Day 9 in Belgrade. Serbia clinch the title - Jul.
11, 2009
Final
Serbia - Russia 73:51
Serbia triumphed at the World University Games in Belgrade. In 2007 Serbia
stopped one step away from the title but the home tournament brought the
long-awaited success.
Nemanja Protic (182-G-86) scored 19 points to pace the hosts past Russia.
Serbia set the flying tempo in the opening period. Russia struggled to match the
rhythm as Serbia cleared off to an 11-point distance at the first break. Russia
gradually adjusted and started to make their presence felt. They outgunned
Serbia 20:17 in the second period to stay hopeful at halftime. But the second
half became a nightmare for a Sergey Belov team. Low accuracy plagued Russia as
they struggled to keep close with the home team. Serbia notched a 14-point
advantage at three-quarter time. The home team remained aggressive defensively
in the final quarter allowing their opponents to account for only 10 points.
Marko Simonovic (202-F-86, agency:
Beo
Basket) connected for 12 points for Serbia. Milan Macvan and Nemanja Bjelica
added 8 points each in the victory.
Aleksey Kotishevskiy (190-F-85) responded with 13 points for Russia. Eugeny
Voronov had 12 points in the losing case.
Bronze medals game
USA - Israel 91:80
The USA celebrated the victory in the bronze medals game at the World University
Games in Serbia. A Bo Ryan team held off pesky Israel to occupy the third
position.
The first quarter was a close affair with neither team able to take a serious
lead. The North American team enjoyed a slender 24:22 advantage at the first
break. The US team paid more attention to defense in the second quarter to hold
Israel to 14 points. The margin grew at 7 points with twenty minutes gone in the
game. Israel increased the tempo in the third quarter. They accounted for 28
points in the frame and got within 6 at three-quarter time. But the USA stayed
cold-blooded in the dying moments keeping Israel at safe distance till the final
buzzer.
Lazar Hayward (198-F-86) scored 14 points and pulled down 9 boards for the
USA. Da'Sean Butler added 13 points, while Talor Battle delivered 12 points in
the victory.
Elishay Kadir (203-F-87, agency:
Avi
Zilberman) replied with 28 points and 9 boards for Israel. Gal Mekel had 16
points in defeat.
The United States had a 43:37 advantage on the glass and suffered only 10
turnovers down the stretch. Both teams accounted for 46% of field goals.
5-6 spot
Lithuania - Turkey 107:87
Lithuania ensured the 5th-spot finish at the World University Games in Serbia.
They defeated Turkey today to wrap up quite successful campaign in Belgrade.
Lithuania dominated on the glass in the starting period and built a 23:18 lead
at the first intermission. Lithuania shot impressively from the field to deepen
the damage. They arrived at halftime leading by 11 points. Turkey could not pick
up the slack in the second half. Lithuania stretched the buffer to 16 points
with one quarter remaining. Turkey tried to increase the tempo but Lithuania
easily matched the effort and fired 32 points in the fourth quarter to seal the
winning outcome.
Martynas Pocius (196-G-86, agency:
Interperformances) scored 16 points to lead Lithuania. Martynas Mazeika
added 15 points, while Giedrius Kurtinaitis had 14 points in the win.
Eren
Beyaz (208-C-85) answered with 27 points for Turkey. Caner Oner had 19
points in the loss.
Lithuania sank impressive 62% from the field limiting Turkey to 48%. Lithuania
outrebounded their opponents 35:28 and overcame 20 turnovers.
Lithuania:
Martynas Pocius 16, Martynas Mazeika 15, Giedrius Kurtinaitis 14 Turkey:
Eren
Beyaz 27, Caner Oner 19
7-8 spot
Bulgaria - Germany 77:72
Bulgaria and Germany played their final game at the World University Games in
Serbia today. Bulgaria celebrated a difficult win to occupy the 7th overall
spot.
Chavdar Kostov (196-G-88, agency:
Interperformances) knocked down 22 points to lead a Konstantin Papazov team
to the victory.
Bulgaria jumped off the blocks to stun Germany early. They limited their
opponents to 12 points in the first frame to earn a 9-point lead. Bulgaria
continued to dominate in the second frame and ensured an 18-point buffer at
halftime. But Germany refused to give in and tried to change the complexion of
the game in the second half. Lucca Steiger triggered a comeback effort that saw
Germany cut the margin to 7 points at three-quarter time. A Denis Wucherer team
worked hard to deny the deficit but Bulgaria used all of their experience to
escape with a narrow victory at the end. Asen Velikov netted 15 points for
Bulgaria.
Lucca Staiger (196-G-88) and Jannik Freese responded with 12 points each for
Germany. Lischka netted 11 points in the losing effort. Bulgaria sank 47% from
the field limiting Germany to just 37%. Germany had a narrow advantage on the
boards 37:35 with both teams committing 13 turnovers.
9-10 spot
Canada - Finland 88:63
Canada crowned their World University Games campaign with a resounding win. The
North American team thumped Finland to earn the 9th overall spot.
Ross
Bekkering (203-F-85) fired 19 points and pulled down 9 rebounds to pace
Canada.
Canada looked better in the starting frame surging in front. A Chris ORourke
team outgunned Finland for an 8-point advantage after ten minutes of action.
Finland fired back in the second period to keep within striking distance.
Ville Makalainen (194-F-85, agency:
Pro
Partner Sports Management) allowed Finnish team to trail by just 7 points
into the main break. Canada and Finland traded baskets throughout the third
quarter and Canada were able to take a 9-point lead at three-quarter time. But
the intrigue never sparked in the fourth period. Canada overwhelmed their
opponents in the final stanza scoring 33 points and cruising to the win.
Joshua Whyte produced 14 points for the winners. Josh Gibson-Bascombe added 10
points for Canada.
Ville Makalainen responded with 20 points for Finland. Jari Vanttaja had 16
points in the loss.
11-12 spot
Ukraine - Latvia 79:76
Ukraine finished their World University Games campaign on a high note. They eked
out a tough win over Latvia to claim the 11th overall place. Maksym Pustozvonov
knocked down 20 points to lead Ukraine.
Latvia opened the game confidently and grabbed the lead early. Ukraine looked
sloppy defensively in the first frame allowing Latvia too many open looks. An
Ainars Bagatskis team secured a 30:21 lead after ten minutes. The scoring tempo
decreased in the second frame as the teams adjusted their defense. The teams
traded baskets and Latvia managed to ensure a 44:35 advantage at halftime.
Ukraine finally found their rhythm after the major break. BC Kyiv duo Maksym
Pustozvonov and Vyacheslav Kravtsov helped a Valentyn Melnychuk team to trim the
deficit by 4 points in the third quarter. Ukraine fired 25 points in the fourth
quarter and sneaked past Latvia at the end.
Oleksandr Sizov dropped 15 points for Ukraine. Vyacheslav Kravtsov added 13
points and 7 boards for the winners. Arturs Strelnieks answered with 19 points
and 12 boards for Latvia. Oskars Ernsteins and Arturs Berzins had 10 points each
in the losing effort.
13-14 spot
Romania - Greece 88:82 Romania finished the World University Games in style. They held off
Greece to clinch the 13th spot. Romania looked better in the first half to build
a decisive lead. Greece could not overcome the buffer despite dominating the
second part of the encounter.
Titus Nicoara (200-F-88, agency:
Interperformances) tallied 21 points and 10 rebounds for Romania.
A Dan Calancea team earned a 21:17 advantage at the first break. They pushed
harder in the second period outscoring Greek opponents. The scoreboard showed
43:29 for Romania at halftime. But Greece came back to life in the second half.
They limited Romanian offensive options and started to claw their back into the
contest. Greece entered the fourth period down by just 7 points. The teams
exploded with 61 points in the final stanza but Romania withheld all the
comeback attempts from Greece to eke out a tough win at the end. Andrei Mandache
finished with 20 points, 7 boards and 4 assists for Romania. Paul Chetreanu had
17 points in the win.
Dimitrios Verginis (194-G-87, agency:
FCM) knocked down 24 points for Greece. Georgios Sourlis netted 19 points in
the losing case.
15-16 spot
Italy - Portugal 82:67 Italy defeated Portugal in the final game of the World University Games
in Serbia. The victory allowed the Azzurri to clinch the 15th spot at the
tournament. Portugal grabbed the 16th position after the loss.
Roberto Prandin (188-G-86) knocked down 18 points, collected 6 boards and
issued 5 assists for the winners. Italy got to the aggressive start as they
outscored Portugal 20:12 in the starting stanza. Portugal recovered in the
second frame and matched Italy. An Alexandre Pires team got within 7 at
halftime. The teams traded baskets in the third quarter as Italy were able to
secure a 7-point advantage with one quarter remaining. Portugal could not
threaten the margin in the final stanza as Italy ran away to the victory at the
end. Riccardo Casagrande notched 13 points for Italy. Simone Ferrarese added 12
points in the win.
Marco Pinto (180-G-87) responded with 15 points for Portugal. Fernando
Martins had 14 points in the loss.
Portugal outrebounded their opponents 38:34 but shot just 37% from the field in
the loss. Italy sank 45% of field goals and forced Portugal to 22 turnovers.
Italy:
Roberto Prandin 18, Riccardo Casagrande 13, Simone Ferrarese 12 Portugal:
Marco Pinto 15, Fernando Martins 14
17-19 spot
Australia - Brazil 79:78 Australia claimed the 17th spot at the World University Games in
Serbia. They held off Brazil in the final game at the tournament. The Aussies
trailed by 13 points at halftime and 15 points at the final change. But a Brett
Coxsedge team struck back in the final period. They overwhelmed Brazil 27:11 in
the fourth stanza to celebrate the victory. Ben
Madgen (193-G-85, college:
Augusta St.)
dropped 28 points to lead Australia. Carlin Hughes and Ryan Bathie notched 10
points each for the winning team.
Andre Goes (195-G/F-87) responded with 24 points, 7 assists and 5 boards for
Brazil.
Australia:
Ben
Madgen 28, Carlin Hughes 10, Ryan Bathie 10 Brazil:
Andre Goes 24, Rodrigo Cesar 14
20-22 spot
Mexico - Iran 74:62 Mexico beat Iran on the final day of the World University Game in
Belgrade. The victory allowed Mexico to clinch the 20th spot at the tournament.
Iran finished in the 21st position.
Julio Cesar Martin del Campo (195-G/F-88) knocked down 22 points to lift
Mexico to the win. Joaquin Villanueva added 14 points and 11 caroms in the win.
Mexico built an 8-point advantage at halftime and maintained it well throughout
the second half.
Mohammad Reza Akbari (197-F/G-86) responded with 18 points and 6 boards for
Iran. Ali Baheran had 12 points in defeat.
Mexico:
Julio Cesar Martin del Campo 22, Joaquin Villanueva 14+11 boards, Joel
Reynoso 12 Iran:
Mohammad Reza Akbari 18, Ali Baheran 12
23-25 spot
China - South Africa 106:70 China completed their World University Games campaign. They defeated
South Africa in the final day of the tournament to clinch the 23rd overall spot.
South Africa remained at the bottom of the ladder winless.
ZHANG Chunjun (198-C-87) fired 33 points and ripped off 9 boards to lead the
Asian team. China did not waste too much time to stamp their authority. They
poured in 34 points in the opening frame to account for 15-point lead. The
onslaught continued in the second stanza as China cleared off to a 24-point
distance at halftime. South Africa had not a single chance in the third quarter
as China scored eagerly. A Yonglin Guo side managed 35 points in the period to
pile up an unassailable 42-point advantage with ten minutes remaining. South
Africa showed character as they did not say die and fought till the final
buzzer. They won the fourth term by 6 points but finished the tournament with no
victories posted. Ma Yi had 25 points for China. Zhang ZhaoXu contributed 21
points and 22 rebounds for the winning team.
Celemusa Khumalo (193-G-88) responded with 20 points for South Africa.
Makgotla Modisaesi canned 14 points in defeat.
Day 8 in Belgrade. Semifinals - Jul.
10, 2009
23-25 spot
China - UAE 99:67
China celebrated the victory in the classification round for the 23rd-25th spot
at the World University Games. They overcame UAE earlier today.
Ma
Yi (197-F-88) scored 24 points and grabbed 10 rebounds to pace a Yonglin Guo
team.
China stunned their opponents early marking their dominance in the opening
frame. They scored 26 points worth an 11-point lead at the first break. There
were more to come as China reigned under the rims and sank solid 50% from the
field. They cleared off to a 20-point advantage at halftime. United Arab
Emirates struggled to pick up the right rhythm in the second half as well. China
fired from all guns to accumulate a 35-point lead heading into the fourth frame.
UAE finally were able to show character as they prevailed in the fourth stanza
but it had little impact on the final outcome as China celebrated an
overwhelming victory. ZHANG Chunjun netted 19 points, collected 8 boards and
issued 4 assists for China. Zhang ZhaoXu had 17 points and 17 boards in the
victory.
Salah Khalifa (183-90) answered with 26 points and 6 caroms for UAE. Omar
Khalid Faqqas netted 15 points in defeat.
China:
Ma
Yi 24+10 boards, ZHANG Chunjun 19, Zhang ZhaoXu 17+17 boards UAE:
Salah Khalifa 26, Omar Khalid Faqqas 15
20-22 spot
Mexico - South Korea 118:87 Mexico trounced South Korea in the classification round for the
20th-22nd spot at the World University Games.
Joel Reynoso (190-G-85) unloaded 30 points to pace Mexico. Joaquin
Villanueva added 24 points and 10 rebounds in the win.
Ki
Seungho (194-F-85) answered with 17 points for the Asian team. Mexico piled
up a 19-point lead after ten minutes of action and never looked back en route to
the victory.
Mexico will now face Iran for the 20th position.
Mexico:
Joel Reynoso 30, Joaquin Villanueva 24+10 boards, Gabriel Giron 22 South Korea:
Ki
Seungho 17, Park YooMin 15
17-19 spot
Brazil - Japan 98:92
Luciano De Souza (201-F-86) tallied 28 points, 11 boards and 4 assists to
lead Brazil past Japan at the World University Games in Serbia. The teams met in
the classification round for 17th-19th spot and Brazil proved strength at the
end. The Latin American side were comfortably up by 16 points at halftime but
wasted nearly all of their advantage before escaping with a narrow win at the
end. Andre Felipe Almeida finished with 12 points for the winners.
Kosuke Kanamaru (192-89) answered with game-high 33 points for Japan. Fumio
Nishimura and Yuki Mitsuhara delivered 14 points each in defeat.
Brazil:
Luciano De Souza 28+11 boards, Andre Felipe Almeida 12, Islam Toledo 11 Japan:
Kosuke Kanamaru 33, Fumio Nishimura 14, Yuki Mitsuhara 14
5-8 spot
Turkey - Germany 67:63
Turkish team will fight for the 5th spot at the World University Games. They
prevailed against Germany in the classification game. A Naci Ozonay team will
face Lithuania. Germany will complete their Belgrade campaign against Bulgaria.
Turkey looked better in the starting frame and earned a 15:11 advantage after
ten minutes. Germany bounced back in the second period scoring 21 points worth a
3-point lead into the main break. Turkey were back in the drivers seat in the
third period as they poured in 27 points to retain the advantage. They headed
into the final stanza up by 11 points and never surrendered the lead to win the
game. Eren
Beyaz (208-C-85) scored 24 points to pace Turkey. Serhat Cetin and Cem
Coskun added 10 points each for the winners.
Dominik Bahiense de Mello (190-G-85, agency:
Pro One
Sports) answered with 17 points for Germany. Oliver Komarek notched 14
points in defeat.
Lithuania - Bulgaria 89:88
Lithuania earned a narrow victory over Bulgaria at the classification round of
the World Univeriade.
Martynas Mazeika (190-G-85, agency:
Limelight
Hoops) scored 26 points to lead the Baltic team to the win. Lithuania will
now take on Turkey for the fifth overall spot at the tournament. Bulgaria will
play against Germany.
The teams stayed close throughout the first half but Lithuania managed to earn a
2-point lead at halftime. Bulgaria struck back in the third term taking over for
a 6-point lead into the final stanza. But a Robertas Kuncaitis team found the
way to succeed stealing the victory at the end.
Martynas Pocius produced 20 points and 7 boards, while Deivydas Gailius added 13
points and 7 boards for the winners.
Krum
Doychinov (206-C-86, agency:
Interperformances) banked 24 points and 9 rebounds for Bulgaria. Ivan Lilov
delivered 20 points in defeat.
Semifinals
Serbia - Israel 82:56
Serbia clinched the spot at the World University Games Final. The hosts of the
tournament held off Israel to advance to the championship game. Serbia will face
Russia for Gold medals. Israel will play against the USA in the consolation
final.
Serbia had to deal with an early deficit. Israel outscored the home team 21:20
in the opening stanza. But Serbia adjusted their offense in the second period to
wipe their opponents off the court. The hosts unloaded 27 points in the second
frame to record an 11-point lead at halftime. Serbia maintained their advantage
playing suffocating defense. They limited Israel to 11 points in the third term
to pile up a comfortable 17-point lead at the final intermission. Serbia stayed
aggressive in the fourth period and drove to an overwhelming victory at the end.
Vladimir Stimac (209-C-87, agency:
Interperformances) finished with 15 points for Serbia. Nemanja Bjelica added
11 points, 8 boards and 5 assists for the winning team.
Yuval Naimi (188-G-85, agency:
Arik Krayn
Services) replied with 25 points for Israel. Nitzan Hanochi had 8 points in
defeat.
Serbia:
Vladimir Stimac 15, Nemanja Bjelica 11, Milan Macvan 10, Miroslav Raduljica
10 Israel:
Yuval Naimi 25, Nitzan Hanochi 8
Russia - USA 69:68
Russia eked out a last second win over the USA in the first semifinal at the
World University Games tonight.
Nikita Shabalkin (204-F-86) knocked down a late three-pointer that gave
Russia the victory at the end.
The USA controlled the game at the early stages. They built a 14:11 lead after
ten minutes and maintained the lead throughout the second stanza. The margin
grew at 7 points at halftime as the US team seemed to be on the way to the sixth
straight win at the tournament. The North American side stayed alert and ensured
a 10-point lead into the final stanza.
Nikita Shabalkin knocked down several key baskets late in regulation to keep
Russia within striking distance. He drew things level at 66 with one minute to
go in the game. Booker was fouled and connected from the line in both of his
attempts to give the USA a 68:66 lead with 44 seconds to go. But
Nikita Shabalkin was unstoppable for Russia as his trey sealed the fate in
this one.
Nikita Shabalkin netted 20 points and grabbed 8 boards to lead Russia.
Aleksey Zhukanenko and Evgeniy Kolesnikov added 13 points each for the winners.
Corey Fisher (185-G-88) and Robbie Hummel responded with 14 points each for
the USA. Deon Thompson notched 12 points and 11 boards in the loss.
Day 7 in Belgrade. Quarterfinals - Jul.
9, 2009 Group 13-16 spot
Greece - Portugal
85-76
Sotirios Manolopoulos (208-F-87) tallied 31 points and 15 boards to lead
Greece past Portugal at the World University Games. The Hellenes would fight for
the 13th spot at the tournament now. Portugal will head to the game for the 15th
overall place tomorrow. Savas Tzougarakis delivered 16 points for Greek team.
Ioannis Atdinaiou had 12 points for the winners. Tiago Pinheiro replied with 21
points for Portugal. Miguel Graca notched 16 points, 11 boards and 4 assists in
the loss.
Romania - Italy
90-88
Romania edged a narrow win over Italy at the Universiade today. The victory
means Romania will fight against Greece for the 13th spot. Italy will wrap up
their campaign in Serbia against Portugal.
Titus Nicoara (200-F-88, agency:
Interperformances) tallied 28 points and 12 boards for Romania. Ionut
Dragusin added 17 points in the winning affair. Roberto Prandin answered with 19
points, 5 boards and 4 assists for Italy. Alberto Chiumenti knocked down 12
points and 10 rebounds in the loss.
Group 17-19 spot
Australia - Japan
106-97
Australia celebrated a tough win over Japan at the World Universiade today. The
teams clashed in the classification round for the 17th-19th place. Australia
trailed at two changes but managed to steal a difficult victory at the end.
Jesse Wagstaff (203-F-86, college:
Metro St.)
notched 20 points and 5 boards to lead the Aussies. The winners overcame a wild
37-point and 8-board explosion from Kosuke Kanamaru. The guard peeled off 10/12
from beyond the arc but his effort could not rescue the Asian team. Ryan Bathie
delivered 19 points and 7 boards for the winning team. Makoto Hiejima netted 17
points for Japan.
Group 20-22 spot
Iran - South Korea
93-86
Iran came from behind to knock down South Korea in the classification games for
the 20nd-22th spot.
Mehrad Atashi (186-G-86) scored 17 points and grabbed 7 boards for Iran.
Mohammad Reza Akbari dropped 15 points and pulled down 10 rebounds in the win.
Ilyoung Heo answered with game-high 30 points for Korea.
Group 23-25 spot
South Africa - United Arab Emirates
82-83
UAE gained the first win at the World University Games. They survived extra
period to handle South Africa in the classification games for the 23rd-25th
spot. UAE will next face China.
Salah Khalifa (183-90) produced 25 points, 6 boards and 4 assists for the
winners. Khalifa Khalil Ibrahim added 16 points, 6 boards and 4 assists for UAE.
Thami Kukulela responded with 21 points and 13 boards for South Africa. Celemusa
Khumalo had 18 points in the loss.
Group 9-12 spot
Finland - Ukraine
67-62
Finnish team secured a tough victory over Ukraine in the classification games
for the 9th-12th spot at the World University Games.
Vesa
Makalainen (200-F-86) scored 18 points to lift Finland to the success. The
third quarter became decisive as Finland won it by 9 points to build an
unassailable margin for Ukraine. An Anton Mirolybov team would now face the
winners of Latvia vs. Canada clash for the 9th spot. Ukraine will play for the
11th position. Juho Nenonen and Ilkka Vuori finished with 12 points each for the
winners. Dmitri Glebov answered with game-high 22 points for Ukraine. Sergiy
Popov had 12 points, 5 assists and 4 boards in the loss.
Latvia - Canada
83-93
Canada came from behind to knock down Latvia in the classification game at the
World University Games in Serbia. Canada would face Finland for the 9th overall
spot at the tournament. Latvia will play against Ukraine for the 11th position.
Ross
Bekkering (203-F-85) delivered 18 points and 12 boards for Canada. Joshua
Whyte and Chris Dyck netted 14 points each for the winners. Arturs Strelnieks
responded with 16 points and 7 boards for Latvia. Arturs Berzins canned 14
points, collected 6 boards and issued 4 assists in the loss.
Group Quarterfinal
USA - Bulgaria
96-66
The USA University selection advanced to the semifinal stage at the World
Universiade in Serbia. They cruised past Bulgaria to stay hopeful about their
title aspirations. A Bo Ryan team would challenge Russia in the semis. Bulgaria
will play in the classification games for the 5th-8th place.
Quincy Pondexter (198-F) finished with 15 points and 7 boards for the USA.
Da'Sean Butler, Lazar Hayward and James Anderson finished with 12 points each
for the winners. Pavel Marinov and Ivan Lilov replied with 15 points apiece for
Bulgaria. Nikolov had 14 points in defeat.
Germany - Israel
49-66
Israel came up strong in the second half to sink Germany at the first
quarterfinal game at the World University Games in Serbia today.
Boris Rothbart (218-86) paced balanced Israeli effort with 17 points and 13
boards. Yuval Naimi nailed 13 points for Israel. Elishay Kadir and Gal Mekel
finished with 10 points each for the winners. Johannes Lischka replied with
game-high 18 points, 7 boards and 4 steals in defeat. Nicolai Simon, Dominik
Bahiense de Mello and Staiger delivered 8 points each for Germany.
Serbia - Turkey
68-46
Serbia drove past Turkey in the second todays quarterfinal at the World
University Games in Belgrade. The hosts led from start to finish securing a
comfortable win and proving the highest ambitions for the reminder of the
competition. Serbia outrebounded their opponents 50:31 and limited those to only
25% from the field.
Marko Keselj (205-F-88, agency:
Beo
Basket) and Dejan Borovnjak led strong team performance with 16 points and
12 boards respectively. Marko Simonovic added 11 points and 8 rebounds for the
hosts. Serbia will now take on Israel in the semifinal tomorrow. Turkey will
play against Germany for the 5th-8th place.
Russia - Lithuania
82-73
Russia overcame a halftime deficit to knock down Lithuania in the quarterfinal
at the World University Games today.
Aleksey Kotishevskiy (190-F-85) scored 21 points and collected 6 boards to
keep Russia title ambitions alive. A Sergey Belov team will wait for the result
of the USA vs. Bulgaria clash to get to know their semifinal opponent. Lithuania
will continue to fight in the classification round for 5th-8th spot. Valeri
Likhodey finished with 16 points, while Dramir Zibirov produced 15 for the
winners. Paulius Morkeliunas delivered 12 points for Lithuania. Arnas Labuckas
had 11 points and 6 boards in the loss.
Day 6 in Belgrade - Jul.
8, 2009
Group M
Australia Iran 88:80
Australia celebrated a tough win over Iran to clinch the top spot in Group M.
Australia will now face Japan for the 17th-19th spot. Iran will play against
South Korea for the 2oth-22nd overall place.
The first frame was an even battle with neither team able to take over. The
teams traded baskets and were tied at 22 at the first break. Australia stepped
on the gas in the second frame. They notched 25 points as
Jesse Wagstaff (203-F-86, college:
Metro St.)
paced the charge to clear off to a 10-point distance. Iran refused to fold and
bounced back in the third stanza. They went on a 28:15 rally to turn the tables
in this one. The Asian team entered the final frame ahead by 3 points. But the
Aussies had the last laugh in the game. They fired 26 points in the fourth
quarter and ran away to the difficult victory.
Jesse Wagstaff knocked down 23 points to lead Australia.
Ben
Allen (211-C-86, college:
Indiana)
added 16 points and 13 boards, while
Carlin Hughes (188-G-85, college:
Montana St.
- Billin) finished with 14 points for the winners.
Aren
Davoudichegani (184-G-86) and
Rouzbeh Arghavan (212-F-88) replied with 18 points apiece for Iran. Baheran
netted 16 points in the losing effort.
Group N
South Korea - South Africa 105:72 South Korean team grabbed the initial win at the World Univeriade in
Serbia. They held off South Africa to clinch the second spot in Group O. South
Korea will now take on Mexico in the classification games for 20th-22nd place on
Friday. South Africa will play against UAE tomorrow.
A high-flying first frame saw South Korea grab a 26:21 advantage. The Asian team
increased the tempo even more in the second term exploding with 40 points to
pile up a massive 29-point lead at halftime. South Africa managed to slow down
Korea in the third frame but failed to get any closer. South Korea enjoyed a
comfortable 31-point cushion into the fourth term. They did not allow South
Africa to win a single quarter coasting to the victory in the fourth stanza.
Seven players scored in double figures for South Korea in the win.
Heo
Il-Young (197-F-85) delivered 23 points and 9 boards to pace the charge.
Park
Yoo Min (185-G-88) contributed 18 points, 8 boards and 8 assists for the
winners.
Celemusa Khumalo (193-G-88) responded with 16 points for South Africa. Wayne
Mhlongo added 13 points and 6 boards in the loss.
Day 5 in Belgrade - Jul.
7, 2009
Group I
USA - Serbia 68:66 Serbia gave scares to the USA before falling short at the World
University Games in Belgrade today. The USA team thus improved at 3-0 record in
Group I and would face Bulgaria in the quarterfinal on Thursday. Serbia clinched
the second spot in the pool to set up the quarterfinal clash against Turkey. The
USA won the fourth game on the trot to enter the playoffs unbeaten. But the
hosts made the favorites sweat for the victory tonight. Balanced offense and
stifling defense served as the key to Serbian 18:15 lead after ten minutes. The
USA found the beat in the second frame as they began clawing their back.
Talor Battle (180-G-88) stepped up for the North American team as they
toiled for a one-point lead at the interval. The teams went neck and neck in the
third quarter. The USA secured a minimal lead into the final frame. The tension
grew higher in the dying minutes but the USA proved calm down the line and
escaped with a nervous win at the end.
Talor Battle knocked down 17 points to lead the charge. Da'Sean Butler
produced 12 points for the winners. Milan Macvan and Miroslav Raduljica answered
with 13 points apiece for Serbia.
Ivan
Paunic (194-G-87) topscored with 14 points for the home team.
USA:
Talor Battle 17, Da'Sean Butler 12, Corey Fisher 8 Serbia:
Ivan
Paunic 14, Milan Macvan 13, Miroslav Raduljica 13+10 boards
Finland - Greece 70:66 Finland posted the first win at the World University Games Group I.
They held off Greece to clinch the third spot, while Greece remained in the
fourth position at 0-3. Finland will now face Ukraine in the classification
games of the 9th-12th spots. Greece will take on Portugal for the 13th-16th
overall places.
Finland had to overcome a deep 9-point hole at halftime to come out winners at
the end.
Ville Makalainen (194-F-85, agency:
Pro
Partner Sports Management) provided 16 points and 13 rebounds to help
Finland to the victory. Greece opened the game confidently earning a 4-point
lead after ten minutes. They did not loosen the grip and stormed to a 9-point
advantage at the main break. But Finland found the way to neutralize their
opponents in the second half. They limited the Hellenes to 8 points in the third
term to pull as close as 3 points with ten minutes to go. Finland fired on all
cylinders in the final stanza to steal a tough at the end. Juho Nenonen
delivered 15 points for Finland at the end. Ilkka Vuori had 9 points and 8
assists in the win.
Dimitris Verginis (194-G-87, agency:
FCM) responded with 14 points for Greece. Sotiris Manolopoulos posted 10
points and 9 boards in the losing effort.
Group J
Lithuania - Latvia 84:64 Lithuania clinched the top spot in Group J at the World University
Games. They toppled their archrivals Latvia to improve at 3-0 record. Lithuania
will now face either Israel or Russia in the quarterfinal on Thursday. Latvia
slipped at 1-2 record in the third place in the pool.
Latvia got to the better in this one.
Arturs Strelnieks (196-G/F-85) paced the team as they grabbed a 23:16 lead
after ten minutes. But a Robertas Kuncaitis team quickly rebounded and started
to dictate their rules in the second stanza. Lithuania trimmed the margin to a
single point at halftime. They quickly turned the deficit into a lead in the
second half.
Deividas Gailius (200-F-88) and Martynas Mazeika helped Lithuania to a 63:53
lead at three-quarter time. Lithuania finished off their opponents in the fourth
period limiting those to just 11 points.
Deividas Gailius scored 16 points and collected 6 boards to lead the way for
Lithuania. Martynas Mazeika added 12 points, while Martynas Pocius produced 11
points and 6 boards for the winners.
Arturs Strelnieks notched 18 points and 13 boards for Latvia. Martins
Kravcenko and Arturs Berzins had 12 points each for Latvia in defeat.
Germany - Romania 81:69
Germany defeat Romania at the World University Games in Serbia tonight.
Dominik Bahiense de Mello (190-G-85, agency:
Pro One
Sports) scored 22 points to lead the German selection. Germany thus claimed
the second spot in Group J and advanced into the quarterfinal stage. Romania
were sent to the fourth position in the standings. Germany will play against
Israel next. Romania will face Italy in the classification games for 13th-16th
places.
Germany quickly marked their serious ambitions for the game. They outgunned
Romania 23:11 in the starting frame to enjoy a 12-point lead at the first break.
The Bundesteam unloaded 29 points in the second stanza to keep Romania at bay. A
Tudor Costescu team showed some signs of recovery in the third frame. With their
backs against the wall Romania tried to bounce back. They stepped on the gas and
trimmed the margin to 13 points before the fourth stanza. Romania won the final
quarter by one point but it was not enough for the victory as Germany celebrated
a vital success.
Per Gunther had 15 points for the winning side. Johannes Lischka produced 13
points and 15 boards for Germany. Ionut Dragusin replied with 20 points and 16
boards for Romania.
Titus Nicoara (200-F-88, agency:
Interperformances) had a monster game of 20 points and 19 boards in defeat.
Group K
Israel - Canada 89:81
Israel completed the fifth straight victory at the World University Games in
Belgrade. They knocked down Canada in Group K action today to set up a
quarterfinal clash against Germany. Canada will play against Latvia for the
9th-12th spots on Thursday.
Canada gave all Israel could handle before narrowly losing at the end.
Elishay Kadir (203-F-87, agency:
Avi
Zilberman) and Gal Mekel fired up Israel in the starting frame as they
rolled to a 7-point lead at the first intermission. But Canada seemed ready for
the challenge. They burst out of the blocks in the second term to account for 30
points. Canada arrived at halftime ahead by 3 points giving Israel some food for
thought during the major break. Israel got the message and went off the dressing
room much more aggressive defensively and restored the lead with one quarter
remaining. Israel played it safe in the final period and did not allow the North
American team to threaten the margin.
Elishay Kadir delivered 25 points and 9 boards for Israel. Gal Mekel had 20
points, 9 boards and 5 boards, while Yuval Naimi netted 17 points in the loss.
Ross
Bekkering (203-F-85) drained 15 points and collected 11 boards for Canada.
Phillip Nkrumah recorded 10 points and 8 boards in the loss.
Russia - Italy 92:76
Russia secured a 2-1 record in Group K of the World University Games in Serbia.
They bruised Italy today to clinch the quarterfinal birth. Italy in the meantime
fell at 0-3 record at the bottom of the table.
Nikita Shabalkin (204-F-86) was pivotal with 21 points for Russia. Dramir
Zibirov provided 19 points, 6 boards and 5 assists for the winning side.
Giancarlo Ferrero (194-G/F-88, agency:
Players
Group) responded with 13 points for Italy.
Russia jumped to an early lead and completed the opening stanza ahead by 11
points. But Italy showed character outscoring their opponents in the second
frame. They cut the margin to just 7 points at halftime. Russia however looked
animated in the third frame going for 29 points. Italy could not match the tempo
and appeared down by 17 points heading into the fourth quarter. Russia wisely
kept Italy at safe distance at the dying stages and celebrated a well-deserved
win at the end. Valeri Likhodey had 16 points and 7 boards in the victory.
Roberto Prandin canned 12 points for the Azzurri. Russia outrebounded their
opponents 36:30 and sank solid 58% from the field.
Group L
Ukraine - Portugal 90:69
Ukraine proved the strength against Portugal at the World University Games in
Serbia today.
Sergiy Popov (193-G-88) scored 20 points and pulled down 6 boards as Ukraine
claimed a comfortable victory at the end. The victory lifted a Valentyn
Melnychuk team to 1-2 record in Group L. Portugal remained at 0-3 at the bottom
of the ladder.
Ukraine set up the victory in the opening frame. They fired 25 points and
accumulate a 12-point lead at the first break. Portugal could not come to terms
with aggressive offense and lost the battle under the rims to trail by 27 points
at halftime. Portugal however remained in the match as they ignited a comeback
rally in the third quarter. Ukraine got sloppy and conceded a 9:27 run from
Portugal as an Alexandre Pires team trimmed the deficit to 9 points with one
quarter remaining. But Valentyn Melnychyk managed to sober up his team during
the final intermission as Ukraine poured in 30 points and escaped with a
comfortable victory.
Maxym Korniyenko delivered 19 points and 9 boards for Ukraine. Andrei
Kalnichenko and Vyacheslav Kravtsov had 11 points apiece for the winning side.
David Tavares (192-F-88) answered with 12 points for Portugal. Tiago
Pinheiro delivered 10 points in the loss.
Group M
Iran - China 91:80 (2OT)
Mohammad Reza Akbari (197-F/G-86) knocked down 30 points, grabbed 11 boards
and made 6 steals to inspire a dramatic double-overtime victory for Iran at the
World University Games today. Iran had to survive two extra periods before
securing an exhausting success against China. Iran improved at 1-0 record in
Group M. China fell at 0-2 at the bottom of the standings in the pool. Iran
would face Australia for the top position in the group tomorrow.
Iran stunned China in the opening frame outgunning their opponents 22:6. China
stopped the bleeding in the second frame as they managed to slow down Iran. A
Mehran Hatami team still were able to gain a 17-point lead at halftime. But
China were not about to fold that early. They changed the complexion of the
encounter drastically in the second half.
Zhang ZhaoXu (213-C-87) recharged the team as they began clawing their way
back into the game. China trimmed the distance to 9 points at the end of the
third frame. There was more to come. China completed the rescue mission late in
regulation drawing things level and forcing overtime. The first extra period did
not figure out the winners as the teams were knotted at 73. But Iran saved more
energy for the final surge. They outscored China 18:7 in the second overtime to
eke out a nail-biting win at the end. Mehrad Atashi delivered 21 points, 7
boards and 4 assists for Iran. Aren Davoudichegani had 13 points for the
winners.
Zhang ZhaoXu produced 25 points and 12 boards for China. Li Xuesong banked
19 points in defeat.
Group N
Brazil - Mexico 84:80
Luciano De Souza (201-F-86) scored 18 points to lift Brazil past Mexico at
the University Games today. Brazil clinched the top spot in Group N with 2-0
record. Mexico finished in the second position as they slipped at 1-1 record. It
was a close affair from start to finish. Mexico enjoyed a narrow 22:21 lead
after ten minutes. They did not surrender the advantage in the second quarter
and ensured a 43:42 lead at the interval. But Brazil managed to turn the tables
in the second half. They fired 26 points in the third stanza and headed into the
fourth term ahead by 3 points. Brazil hung on to eke out a difficult victory at
the end. Andre Felipe Almeida posted 11 points for Brazil. Roberto Alves and
Andre Goes notched 10 points each in the winning effort.
Joel Reynoso (190-G-85) responded with 25 points and 9 boards for Mexico.
Gabriel Giron registered 20 points in defeat.
Brazil shot 50% from the field, while holding Mexican counterparts to 43%
accuracy. They also had a slender advantage on the glass with 38 boards.
Brazil:
Luciano De Souza 18, Andre Felipe Almeida 11, Roberto Alves 10, Andre Goes
10 Mexico:
Joel Reynoso 25, Gabriel Giron 20
Group O
Japan - South Korea 97:77
Japan prevailed against their archrivals South Korea at the World University
Games tonight.
Kosuke Kanamaru (192-89) was instrumental with 31 points for the winners.
Kenta Hirose added 21 points, 11 boards, 6 assists and 4 steals as Japan claimed
the top spot in Group O. South Korea will fight for the second position in the
pool against South Africa tomorrow.
Japan however needed to overcome fierce opposition from winless South Korea at
the start of the game. The teams traded baskets in the opening frame and Japan
were up by just one point at the first break. Japan pushed harder in the second
quarter building a 7-point cushion at halftime. Japan polished their dominance
in the third frame. They went on a 28:13 rally to put South Korea to the dead
end before the final stanza. South Korea finished the game with dignity
outscoring Japan in the final frame but it never put any doubts about the final
outcome.
Makoto Hiejima dropped 18 points for Japan.
Park
Sung Jin (182-G-86) responded with 20 points, 6 boards and 5 assists for
South Korea. Heo Il-Young posted 16 points and 7 boards in the losing effort.
Japan won the battle on the boards 41:31 and sank solid 50% from the field.
South Korea committed 20 turnovers in defeat.
Japan:
Kosuke Kanamaru 31, Kenta Hirose 21+11 boards, Makoto Hiejima 18 South Korea:
Park
Sung Jin 20, Heo Il-Young 16
Day 4 in Belgrade. The start of the Qualifying Round - Jul.
6, 2009
Group I
USA - Greece 108:77
The USA outgunned Greece at the World University Games today. They extended
their winning streak to three games after the win and stayed on top of Group I
of the Qualifying round of the tournament. Greece slipped at 0-2 record in the
pool. Greece and the USA stayed close in the first half. The North American team
built a slender 5-point advantage at halftime. But Greece could not keep up with
their opponents after the major break. The USA started to dominate every facet
of the encounter and raced in front. They unloaded 31 points in the third stanza
worth a 21-point lead with ten minutes remaining. The USA stayed aggressive
pouring in 33 points in the fourth frame and claiming a comfortable win at the
end.
Deon Thompson (203-F-88) nailed 17 points for the USA.
Quincy Pondexter (198-F) and Lazar Hayward delivered 13 points apiece in the
victory.
Dimitris Verginis (194-G-87, agency:
FCM) responded with 25 points for Greece. Savas Tzougkarakis had 21 points
and 7 rebounds in the loss. The United States outrebounded their opponents 43:22
and sank solid 60% from the field.
Serbia - Finland 82:70 Serbia claimed a confident win over Finland at the World University
Games today. A well-balanced offensive effort helped the hosts to defy Finland
in Belgrade as Serbia improved at 2-0 record in Pool I.
Nemanja Bjelica (209-F/C-88, agency:
Interperformances), Ivan Paunic and Miroslav Raduljica nailed 13 points
apiece to lead the home team. Finland slipped at 0-2 record at the bottom of the
pool.
Serbia ensured a confident start to the game. They limited the visitors to 9
points in the opening frame and piled up an 11-point advantage after the
starting period. Finland reacted with more aggressive basketball in the second
stanza. They slowed Serbia down and outscored them to trim the distance to 9
points at halftime. Serbia however quickly rebounded and changed complexion in
the second half. They shifted the gear and easily ran away from their opponents.
The hosts registered a 23-point advantage into the final period and never looked
back en route to the win. Milan Macvan and Dejan Borovnjak finished with 9
points each for Serbia.
Vesa
Makalainen (200-F-86) responded with game-high 21 points and 7 boards for
Finland. Ville Makalainen had 12 points and 6 rebounds in the loss.
Group J
Lithuania - Germany 76:75
Martynas Mazeika (190-G-85, agency:
Limelight
Hoops) scored 18 points to pace Lithuania to a narrow victory over Germany
at the World University Games in Belgrade. Lithuania entered the final stanza
down by 17 points but managed to erase the deficit. They limited the German team
to 9 points in the final frame and stole an incredible win at the end. Lithuania
thus managed to stretch the winning streak to three games. Germany lost the
third game in a row in Belgrade. The teams stayed close in the first half.
Germany earned a 4-point lead at the first break but Lithuania reacted in the
second stanza narrowing the gap to 2 points at the interval. But the Bundesteam
unleashed a 25:10 rally in the third period to grab a comfortable 17-point
buffer at the final break. But Germany seemed to believe in the success a bit
too early. Lithuania found the way to resurrect and sneaked past shocked Germany
at the end.
Martynas Pocius (196-G-86, agency:
Interperformances) nailed 14 points and collected 10 rebounds for Lithuania.
Deividas Gailius and Brazdauskis had 12 points apiece for the winners.
Lucca Staiger (196-G-88) responded with 21 points for Germany. Maik Zirbes
notched 13 points in a bitter defeat. Lithuania outmuscled Germany in the paint
grabbing 42 rebounds. The winners also shot 48% from the field.
Romania - Latvia 85:78
Romania grabbed the third win at the World University Games in Serbian capital.
They held off Latvia in Group J opener. Latvia in the meantime suffered the
first defeat at the tournament.
Titus Nicoara (200-F-88, agency:
Interperformances) was unstoppable for Romania with 28 points and 10 boards.
Latvia could not win despite a storming start to the clash. They fired 30 points
in the opening frame to account for 13-point advantage after ten minutes.
Romania gradually came back to life as
Titus Nicoara orchestrated the resurrection. Romania trimmed the margin to
10 points at halftime. They continued to keep Latvia under pressure in the third
stanza clipping the distance to just 4 points before the fourth frame. Romania
stepped on the gas in the final stanza leaving fatigued Latvia without win in
this one. Mihai Silvasan produced 20 points and 7 rebounds for Romania. Ionut
Dragusin had 13 points and 8 boards for the winners.
Arturs Strelnieks (196-G/F-85) replied with 26 points and 10 rebounds for
Latvia. Arturs Berzins delivered 19 points in the losing case.
Romania:
Titus Nicoara 28+10 boards, Mihai Silvasan 20, Ionut Dragusin 13 Latvia:
Arturs Strelnieks 26+10 boards, Arturs Berzins 19
Group K
Israel - Italy 109:76
Israel easily defeated Italy in the opening game of the Qualifying Round in
Group K of the World University Games for both teams. Israel entered the round
undefeated and managed to stretch the winning streak to four games. Italy
suffered the second loss in three games played at the tournament. Six Israeli
players scored in double figures en route to the win.
Yogev Ohayon (189-G-87, agency:
Interperformances) and Robert Rothbart led the winners with 17 points each.
Israel did not waste too much time to build a comfortable buffer. They knocked
down 30 points in the first stanza to pile up a 15-point advantage. Israel
continued to dominate as they registered 31 points in the second frame worth a
31-point lead at halftime. Italy slowed down their opponents in the second half
but it was too late to save the encounter. Israel still got the upper hand as
they posted an 86:52 lead into the final quarter. Italy had no chance whatsoever
and had to surrender at the end.
Yuval Naimi knocked down 14 points for Israel.
Giancarlo Ferrero (194-G/F-88, agency:
Players
Group) replied with 13 points for Italy. Roberto Prandin and Donato Cutolo
finished with 12 points apiece in the losing case.
Russia - Canada 89:77
Russia clinched the third win at the World University Games in Serbia. They
outlasted Canada at the start of the second stage of the tournament today.
Canada in the meantime suffered the first loss in Belgrade.
Nikita Shabalkin (204-F-86) sparked Russia tallying 21 points and 14
rebounds. Dramir Zibirov added 17 points for the winning team.
Russia began the game strongly building a 26:16 advantage at the first
intermission. Canada could not rebound in the second frame as Russia stayed
aggressive. The North American team dominated the boards but could not cope with
Russian accuracy and overcome numerous turnovers. The margin grew at 22 points
into the major break. Canada went off the dressing room ready to erase the
deficit but Russia matched the effort and secured a 22-point lead before the
fourth stanza. Canada cut the margin by 10 points in the final frame but could
not escape the loss.
Evgeniy Kolesnikov notched 16 points, 6 boards and 4 assists for Russia.
Chris Dyck (191-G-85) replied with 18 points for Canada. Ross Bekkering had
10 points and 10 caroms in the loss. Canada outrebounded Russia 57:35 but
suffered 24 turnovers and sank only 31% from the field.
Russia:
Nikita Shabalkin 21+14 boards, Dramir Zibirov 17, Evgeniy Kolesnikov 16 Canada:
Chris Dyck 18, Ross Bekkering 10+10 boards
Group L
Turkey - Ukraine 63:61
Turkish Universiade selection claimed the third straight win in Serbia. They
narrowly defeated Ukraine at the beginning of the second stage of the
tournament. Ukraine slipped at 1-2 record after the loss.
Serhat Cetin (197-G-86) and Eren Beyaz nailed 15 points apiece to lead
Turkey to the victory.
A low-scoring first frame saw Turkey grab a 17:12 advantage. However Ukraine
managed to turn the tables in the second stanza. They reigned under the rims and
limited Turkey to just 13 points trimming the distance to a single point at
halftime. Turkey increased the tempo in the third frame and capitalized on
numerous turnovers from the Ukrainian team. Turkey entered the final stanza
ahead by 9 points. Ukraine went on a fierce comeback rally in the fourth term
but it was too late. Turkey survived the challenge and sneaked past their
opponents at the end. Soner Senturk knocked down 12 points for the winning side.
Oleksandr Sizov (200-F-88) and Dmitri Glebov replied with 15 points for
Ukraine. Pustozvonov had 9 points and 6 boards in the loss. Turkey will play
against Bulgaria, while Ukraine will face Portugal tomorrow.
Bulgaria - Portugal 86:74
Bulgaria stayed unbeaten at the World University Games in Serbia. They toppled
Portugal at the start of the second stage of the tournament to top Group L.
Portugal suffered the second defeat at the tourney. Six played scored in double
figures for Bulgaria as they proved their highest ambitions for the competition.
Hristo Nikolov (200-F-85) netted 16 points and pulled down 6 boards to lead
the way for the winners.
Bulgaria however had to overcome a slow start to the game to come out victorious
in this one. Portugal raced in front in the opening stanza and headed into the
second frame ahead by 4 points 22:18. Bulgaria needed some first class
performance in the second half to gain control. They leveled things up and then
spurred in front taking a 42:38 lead at the interval. Portugal were losing the
battle under the rims and conceded 28 points in the third quarter trailing by 12
points with ten minutes to go. Bulgaria wisely kept Portugal at safe distance in
the fourth quarter and ensured a comfortable victory at the end. Zlatin Georgiev
and Vladimir Marinov delivered 14 points each for the winners. Kostov had 13
points for Bulgaria.
Antonio Pires (185-G-86) replied with 13 points for Portugal. Tiago Pinheiro
canned 12 points in the losing case.
Group M
Australia - China 85:79
Australian World University Games selection posted the first win at the
tournament. They narrowly defeated China today in the Qualifying Round Group M.
Jesse Wagstaff (203-F-86, college:
Metro St.)
knocked down 27 points and pulled down 8 rebounds to pace the Aussies. China
enjoyed a 7-point lead after ten minutes of action but could not maintain the
advantage and surrendered at the end.
Australia adjusted in the second frame and trimmed the margin at 6 points into
the major break. The third quarter proved decisive for the Australian selection.
They locked down their defense and held the Asian team to only 13 points. It
helped Australia to surge ahead 66:65 after three quarters of action. Australia
kept their at bay in the final stanza en route to the initial win in Belgrade.
Ben Allen and Anatoly Bose had 12 points each for the winning team.
Ren
JunFei (202-F-90) answered with 27 points for China. Zhang ZhaoXu delivered
18 points and 22 boards in defeat.
Australia and China were well-matched on the glass with 46 rebounds apiece. The
Aussies capitalized on 20 turnovers from China.
Australia:
Jesse Wagstaff 27, Ben Allen 12, Anatoly Bose 12 China:
Ren
JunFei 27, Zhang ZhaoXu 18+22 boards
Group N
Brazil - UAE 107:49 Brazil earned a cruising win over United Arab Emirates at the World
University Games in Serbia. The victory marked the second success for Brazilian
team as they were awarded the win over Gabon after no-show from of the African
team for the tournament. UAE lost all of their three games at the preliminary
round and could not even hope for the success against the Latin American team.
UAE lost the starting period by 20 points and struggled to find the rhythm
throughout the reminder of the contest. Brazil eased to a 29-point lead at
halftime. They followed with a 33:7 run in the third quarter to leave UAE far
behind and coasted to the win in the final frame.
Rinaldo Mafra (200-F/C-86) scored 20 points to lead Brazil. Luciano Junior
had 19 points, while Rafael Silva and Andre Goes finished with 14 points each in
the victory.
Salah Khalifa replied with 18 points for UAE. Khalifa Khalil Ibrahim tallied
13 points, 7 boards, 5 steals and 4 assists in the loss. Brazil outmuscled the
Arab team 64:30 under the rim and limited those to just 25% from the field.
Brazil sank 56% of their field goals including 8/19 from beyond the arc. Both
teams committed 24 turnovers.
Brazil will now take on Mexico tomorrow. UAE will face Mexico on Wednesday.
Brazil:
Rinaldo Mafra 20, Luciano Junior 19, Rafael Silva 14, Andre Goes 14 UAE:
Salah Khalifa 18, Khalifa Khalil Ibrahim 13
Group O
Japan - South Africa 107:61 Japan posted the first win at the World University Games in Belgrade.
They dismantled South Africa in Group O today. The African team remained winless
as they suffered the third straight defeat at the tournament. Kosuke Kanamaru
knocked down 19 points to lead Japan. Takatoshi Furukawa had 18 points in the
winning effort.
Amogelang Keogatile (193-G-88) replied with 15 points and 12 boards for
South Africa.
Japan scored eagerly in the opening stanza as they accounted for 30 points. It
helped the Asian team to pile up an 8-point lead into the second stanza. South
Africa could not pick up the slack as Japan started to get away in the second
quarter. Japan outgunned their opponents by 19 points in the second stanza to
grab a 27-point halftime lead. Japan never slowed down in the second half. They
wrote in 32 more points in the third stanza to enter the final period with an
insurmountable advantage. South Africa had no answers for the onslaught and had
to surrender at the end.
Yuki Mitsuhara delivered 13 points for the winners. Celemusa Khumalo notched 12
points in the loss.
Last day of Preliminary Round in Belgrade - Jul.
4, 2009
GROUP A University Games, Day 3: Australia - Serbia
66-84
Serbia finished Preliminary Round
perfect. After victory in the first game against Greece, the hosts of the World University Games
2009 managed to beat Australia for
position No.1 in Group A. On the other side, Australia ended this stage winless
(0-2).
Ivan Paunic (194-G-87) this time led the
scorers in
Serbia with 15 points.
Nemanja Protic (182-G-86) was behind him with
14, while
Dejan Borovnjak (208-F-86, agency:
Beo Basket) helped with double-double, 13
points and 13 rebounds.
Cameron Tovey (200-F-85, college:
Augusta St.) was on fire in Australia
scoring 21 points.
Ben Allen (211-C-86, college:
Indiana) had 12 pts and 9 rebs, while
Carlin Hughes (188-G-85, college:
Montana St. - Billin) posted 11 pts.
University Games, Day 3: Lithuania - Romania
85-65
Lithuania ended the Preliminary Round at the
World University Games in Belgrade with perfect 3-0 record (Group B). The
Lithuanians trashed Romanians 85-65, who were undefeated until today. Both teams
are going to Intermediate Round.
Deividas Gailius (200-F-88) led the scorers in
Lithuania today with 18 points.
Zydrunas Kelys (188-G-87, agency:
Interperformances) and
Arnas Labuckas (205-F-87) had 11 each, while
Laurynas Mikalauskas (203-F-85, college:
Virginia) delivered one point less. On the
other side,
Ionut Dragusin (221-C-85) shined with 19 pts
and 8 rebs.
Titus Nicoara (200-F-88, agency:
Interperformances) scored 15 and
Mihai Silvasan (200-F-85, agency:
Court Side) contributed with 13 pts.
It was a game between two winless teams after two days. Mexico totally dominated during the
entire time ending the Preliminary Stage as No.3 in Group B with 2-1 record.
Joel Reynoso (195-G-85) (195-G-85) was totally unstoppable for UAE
draining impressive 35 points. He also registered 6 rebounds and 6 assists
beside that.
Julio Cesar Martin (195-G/F-88) also shined
with 22, while
Jorge Chavez (198-G/F-87) added 17 points and 8
rebounds.
Omar Khalid Faqqas (195-F-91) responded with 18
points in loss.
Khalifa Khalil Ibrahim (180-G-91) stopped on 9
pts, 6 rebounds and 7 assists.
Another great performance by Canada at the World University Games in Belgrade.
After win in the first appearance, the Canadians managed to beat China today finishing the Preliminary
Round on top of Group C with prefect 2-0 record. On the other side,
China remained winless.
Greg
Surmacz (203-F-86) (203-F-86) stepped up for the winning squad
collecting 22 points and 8 rebounds.
Josh Gibson-Bascombe (193-G-86) was behind him
with 15, while
Jacob Doerksen (200-F-88) netted one point
less.
Yang Chao (195-G/F-84) was on fire for Team
China delivering impressive 35
points.
Cao Zhenhua (205-C-85) had 19 pts and 6
rebounds.
Bulgarians were on fire today outplaying Japan 108-96. It means that Bulgaria ended
Preliminary Round on top of Group D with perfect 2-0 record. On the other side,
Japan is winless.
Ivan Lilov (196-F/G-88, agency:
FCM) top-scored in victory with 16 points.
Hristo Nikolov (200-F-85) had 14, while
Stanislav Slaveykov (198-F-86, agency:
Interperformances) and
Pavel Marinov (196-G-88) drained 13 points
each. Slaveykov also had 6 rebounds beside that. In Team Japan, Kanamaru
Kosuke demonstrated magnificent performance netting 38 points. Nishimura Fumio
was far behind him with 14.
Turkey managed to beat Iran in the last game of the Preliminary Round ending it
on top of Group E with perfect 2-0 record. The Iranians faced with two failures
in two games, meaning that they are No.3 team in the same pool.
Ali
Kavaklioglu (186-G-86, agency:
1x1 Sports)
(186-G-86, agency:
1x1 Sports) demonstrated impressive performance
for
Turkey. He was totally the best
player in this match netting 25 points.
Caner Oner (200-F-87) helped the winners with
14 points and 5 rebounds.
Mohammad Reza Akbari (197-F/G-86) was on high
level on the other side registering double-double, 20 points and 10 rebounds.
Mehrad Atashi (186-G-86) replied with 17 pts.
It was a decisive game for the first place in Group F as both teams were
undefeated after two days. Both are going to Intermediate Round, but Israel as No.1 and Russia as No.2.
Elishay Kadir (203-F-87, agency:
Avi Zilberman) stepped up for the winners with
15 points and 13 rebounds.
Yogev Ohayon (189-G-87, agency:
Interperformances) had 14, while
Robert Rothbart (216-C-86) delivered 12 points
and grabbed 8 boards.
Gal Mekel (195-G-88, college:
Wichita St.) also had 12 pts in victory.
Evgeniy Kolesnikov (195-G-85) led the scorers
in
Russia with 13 points.
Dramir Zibirov (188-G-86) contributed with 12.
University Games, Day 3: South Africa -
Germany 42-86
As it was expected, Germany destroyed South Africa registering the first win on
the World University Games in Belgrade. It means that Germany is No.2 in Group G
with 1-1 record, while
South Africa
is the last ranked team with no win.
Per Gunther (185-G-88, agency:
Rasmussen Services) led the scorers in
Germany today with 14 points.
Lucca Staiger (196-G-88) followed him with 13
points and 5 boards, while
Jannik Freese (208-F/C-86) helped with 11 pts
and 5 rebounds. South Africa
did not have any player with double-digits in scoring.
Celemusa Khumalo (193-G-88) and
Nhlanhla Dlamini (174-G-86) were the best ones
with 9 pts each. All other played had less than 8.
Another expected win for the USA Team. In the first match
USA was better than Finland
and today they blasted Korea with huge 113-76. It means that
USA advanced to next stage as No.1 of
Group H (2-0).
Quincy Pondexter (6'6''-F) stepped up in
victory with 14 points and 6 rebounds.
James Anderson (6'6''-G-89) also had 14 pts,
plus 5 boards, while
Lazar Hayward (6'6''-F-86),
Talor Battle (5'11''-G-88) and
Deon Thompson (6'8''-F-88) helped with 12
points each. Ki Seungho responded with 20 points for Korea. They ended this stage winless.
Greece made it in the second match on World
University Games in Belgrade. After yesterday's defeat against
Serbia, the Greeks managed to
beat Australia 89-72 for 1-1 record in
Group A. That was the first appearance for Australians, who will meet
Serbia tomorrow. For the hosts (SRB)
it will be a chance to end this stage on top of Group A perfect.
Dimitris Verginis (194-G-87, agency:
FCM) was the most important player for the
Greeks today nailing 25 points and dishing out 5 assists.
Sotiris Manolopoulos (208-F-87) also shined
collecting 18 points and 8 boards, while
Dimitrios Kompodietas (196-G-85) followed with
16 pts.
Savas Tzougarakis (207-C-86) added one point
less, plus 5 boards. In Team Australia,
Cameron Tovey (200-F-85, college:
Augusta St.) registered 20 pts and 7 rebounds.
Ben Madgen (193-G-85, college:
Augusta St.) had 15 and
Jesse Wagstaff (203-F-86, college:
Metro St.) posted 12 points. Greece had very
good percentage from behind the arc today. They made 12 of 25 attempts (48%).
Australia had only 4 of 22.
Dimitris Verginis and his teammates also were
better in rebounding 38-34. Last period was the crucial one in this game as
Greece finished it 26-17. After 19-19
in the first, Greece made 17-12 in second and 27-24
in third stanza.
Romania managed to grab the second win on the
World University Games in Belgrade. After victory against
United Arab Emirates, the
Romanians were better than Mexico 78-73. It means that
Romania and
Lithuania are on top of Group B
together with 2-0 record. Mexico fell to 0-2.
Titus Nicoara (200-F-88, agency:
Interperformances) was the best player in the
winning squad collecting 21 points and 13 rebounds.
Andrei Mandache (190-G-87) and
Mihai Silvasan (200-F-85, agency:
Court Side) also demonstrated nice performance
adding 19 pts each. Fourth scorer of the team was
Ionut Dragusin (221-C-85) with 14 pts. He also
grabbed 9 rebounds beside that. On the other side,
Jose Luis Bucio (179-G-86) top-scored with 17
points.
Joel Reynoso (195-G-85) had 13, while
Joaquin Villanueva (207-C-86) and
Gabriel Giron (188-G) contributed with 12 pts
each.
The Romanians resolved question about the winner in the last quarter. Both teams
were pretty leveled until that moment, when
Titus Nicoara and his teammates exploded. They
scored 23 points, the most off all quarters today, while Mexico stopped
on 5 less. That was the difference at the end. Romania will meet Lithuania tomorrow, while Mexico will take on United Arab Emirates.
Lithuania demonstrated its power today. The Lithuanians showed what they can
yesterday against Mexico, but this
evening was pretty amazing for them. UAE players played as much as they can, but
difference in quality between these two teams is huge. At the end of the second
day of the World University Games in Belgrade Lithuania shares the first place
in Group B with Romania (2-0 record). UAE is together with Mexico winless.
Arnas Labuckas (205-F-87) led all the scorers
today with 26 points (6 rebs).
Martynas Mazeika (190-G-85, agency:
Limelight Hoops) followed him with 20, while
Martynas Pocius (196-G-86, agency:
Interperformances) added 15 pts.
Laurynas Mikalauskas (203-F-85, college:
Virginia) helped with 14 points and 8 rebounds.
UAE had just two players with double-digits in scoring.
Khalifa Khalil Ibrahim (180-G-91), who had 20,
and
Omar Khalid Faqqas (195-F-91), who netted 12
pts.
In third day of the contest Lithuania will meet Romania. That
will be decisive game for the first place in Group B. At the same day UAE will
take on Mexico. The team who looses this game
will be the last ranked in this pool.
First win for Italy in Belgrade. The Italians suffered defeat
yesterday against Canada 80-89, but today they succeeded to beat China 90-79 for
1-1 record in Group C. China will have opportunity tomorrow to register first
win, but it will not be an easy job as Canadians demonstrated pretty good
performance in their first appearance.
Giancarlo Ferrero (194-G/F-88, agency:
Players
Group) (194-G/F-88, agency:
Players Group) was a key player for the winning
squad. He was totally unstoppable for the Chinese nailing impressive 34 points.
His 7 of 11 attempts from behind the arc were successful and beside that he had
4/11 for FG2 and 5/8 FTs. Ferrero needed just two boards more for double-double.
Roberto Prandin (188-G-86) was way behind him
with 12, while
Davide Bruttini (203-F-87) added 11 points and
5 boards. In Team China,
Yang Chao (195-G/F-84) top-scored with 16
points.
Zhang ZhaoXu (213-C-87) had 15 points and
impressive 16 rebounds, while
Ren JunFei (202-F-90) contributed with 15 pts
and 5 rebs. China was slightly better
during the opening ten minutes, but Italy totally
took control on them after that.
Giancarlo Ferrero started to make shots lifting his team to plus 4 at
the half time. Third stanza was the crucial one as Italy intensified defense stopping
China on just 14 pts. On the other
side, they nailed 25 resolving question about the winner. Last 10 minutes were
just the formality.
Bulgaria opened the World University Games in
Belgrade
celebrating. Ukrainians also were victorious in the first appearance beating
Japan 104-74, but they failed today.
It means that Ukraine ends
this stage with 1-1 record in Group D, while Bulgaria will
play its second game tomorrow.
Hristo Nikolov (200-F-85) led the scorers in
Bulgaria with 15 points.
Chavdar Kostov (196-G-88, agency:
Interperformances) followed with 14,
Ivan Lilov (196-F/G-88, agency:
FCM) had 13 and
Nikolay Varbanov (209-C-85, agency:
Interperformances) 12 points and 5 rebounds.
Ukraine got the most from
Dmitri Glebov (198-F-88), 17 points.
Sergiy Popov (193-G-88) had 15 and
Vyacheslav Kravtsov (212-C-87, agency:
Interperformances) contributed with 13 points
and 9 rebounds. Bulgaria was better team in the first
half.
Hristo Nikolov and his teammates scored 23 in
first and 17 points in the second frame, while Ukraine had 20 and 14. The Ukrainians
woke up after the breather. They started to make shots managing to close the gap
to 1 point before the last 10 minutes. However, that was all from them today.
Bulgarians scored 21 points until the end stopping Ukraine on 14.
Interesting is that Ukraine
finished the game with 38 rebounds, while Bulgaria had 25.
Portugal made it in the second appearance on the
World University Games in Belgrade. In the first game, which was played
yesterday, the Portuguese failed against Turkey 62-84.
Today they improved a lot beating Iran 86-78 for 1-1 record in Group E.
On the other side, that was the first match of Iran who will take on Turkey tomorrow.
Antonio Pires (185-G-86) stepped up for
Portugal today registering
double-double, 16 points and 11 rebounds. He also dished out 6 assists beside
that.
Fernando Martins (187-G/F-86) also scored 16,
while
Joao Diamantino (201-F-85) added 10 pts.
Mohammad Reza Akbari (197-F/G-86) shined on the
other side with 18 points and 14 rebounds.
Benny Koochoie (188-G-86) was another player
with double-double, 17 pts and 10 rebs, while
Ali Baheran (184-G-86) stopped on 14 pts and 5
rebounds.
Second quarter was the crucial one in this game. Opening ten minutes were pretty
leveled, but then Portugal started to play.
Antonio Pires took full control on their
opponents smashing them 32-16 in this period. The Iranians improved after the
breather, but they were not able to make a turn. Portugal managed to keep its lead and totally
deserved the first win in Belgrade.
Russia demonstrated magnificent performance today
in Belgrade outgunning Brazil with huge
99-62. It means that Russians now have 2-0 record in Group F. As a reminder, the
first game against Gabon was
not played and Russia won it with official 20-0. As
Russia, Israel also has
perfect 2-0 record in the pool. Brazil fell to 0-2.
Valeri Likhodey (203-F-86) led the scorers in
Russia with 21 points.
Dramir Zibirov (188-G-86) is another player who
shined today and he drained 20 points, also grabbing 5 rebounds.
Nikita Shabalkin (204-F-86) delivered 15 pts
and pulled down 5 rebs. In Brazil,
Douglas Kurtz (206-C-87) had 17 and
Andre Goes (195-G/F-87) added 14 pts. Russia dominated during the entire
game. Actually, Brazil maybe had some chance before
the last quarter, but than all their hopes quickly disappeared.
Russia started to play much stronger
at the defensive end limiting their rivals on 15 pts in the last quarter. On the
other side, they were totally unstoppable. 35 points scored until the end was a
great finish for the Russians, who will meet Israel tomorrow
in crucial game for position No.1.
University Games, Day 2:
Latvia -
South Africa
100-42
As it was expected, Latvia was too strong for South Africa today in Belgrade. The Latvians
outplayed Germany yesterday 80-76 meaning that
they will finish Preliminary Stage on top of Group G with perfect 2-0. On the
other side, South Africa
will have another chance for the first joy. That will be tomorrow against the
above mention Germans.
Oskars Ernsteins (194-G/F-87, college:
Carl Albert JC) was totally unstoppable today.
He led the Latvians in scoring with impressive 28 points.
Einars Tukiss (193-G/F-88) was the second best
player in Latvia with 17 points, 5 boards and 5
assists, while
Edijs Slesers (186-G-85) helped with 13 pts and
7 rebounds. South Africa
got double-double from
Amogelang Keogatile (193-G-88), 10 pts and 12
rebounds.
Nhlanhla Dlamini (174-G-86) contributed with 9
points and 4 rebs.
The finals score says everything for itself. Latvia was a way
better rival from the beginning. First quarter was a clear signal what we can
expect until the end as Latvia ended it with 26-7. Third
quarter was another impressive one for the winners, 30-10. Until the end
Latvia moved up even more with 29-11
for huge plus 58 in total.
Expected victory by the USA Team. It was their first appearance on the World
University Games in Belgrade and of course the first win. The
Americans was clearly too much for Finland, who fell to 1-1 record in
Group H. As a reminder, Finland was better than South Korea
yesterday 90-75. Tomorrow USA
will meet Korea and another easy win is
expected again.
Craig Brackins (6'10''-F-87) led the Americans
with 16 points and 9 rebounds.
Corey Fisher (6'1''-G-88) followed him with 12
pts and 4 rebs, while
Robbie Hummel (6'8''-F-89) added 10 points. In
Team
Finland,
Ville Makalainen (6'5''-F-85, agency:
Pro Partner Sports Management) had 13 points
and 5 rebounds.
Petri Heinonen (6'10''-F/C-88) contributed with
11 points.
The fact that USA had 20 rebounds more (54-34)
talks everything about this game, of course with the final score as well. It is
important to mention that Finland scored just 2 points during
the entire last quarter. On the other side USA had 23. The
USA University Team is one of the main candidates for Gold in Belgrade and it seems they
are just warming up. The most important games are yet to come.
The home side of the University Games won the opener of Group A against
Greece. Serbia was too good for the opponent to take 1-0 record in the group
after 81:50.
Belgrade Arena was glad to see the home team of the tournament and prepared
a great support for Serbia. The latter opened the game with 22:15 and looked
tough versus the opponent. Serbia added 20-8 in the second period to take
42:23 halftime advantage. Greece meanwhile tried to do something in the
second half, but it was hard to play against the hosts. Serbia produced
24-12 in the third quarter to make the last period unnecessary. Both teams
nailed 15 points in the final stanza as Serbia celebrated 81:50 victory. Marko Keselj
(205-F-88, agency:
Beo Basket)
top-scored for the winners with 15 points.
Dejan Borovnjak
(208-F-86, agency:
Beo Basket)
delivered 14, while
Strahinja Milosevic
(203-G/F-85, agency:
Beo Basket)
was responsible for 9 points.
Sotiris Manolopoulos
(208-F-87) ended up with 14 points for Greece and Galliotos Georgios scored
6. Aleksandar Kesar
's team had 41% from the filed, while Greece showed 32%. Serbia was also
better shooting from the arc and free throw line.
Greece will meet Australia in the only game scheduled on July 3rd. Serbia
will take on the Australian team on Saturday, July 4th.
Serbia:
Marko Keselj
15,
Dejan Borovnjak
14,
Strahinja Milosevic
9 Greece:
Sotiris Manolopoulos
14, Galliotos Georgios 6
GROUP BRomania - UAE 116:53 Radu Paliciuc
(198-G/F-88) netted 22 points to lift Romania to the first win at
the 2009 Universiade in Serbia. Romania thumped UAE in preliminary
Group B.
Titus Nicoara
(200-F-88, agency:
Interperformances)
added 16 points and 5 boards for the winning side. Romania led from
start to finish. They stunned their Asian counterparts with a 22:9
rally in the starting frame. United Arab Emirates tried to level
things up in the second quarter but their effort was well matched by
Romania. The European team piled up a 19-point advantage into the
main break. UAE defense collapsed in the third stanza conceding 37
points. Romania entered the final stanza ahead by insurmountable 50
points. They fired 33 points in the final term and celebrated an
overwhelming win at the end. Ioan Macaveiu
(197-G-88) delivered 12 points in the victory.
Khalifa Khalil Ibrahim
(180-G-91) and
Qais Omar Ahmad
(200-C-91) netted 14 points each for UAE.
Omar Khalid Faqqas
(195-F-91) knocked down 8 points in the losing case. Romania got a
40:29 advantage on the glass and forced their opponents to
intolerable 43 turnovers.
Romania will face Mexico, while UAE will challenge Lithuania in the
next round.
Lithuania earned the first win at the World University Games in Belgrade.
They held off Mexico in the opener today to take the lead in Group B.
Martynas Pocius
(196-G-86, agency:
Interperformances)
and
Giedrius Kurtinaitis
(192-G-86) scored 15 points each to pace the Baltic outfit.
Lithuanian looked aggressive in offense and dominated on the glass to take
the lead early on. They grabbed a 24:18 advantage ten minutes into the game.
Lithuania capitalized on numerous turnovers from the Latin American team to
stretch the gap to as many as 18 points. Mexico continued to struggle
defensively in the third stanza allowing their opponents to fire 28 points.
It led Lithuania to a massive 23-point point buffer before the fourth
stanza. They cruised to the win in the final quarter to improve at 1-0
record.
Martynas Mazeika
(190-G-85, agency:
Limelight Hoops) had
14 points, while Gailius delivered 13 points for the winners.
Joel Reynoso
(195-G-85) replied with 25 points and 9 rebounds for Mexico.
Gabriel Giron (188-G)
banked 15 points in the losing case.
Lithuania outrebounded Mexico 47:35 and forced those to 26 turnovers.
Lithuania is scheduled to take on UAE, while Mexico will face Romania
tomorrow.
Canada and Italy opened Group C of the University Games that started in
Belgrade, Serbia. The North American team showed a better game to seal the
89:80 win in the opener.
Canada went on an early lead and grabbed 28:22 after the first frame.
Chris O'Rourke
's team produced another 22-18 in the second period to take 50:40 advantage
when the teams went to the lockers. The picture of the game did not change
after the break as the North Americans remained in front in the court. They
produced 25-20 for 15-point deficit closing thirty minutes of the game.
Italy tried to recover in the game and bounced back with 20-14 in the last
quarter, but it was to late to save the game. As a total it gave Canada
89:80 victory and the first success in Group C of the University Games.
Jacob Doerksen
(200-F-88) top-scored for the winners with 24 points.
Josh Gibson-Bascombe
(193-G-86) nailed 20 and
Dax Dessureault
(206-C) hit 10.
Giancarlo Ferrero
(194-G/F-88, agency:
Players Group)
finished the night with 26 points in the losing effort.
Daniele Bonessio
(197-G/F-88) posted 13, while
Roberto Prandin
(188-G-86) chipped in 11.
Canada showed a better percentage from the filed as they made 26/58 shots.
Italy meanwhile had 25/65 to have 38% from the field. Italy will face China
today, while Canada will meet Asian team on Saturday.
Ukrainian University Games selection gained the first win in
Serbia. They romped past Japan to improve at 1-0 record in Pool D.
Maxym Korniyenko
(201-F/C-87) fired game-high 33 points and collected 7 rebounds for
Ukraine.
Oleksandr Sizov
(200-F-88) added 22 points for the winners. Kosuke Kanamaru replied with
21 points for Japan.
Ukraine used a 33-point tally in the opening frame to build a 16-point
advantage. Japan slowed their opponents down in the second frame but
could not trim the distance. Ukraine maintained the lead and headed into
the locker rooms up by 20 points. The high-flying third quarter saw
Japan clip the deficit by one point but Ukraine remained comfortable. A
Valentyn Melnichuk team coasted to the win in the final quarter.
Vyacheslav Kravtsov
(212-C-87, agency:
Interperformances)
banked 16 points and 11 boards for the winning team.
Kenta Hirose
(192-G-85) and Takatoshi Furukawa responded with 11 points each in
defeat.
Ukraine outrebounded Japan 39:22 and shot solid 64% from the field.
Japan answered with 40% of accuracy and committed 15 turnovers in the
loss.
''GROUP E"
Turkey-Portugal 84:62 The game between Turkey and Portugal was the first one in Group E
of the University Games that started in Belgrade, Serbia. Turkey looked
better in every quarter of the game and won 84;62.
Both teams tried to go on a lead from the very beginning. In a back-to-back
first period Turkey grabbed 21:19 to finish the first 10 minutes of the
game.The things got better in the second frame for the Turkish side that
produced 20-12 in it. When the teams left the court for a big break the team
of Naci Ozonay
enjoyed 41:31 halftime deficit. In order not to slow down Turkey kept the
winning pace in the game. A 22-19 in the third quarter gave them 13 points
before the final period. Portugal could not match the winners at all and
failed in the last quarter 12-21. Cem Coskun
(209-C-87) top-scored for the winners with 19 points.
Caner Oner
(200-F-87) delivered 18 and
Ali Kavaklioglu
(186-G-86, agency:
1x1 Sports)
Berent netted 9.
Miguel Graca
(186-G-87) finished the night with 19 points for Portugal, MOREIRA Joao
nailed 13 and
Paulo Diamantino
(203-C-85) scored 11.
On July 3rd Portugal will face Iran, the third team in the group. Turkey
will play against Asian team on Saturday, July 4th.
Israeli team survived thriller against Brazil to improve at 1-0 record at
the World University Games in Belgrade. Brazil got to the better start but
could maintain the lead and suffered a sour loss at the end.
Jonhatan Nir
(202-F-86, agency:
Avi Zilberman)
dropped 18 points and grabbed 8 rebounds to lead Israel.
Andre Felipe Almeida
(208-C-88) and
Andre Goes
(195-G/F-87) finished with 19 points apiece for Brazil.
The Latin American team accounted for a 4-point lead after ten minutes of
action. Israelis matched the effort in the second frame and cut the distance
to 3 at halftime. The teams went neck and neck in the third period but
Israel managed to draw things level heading into the final frame. Things
never changed in the fourth period as the teams had to go extra five minutes
to decide on the winner. Brazil ran out of steam as they notched just 2
points in overtime and lost the clash. Youval Naimy nailed 13 points, while
Elishay Kadir
(203-F-87, agency:
Avi Zilberman)
and
Gal Mekel
(195-G-88, college:
Wichita St.)
drained 12 points each in the win. Luciano Junior had 10 points and 7
rebounds in defeat. Israel and Brazil were well-matched on the boards
collecting 42 boards each. Israel sank 48% from the field, while Brazil
managed just 39%. Israel also suffered only 11 turnovers down the stretch.
Israel is scheduled to face Gabon, while Brazil play against Russia
tomorrow.
One of the most interesting games of the first day was played
between Germany and Latvia in the University Games that started in Belgrade,
Serbia. Two European teams showed great effort in the opener as Latvia
grabbed 80:76 victory.
It was Germany to control the beginning of the game and to go on the first
lead. Germany scored some important baskets to taste 19:10 lead after the
first 10 minutes. The Baltic Side bounced back with 25-19 in the second
period and reduced to 35:38 when the teams left the court for a big break.
The game continued on a high tempo after the halftime and it was Latvia to
go in front. After 21-15 in the third quarter The Baltic team enjoyed
3-point advantage. In a back-to-back last period Germany tried to change the
things for good, but Latvia won the quarter 24-23 and the game itself,
80:76. Arturs Berzins
(204-C-88) stepped up with 20 points and 7 rebounds for the first Latvian
victory.
Martins Kravcenko
(190-G-85, agency:
Interperformances)
netted 14, while
Arturs Strelnieks
(196-G/F-85) collected 13 points and 10 rebounds.
Lucca Staiger
(196-G-88) ended up with 22 points in defeat and Gunther Per notched 14.
Latvia will face South Africa, another team in the group on July 3rd.
Germany will try to tie their record on Saturday, July 4th also in the game
versus African representative.
GROUP H
Korea-Finland 75:90
Korea started their University Games that is taking place in
Belgrade, Serbia. The Asian team tried hard but lost the opener to
Finland 75:90.
The European team started with 25:13 after the opening quarter and
looked better in the court. They made themselves proud not to
stopping with the lead, however with increasing it. Finland ensured
22-20 in the second quarter for 47:33 halftime advantage.
Korea managed to even the game in the second half, however they
could not tie the score. Finland won the third frame 23-20, but
Korea responded with 22-20 in the last one.
Finland had six players in double figures.
Vesa Makalainen (200-F-86)
was the leading scorer and rebounder (15/13). Vesa's older brother
Ville Makalainen (194-F-85,
agency:
Pro Partner Sports Management)
added 15 points and grabbed 9 rebounds. Juho Nenonen tallied 14
points, Ilkka Vuori scored 12, Anselmi Vanjoki posted 11 and Petri
Heinonen had 10. KI Seungho finished the night with 16 points in the
losing effort.
Heo Il-Young tallied 12 and
Kim Hyeon-Min posted 11.
In the next game Finland will face USA on July 3rd. Korea will take
on the North American representative on Saturday, July 4th.
