugosa (198-PF-93) responded with 16 points for Montenegro. Danilo Nikolic had 12 points in the losing effort.
Croatia - Greece 68-77 Greece needed a huge run to beat Croatia at the U20 European Championship. They posted a 16-0 run in the first half for 77:68 win. Greece took 18:16 lead at the end of the first period, but trailed 18:21 early in the second frame. Greek side immediately erupted with a 16-0 run to take 34:21 lead. Henrik Sirko (200-F-93) cut it to 36:30 at the halftime, while Papapetrou later nailed three for 48:39. Samac closed the third period at 56:49 and then Boban Antonio reduced to just two points. Larentzakis Giannoulis however score the last 6 points for the winners to take 3-0 record in Group E. Giannoulis Larentzakis (195-SG-93, agency: FCM) paced all the winners with 25 points and Dimitrios Agravanis (208-PF-94, agency: FCM) added 14. Antetokounmpo Giannis collected 12 points and 15 rebounds, whilst Bochoridis Eleftherios had 9. Henrik Sirko answered with 17 points in defeat and Boban Antonio netted 12. Ramljak Marko and Panduric Luka poured in 11 points each in a loss.
Group F
Russia - France 65-61 Russia clinched victory at the start of the Second Stage of the U20 European Championship. They defeated France to improve at 1-2 record in Group F. Russia therefore caught up with Les Bleus in the ladder. Andrey Loginov (203-PF-93) chipped in 13 points to lead the winners. Russia claimed a 16:13 lead after the opening quarter. France denied the deficit and pulled ahead for a 32:31 halftime lead. The teams stayed close throughout the third term. France were able to secure a narrow 51:48 lead at the final intermission. Boris Dallo and Invernizzi gave Les Bleus a 55:50 advantage midway through the fourth term. Russia answered with a 7:2 run to level things up at 57 with under four minutes to go. The teams were tied at 61-all with 85 seconds remaining. Aleksandr Gudumak (203-PF-93) came up with a layup and then Trushkin hit two free throws to win the game for Russia. Aleksandr Gudumak notched 11 points, while Alexander Zakharov added 10 points for the winning side. Mouhammadou Jaiteh (205-C-94, agency: Fusion Sports) answered with 19 points and 11 boards for France. Boris Dallo delivered 15 points in the loss.
Italy - Spain 76-73 Italy clinched the first win at the Second Stage of the U20 European Championship. They held off Spain in Group F opener. Amedeo Della Valle (192-SG-93) came up with 27 points to lead the Azzurri. The lead changed hands throughout the first period. Spain eked out a 22:21 lead after ten minutes. The seesaw action continued in the second frame. Spain secured a narrow 37:35 halftime lead. The Spanish side boosted the gap in the third term. They limited their opponents to just 16 points to open an 8-point cushion before the final frame. The Azzurri used an 11:2 run to take a 65:64 lead midway through the final stanza. Amedeo Della Valle came up with six points in a row to give Italy a 71:66 lead. Jaime Fernandez pulled Spain within one 70:71 but Amedeo Della Valle scored five points in the final 24 seconds of regulation to seal the victory for Italy. Michele Ruzzier (178-PG-93) netted 12 points, while Matteo Chillo added 10 points for the winners. Daniel Diez (203-F-93) answered with 20 points for Spain. Jaime Fernandez had 13 points in the loss.
Slovenia - Latvia 72-78 Latvia improved to 3-0 record in Group F at the U20 European Championship. The Baltic side posted a 78:72 win over Slovenia on Monday. Both teams scored 20 points each in the first period. Latvia also netted 20 points in the second frame and it was enough to take 9-point advantage at the halftime. Slovenia however was too far to give up and posted two narrow victories in the second half. They won the third period 19-17 and the last stanza 22-21, but it was not enough to win the game. Ingus Jakovics (186-PG-93, college: Liepaja-2) stepped up with 20 points for the winners and Ojars Silins (208-PF-93) nailed 16. Grazulis Andrejs posted 14, while Berzins Janis added 13. Tomaz Bolcina (208-C-94) replied with 14 points and 11 rebounds in defeat, while Dimec Ziga had 13. Rupnik Luka poured in 12 and Lapornik Miha brought 10.
Group G
Serbia - Czech Republic 91-66 Serbia claimed the opening win at the classification round of U20 European Championship. They knocked down Czech Republic to improve at 1-0 record in Group G. Luka Mitrovic (205-PF-93) provided 20 points and 10 rebounds to lead the charge. Serbia set the tone early in the game. They poured in 26 points in the first quarter to gain a 12-point lead. Czech Republic narrowed the deficit in the second frame. They got within 3 points at halftime 36:33. But Serbia unleashed 26 points in the third quarter and ran away to a 13-point distance at the final intermission. Serbia stayed red hot offensively in the final frame. They drained 29 points in the fourth quarter and sealed the victory. Nemanja Krstic (202-SF-93) had 19 points, while Ivan Marinkovic (209-PF-93) added 17 points for the winners. Martin Kriz answered with 16 points for Czech Republic. Dalibor Fait netted 15 points in the loss.
Ukraine - Israel 72-84 Israel registered a come-from-behind victory over Ukraine at the start of classification round action at the U20 European Championship. Or Solomon (202-PF-93) notched 23 points and 13 rebounds to lead Israel at 1-0 record in Group G. Ukraine seemed in control throughout the first half. They recorded a 25:20 lead after the opening stanza. Ukraine maintained the lead throughout the second quarter. They established a 43:37 halftime advantage. But Israel turned the tables in the third frame. They triggered a 20:10 run in the quarter to spur ahead. Israel exploded with 27 points in the fourth stanza and sealed the win at the end. Egor Koulechov (195-F-94) posted 21 points, while Tomer Ginat added 10 points for the winning side. Vladyslav Koreniuk (207-C-94) answered with 23 points for Ukraine. Anatoliy Shundel chipped in 13 points in the loss.
Group H
Georgia - Estonia 52-74 Estonia victoriously opened the classification round campaign at the U20 European Championship. The hosts handled Georgia to gain 1-0 record in Group H. Martin Paasoja (194-SG-93) stepped up with 25 points to lead the winning side. Estonia claimed a 20:16 lead after the opening quarter. They boosted the lead in the second frame. Estonia accumulated a 42:28 halftime advantage. The hosts limited Georgia to just 7 points in the third quarter to secure a 24-point buffer before the fourth stanza. Georgia outscored their opponents in the final frame but just sweetened the pill at the end. Rait-Riivo Laane (187-G-93) and Oliver Metsalu delivered 12 points each for the winners. Otar Pkhakadze (190-PG-93) responded with 13 points for Georgia. Revaz Rogava netted 10 points in the loss.
Sweden - Bulgaria 57-61 Bulgaria posted the initial victory at the U20 European Championship. They held off Sweden at the start of the classification round Group H action. Angel Natskin (182-PG-93) nailed 14 points to lead Bulgaria. Sweden earned a 15:11 lead ten minutes into the clash. The teams traded baskets throughout the second frame. The Scandinavian team secured a 29:25 halftime lead. Sweden were able to stretched the gap at 8-point mark in the third term but Bulgaria cut it back to four 39:43 with ten minutes to go. Dimitar Dimitrov (202-PF-93, agency: Interperformances) hit quick five points midway through the fourth stanza to level things up at 50. Angel Natskin and Ivanov connected from beyond the arc to put Bulgaria in front 58:55 with 33 seconds remaining. Simeonov, Ivanov and Nikolay Stoyanov hit free throws late in regulation to seal the win for Bulgaria. Dimitar Dimitrov had 12 points, while Nikolay Stoyanov added 11 points for the winners. Samuel Eliasson (93) responded with 15 points for Sweden. Tobias Borg and Jonathan Person dropped 11 points apiece in the losing effort.
The End of Preliminary Round in Tallinn - Jul 13, 2013
Group A
Lithuania - Greece 74-77 Greece wins Group A in Tallinn at the U20 European Championship. The Greek side won over Lithuania 77:74 in the top game of the group. The Baltic suffered their first loss and finished the group with 3-1 record on the second place. Both teams came to the derby undefeated. Greece started with 19-9 lead and added 20-18 rally before the halftime. Lithuania however erupted with 28-10 surge in the third period. At first Lthuania shocked the opponents with an 18-0 run and enjoyed a 48:45 midway through the period. Later Lekys Simonas nailed three for 55:47 at the end of the frame. Greece meanwhile was too far to give up and trailing 51:57 came up with a 14-0 run to take 66:57 lead. Greece managed to keep the victory as Giannoulis Larentzakis (195-SG-93, agency: FCM)made 4 free throws at the end of the game. Giannoulis Larentzakis stepped up with 27 points and Papapetrou Ioannis delivered 19. Petros Melissaratos (206-C-93) collected 10 points and 10 rebounds, while Bochoridis Eleftherios had 9. Martynas Paliukenas (195-SF-93) answered with 18 points in the losing case, while Jogela Tauras notched 15. Kariniauskas Vaidas brought 7 and Riauka Zygimantas as well as Lekys Simonas had 6 each.
Georgia - Serbia 52-89 Serbia posts the initial win at the U20 European Championship. The Serbia side overcame Georgia 89:52 in the start of Day 5 in Tallinn. Georgia remained winless at the tournament. Both teams entered the game without victories. Serbia won the opening period 21:16 and added massive 27-15 surge in the second frame. Serbia also looked better in the second half and dominated both periods. The Balkan side won the third period 20-7 and finished the game with 21-14 rally. Luka Mitrovic (205-PF-93) paced all the winners with 16 points and Nemanja Krstic (202-SF-93) added 14. Reljic Pavle poured in 12, while Avramovic Sasa scored 10. Shota Gelazonia (205-C-94), Valeri Kvantaliani (204-PF-94) and Nika Ramishvili (182-G-94) netted 8 points each. Rogava Revaz and Grdzelidze Levani brought 6 points each.
Group B
Croatia - Sweden 87-75 Croatia claimed a crucial win at the U20 European Championship Group B. They defeated Sweden to improve at 2-2 record. Croatia thus occupied the third position in the ladder and advanced into the Second Stage of the competition. Antonio Boban (204-PF-93) nailed 23 points to lead the charge. Croatia led by a single point 22:21 after ten minutes of action. Sweden surged ahead in the second frame. The Scandinavian team eked out a 41:37 halftime advantage. Croatia regained the lead in the third period. They held Sweden to 14 points in the period and posted a 57:55 lead heading into the fourth frame. Croatia unleashed 30 points in the fourth stanza and snatched a key win at the end. Henrik Sirko netted 16 points, while Marko Ramljak (202-PF-93, agency: Interperformances) added 14 points for the winning side. Marcus Eriksson (200-SG-93) answered with 32 points for Sweden. Tobias Borg delivered 17 points in the loss.
Montenegro - Turkey 71-84 Turkey claimed the third victory in the U20 European Championship in Tallinn today. They knocked down Montenegro to win preliminary round Group B. Montenegro suffered the first defeat at the tournament and finished second. Tayfun Erulku (192-SG-94) nailed 21 points to lead the winning side. Turkey stormed into the game. They unloaded 24 points in the opening quarter to ensure an 8-point lead. Turkey dominated throughout the second stanza. They held their opponents to 10 points in the period building a 49:26 halftime lead. Montenegro tuned in the third quarter. The Balkan team slowly adjusted their rhythm and cut the deficit by three points. Montenegro fired 23 points in the fourth frame but it was not enough to revive the intrigue in this one. Ramazan Tekin (214-C-93) chipped in 13 points, while Erbil Eroglu had 12 points and 7 assists for the winners. Vukota Pavic (203-C-93, agency: Dynamics Global Management) answered with 25 points for Montenegro. Marko Mugosa had 15 points in the loss.
Group C
Russia - Bulgaria 75-67 Russia gained the second win at the U20 European Championship. They defeated Bulgaria to qualify into the Second Stage of the tournament. Aleksandr Gudumak (203-PF-93) nailed 18 points to pace the winners. Bulgaria fell at 0-4 record after the defeat. Russia confidently opened the game. They posted a 20:15 lead after the opening quarter. Bulgaria cut the deficit in the second frame. They got within 3 points at the interval 35:32. But Russia picked up the tempo in the third period. They unloaded 22 points and established a 9-point advantage before the fourth frame 57:48. The margin grew at 16-point mark midway through the fourth quarter and Russia never looked back again. Andrey Loginov (203-PF-93) netted 13 points, while Artem Komolov added 10 points for the winners. Dimitar Dimitrov (202-PF-93, agency: Interperformances) answered with 20 points for Bulgaria. Nikolay Grozev chipped in 13 points in the loss.
Israel - Spain 61-63 Spain wrapped up their preliminary round campaign at the U20 European Championship with a difficult victory over Israel. Daniel Diez (203-F-93) scored 23 points to lead Spain. Spain improved at 3-1 record and finished second in Group C. Israel fell at 1-3 record and did not make it into the Second Stage of the tournament. They will now fight against relegation in the classification round. Spain seemed in control throughout the first half. They posted a 17:15 lead after ten minutes Spain boosted the lead to 5 points at halftime 34:29. But Israel came back into the contest in the third period. They held Spain to 9 points and cut the deficit to a single point 42:43 at the final break. Maayan gave Israel a 51:49 lead midway through the fourth frame. Daniel Diez stepped up for Spain in the crucial moment. He nailed five points to give them a 61:57 lead with 70 seconds remaining. Maayan answered with four points in a row to level things up at 61. But Jaime Fernandez (186-G-93) converted a layup with 5 seconds remaining in regulation to seal the win for Spain. He finished with 22 points for the winners. Egor Koulechov (195-F-94) responded with 21 points for Israel. Or Solomon had 12 points and 12 boards in the loss.
Group D
France - Czech Republic 79-62 France registered the third win at the U20 European Championship. They defeated Czech Republic to gain 3-1 record on top of Group D. Czech Republic suffered the fourth straight loss at the tournament. France stunned their opponents in the opening quarter. Les Bleus posted a 19:7 lead after ten minutes of action. Czech Republic cut the deficit in the second frame. They got within 10 points at halftime 23:33. But France stepped on the gas in the third term. They exploded with 23 points to ensure a 13-point buffer before the fourth period. Les Bleus stayed aggressive throughout the final frame and secured a comfortable win at the end. Livio Jean-Charles (203-PF-93, agency: Beo Basket) and Hugo Invernizzi (196-SF-93) netted 19 points for France. Alexandre Chassang (202-PF-94) added 12 points for the winners. Tomas Kyzlink (195-SG-93) answered with 22 points for Czech Republic. Martin Kriz chipped in 14 points and 10 rebounds in the loss.
Estonia - Italy 78-90 Italy finished their U20 European Championship preliminary round campaign with victory. They defeated hosting Estonia to occupy the second position in Group D ladder. Estonia finished fourth and failed to qualify for the Second Stage. Italy rallied to a 22:14 lead after ten minutes. The Azzurri unloaded 31 points in the second frame to clear off to a 13-point halftime distance. Estonia slowed their opponents down in the third term. The hosts went on a 19:11 run to cut the deficit at 5-point mark before the fourth frame. But Italy unloaded 26 points in the fourth period and sealed the win at the end. Amedeo Della Valle (192-SG-93) posted 20 points for Italy. Matteo Imbro (190-PG-94) added 16 points for the visitors. Rait-Riivo Laane (187-G-93) responded with game-high 24 points for Estonia. Mihkel Schleicher had 14 points in the loss.
Day 4 in Tallinn - Jul 12, 2013
Group A
Serbia - Germany 56-66 Germany registered the second win at the U20 European Championship. They defeated Serbian counterparts for 2-2 record in Group A. Bogdan Radosavljevic (213-C-93) and Alexander Blessig (188-PG-93) nailed 12 points each for the winners. Serbia suffered the third consecutive defeat at the tournament. Germany eked out a 20:17 lead after the opening quarter. They maintained the lead throughout the second period. They piled up a 35:29 halftime advantage. Serbia narrowed the deficit in the quarter. The Balkan team cut the distance at 5-point mark at the final break. But Germany held their opponents to just 10 points in the fourth frame and sealed the winning outcome. David Brembly (197-SG-93) netted 11 points, while Tolsdorf added 8 points for the winners. Luka Mitrovic answered with 15 points for Serbia. Nemanja Bezbradica (207-F-93, agency: Beo Basket) notched 17 points in the losing case.
Greece - Georgia 75-61 Greece recorded the third consecutive victory at the start of the U20 European Championship. They fired past Georgia in Group A tonight. Ioannis Papapetrou (203-SF-94) came up with 15 points to lead the Hellenes. Georgia suffered the third straight loss. Georgia secured a brave start to the game. They accounted for a 21:17 lead ten minutes into the game. The teams traded baskets throughout the second frame. Georgia secured a 41:37 halftime advantage. But the Hellenes finally picked up the tune after the big break. Greece sparked a massive 27:11 run in the third term to spur ahead. They held Georgia to just 9 points in the final period to celebrate yet another win at the tournament. Dimitrios Agravanis (208-PF-94, agency: FCM) and Ioannis Karamalegkos had 13 points apiece in the victory. Giorgi Tsirekidze (204-PF-94) responded with 21 points for Georgia. Irakli Mikeladze netted 12 points in the loss.
Group B
Sweden - Montenegro 65-91 Montenegro claimed the third consecutive win at the U20 European Championship. They stunned Swedish counterparts in Tallinn today. Danilo Nikolic (206-C-93) nailed 19 points to lead the Balkan team. Montenegro used a massive 19:3 run in the opening quarter to ensure a 26:9 lead ten minutes into the game. Montenegro did not allow Sweden any closer throughout the second period. The Balkan team grabbed a 45:23 halftime advantage. Sweden struggled to get back into the game throughout the third period. Montenegro eased to a 70:38 advantage before the final frame. Sweden exploded with 27 points in the fourth quarter but it was too little too late to save the game. Marko Mugosa (198-PF-93) nailed 17 points, while Masan Vrbica added 15 points for the winners. Hannes Erhardt (209-C-94) answered with 11 points for Sweden. Nicholas Spires chipped in 9 points in the loss.
Turkey - Ukraine 72-74 Ukraine opened win count at the U20 European Championship. They defeated Turkey for 1-3 record in Group B. Ukraine finished the game on a strong 15:6 rally to snatch the victory. Turkey suffered the first defeat to slip at 2-1 record. Ukraine got to a strong start. They built a 21:15 lead ten minutes into the game. Turkey cut the deficit in the second quarter. They narrowed the deficit at a single point 36:37 at the interval. Turkey surged ahead in the third term. They ensured a 59:50 lead late in the period but Vladyslav Koreniuk and Zhukovsk capped the stanza with four points in a row to narrow the gap. Turkey led by 7 points midway through the fourth frame 66:59 but Ukraine exploded with a decisive 15:6 run to snatch the win. Klym Artamonov (186-PG-93) posted 22 points, 8 assists and 7 rebounds for Ukraine. Maksym Lutsenko (197-SF-93) added 15 points for the winning side. Sami Erdogan (206-C-93) answered with 16 points for Turkey. Erbil Eroglu chipped in 13 points in the loss.
Group C
Spain - Latvia 67-75 Latvia grabbed another high-value scalp at the U20 European Championship. They knocked down Spain to reach 4-0 record on top of Group C. Kaspars Vecvagars (193-PG-93) posted 22 points to lead the effort. Spain slipped at 2-1 record after the defeat. Spain earned a narrow 19:17 lead after the opening quarter. The teams stayed close throughout the second frame. Spain ensured a narrow 40:38 halftime lead. But Latvia shocked their opponents in the third term. The Baltic state went on a blistering 20:5 rally to jump to a 13-point lead. Spain could not recover in the fourth period and had to surrender at the end. Ingus Jakovics (186-PG-93, college: Liepaja-2) netted 16 points, while Ojars Silins added 10 points and 12 rebounds for the winning side. Daniel Diez (203-F-93) responded with 16 points and 12 boards for Spain. Guillem Vives chipped in 14 points in the losing effort.
Bulgaria - Israel 66-68 Israel earned the opening win at the U20 European Championship. They nipped Bulgaria to climb at 1-2 record in Group C. Rafael Menco (201-SF-94, agency: Avi Zilberman) nailed 14 points to lead the winners. Bulgaria slipped at 0-3 record after the defeat. Israel started the game strong. They accumulated a 19:12 lead after the starting quarter. Israel maintained the lead throughout the second term. They established a 41:32 halftime advantage. But Bulgaria denied the deficit in the third term. They went on a 19:7 run to ensure a 3-point lead before the fourth period. Israel returned into the game late in regulation. The teams were tied at 64 with 59 seconds to go. Rafael Menco drained a three-pointer and then Maayan hit a free throw to ensure the victory for Israel. Or Solomon and Igor Mayor delivered 10 points each for the winners. Aleks Simeonov (200-PF-93) answered with 15 points for Bulgaria. Angel Natskin had 12 points in the loss.
Group D
Italy - Slovenia 61-65 Slovenia celebrated the third win at the U20 European Championship. They held off Italy in Tallinn today to gain 3-1 record on top of Group D. Ziga Dimec (212-C-93) finished with 16 points and 10 rebounds to pace the winners. Italy fell at 2-1 record after the first loss at the tourney. The Azzurri looked the better side in the first half. Italy built a 14:11 lead ten minutes into the game. They exploded with 22 points in the second quarter to boost the margin. The Azzurri led by 7 points at halftime 36:29. But Slovenia adjusted defensively and erased the deficit in the third term. They snatched a one-point lead heading into the fourth frame. Slovenia entered the final minutes of regulation leading by one. However Brazot, Rojc and Miha Lapornik (196-SG-93) sank 7 free throws in the reminder of the contest to seal the win for Slovenia. Miha Lapornik accounted for 12 points, while Tomaz Bolcina added 11 points and 12 rebounds for the winning side. Amedeo Della Valle (192-SG-93) answered with 13 points for Italy. Stefano Tonut chipped in 10 points in the loss.
Czech Republic - Estonia 58-75 Estonia celebrated the openign win at the home U20 European Championship. The hosts fired past Czech Republic in Group D action. Estonia climbed at 1-2 record, while Czech Republic slipped at 0-3. Oliver Metsalu (197-SG-93) nailed 21 points and grabbed 8 rebounds to lead the winning side. Estonia set the tone early on. They grabbed a 21:15 lead after the starting quarter. Estonia maintained the lead throughout the second period. They piled up a 32:24 halftime advantage. Czech Republic tried to change the complexion of the encounter in the third term. They speeded things up scoring 25 points in the period. But Estonia withheld the challenge to enter the final frame up by 6 points. The hosts ignited a 20:9 rally in the fourth term to escape with the victory. Martin Paasoja (194-SG-93) netted 17 points, while Martin Jurtom added 11 points for Estonia. Dalibor Fait (205-C-93) responded with 19 points for Czech Republic. Martin Kriz had 10 points and 11 rebounds in the defeat.
Day 3 in Tallinn - Jul 11, 2013
Group A
Georgia - Lithuania 49-107 Lithuania jumps to 3-0 record in Group A of the U20 European Championship. The Baltic State overcame Georgia 107:49 for the perfect record. Georgia meanwhile fell at 0-2 record. The defending champions started the game with massive 33-12 run. They added 30-18 rally and enjoyed a 63:30 halftime advantage. Moreover Lithuania posted a 32-10 burst in the third quarter and added final 12-9 push in the last period. Five players scored in double digits for the winners. Martynas Paliukenas (195-SF-93) paced all the winners with 20 points and Jogela Tauras nailed 15. Osvaldas Olisevicius (200-PF-93) delivered 12, whilst Kacinas Mindaugas and Vaitkus Ignas notched 10 each. Otar Pkhakadze (190-PG-93) replied with 15 points in the losing effort and Tsirekidze Giorgi as well as Rogava Revaz had 9 each.
Germany - Greece 56-65 Greece earned the second straight win at the start of their U20 European Championship campaign. They knocked down Germany to improve at 2-0 record in Group A. Giannis Antetokounmpo (208-G/F-94, agency: FCM) produced 20 points to lead the Hellenes. Greece held their opponents to 12 points in the opening frame and gained a 14:12 lead. Germany got limited to 4 points in the second stanza. They faced a 16:26 halftime deficit. Germany picked up the tempo in the third period. They trimmed the gap at 8-point mark at the final intermission. But Greece unloaded 21 points in the fourth period to cruise to the victory. Eleftherios Bochoridis (196-PG-94), Michalis Kamperidis and Ioannis Papapetrou chipped in 12 points each for the winners. David Brembly (197-SG-93) responded with 20 points for Germany. Leon Tolksdorf produced 13 points in the loss.
Group B
Ukraine - Sweden 70-76 Sweden tastes the first victory in Tallinn at the U20 European Championship. The Scandinavian team overcame Ukraine 76:70 in the end of the third day for 1-1 record. Ukraine meanwhile fell at 0-3 record. Ukraine looked better in the first quarter and posted a 20-12 lead at the end of the first period. Sweden however took control in the second frame and dominated the rest of the game. Sweden won the second period 24-15 and added 21-16 rally in the third quarter. Both teams scored 19 points each in the last period for the final result. Tobias Borg (184-PG-93) top-scored for the winners with 17 points and Marcus Eriksson (200-SG-93) nailed 16. Spires Nicholas brought 13, whilst Larsson Niklas had 12. Vladyslav Koreniuk (207-C-94) finished the game with 23 points in defeat and Artamonov Klym notched 16. Zagreba Sergiy brought 14 points, while Shundel Anatoliy had 13.
Montenegro - Croatia 79-56 Montenegro registered the second consecutive win at the U20 European Championship. They outgunned Croatia in the Balkan derby in Group B. Montenegro thus improved at 2-0 record, while dropping Croatia at 1-2. Marko Mugosa (198-PF-93) posted 24 points to lead the winners. Montenegro unleashed 26 points in the opening quarter to gain a 3-point lead. They held Croatia to just 9 points in the second frame to ensure a 12-point halftime advantage. Montenegro kept Croatia at distance throughout the third term. They secured a comfortable 21-point buffer before the fourth period. Croatia scored just 12 points in the fourth stanza and had to surrender at the end. Vukota Pavic (203-C-93) nailed 15 points, while Milos Latkovic added 10 points in the victory. Antonio Boban (204-PF-93) answered with 23 points for Croatia. Juraj Segaric dropped 6 points in the loss.
Group C
Latvia - Bulgaria 82-69 Latvia prevail against Bulgaria at the U20 European Championship. Latvia posted an 82:69 win in Group B for 3-0 record. Bulgaria meanwhile fell at 0-2 record. Although Latvia was the favorite of the game, the victory was not that easy for them. Latvia started with 18-16 rally and added 16-14 run in the second frame. Only in the third period Latvia managed to get the comfortable lead. They produced a 25-18 run and then finished with 23-21 rally in the last stanza. Janis Berzins (201-SF-93, agency: Players Group) paced all the winners with 19 points and 10 rebounds, while Vecvagars Kaspars added 17. Ingus Jakovics (186-PG-93, college: Liepaja-2) scored 14 points, while Silins Ojars collected 12 points and 13 rebounds. Pavlin Ivanov (195-SG-93, agency: Beo Basket) finished the game with 20 points in defeat and Stoyanov Nikolay as well as Simeonov Aleks netted 14 each. Dimitrov Dimitar followed the with 7 points in a loss.
Israel - Russia 60-78 Russia claimed the opening win at the U20 European Championship. They fired past Israel to improve at 1-2 record in Group C. Denis Zakharov (193-PG-93) nailed 20 points to lead the winners. Israel suffered the second straight defeat at the tournament. Russia led from the start. They opened the game with six straight points and finished the first quarter up by 7 points 20:13. Russia dominated in the second quarter. They stretched the margin at 17-point mark at halftime 41:24. Israel stopped the rot in the third term. Sharon Drucker team got within 13 points at the final intermission. But it was not enough as Russia went on a 21:16 rally and sealed the victory at the end. Alexander Zakharov (204-F/G-93) provided 14 points, while Maksim Sakharov, Andrey Loginov and Vladislav Trushkin added 10 points each in the win. Igor Mayor (198-SG-93) responded with 16 points for Israel. Tom Maayan chipped in 13 points in the losing effort.
Group D
Estonia - France 44-66 France closed Day 3 with the win over the hosts of the U20 European Championship. The 2012 year Finalist posted a 66:44 win for 2-1 record. Estonia fell at 0-2 record in Group D. France opened the game with 19-13 and led 5 points at the halftime. Estonia managed to score 10 points in the third and the last quarters and it was not enough to compete with the favorites. France won the third period 18-10 and finished the game with 19-10 rally. Livio Jean-Charles (203-PF-93, agency: Beo Basket) led the way with 18 points and 10 rebounds, while Alexandre Chassang (202-PF-94) netted 13. Invernizzi Hugo delivered 11, whilst Howard William added 8. Rauno Nurger (209-C-93) produced 14 points in defeat and Laane Rait-Riivo notched 11. Jurtom Martin chipped in with 6, while Saare Sander had 5 points.
Slovenia - Czech Republic 78-72 Slovenia registered the second victory at the U20 European Championship. They held off Czech Republic to gain 2-1 record in Group D. Ziga Dimec (212-C-93) nailed 24 points and grabbed 7 rebounds to lead the winners. Slovenia and Czech Republic stayed close throughout the opening quarter. Slovenia eked out a 17:15 lead after the starting quarter. They maintained the lead throughout the second frame. They accounted for a 38:34 halftime advantage. Czech Republic turned things around in the third term. They surged ahead to enter the fourth period up by three points 58:55. However Slovenia used a 13:2 run early in the fourth period to take a 70:62 advantage. Tomas Kyzlink (195-SG-93) dragged Czech Republic within two 70:72 with just over two minutes remaining. Gregor Hrovat (196-SG-94) came up with a timely bucket for Slovenia and then Luka Rupnik, Rojc and Tomic sealed the victory for Slovenia. Gregor Hrovat produced 11 points, while Luka Rupnik and Miha Lapornik added 10 points each for Slovenia. Tomas Kyzlink answered with 21 points for Czech Republic. Martin Kriz had 18 points in the loss.
Day 2 in Tallinn - Jul 10, 2013
Group A
Lithuania - Germany 74-62 Lithuania earned the second straight win at the U20 European Championship. They defeated Germany in Group A today. Vaidas Kariniauskas nailed 16 points to lead the charge. Germany got to the better start. Kenneth Ogbe (196-SG-94) and Merz gave them a 14:11 lead at the end of the first quarter. However Lithuania opened the second period on a 9:0 run to surge ahead. Soon Lithuania opened a double digit lead and registered a 34:23 halftime advantage. The Baltic team maintained the lead throughout the third term. Lithuania posted a 50:41 advantage heading into the fourth period. Bogdan Radosavljevic (213-C-93) and Merz dragged Germany within 6 points early in the fourth frame. But Lithuania quickly jumped to an 18-point distance and never looked back en route to the win. Mindaugas Kacinas posted 11 points, while Laimonas Chatkevicius (213-C-93) had 9 points in the victory. Bogdan Radosavljevic answered with 19 points for Germany. Kenneth Ogbe had 9 points in the loss.
Greece - Serbia 79-73 Greece victoriously opened their U20 European Championship campaign. They defeated Serbia in the opener. Ioannis Papapetrou (203-SF-94) had 18 points to lead the Hellenes. Serbia ensured a 20:16 lead after the opening quarter. Ivan Marinkovic (209-PF-93) gave Serbia a 10-point lead midway through the second term. But Greece answered with 11 straight points to jump in front. Eleftherios Bochoridis capped the first half with a three-pointer to give Greece a 38:35 lead. Serbia regained the lead in the third term. Luka Mitrovic made it 55:44 for the Balkan team late in the third term. But Greece were able to trim the deficit at 5 points at the final break 54:59. The Hellenes used a 9:0 run midway through the fourth quarter to take a 68:63 advantage. Andric and Miljenovic put Serbia within one 67:68. But Greece kept it calm in the dying minutes. Giannoulis Larentzakis (195-SG-93, agency: FCM) and Eleftherios Bochoridis sealed the victory for Greece with four late points. Giannoulis Larentzakis nailed 17 points, while Eleftherios Bochoridis added 16 points in the win. Ivan Marinkovic answered with 17 points for Serbia. Luka Mitrovic banked 15 points in defeat.
Group B
Sweden - Turkey 73-80 Turkey posts the second straight win in Tallinn at the U20 European Championship. The team grabbed an 80:73 win against Sweden in Day 2. The Scandinavian team started the campaign with 0-1 record. Both teams scored 20 points each in the first period and added 18 apiece in the second frame. Geyik Samet sent the teams to the lockers at 38:38. Turkey however pushed the tempo for good in the second half and posted two victories. They won the third period 23-19 and finished the game with 19-16 rally. Candan Berkay top-scored for the winners with 25 points and 10 rebounds, while Ramazan Tekin (214-C-93) added 18. Geyik Samet followed them with 13 points in a win. Person Jonathan produced 21 points in defeat, whilst Marcus Eriksson (200-SG-93) notched 14. Borg Tobias scored 13, whilst Dokuyan Ugur and Ahmet Tuncer (193-G-93, agency: 1x1 Sports) added 7 apiece.
Croatia - Ukraine 77-75 OT Croatia needs overtime to beat Ukraine at the U20 European Championship. Croatia improved to 1-1 record after a 77:75 win. After a 73:74 loss from Turkey in Day 1, Croatia had another thriller. They trailed 16:17 after the first period, but posted a 21-10 surge in the second frame. Moreover Croatia added 24-9 burst in the third period and had a 16-point fourth-quarter lead. Ukraine however managed to tie the game at the end of the fourth period but could not win the game. Panduric scored three free throws at the end for the final result. Panduric Luka stepped up with 22 points for the winners and Luka Vlaic (208-PF-93) notched 19. Buovac Matej brought 8, while Marko Ramljak (202-PF-93, agency: Interperformances) added 7. Lutsenko Maksym answered with 24 points in the losing effort and Klym Artamonov (186-PG-93) netted 16. Koreniuk Vladyslav collected 15 points and 11 rebounds, whilst Anatoliy Shundel (194-SG-93) had 12.
Group C
Bulgaria - Spain 64-78 Spain silence Bulgaria in Day 2 of the U20 European Championship. The Spanish side needed a 78:64 win for 2-0 record in Group C. Bulgaria meanwhile started with 0-1 record. Spain were half a step ahead for most of the first half but Bulgaria employed successfully a zone defence to close down the lane, control the battle on the glass and prevent them from ever pulling away. Spain started the game with 17:15 lead and had 4-point advantage at the halftime. The third quarter was decisive in the game as Spain erupted with a 21-11 surge. Bulgaria and Spain notched 19 points each in the last quarter for the final result on the board. Jaime Fernandez (186-G-93) tops-cored for the winners with 21 points and Diez Daniel as well as Suarez Alejandro netted 13 each. Mikel Motos (194-F/G-93, college: Lan Mobel ISB) followed them with 9 points. Ivanov Pavlin nailed 15 points in defeat, whilst Deyan Karamfilov (180-PG-94) delivered 10. Dimitrov Dimitar and Simeonov Aleks brought 7 points each in a loss.
Russia - Latvia 85-89 OT Latvia bend Russia's resistance at the U20 European Championship. The Baltic side needed overtime for a 89:85 victory in Day 2. Latvia improved to 2-0 record, while the Russian team suffered their second straight loss. Latvia took 19:16 lead at the end of the first period, but Russia reduced to 1 point at the halftime. Zakharov scored for 47:44 and then Trushkin Vladislav and Aleksandr Gudumak (203-PF-93) brought 59:58 later in the third period. Latvia dominated the fourth quarter and led 5 points several times. Sokolov Kirill and Komolov Artem tied the game at 75:75, but then Kaspars Vecvagars (193-PG-93) and Jakovics Ingus gave Latvia their last points in overtime. Kaspars Vecvagars top-scored for the winners with 25 points and Berzins Janis netted 19. Jakovics Ingus scored 14, whilst Grazulis Andrejs collected 12 points and 16 rebounds. Trushkin Vladislav answered with 21 points and Komolov Artem scored 14. Aleksandr Gudumak collected 10 points and 14 rebounds, whilst Sokolov Kirill had 10.
Group D
Czech Republic - Italy 75-89 Well-balanced Italy roll over Czech Republic for the second straight win at the U20 European Championship. Six players scored in double digits as Italy celebrated an 89:75 victory. Italy took 23:13 lead in the first period and never looked behind after. Italy added 27-19 rally in the second frame and enjoyed a 50:32 halftime advantage. Czech Republic managed to show their best in the second half and won the last period 21-16. They reduced to final 14 points at the end of the game. Tonut Stefano stepped up with 14 points for the winners and Imbro Matteo netted 13. Eric Lombardi (200-PF-93) delivered 12, whilst Ruzzier Michele had 11. Samuel Faifr (200-PF-93) ended up with 21 points in defeat and Kriz Martin poured in 19. Tomas Kyzlink (195-SG-93) followed them with 18 points in a loss as started the campaign with 0-1 record.
France - Slovenia 61-53 France outpower Slovenia in Tallinn at the second day of the U20 European Championship. The finalist of 2012 year posted a 61:53 win as both teams are tied with 1-1 record. France looked better in the first half and posted two narrow victories. They started the game with 14-10 rally and added 13-12 run in the second period. Slovenia remained alive right after the break and came up with 20-18 run in the third quarter. France however needed a 16-11 finish to seal the initial victory. Jean-Charles Livio stepped up with 18 points and Dallo Boris nailed 13. Hugo Invernizzi (196-SF-93) poured in 11, whilst Mouhammadou Jaiteh (205-C-94, agency: Fusion Sports) collected 10 points and 12 boards. Rupnik Luka answered with 18 points in the losing effort, while Hrovat Gregor and Dimec Ziga netted 8 each.
Day 1 in Tallinn - Jul 9, 2013
Group A
Serbia - Lithuania 64-68 Lithuania edges Serbia in a thriller of the U20 European Championship in Group A. The Baltic side needed a very productive third period for 68:64 win. Serbia opened the game with 4-0 run and had 15:13 at the end of the first period. The team dominated the second quarter and reached 35:27 at the halftime. Lithuania however looked superb in the third quarter and managed to take control of the game. Mindaugas Kacinas (201-F-93) gave his side 42:41 midway through the second frame and Chatkevicius Laimonas brought 51:43. No matter how hard Serbia tried to win the game, Lithuania managed to escape with the narrow victory. Vaidas Kariniauskas (200-PG-93) top-scored for the winners with 23 points and Chatkevicius Laimonas notched 13. Olisevicius Osvaldas added 10, whilst Mindaugas Kacinas netted 6. Mitrovic Luka answered with 20 points and 10 rebounds, while Avramovic Sasa and Marinkovic Ivan had 10 each. Krstic Nemanja poured in 9 points in a loss.
Germany - Georgia 89-75 Germany beat Georgia in Group A opener of the U20 European Championship. The German side started with 89:75 win for the first victory. Tolksdorf Leon and Rogava Revaz scored the first baskets for the teams as Germany grabbed 23:15 at the end of the first period. They also won the second frame 24:14 and led 18 points at the halftime. Moreover Germany posted a 23-22 rally in the third quarter, but Georgia replied with 24-19 in the last stanza. Tsirekidze and Valeri Kvantaliani (204-C/F-94) scored the last points for Georgia to reduce to final 14 points. Bogdan Radosavljevic (211-C-93) paced all the winners with 25 points and Brase Hans netted 16. Ogbe Kenneth delivered 15 points, while Tolksdorf Leon had 14. Irakli Mikeladze (182-PG-94) finished the game with 19 points in defeat, whilst Valeri Kvantaliani notched 15. Rogava Revaz and Jintcharadze Kakhaber added 10 points in a loss.
Group B
Ukraine - Montenegro 58-83 Marko Mugosa (195-F-93) and Pavic Vukota combined for 52 points against Ukraine at the U20 European Championship. They helped Montenegro to win the game 83:58 in Day 1. Ukraine led also three times in the opening tip of the game. Trailing 4:6, Montenegro however erupted with a 9-0 run and grabbed 13:4 lead after Pavic Vukota's shot. Later Marko Mugosa closed the frame at 18:10 as his team continued their dominance in the rest of the game. Montenegro added 22-21 in the second period and led 9 points at the halftime. Moreover Montenegro won the third quarter 21-12 and finished the game with 22-15 rally. Marko Mugosa paced all the winners with 30 points and Pavic Vukota nailed 22. Masan Vrbica (190-G-94) delivered 8, while Mikovic Milija notched 7. Klym Artamonov (183-PG-93), Zagreba Sergiy and Furs Oleksandr brought 10 points each in the losing effort.
Turkey - Croatia 74-73 Ahmet Tuncer (193-G-93, agency: 1x1 Sports) brings Turkey the win over Croatia in one of the best games of the U20 European Championship Day 1. He drilled a jump-shot with five seconds on the clock to give his team a 74:73 win over Croatia. Turkey had an east start and enjoyed a 23:14 lead at the end of the first period. Croatia however replied immediately with a 20-13 surge and trailed 34:36 at the halftime. Turkey played again in the start of the third period and reached 54:45 after Dokuyan's shot. Croatia meanwhile created a 9-0 run to tie the game at 54:54 at the end of the third period. Both teams exchanged the lead several times in the last stanza, but Ahmet Tuncer brought Turkey the win over Croatia. Berkay Candan (204-F-93) led the way with 17 points and Erbil Eroglu (195-PG-93) netted 14. Tuncer Ahmet delivered 11, whilst Tekin Ramazan posted 7. Buovac Matej answered with 20 points in the losing effort and Marko Ramljak (201-PF-93, agency: Interperformances) as well as Samac delivered 13 points each. Sirko Henrik followed them with 11 points.
Group C
Latvia - Israel 87-59 Latvia victoriously opened their U20 European Championship campaign. They fired past Israel in Group C. Ingus Jakovics (185-PG-93, college: Liepaja-2) nailed 26 points to lead the effort. Latvia overcame a 4:12 start to the game to snatch a 20:18 lead at the first break. They stretched the gap in the second period. Latvia accumulated a 41:36 halftime advantage. The Baltic team opened the second half on a 12:2 run to spur ahead. Latvia arrived at the final intermission up by as many as 19 points 64:45. Latvia kept their opponents at bay throughout the fourth frame cruising to the victory. Kaspars Vecvagars (193-PG-93) chipped in 17 points, while Janis Berzins (202-F-93, agency: Players Group) added 15 points for Latvia. Tom Maayan responded with 14 points for Israel. Or Solomon had 9 points and 11 boards in the loss.
Spain - Russia 76-54 Spain recorded the first win at the U20 European Championship. They knocked down Russia in Group C opener. Daniel Diez stepped up with 23 points to pace the winners. Spain unloaded 27 points in the opening quarter to gain a 12-point lead. Russia slowed their opponents down in the second frame. They cut the deficit at 7-point mark at halftime 37:30. But Spain did not allow their counterparts to get any closer in the third term. The Spanish team built a 14-point lead before the fourth frame. They dominated throughout the final period and sealed the victory at the end. Jaime Fernandez (187-G-93) notched 14 points, while Sebastian Saiz added 10 points for the winning side. Aleksandr Gudumak answered with 15 points for Russia. Artem Komolov (194-SF-93) netted 11 points in the losing effort.
Group D
Slovenia - Estonia 79-69 Slovenia opened win count at the U20 European Championship. They upset the fans in Tallinn by beating their favourites at the start of the tournament. Miha Lapornik (192-G-93) notched 21 points and 8 rebounds to lead Slovenia. Estonia ensured a brave start to the game. They poured in 25 points in the first period to take a 5-point lead. But Slovenia responded with a 27-point outburst in the second frame to snatch a 47:45 halftime lead. The visitors maintained the advantage throughout the third period. Slovenia accounted for a 64:60 lead before the fourth quarter. Estonia however scored just 9 points in the final frame and gave up the victory. Gregor Hrovat (196-G-94) had 17 points, while Matej Rojc added 12 points for the winning side. Martin Paasoja and Rait-Riivo Laane (182-PG-93) responded with 12 points apiece for Estonia.
Italy - France 76-70 Italy enjoyed the winning start to their U20 European Championship endeavor. They shot down France in Group D opener. Marco Lagana (195-G-93) nailed 16 points to lead the Azzurri. France seemed well in control in the opening quarter. They grabbed a 26:17 lead after ten minutes. But Italy gradually came back into the contest. They narrowed the gap at 6-point mark at halftime 36:42. The Azzurri denied the deficit at the third term. The teams were knotted up at 54 heading into the fourth period. Italy Marco Lagana and Imbro gave the Azzurri a 68:62 lead with under four minutes remaining. They protected it well throughout the reminder of the contest and sealed the win at the end. Awudu Abass notched 13 points, while Eric Lombardi and Matteo Chillo (202-PF-93) had 11 points each for the winners. Mouhammadou Jaiteh (206-C-94, agency: Fusion Sports) and Hugo Invernizzi answered with 15 points each for France. Livio Jean-Charles had 14 points in the loss.
Division B: Poland triumphs in Pitesti - Jul 21, 2013
FINAL
United Kingdom - Poland 71-83 Poland clinch Division B title at the U20 European Championship. The Polish side overcame United Kingdom 83:71 in the Final game. Both teams advanced to Division A for the next year. Both teams met each other in the same group at the start of the tournament when United Kingdom posted the win. This time Poland looked better and started with 23:18 lead. United Kingdom managed to tie the score at the halftime, while the second half belonged again to Poland. The latter posted a 20-11 surge in the third period and then won the last stanza 21-18. Grochowski Grzegorz top-scored for the winners with 23 points and Przemyslaw Karnowski (216-C-93) collected 13 points and 16 rebounds. Ponitka Mateusz brought 13, while Michalak Michal had 12. Devon Van Oostrum (190-G-93) erupted with 29 points in the losing effort and Nick Lewis (190-G-93) nailed 8. Graham Rowell, Stewart John and Thomas-Edwards Raphell added 7 points in a loss.
Group 3rd place
Hungary - Belgium 70-69 Hungary surprise Belgium for the third place at the U20 European Championship. The Hungarian side grabbed a 70:69 win in the game for the third place at the U18 European Championship in Division B. Belgium won the first five games, but lost last two to finish 4th. Hungary won the first period 24-13 and led 11 points at the halftime. Belgium did everything they could to win the game but managed only to reduce to 1 point. Hazard and Mollekens Arno reduced to 63:58 and then the latter made two free throws for 65:62. Laszlo Polyak (191-PG-93, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) nailed three for 70:65 and Vlamynck replied with the final shot in the game. Markovic Luka top-scored for the winners with 27 points and Rosco Allen (216-PF-93) netted 18. Kovacs Adam delivered 13, while Laszlo Polyak netted 6. Emmanuel Lecomte (175-PG-95) answered with 20 points in the losing effort and Mollekens Arno netted 13. Schoepen Yoeri brought 11 and Hazard Louis had 7.
5-6 places
Switzerland - Portugal 68-74 Portugal clinch 5th place in Pitesti at the U20 European Championship. The team overcame Switzerland 74:68 in Division B. Portugal grabbed 27:14 lead at the end of the first period and added 21-19 rally in the second frame. After 17-17 in the third period the board showed 65:50 for the winners. Switzerland however did not give up and responded with a late 18-9 surge. Lehmann made two free throws for the final 74:68 result. Cardoso Miguel and Pedro Bastos (186-PG-94) stepped up with 15 points each, while Artur Castela (200-C/F-93) nailed 13. Correia de Sa Emanuel collected 10 points and 10 rebounds. Dusan Mladjan (198-SG-86, agency: Beo Basket) answered with 18 points and 14 rebounds in defeat, whilst Kostic Branislav had 14. Hoxha Arben netted 10, while Affolter Christian brought 9.
7-8 places
Holland - Romania 62-71 Romania ensure the last win at the U20 European Championship. The hosts outscored Holland 71:62 in the game for 7-8 places. Holland upset the hosts with 23-12 lead in the first period, but Romania erupted with an 18-6 surge in the second frame for 30:29 halftime advantage. Again Holland won the third period 17-13, but the host needed massive 28-16 run in the last period to seal the victory. Romania produced a 14-0 run midway through the last stanza to take 57:52 lead. Stoicoviciu and Bouwknecht exchanged the free throws at the end for the final result. Alexandru Olah (213-C-93) top-scored for the winners with 16 points and 10 rebounds, while Stoicoviciu Vlad added 15. Adrian Movileanu (195-F-93) scored 11 and Damian Andrei had 10. Hidde Arjans Vos ended up with 13 points and Dexter Hope (185-PG-93) added 12. Bleeker Kevin collected 10 points and 13 rebounds, whilst Roel Aarts (201-PF-93) also scored 10.
9-12 places
Luxembourg - Slovakia 67-68 Slovakia escaped with the narrow win over Luxembourg in their last game at the U20 European Championship in Division B. The Slovakian side posted a 68:67 win to finish on the 9th spot. Luxembourg dropped to the 12th position. Luxembourg surprised the opponents with 23-15 lead and managed to win also the third period 30-21. Slovakia however enjoyed a 15-8 rally in the second period and finished the game with 17-6 burst in the last stanza. Trailing 62:67 with 5 minutes to go, Slovakia did not allow Luxembourg to score in the rest of the game and created a 6-0 run to win the game. Vladimir Brodziansky (206-PF-94) led the way with 17 points and 14 rebounds, while Dedecek Viktor had 14. Jakub Novysedlak (188-PG-93) brought 13, while Tot Oliver had 9. Alex Laurent (196-PF-93) answered with 26 points and 12 rebounds, while Ittenbach Chris added 17. Melcher Bob notched 8 and Martin Raphael posted 7.
Finland - Cyprus 66-57 Finland finished 10th after the win over Cyprus at the U20 European Championship. The Nordic side finished the tournament with a 66:57 win, while Cyprus ended up on the 11th spot. Cyprus won the first period 15-12, but failed in the second frame. The Finnish side erupted with a 22-6 surge to take 3:21 lead at the halftime after a Kauppinen shot. Cyprus however was too far to give up and grabbed 41:39 lead after a massive run. Finland meanwhile closed the quarter with a 9-0 run and took 50:45 advantage. Finland added 16-12 rally in the last stanza to seal the victory. Joonas Lehtoranta (194-SG-94) top-scored for the winners with 21 points and Topias Palmi (190-SG-94) as well as Dolenc Daniel had 9 each. Mantovani Roberto Alexander ended up with 17 points and 15 rebounds in defeat and Viktoras Ieronymidis (200-G/F-95) had 15. Iliadis Stefanos scored 9 points and Antoniou Symeon chipped in with 6.
United Kingdom and Poland earn Division A promotion - Jul 20, 2013
SEMIFINAL
Belgium - Poland 46-57 Poland seal promotion to Division A at the U20 European Championship. The team overcame Belgium 57:46 in the Semifinal clash and reached the Final game in Division B. Tomorrow Poland will take on United Kingdom. Belgium entered the game undefeated, but lost the first period 13:24. Poland added also 16-7 rally in the second period for 40:20 halftime advantage. Belgium tried to recover with the victories in the second half. They won the third period 12-10 and finished the game with 14-7 burst. It was enough however to reduce to final 57:46 result. Gielo Tomasz paced all the winners with 16 points and Przemyslaw Karnowski (216-C-93) collected 13 points and 16 rebounds. Ponitka Mateusz scored 10 and Bonarek Lukasz added 8. Emmanuel Lecomte (175-PG-95) delivered 18 points in the losing effort and Louis Hazard (199-F-94) as well as Vlamynck Glenn added 6 apiece.
United Kingdom - Hungary 70-61 United Kingdom enter the Final game at the U20 European Championship in Division B. They remained undefeated at the tournament with the 70:61 win over Hungary at the Semifinal clash. Tomorrow United Kingdom will take on Poland in the Final game. United Kingdom started the game with 24:17 lead and enjoyed 6-point lead at the halftime. Hungary shocked the opponents with an 18-10 surge in the third period and took the lead with 10 minutes to go. United Kingdom however needed a 21-10 burst to reach the Final game. Devon Van Oostrum (190-G-93) top-scored for the winners with 22 points and Lewis Nick as well as Raphell Thomas-Edwards (198-F-93) brought 12 each. Markovic Luka scored 20 points in the losing effort. Kovacs Adam netted 14, while Rosco Allen (216-PF-93) posted 7.
5-8 places
Romania - Portugal 59-80 Portugal beat the hosts in Pitesti at the Classification Round of the U20 European Championship in Division B. Portugal needed an 80:59 win to face Switzerland tomorrow in the game for the 5th place. Romania meanwhile will take on Holland in the game for 7-8 places. Portugal grabbed 17:16 lead at the end of the first period and added 19-16 rally in the second frame. Romania tried hard, but failed in the second half and could not catch up with the opponents. Portugal won the third period 19-8 and finished the game with 25-19 run. Cardoso Miguel top-scored for the winners with 18 points and Joao Grosso (196-F-94) nailed 15. Correia de Sa, Emanuel scored 10, whilst Diogo Ventura (189-PG-94) and Callenbach Jonah had 8 each. Alexandru Olah (213-C-93) answered with 16 points in the losing effort and Andrei Damian (192-SG-94) had 11. Filip Ioan and Stoicoviciu Vlad ended up with 10 points each in a loss.
Holland - Switzerland 48-59 Mladjan Dusan leads Switzerland over Holland at the Classification Round of the U20 European Championship in Division B. He collected 15 points and 16 rebounds as the Swiss side posted a 59:48 win. Switzerland will take on Portugal in the game for the 5th place tonight. Holland will play against Romania in the game for 7-8 places. Holland started the game with 16:11 lead but could not stay tough in the rest of the game. Switzerland replied with a 12-9 rally and finished the game with massive 26-10 surge. Lehmann Marco scored 10 points and Affolter Christian delivered 8 in a win. Patrik Hauri (195-PF-93) followed them with 7 points. Yannick Van Der Ark (193-G/F-93) answered with 17 points in the losing effort and Roel Aarts (201-PF-93) scored 9. Maarten Bouwknecht (185-PG-94) posted 6 points in a loss.
9-12 places
Cyprus - Slovakia 56-85 Slovakia edge Cyprus in Pitesti at the U20 European Championship in Division B. Slovakia posted an 85:56 victory at the Classification Round for 9-12 places. Slovakia erupted with 25:6 surge in the first period and never looked behind after. They added massive 22-11 rally in the second period and had 47:17 halftime advantage. Rafael Eleftheriou (200-G-94) and Cekovsky Michal exchanged the successful shots early in the third period, while Slovakia managed to win the period 18-17. Cyprus replied with 22-20 run in the last stanza and reduced to final 65:56 result. Cekovsky Michal top-scored for the winners with 17 points and 16 rebounds and Michalek Vladimir added 16. Novysedlak Jakub and Brodziansky Vladimir delivered 14 points each. Rafael Eleftheriou replied with 20 points in the losing effort and Dimitris Aristotelous (187-PG-94) scored 9. Markou Panagiotis and Iliadis Stefanos chipped in with 8 points each in a loss.
Finland - Luxembourg 112-52 Palmi Topias erupted with 60 points against Luxembourg at the U20 European Championship in Division B. His Finland left no chance for the opponent in a 112:52 win. It was the show of one player. Palmi Topias scored 23 shots including 12 three-pointers. Finland won the first period 26-11 and added massive 25-16 rally in the second frame. Moreover Finland won the third period 25-14 and erupted with 36-11 surge in the last stanza. Lehtoranta Joonas scored 20 points and Rajala Julius collected 12 points and 12 rebounds. Tommi Huolila (198-PF-93) followed them with 4 points in a win. Bob Melcher (189-G-94) replied with 19 points in the losing effort. Alex Laurent (196-PF-93) and Ittenbach Chris delivered 8 points each in a loss.
The End of Preliminary Round in Pitesti - Jul 17, 2013
Group A
Romania - Luxembourg 72-69 Romania takes the last ticket to the Quarterfinals as they beat Luxembourg at the U20 European Championship in Division B. The hosts grabbed valuable 72:69 win in the last game of the Group Stage. It was the game for the second victory at the tournament and the last ticket to the next stage. Luxembourg started the game with 16:9 lead, but Romania replied with a 27-16 surge. Again Luxembourg looked better in the third quarter and managed to grab 1-point lead after 30 minutes. Gilles Polfer (188-SG-93) nailed three for 58:57 after three quarters. Again Gilles Polfer and then Alex Laurent (196-PF-93) scored for 64:59, but Luxembourg could not upset the hosts. Romania made the final push and sealed the necessary win. Movileanu Adrian top-scored for the winners with 21 points and Alexandru Olah (213-C-93) collected 18 points and 22 rebounds. Cristiean Horia followed them with 8 points in a win. Alex Laurent erupted with 30 points in the losing effort and Melcher Bob nailed 13. Gilles Polfer scored 11 and Mersch Steven brought 5.
Hungary - United Kingdom 60-65 United Kingdom advanced to the quarterfinals with the perfect record at the U20 European Championship in Division B. They overcame Hungary 65:60 to finish the group with a 5-0 record. Hungary meanwhile finished third in the group with 3-2 record. Hungary surprised the group leader with a 20-13 start, but could not keep the lead for a long time. United Kingdom replied with a 22-8 surge to take 35:28 advantage after a Devon Van Oostrum (190-G-93) shot. United Kingdom added 21-16 rally in the third period and led 56:44 after 30 minutes. Hungary closed the game with a 16-9 surge to reduce to final 5 points. Devon Van Oostrum top-scored for the winners with 26 points and Hart Joe netted 11. Thomas-Edwards Raphell posted 9, while Lewis Nick added 6. Luka Markovic (197-F/G-93) notched 15 points in the losing effort and Allen Rosco had 13. Adam Kovacs (200-G/F-93, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) scored 10, while Czinger Zoltan notched 7.
Slovakia - Poland 64-89 Poland secure the win over Slovakia in the start of Day 5 at the U20 European Championship in Division B. Poland improved to 4-1 record after an 89:64 win. Poland started the game with 21:16 lead and added massive 31-16 in the second frame. Moreover Poland posted a 21-13 rally in the third period as Bonarek nailed three for 73:43. Viktor Juricek (208-F-93) reduced to 73L45 early in the last stanza and Novysedlak made two free throws for 74:49. Michalak Michal and Borowski however made sure Poland celebrated an easy victory at the end. Michalak Michal top-scored for the winners with 19 points, while Karnowsk Przemyslaw collected 17 points and 13 rebounds. Gielo Tomasz brought 12 and Matczak Filip nailed 9. Vladimir Brodziansky (206-PF-94) answered with 17 points in defeat and Viktor Juricek had 16. Cekovsky Michal collected 11 points and 11 rebounds in defeat.
Group B
Holland - Switzerland 65-74 Switzerland rout Holland, both head to the Quarterfinals at the U20 European Championship in Division B. The Swiss side posted a 74:65 victory to finish second with 3-2 record. Holland finished the group with 2-3 record on the fourth place. Switzerland opened the game with 13-12 rally and added 20-19 rally in the second frame. The third quarter was decisive in the game and gave the Swiss side a 29-15 surge and led 16 points after 30 minutes of the game. Holland answered with 19-12 rally at the end and reduced to 9 final points. Dusan Mladjan (198-SG-86, agency: Beo Basket) stepped up with 23 points and Daniel Andjelkovic (200-PF-94) notched 17. Lehmann Marco posted 11, while Kostic Branislav had 9. Yannick Van Der Ark answered with 16 points and Olaf Schaftenaar (206-C-93) as well as Bleeker Kevin had 9 each. Averink Kasper and Bouwknecht Maarten ended up with 8 points apiece.
Belgium - Finland 70-61 Belgium wins Group B with a perfect 5-0 record. The team overcame Finland 70:61 and advanced to the Quarterfinals. The latter finished with 1-4 record and will play at the Classification Round. Belgium won the first period 16:14, but the Finnish team tied the game at the halftime. The third period became decisive in the game as Belgium needed a 21-12 to seal the victory. Both teams netted 17 points each in the final period for the final result. Vlamynck Glenn paced all the winners with 14 points and Lecomte Emmanuel had 12 points and 10 assists. Francois Xavier-Robert netted 10, while Yoeri Schoepen (196-C-94) added 8. Caven Joonas delivered 23 points in the losing effort and Rajala Julius brought 12. Lehtoranta Joonas had 8 points and Joni Herrala (191-G-94) chipped in with 6.
Portugal - Cyprus 75-70 Portugal advanced to the 1/4 Finals with the win over Cyprus at the U20 European Championship in Division B. The team needed a 75:70 win for 3-2 record on the third place. Cyprus meanwhile finished the group with 1-4 record and will play at the Classification Round. Both teams scored 18 points in the first period and then Portugal took 2-point lead at the halftime after a 23-21 rally in the second frame. Cyprus answered with a 15-12 run in the third period as Roberto Alexander Mantovani (200-F-94) gave his team 54:53 lead after 30 minutes. Rafael Eleftheriou (200-G-94) kept Cyprus in front at 68:67, while Portugal pushed the tempo at the end to seal the victory. Bastos Pedro stepped up with 17 points for the winners and Piedade Henrique as well as Cardoso Miguel had 11 each. Joao Ribeiro (201-PF-93) followed them with 9 points in a win. Iliadis Stefanos erupted with 31 points in defeat and Roberto Alexander Mantovani had 16 points and 14 rebounds. Rafael Eleftheriou delivered 9 points in a loss.
Division B: Day 4 in Pitesti - Jul 16, 2013
Group A
Hungary - Romania 65-53 Hungary beat the hosts in Day 4 of the U20 European Championship in Division B. The Hungarian side improved to 3-1 record in Group A after a 65:53 win over Romania. The hosts meanwhile fell at 1-3 record. Pitesti saw an early push of the home side as Romania won the first period 21:15. Hungary meanwhile dominated the rest of the game and posted three victories in three other quarters. Luka Markovic (197-F/G-93) tied the game at 25:25 and Allen Rosco gave Hungary 34:32 halftime advantage. Trailing 38:42 with 5 minutes to go in the third period, Hungary kept the hosts scoreless until the end of the quarter and finished the frame with a 9-0 run. Luka Markovic brought 51:42 early in the last stanza and then Hungary managed to keep the victory. Allen Rosco top-scored for the winners with 15 points and 16 rebounds, while Luka Markovic netted 14. Dobos Laszlo collected 8 points and 12 rebounds, while Marton Varga (205-F/C-94) also scored 8. Olah Alexandru answered with 17 points in the losing effort. Stoicoviciu Vlad had 13 points and 10 rebounds, while Lazar Mario notched 7.
United Kingdom - Poland 83-74 Devon Van Oostrum (190-G-93) nailed 37 points to keep Great Britain undefeated at the U20 European Championship in Division B. Great Britain beat Poland 83:74 for 4-0 record. Poland meanwhile suffered their first loss and dropped at 3-1 record. Both teams entered the game undefeated and desired to add another victory. Poland won the first period 27:24, but Great Britain needed a 27-15 surge in the second frame to take 51:42 halftime advantage. Poland managed to win the third period as Trojan reduced to 58:56 after three quarters. Mateusz Ponitka (196-G/F-93) and Karolak gave Poland 64:63 lead, but their teams could not post the victory. Nick Lewis (190-G-93) scored 20 points and Hart Joe nailed 11. Wells Zak followed them with 6 points. Mateusz Ponitka finished the game with 23 points and 10 rebounds, while Przemyslaw Karnowski (216-C-93) collected 20 points and 13 rebounds. Kowalczyk Sebastian and Gielo Tomasz scored 6 points each.
Luxembourg - Slovakia 62-51 Luxembourg keep Slovakia winless at the U20 European Championship. Luxembourg earned the initial 62:51 win in Pitesti and improved to 1-3 record. Slovakia meanwhile fell at 0-4 record. Both teams entered the game winless and desired the initial win. Slovak Republic opened the game with 20:18 lead and added 12-8 rally in the second frame. Luxembourg however dominated the second half and posted two important victories. They won the third period 15-9 and finished the game with 21-10 run. Laurent Alex top-scored for the winners with 20 points and Welter Tom netted 18. Gilles Polfer (188-SG-93) and Melcher Bob scored 8 points each. Michal Cekovsky (210-F-94) ended up with 12 points and 11 rebounds, while Peter Mesarc (193-F-93) had 8. Tot Oliver and Vladimir Brodziansky (206-PF-94) brought 6 points each in a win.
Group B
Switzerland - Finland 94-88 Switzerland sneak past Finland in Pitesti at the U20 European Championship in Division B. The Swiss side improved to 2-2 record after a 94:88 overtime victory. Finland already fell at 1-3 record in Group B. Finland looked better in the first half and won first two quarters. At first Finland posted a 20:17 lead and then added a 27-23 rally. Switzerland needed a 24-19 come back in the third quarter and posted a 16-14 rally in the fourth period. Due to 14-8 in overtime Switzerland posted the second win at the tournament. Mladjan Dusan and Andjelkovic Daniel combined for 50 points and 24 rebounds. Arben Hoxha (182-PG-94) netted 14 and Marco Lehmann (185-SG-93) scored 10. Joonas Caven (211-C/F-93) answered with 34 points in the losing effort and Lehtoranta Joonas netted 25. Julius Rajala (205-PF-94) collected 12 points and 16 rebounds, whilst Huolila Tommi had 12.
Cyprus - Belgium 59-66 Belgium keep the winning streak at the U20 European Championship in Division B. The team improved to 4-0 record in Group B after a 66:59 win over Cyprus. The latter fell at 1-3 record. Belgium was the favorite of the game and proved it with 17-11 lead in the first period. They added massive 22-7 in the second frame and enjoyed a 39:18 halftime advantage. Cyprus replied with a 10-0 run early in the third period as Stefanos Iliadis (185-PG-94) nailed three for 39:28. Antoniou later closed the frame at 46:38. Cyprus tried hard to come closer to the group-leader but managed to reduce to only 7 points. Hazard Louis stepped up with 15 points for the winners and Lecomte Emmanuel collected 14 points and 10 rebounds. El Mahsini Yassine scored 13, whilst Pretto Maxime added 6. Stefanos Iliadis answered with 20 points in defeat, while Eleftheriou Rafael, Viktoras Ieronymidis (200-G/F-95) and Mantovani Roberto Alexander netted 10 apiece.
Holland - Portugal 63-72 Portugal beat Holland to tie both records at 2-2 at the U20 European Championship in Division B. The Portuguese team grabbed a 72:63 win in Pitesti. Portugal won the first period 23:19 and added massive 26-14 rally in the second frame. No matter how hard the Dutch team tried to recover they could not catch up with the opponents. Holland won the third period 13-11 and finished the game with 17-12 run. Portugal led 20 points with less than 5 minutes to go, but Holland closed the game with a 9-0 run for the final result. Bastos Pedro top-scored for the winners with 15 points and Henrique Piedade (189-SF-94) as well as Ribeiro Joao had 12 each. Jonah Callenbach (194-F/G-93) followed them with 10 points. Yannick Van Der Ark and Dexter Hope (185-PG-93) scored 13 points each in defeat, while Kevin Bleeker (208-C-93) had 10. Aarts Roel scored 9 points for the Dutch side.
Division B: Day 3 in Pitesti - Jul 14, 2013
Group A
Romania - United Kingdom 43-99 United Kingdom takes 3-0 record in Group A of the U20 European Championship in Division B. They posted a 99:43 win against Romania to remain perfect in Pitesti. The hosts meanwhile dropped at 1-2 record. United Kingdom opened the game with a 22:10 lead and never looked behind. The guests managed to win all the quarters as they added 31-7 surge in the second period. United Kingdom posted a 21-14 rally in the third period and finished the game with 25-12 burst. Devon Van Oostrum (190-G-93) top-scored for the winners with 19 points and Raphell Thomas-Edwards (198-F-93) collected 14 points and 14 rebounds. Nick Lewis (190-G-93) also scored 14, while Hart Joe had 12.
Slovakia - Hungary 63-79 Hungary registered the second win at the U20 European Championship in Division B. They fired past Slovak Republic to improve at 2-1 record in Group A. Slovak Republic slipped at 0-3 record after the loss. Hungary set the tone early in the game. They went on a 23:17 run in the first period. Hungary maintained the advantage throughout the second frame. They ensured a 41:33 halftime buffer. Things got just worse for Slovak Republic in the third period. They faced a massive 15-point deficit at the final break. Hungary limited their opponents to 14 points in the fourth stanza and sealed the win at the end. Rosco Allen (216-PF-93) netted 15 points and grabbed 9 rebounds for the winners. Luka Markovic (197-F/G-93) and Laszlo Dobos added 14 points each for Hungary. Slovak Republic answered with 22 points from Viktor Juricek (208-F-93). Oliver Tot netted 13 points in the loss.
Poland - Luxembourg 84-34 Poland grabbed the third consecutive victory at the U20 European Championship in Division B. They rallied past Luxembourg to stay on top of Group A. Przemyslaw Karnowski posted 18 points and 11 rebounds to lead the winners. Luxembourg fell at 0-3 record after the defeat. Poland unloaded 26 points in the first ten minutes to take a 13-point lead. They stretched the margin in the second quarter. Poland accumulated a 45:23 halftime advantage. They kept Luxembourg at bay throughout the third term. Poland piled up a 69:29 advantage before the fourth frame. They limited Luxembourg to 5 points in the final stanza and cruised to the victory. Mateusz Ponitka (196-G/F-93) chipped in 14 points, while Filip Matczak (186-PG-93) dropped 10 points in the winning case. Alex Laurent (196-PF-93) responded with 10 points and 9 rebounds for Luxembourg. Tom Welter and Chris Ittenbach (188-G/F-87) had 5 points each in the loss.
Group B
Belgium - Holland 72-59 Belgium closed Day 3 with the win over Holland at the U20 European Championship in Division B. Belgium improved to 3-0 record after a 72:59 win. The Dutch side meanwhile suffered their first loss and dropped at 2-1 record. It was the top game in the group as both teams entered the game undefeated. They both scored 17 points in the first period, but then Belgium needed a 22-11 surge to take 11-point halftime advantage. Moreover Belgium posted two narrow victories in the second half. Belgium won the third period 14013 and added 19-18 rally in the end. Emmanuel Lecomte (175-PG-95) stepped up with 21 points and Schoepen Yoeri nailed 12. Arno Mollekens (195-PF-94) brought 10, whilst Hazard Louis notched 8. Olaf Schaftenaar (206-C-93) finished the night with 20 points, while Arjans Vos Hidde had 9. Hope Dexter brought 8 and Tonjann Torben chipped in with 7.
Portugal - Switzerland 70-90 Switzerland surprise Portugal in Day 3 of the U20 European Championship in Division B. The Swiss side won 90:70 as both teams are now with 1-2 records in Group B. Portugal appeared stronger and won the first period 20:14. The Swiss side however replied with the same 20-14 rally in the second quarter and tied the game at the halftime. Portugal won again the third period 26-24 as Ventura closed the third period at 60:58. The last quarter was dominated by Switzerland that erupted with 32-10 push for the final success. Hoxha Arben stepped up with 19 points and Mladjan Dusan netted 17. Affolter Christian brought 16, while Daniel Andjelkovic (200-PF-94) added 14. Ribeiro Joao and Miguel Cardoso (185-PG-93) replied with 13 points in the losing effort and Castela Artur had 11. Pedro Bastos (186-PG-94) followed them with 9 points in a loss.
Finland - Cyprus 82-37 Finland edge Cyprus in Pitesti at the U20 European Championship in Division B. The Nordic team won over the opponents 82:37 to tie both records at 1-2. Finland looked outstanding in the game and managed to post their first victory at the tournament. They started the game with 17-9 lead and added 20-7 rally in the second frame. Moreover Finland had 18-13 run in the third quarter and finished the game with 27-8 surge in the last stanza. Clement made the last shot for the winners in the game. Caven Joonas stepped up with 16 points and Joonas Lehtoranta (194-SG-94) netted 15. Huolila Tommi collected 13 points and 11 rebounds in defeat, whilst Topias Palmi (190-SG-94) brought 10. Georgiou Marios scored 8 points in the losing effort and Mantovani Roberto Alexander had 7.
Division B: Day 2 in Pitesti - Jul 13, 2013
Group A
Romania - Slovakia 78-62 The hosts edged Slovakia in Pitesti at the U20 European Championship in Division B. Romania registered their first 78:62 win in Day 2. Slovakia meanwhile fell at 0-2 record in Group A. Slovakia upset the hosts with the first 4 points in the game, but Romania won the first period 25:15. They added 22-13 rally in the second frame as Damian Andrei closed the half at 47:28. Slovakia reduced dramatically in the third period and cut it to 12 points with a minute to go in the quarter. Romania meanwhile made the final push in the last period and sealed the victory. Alexandru Olah (213-C-93) stepped up with 21 points, while Filip Ioan collected 14 points and 11 rebounds. Damian Andrei netted 11 and Movileanu Adrian brought 8. Cekovsky Michal finished the game with 13 points in defeat and Viktor Juricek (208-F-93) notched 12. Tot Oliver and Vladimir Brodziansky (206-PF-94) produced 11 points each in a loss.
Hungary - Poland 53-80 Poland outscore Hungary for the second win at the U20 European Championship in Division B. Poland grabbed an 80:53 victory for 2-0 record in Group A. Hungary fell at 1-1 record as they suffered their first loss. Both teams won their openers last night and hoped to improve their record. Poland started with 19-17 and added 24-15 rally in the second frame. Moreover Poland dominated the second half as well and posted two comfortable victories. They won the third quarter 20-7 and finished the game with 17-14 run. Ponitka Mateusz paced all the winners with 18 points and Przemyslaw Karnowski (216-C-93) collected 13 points and 12 rebounds. Matczak Filip netted 12, while Borowski Kacper added 10. Rosco Allen (216-PF-93) ended up with 11 points in a loss and Markovic Luka as well as Adam Kovacs (200-G/F-93, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) posted 9 each. Polyak Laszlo finished the game with 7 points in a loss.
United Kingdom - Luxembourg 106-92 United Kingdom reached the second straight win in Pitesti at the U20 European Championship in Division B. United Kingdom won over Luxembourg 106:92 in an offensive game. The game remained carousel. At first United Kingdom won the first period 33:18 and then the opponents replied with a 32-15 surge. United Kingdom again looked better in the third period and added 32-23 burst for 80:73 advantage. Moreover they needed a 26-19 rally in the last stanza to seal the victory. Lewis Nick top-scored for the winners with 23 points and Devon Van Oostrum as well as Joe Hart (194-G/F-93) had 18 each. Raphell Thomas-Edwards (198-F-93) collected 17 points and 15 rebounds for them. Laurent Alex replied with 29 points and 11 boards in a loss, while Tom Welter (184-G-93) netted 22. Polfer Gilles poured in 20 and Melcher Bob notched 12.
Group B
Portugal - Belgium 68-70 Lecomte Emmanuel erupts for Belgium second win at the U20 European Championship in Division B. He nailed 28 points as his team escaped with a 70:68 win over Portugal. The latter fell at 1-1 record in Group B. Portugal surprised the opponents with 25:15 lead in the first period. Portugal led 7 points at the halftime, but could not win the game. Belgium pushed the tempo for good in the second half and posted two narrow victories. They won the third period 13-9 and clinched a 24-19 run in the last stanza. Belgium led 7 points with 2 minutes to go, but was happy to win by 2 points. Maxime Pretto (192-SG-94) and Francois Xavier-Robert scored 11 points each as the latter also grabbed 15 rebounds. Mollekens Arno followed them with 9 points in a win. Artur Castela (200-C/F-93) ended up with 16 points in a loss, while Joao Grosso (196-F-94) had 13. Cardoso Miguel and Bastos Pedro poured in 12 points each in defeat.
Holland - Finland 79-40 Holland improved to 2-0 record in Group B at the U20 European Championship in Division B. The Dutch side overcame Finland 79:40 in Day 2 for a perfect record. The Finish team meanwhile lost their second consecutive game. Holland could not score for about two minutes of the game but then took control of the court and won all four quarters. Kevin Bleeker (208-C-93) closed the first period at 18:9 and then Holland added 18-15 rally in the second frame. Moreover Holland won the third period 23-10 and finished the game with 20-6 surge in the last stanza. Tonjann Torben stepped up with 18 points for the winners and Kevin Bleeker as well as Bouwknecht Maarten had 11 each. Schaftenaar Olaf followed them with 10 points. Topias Palmi (190-SG-94) answered with 17 points and 12 rebounds in the losing case and Joonas Lehtoranta (194-SG-94) netted 10. Caven Joonas brought 6 points in defeat.
Switzerland - Cyprus 57-66 Cyprus surprise Switzerland in Day 2 of the U20 European Championship in Division B. They posted a 66:57 win for 1-1 record. The Swiss side meanwhile fell at 0-2 record. Cyprus and Switzerland lost their openers last night and hoped to get the first W in their record. Cyprus won the first period 22:12 and added 17-15 for 12-point lead at the halftime. Switzerland recovered in the second half, but could not catch up with the opponents. Switzerland won the third period 14-11, while both teams scored 16 points each in the last stanza. Stefanos Iliadis (185-PG-94) paced all the winners with 24 points and Eleftheriou Rafael followed him with 17 points and 15 boards. Viktoras Ieronymidis (200-G/F-95) collected 15 points and 10 rebounds, while Mantovani Roberto Alexander added 8 points and 11 boards. Ernest Basic (180-PG-93) finished the game with 15 points in defeat and Christian Affolter (198-SF-93) added 12 points and 10 rebounds. Lehmann Marco scored 8, while Mladjan Dusan chipped in with 7.
Day 1 in Pitesti - Jul 12, 2013
Group A
Poland - Romania 92-62 Poland outscore the hosts in Pitesti at the start of the U20 European Championship: in Division B. Poland enjoyed a 92:62 win in Group last game of the day. Both teams scored 16 points each in the first period, but then Poland took control of the game. The guest won the second frame 26-14 and won the first half by 12 points. Poland added 23-18 rally in the third quarter and finished the game with 27-14 burst. Karolak Jakub scored the last 4 points for the winners for a 30-point total win. Mateusz Ponitka (196-G/F-93) stepped up with 18 points for the winners, while Karnowski Przemyslaw, Michal Michalak (196-SG-93, agency: INVICTUS Sports Group) and Kowalczyk Sebastian brought 11 each. Karolak Jakub followed them with 10 points. Alexandru Olah (213-C-93) ended up with 17 points in defeat and Cristiean Horia as well as Lazar Mario poured in 9 apiece. Damian Andrei and Filip Ioan netted 7 points apiece.
Slovakia - United Kingdom 62-75 Devon Van Oostrum leads Great Britain over Slovak Republic at the U20 European Championship in Division B. He erupted with 29 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists. Great Britain appeared better in the game and grabbed 26:18 lead at the end of the first period. They added 16-14 rally in the second frame for 42:32 halftime advantage. Devon Van Oostrum scored for 48:36 and then Thomas-Edwards nailed three for51:37. Tot Oliver and Michalek reduced to 55:47 score at the end of the third period, but Great Britain managed to win the game. Raphell Thomas-Edwards notched 11 and Hart Joe added 9. John Stewart (198-F-93) followed them with 8 points. Viktor Juricek (208-F-93) ended up with 17 points in defeat and Tot Oliver scored 15. Michal Cekovsky (210-F-94) scored 11, while Novysedlak Jakub had 6.
Luxembourg - Hungary 61-84 Hungary outscore Luxembourg in Day 1 at the U20 European Championship in Division B. The Hungarian team started with an 84:61 victory. Hungary scored the first seven points in the game, but Luxembourg replied with an 8-0 run. Hungary later pushed the tempo at the end of the first period and grabbed a 23:12 lead. Another 15-10 rally in the second frame brought them 38:22 halftime advantage. Hungary did not slow down and posted a 25-15 surge in the third period for 26-point lead after 30 minutes. Luxembourg closed the game with a 24-21 rally for the final result. Laszlo Polyak (191-PG-93, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) top-scored for the winners with 17 points and Allen Rosco collected 15 points and 10 rebounds. Luka Markovic (197-F/G-93) nailed 12, while Bognar Kristof added 11. Bob Melcher (189-G-94) ended up with 23 points and Laurent Alex had 13. Polfer and Ittenbach Chris produced 6 points each in a loss.
Group B
Belgium - Switzerland 72-67 Belgium and Switzerland open Division B of the U20 European Championship. Belgium posted a 72:67 win in the opener of Pitesti campaign. Switzerland looked better in the first half and posted two victories. They won the first period 20:15 and added 20-19 rally in the second frame. Belgium however dominated the second half and managed to win the game. They won the third period 18-17 and finished the game with 20-10 surge. Lecomte Emmanuel stepped up with 26 points for the winners and Francois Xavier-Robert nailed 12. Hazard Louis scored 11, whilst Arno Mollekens (195-PF-94) collected 7 points and 13 rebounds. Hoxha Arben, Marko Mladjan (206-F-93) and Affolter Christian each brought 15 points. Andjelkovic Daniel had 11 points and 11 rebounds, whilst Marco Lehmann (185-SG-93) nailed 6.
Cyprus - Holland 58-66 Holland edge Cyprus in Pitesti at the second game of the U20 European Championship in Division B. The Dutch side started the campaign with a 66:58 victory. Bleeker and Ieronymidis exchanged the early baskets, while Rafael Eleftheriou (200-G-94) gave Cyprus 10:4 lead. The latter tried hard to control the first period and Iliadis nailed three for 20:14 lead after 10 minutes. Holland started the second frame with a 7-0 run and took 21:20 lead early in the second period. Cyprus exploded with another run and Ieronymidis gave his side 40:24 lead. His team however could not win the game. Holland replied with a 21-10 run in the third period and finished the game with 15-8 rally. Schaftenaar Olaf stepped up with 17 points for the winners and Yannick Van Der Ark (193-G/F-93) nailed 15. Vos brought 10, whilst Bleeker Kevin and Dexter Hope (185-PG-93) had 6 each. Iliadis Stefanos, Rafael Eleftheriou and Ieronymidis Viktoras poured in 15 points each in a loss. Roberto Alexander Mantovani (200-F-94) followed them with 10 points in the losing effort.
Finland - Portugal 71-93 Portugal closed Day 1 with the win at the Portugal closed Day 1 with the win in Division B. Portugal overcame Finland 93:71 for the initial win in Pitesti. The first quarter belonged to Portugal that took 18:11 lead at the end of it. Moreover they added 25-12 rally in the second frame and enjoyed a 43:23 halftime advantage. Portugal also looked better in the third frame and produced a 31-21 lead. Finland managed to reply with 27-19 rally in the last stanza but reduced to 22 points. Cardoso Miguel led the way with 14 points and Castela Artur as well as Piedade Henrique had 13 each. Joao Grosso (196-F-94) followed them with 12 points in a win. Joonas Caven (211-C/F-93) finished the night with 23 points, while Topias Palmi (190-SG-94) poured in 15. Joonas Lehtoranta (194-SG-94) ended up with 12 points and Tommi Huolila (198-PF-93) scored 8.
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