EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 3/19/2010

Copyright � 1997-2010 Eurobasket
WARNING:
Do not copy, redistribute, publish or otherwise exploit information that you download from the site!
Do not encumber, license, modify, publish, sell, transfer or transmit, or in any way exploit, any of the
content of the report, nor will you attempt to do so.
More info:www.eurobasket.com


Men News

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


ABA names 2009-2010 All-Star teams - by Gianni Pascucci
Some days ago, the American Basketball Association released its 2009-2010 All Star teams and once again, it showed the tremendous talent throughout the league. 'This was very tough this year,' stated Joe Newman , ABA CEO. 'We have so many teams and so many great players, it was really difficult and we do feel that we've left quite a few players off that definitely deserved recognition for their outstanding play. One thing is for sure, I'd put either the East or West team up against any team in professional basketball, including the NBA, and it would be very competitive.'

ABA East All-Star Team
Sam Mack (6'7'-G/F-70, college: Houston), Chicago Steam, G
Kenny Jones (6'6'-F-84, college: Kentucky St.), Kentucky Bisons, F
Lukasz Obrzut (7'1'-C-82, agency: Elfus-Siegel Management (ESM), college: Kentucky), Bluegrass Stallions, C
Ahmad Mosby (6'1'-G-87), Jersey Express, G
Jamie Jackson (6'5'-F-86, college: Bellarmine), Kentucky Bisons, G
Devin Davis (6'5'-F, college: New Jersey City St.), Jersey Express, F
Dominick Melton (6'6'-F, college: Wisc.-Parkside), Lake Michigan Admirals, F
Corey Love (6'5'-C-83, college: Bluefield St.), West Virginia Blazers, G
Bobby Perry (6'9'-F-85, college: Kentucky), Bluegrass Stallions, G
Hugh Jones (6'3'-F-80), Tri City Suns, F
Chris Laurica, New York Red Riders, G
Royce Parran (5'9'-G-85, college: Chicago St.), Chicago Steam, G
Anthony Jackson (5'7'-G-85), Columbus Life, G
Sean Dantzler (6'4'-G/F-83, college: St.Francis,NY), NY Thunder, G

Honorable Mention: Ravi Moss (6'2'-G-84, college: Kentucky), Bluegrass Stallions G; Brandon Ball (5'11'-G-86, college: Michigan Tech), Lake Michigan Admirals G; Antonio Griffin (6'6'-G/F-84, college: CSU Bakersfield), Lake Michigan Admirals G; Warren Beaulah (6'4'-G-84, college: Brewton Parker), Columbus Life F; Dewayne Pettus (6'2'-G-85, college: Bethune-Cookman), Pittsburgh Phantoms F; Myron Howe (5'11'-G), Tri City Suns G; Will Richard (6'4'-G-84), NY Red Riders F; Aaron Hogg (6'6'-F/G-81, college: Wichita St.), Indiana Diesel G; Odgra Bobo (6'6'-F-85, college: Oakland CC), Lake Michigan Admirals G; Christopher Grant (6'4'-G-82, agency: GOTathletes, college: Morgan St.), NY Thunder G; Karl White (6'2'-G-86, college: Ill.-Chicago), Chicago Steam, G; Antoinne Morgano (6'5'-G/F-85), Jersey Express F; Sharif Fordham (6'4'-G/F-77, college: St.John's), NY Thunder F.

Coaches:


Head Coach: Ron Hicks , Chicago Steam;
Asst Coaches: Otis Key , Kentucky Bisons; Kyle Macy , Bluegrass Stallions.

ABA West All-Star Team
Jermaine Blackburn (6'7'-G/F-83, agency: Liman Sports, college: Boise St.), SETX Mavericks, G
Josh Pace (6'6'-G-83, college: Syracuse), SETX Mavericks, F
Leon Flaherty (6'4'-G/F-85, college: La Sierra), Riverside Rainmakers, F
Daniel Price (6'3'-G-82, college: Pikeville), Mississippi Blues, G
Ira Cross (6'6'-F/C-84, college: E.New Mexico), West Texas Whirlwind, F
Maurice Steen (6'2'-G-87), Texas Fuel, G
Ben Conwell (6'8'-C-82), Texas Fuel, G
Rashad Powell (6'6'-G-81, college: Idaho), Seattle Mountaineers, F
JuShay Rockett (6'5'-F-84, college: Alaska-Fairb.), Los Angeles SLAM, F
John Clark (6'5'-G/F-81, college: Cal.St. Northridge), San Diego Surf, G
Jon Rogers (6'9'-F/C-84, college: Valdosta St.), SETX Mavericks, C
Marlo Saunders (6'5'-F-84, college: Texas-PB), West Texas Whirlwind, G
Jay Bowdy (6'5'-F-83, college: W.Georgia), North Texas Fresh, G
Cardell Butler (6'4'-F-81, college: Utah St.), San Francisco Rumble, G

Honorable Mention: Herman Favors (5'9'-G-84, college: Georgia St.), SETX Mavericks G; Jason McNeil (6'7'-F/C-84), Texas Fuel F; Chris Reaves (6'3'-G-84, college: Chaminade), Los Angeles SLAM G; Charncy Ephriam (6'4'-G-81, college: Texas-PB), West Texas Whirlwind G; Brian Spielman (6'9'-F/C-83, college: Chapman) Seattle Moutaineers C; Terry Menefee (6'4'-G-84, college: Farmingdale St.), San Diego Surf G; A'Daeron Duncan (6'5'-F-87), North Texas Fresh F; Tyler Amaya (6'7'-F-82, college: W.Washington), Seattle Mountaineers F; Derek Foster (6'0'-G-81, college: Cal-Santa Cruz), San Francisco Rumble G; Chris Adams ,San Francisco Rumble F.

Coaches:


Head Coach: Steve Tucker SETX Mavericks;
Asst Coaches: Fulton Mitchell , San Francisco Rumble and Donald Sanchies , Los Angeles SLAM.



TEXAS FUEL in ABA BASKETBALL PLAYOFFS Final Eight - by Richard
Two seasons on and still going strong,
the San Antonio ABA Men's Pro Basketball team, Texas FUEL,
once again made it to the ABA Finals Playoffs for a second shot at
the ABA National Championship. The American Basketball Association
is the fastest growing professional sports franchise in the nation with over 54 teams,
proudly owned by more minorities and women than any other league.

Texas FUEL earned a spot in the ABA's 2010 Final Eight,
after powering through strong North and West Texas teams.
The FUEL advanced Saturday to play as one of the top teams
of the ABA Western Conference, having defeating the
North Texas Fresh in the Southwest Division tournament.

San Antonio's Texas FUEL soundly defeated the #8 ranked West Texas
Whirlwinds in Odessa, Texas, Saturday evening to move up into the
Western Conference Final Four as one of the top two Southwest Division
teams.

Head Coach Kirk 'Peanut' Brown and Asst. Coach Robert Purkey worked hard
to get Texas FUEL to the Southwest Division Championship game once again, but
The ABA's #1 ranked Southeast Texas Mavericks won the Southwest Finals game
against Texas FUEL in Port Arthur, Texas, Monday night, and will face San Francisco
on the 18th of March for the Western Conference Championship. The winner of that
game will meet the winner of the East for a three game National Championship Battle.

The Texas FUEL Basketball team co-founders Marlon Minifee of Chicago
(2009 ABA Allstars Winning Coach), and Aurora Gross Deiri of Cedar Hill, Texas,
created the team after a 2008 screening of the film Fuel, with the goal of the team being
to promote alternative energy solutions for the future and to encourage our youth to Go Green!
In March of 2009, the new first season Texas FUEL ABA team won the Southwest Division
of the Western Conference Championship; had the ABA co-Rookie of the year, UTSA graduate Isaiah 'Duke' Allen;
the 2009 Allstars MVP and Lee High School graduate, Keith Simpson ( now with the Southeast Texas Mavericks);
2009 3-Point Finalist Ben Hebl ( of Wisconsin); 4 Texas FUEL ABA Allstars Champions: Isaiah Allen ( of Oregon),
Keith Simpson (of San Antonio), Albert Strickland III (of Michigan), and Wayemon Powell (of California).
Jason McNeil of San Antonio was the 2009 Green Ambassador.

Recently named as 2010 Green Ambassador for the team was Andre Alderete.
Several of this season's 2010 Texas FUEL team members including Maurice Steen, Ben Conwell, Carlos Mitchell,
Derrick Bunton and D'wan Bukar are on the ballot for 2010 ABA honors, pending the 2010 Playoff results.
For the 2010 Playoffs Texas FUEL team roster, go to www.texasfuelbasketball.net.

The team recently acquired a Bio-Fueled Bus, sponsored by BIOSILK, that will be featured
as part of this year's Fiesta celebration in San Antonio.



Bisons win, advance to Eastern Final - by Gianni Pascucci
The Kentucky Bisons defeated yesterday night on the road the Chicago Steam, 114-106 and will meet their cross state rivals Kentucky Bluegrass Stallions in the ABA Eastern Final. With 25 ponts, Mike Wells (6'3'-G-79, college: W.Kentucky) was the best performer in the Bisons, Brandon Stockton (5'9'-G-84, college: Kentucky) added 20 points at the winning side. The Steam played hard till the end, showing how much this team deserved the Quarterfinal game. Sam Mack (6'7'-G/F-70, college: Houston) was the game top performer with 35 points and 12 rebounds in an impressive losing effort, Karl White (6'2'-G-86, college: Ill.-Chicago) helped him with 16 points 8 rebounds. All the Steam players close in this way an head-up season and seem ready for an experience overseas.

*****************************************************
  ADRIATIC LEAGUE   


Round 25 review - by Eurobasket News
Radnicki K. - Cibona 72-64
Radnicki Kragujevac was too strong for No.1 Cibona 72-64 handing them 6th loss of the season. Marko Brkic (206-F/C-82, agency: Beo Basket) exploded with 26 points and 6 rebounds in this victory. Dragan Milosavljevic (198-G-89) followed with 13 pts for the hosts. On the other side, Samo Udrih and Jamont Gordon (8 as) netted 15 and 12 points respectively. Radnicki 11-14, Cibona 19-6.

U.Olimpija - Helios 77-64
Union Olimpija celebrated in Slovenian derby beating Helios 77-64. Gasper Vidmar (210-C/F-87, agency: Interperformances) shined for the hosts with 22 points and 9 rebounds. Alvin Snow (188-G-81, college: E.Washington) responded in defeat with 16 pts. Union Olimpija 15-10, Helios 5-20.

KK Zagreb CO - Hemofarm 77-83 OT
Hemofarm grabbed valuable OT win 77-83 against Zagreb for 16-9 score in the regional championship. Milan Macvan (205-F-89) stepped up in this victory with 25 points and 11 rebounds. Kyle Hill (188-G-79, college: E.Illinois) and Goran Jagodnik (7 as) added 14 and 13 points respectively. In Zagreb (14-11), Krunoslav Simon delivered 30 pts.

Crvena Zvez. - Zadar 77-72
Crvena Zvezda was better than Zadar 77-72 for 11-14 score in Adriatic league. Zadar has one win more than the Serbian outfit. Boris Bakic led the hosts with 19 points and Marko Keselj also was great adding 17 pts, plus 7 rebounds. In defeat, Vedran Morovic collected 20 pts and 8 assists.

Siroki Eronet - FMP 83-63
Siroki Eronet had an easy job against FMP 83-63 improving its score to 11-14. Sime Spralja (206-F/C-83) stepped up for the winners with 24 points and 7 rebounds. Hrvoje Puljko (193-G-83, agency: Interperformances) followed him with 13, and Chester Mason added 12 points and 13 rebs in this win. Mladen Jeremic replied with 16 points in defeat. His FMP dropped to 9-16.

Cedevita - Partizan 79-72
Cedevita outplayed the reigning champion 79-72 mostly owing to Marino Bazdaric (197-G/F-78), who scored 20 points and grabbed 6 rebounds. Andrija Zizic (207-C-80, agency: FCM) was behind him with 17 pts and 7 boards, while Jermaine Anderson added 14 pts and 6 rebs in this victory. In Partizan, Lester McCalebb replied with 19 points and 6 rebs. Lawrence Roberts added 12 points and 7 boards. Cedevita 13-12, Partizan 19-6.

Buducnost - Bosna S. 81-68
Buducnost was better than Bosna ASA BHT staying in race for the Final 4 ticket. Nikola Otasevic (184-G-82) and Goran Jeretin (192-G-79, agency: Beo Basket) were the leading players in this victory with 18 and 17 points respectively. Visitors got 13 points from each Zlatko Jovanovic and Milan Milosevic. Buducnost 15-10, Bosna ASA BHT 5-20.


FMP hires Bosko Djokic as new Head Coach - by Eurobasket News
FMP announced signing of Bosko Djokic as a new Head Coach. Djokic will replace Vlado Djurovic (agency: Interperformances ), who parted ways with the club few days ago.
Bosko Djokic is coming to FMP from Radnicki Basket. He took over Radnicki in December and it seems his work was good enough to attract FMP's attention. Radnicki Basket had poor start in A League, but after Djokic took them over, the team managed to avoid relegation.
Bosko Djokic is not a new face in FMP as he led it to Adriatic league title in 2004. Next season, FMP was Serbia and Montenegro Cup winner. He left FMP in 2005 for Avala Ada and later Pivovarna Lasko. With the Slovenian squad, Djokic reached the National Cup Finals.
On season 2008/09, Bosko Djokic was a Head Coach of Montenegrin team Niksic. He also has experience from Russia as a HC of Autodorozhnik Saratov.
FMP currently has just 9 wins for 25 appearances in Adriatic league. In the last round, they will meet Buducnost at home. At the same time, that will be the first game of coach Djokic on FMP's bench this season.


Standings
Adriatic League Standings
 1. Partizan 19-6 
 2. Cibona 19-6 
 3. Hemofarm 16-9 
 4. Buducnost 15-10 
 5. U.Olimpija 15-10 
 6. KK Zagreb 14-11 
 7. Cedevita 13-12 
 8. Zadar 12-13 
 9. Crvena Zvez. 11-14 
 10. Siroki Eronet 11-14 
 11. Radnicki K. 11-14 
 12. FMP 9-16 
 13. Helios 5-20 
 14. Bosna S. 5-20 


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Ante TOMIC
  MMC Real M.
  (217-C-87)
  Avg: 17.9
 1. Tomic, KK.17.9 
 2. Mulaomerovic, KK Za.17.1 
 3. Zizic, Cedevita17.0 
 4. Bazdaric, Cedevita16.7 
 5. Tomas, Cibona14.7 
 6. Zoric, KK.14.4 
 7. Macvan, Hemofarm14.2 
 8. Videnov, Crvena Z.13.9 
 9. Simon, KK.13.9 
 10. Sehovic, Bosna S.13.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Ante TOMIC
  MMC Real M.
  (217-C-87)
  Avg: 8.9
 1. Tomic, KK.8.9 
 2. Mason, Siroki E.8.0 
 3. Maric, Partizan7.5 
 4. Zoric, KK.6.8 
 5. Roberts, Partizan6.7 
 6. Ruzic, Zadar6.6 
 7. Raduljica, FMP6.2 
 8. Zizic, Cedevita6.0 
 9. Vranes, Partizan5.8 
 10. Macvan, Hemofarm5.8 
Assists Per Game
 Feliks KOJADINOVIC
  Bosna S.
  (197-G-79)
  Avg: 5.8
 1. Kojadinovic, Bosna S.5.8 
 2. Mocnik, Helios5.5 
 3. Markovic, Hemofarm4.8 
 4. Mason, Siroki E.4.6 
 5. Gordon, Cibona4.6 
 6. Anderson, Cedevita4.4 
 7. Mulaomerovic, KK Za.4.4 
 8. Aleksic, Radnicki K.4.2 
 9. Pavkovic, Hemofarm4.0 
 10. Stipcevic, Zadar4.0 
Steals Per Game
 Lester MCCALEBB
  Partizan
  (183-G-85)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. McCalebb, Partizan2.3 
 2. Walsh, U.Olimpija1.8 
 3. Roberts, Partizan1.8 
 4. Gordon, Cibona1.8 
 5. Krstic, KK.1.7 
 6. Otasevic, Buducnost1.6 
 7. Markovic, Hemofarm1.6 
 8. Stipcevic, Zadar1.6 
 9. Kojadinovic, Bosna S.1.6 
 10. Rozic, Cibona1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Luka ZORIC
  KK Zagreb CO
  (211-C/F-84)
  Avg: 1.5
 1. Zoric, KK.1.5 
 2. Vranes, Partizan1.4 
 3. Dragicevic, Buduc.1.2 
 4. Rakocevic, Bosna S.0.8 
 5. Plaisted, Zadar0.8 
 6. Tomic, KK.0.7 
 7. Golubovic, U.Olimpija0.7 
 8. Marjanovic, Hemof.0.7 
 9. Vitkovac, Buducnost0.6 
 10. Maras, Buducnost0.6 


*****************************************************
  ARGENTINA   


Standings - TNA
TNA Standings
TNA1
 1. Club 9 9-3 
 2. Argentino 8-3 
 3. El Nacional 7-5 
 4. San Mart.C. 5-6 
 5. San Mart.MJ 5-7 
 6. Ciclista 4-7 
 7. Bragado 2-9 
TNA2
 1. Obera TC 8-1 
 2. Alma Juniors 5-4 
 3. A.Italiana 4-5 
 4. Firmat SF 4-5 
 5. Belgrano SN 3-5 
 6. Independ.T. 2-6 


Penarol win to Quimsa and get - by Facundo Iatzky
Penarol mar del plata won to Quimsa 76-63 and got 'copa desafio', a game where play the winner of argentinian cup and the winner of Super 8 tournament. With this victory penarol also gave one more step to the numer one of the regular season. They just need to win two of the four games they have to assure this. Penarol defined the game in the last quarter that they won 25-12. Martin Leiva (208-F/C-80) scored a carrer high of 30 points. Marcos Mata (202-F-86) and Sebastian Vega (200-C-88) added 12 each. Julio Mazzaro (190-G-79), that played his last game of the season beacuse he wiil have an elbow surgery this friday, scored 20 in a losing effort. Federico Marin will return to the roster of Quimsa since the next round.

Stats Leaders - TNA
Points Per Game
 Derrick MILLER
  Bragado
  (202-C/F-78)
  Avg: 20.3
 1. Miller, Bragado20.3 
 2. Leith, Firmat SF17.7 
 3. Melo, Z*Indepe.17.4 
 4. Elsener, El Nacional16.5 
 5. Williams, Independ.T.16.3 
 6. Nwankwo, El Nacional16.2 
 7. Ford, Belgrano SN15.3 
 8. Truscott, San M.15.3 
 9. Wilkerson, Ciclista15.2 
 10. Barlasina, San M.15.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 Justin LEITH
  Firmat SF
  (201-F-81)
  Avg: 9.2
 1. Leith, Firmat SF9.2 
 2. Truscott, San M.9.1 
 3. Ford, Belgrano SN8.5 
 4. Williams, Independ.T.8.1 
 5. Espinoza, Argentino8.0 
 6. Williams, Club 97.6 
 7. Wilkerson, Ciclista7.4 
 8. Benjamin, San M.7.2 
 9. Kornegay, A.Ita.6.9 
 10. Miller, Bragado6.2 
Assists Per Game
 Julian OLMEDO
  Bragado
  (187-G-77)
  Avg: 4
 1. Olmedo, Bragado4.0 
 2. Gandoy, Belgrano SN3.5 
 3. La Bella, Obera TC2.8 
 4. Palacios, Firmat S.2.7 
 5. Forastieri, Club 92.6 
 6. Lauro, Z*Indepe.2.6 
 7. Ceci, Argentino2.5 
 8. Sartorelli, San M.2.4 
 9. Perez, El Nacional2.4 
 10. Luchino, San M.2.4 
Steals Per Game
 Javier GILETTA
  Alma Juniors
  (180-F-79)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Giletta, Alma Juniors2.4 
 2. Williams, Independ.T.2.1 
 3. Elsener, El Nacional2.0 
 4. La Bella, Obera TC2.0 
 5. Castets, Obera TC2.0 
 6. Eseverri, Belgrano.1.8 
 7. Castelli, Independ.T.1.8 
 8. Fernandez, Alma J.1.8 
 9. Melo, Club 91.6 
 10. Bendel, Z*Indepe.1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Pablo ESPINOZA
  Argentino
  (195-F-87)
  Avg: 1.4
 1. Espinoza, Argentino1.4 
 2. Kornegay, A.Ita.1.3 
 3. Francis, Argentino1.3 
 4. Williams, Club 91.2 
 5. Williams, Independ.T.1.1 
 6. Ford, Belgrano SN0.9 
 7. Robinson, Argentino0.9 
 8. Giorgi, Obera TC0.8 
 9. Martina, Club 90.8 
 10. Spicer, Obera TC0.7 


*****************************************************
  AUSTRALIA   


NBL returns to Sydney - by Eurobasket News
The National Basketball League is building on the success of the 2009/10 season and will welcome a new team to the league in 2010/11.

Sydney will once again have a team in the National Basketball League, with Basketball Australia announcing today that a club based in the New South Wales capital would be included amongst the nine teams to make up an expanded NBL competition for the 2010/11 season.

Sydney will join the existing eight clubs who competed in the recently completed NBL season to make up an expanded league in 2010/11. Those other eight teams are the Hood Sweeney Adelaide 36ers, Skytrans Cairns Taipans, Gold Coast Blaze, OAMPS Melbourne Tigers, Burger King New Zealand Breakers, Perth Wildcats, Townsville McDonalds Crocodiles and Wollongong ahm Hawks.

Whilst the name for the new Sydney team is yet to be revealed, Basketball Australia Chief Executive officer Larry Sengstock said that the group backing the club were a diverse collection of very well respected business people who had a passion for basketball.

I am delighted to announce that the NBL will be back in Sydney next season, with a very strong consortium making a compelling case for BA to issue them with a license, said Sengstock. Their application was unanimously endorsed by the NBL Commission last night and as a result they will take their place in the NBL in season 2010/11.

Whilst the people backing the new Sydney club have asked to remain anonymous for a little longer until they have had the chance to launch the team properly, I can say that the ownership group has impeccable business credentials. They are also all fully committed to making the Sydney team a long-term success both on and off-the-court, and have embraced the NBLs renewed community focus. This team will be a side for all of Sydney and will have very strong links to the community.

NBL Commission Chair Diane Smith-Gander said that the NBL would look to continue to expand its footprint by including a team in Brisbane in the future, but that only teams that have satisfied the new, more stringent financial criteria would be awarded licenses.

The NBL Commission and the BA Board are taking a controlled and strategic approach to expansion and are not rushing into additional marketplaces before the time is right, said Smith-Gander. We have Sydney now and that leaves Brisbane as the only major Australian market in which we dont have direct representation. We are continuing discussions with a group there and are confident that they will come to fruition, we are targeting the 2011/12 season, but we will not hamstring a team by rushing them into the competition before they are completely ready.

We need to make sure that we only issue licenses to teams that can meet our criteria and that have the capacity to be successful in the long-term. Sydney and the other eight existing teams all satisfied the NBL Commission that they deserved a license. The NBL will now build on the success of this most recent season, which saw increased attendance and strong television coverage.

BA and the NBL have been undergoing a necessary commercial reform process over the past two years, added Smith-Gander. The announcement of the nine teams for next season is another significant step in basketballs growth as a sport.

The NBL season will start in October 2010 and will conclude in March 2011. The 2011 Finals will once again see the top four teams qualify for the post-season, with one playing four and two playing three in best-of-three Semi Finals. The Grand Final will once again be a best-of-three.

Courtesy of NBL (www.nbl.com.au)


Crocs re-sign Hinder - by Eurobasket News
The Townsville McDonald's Crocodiles have announced Russell Hinder (208-F/C-79, college: Augusta St.) as their first player signed for the 2010/11 NBL season. The 30 year-old captain steered the Crocodiles to their fourth consecutive play off series in 2009/10 and the team finished third on the ladder falling one win short of a grand final berth.

Crocodiles Chief Executive Officer Ian Smythe says Russell is a key signing for the club and it was his contributions on and off the court that ensured he received a new two-year contract.

His contributions on and off the court are invaluable and he demonstrated this year at the club great leadership and is the type of role model that we as a club are keen to promote. I cannot be happier with Russell Hinder agreeing to terms, Smythe said.

Crocodiles Head Coach Trevor Gleeson was pleased with the way Russell took on the leadership cap for the first time and acknowledged the consistent season he had on court.

Rusty likes to have a bit of a joke around at the best of times and to take that leadership seriously and get his big long arms and wrap them around the team like he does on the court is invaluable for a team to get that camaraderie, and I thought Rusty did a great job of that.

He not only had a very consistent year on the court statistically but he moved in leaps and bounds to be captain and Im very pleased that hes going to be here for the next two years, said Coach Gleeson.

The 208cm forward/centre has played 236 career games across four NBL clubs and this will be his third season with the Crocs. He averages 6.4 rebounds, 9.3 points per game and shoots at 46 per cent from the field and 74 per cent from the line.

During 2009/10 Russell played all 28 games for the Crocodiles with an average 9.8 points per game, 5.3 rebounds and shot 79 per cent from the line and 49 per cent from the field.

He plays unselfishly on court and will throw his body around to help his team and thats the culture that weve developed here for the last couple of years. We want those guys that play for the team first and to have him signed up so early is great and hopefully that will help our recruiting to build this team into a championship team, added Coach Gleeson.


Courtesy of The Townsville McDonald's Crocodiles

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


Antwerp Giants News - by Peter Buyse
Antwerp Gianta has reached an agreement with American forward Trent Strickland (196-G-84, college: Wake Forest) for the rest of the season.
Strickland comes to Antwerp from Cyprus where he played for AEK Larnaca. He led the Cypriotic league in scoring and was 10th in rebounding.
Prior to coming to Europe he played 2 seasons in the D-League for the Rio Grande Valley Vipers.
During the 2008-2009 season he played 50 games and averaged 17.5 ppg and 6.1 rpg.
He should be eligible to play in the team's European quarter finals vs Pesaro.



*****************************************************
  BERMUDAS   


BBA All-Star Game - by Eurobasket News
The Bermuda Basketball Association Cellular One All-Star Game was held at the CedarBridge Academy Gym at the weekend. East All-Stars held off their West opponents 83:58. Steven Simmons led all scorers with 29 points. The player was named the MVP of the All-Star Game. Terrance Dill contributed 20 points for the winners. Jonathan Lowe responded with 21 points for West.
The game was preceded by Three-Point Shootout Contest. Shannon Thompson outscored Steven Simmons 11:8 to gain the crown.



*****************************************************
  BOSNIA   


Standings - BIH League
D1 Standings
 1. Igokea 19-2 
 2. Zrinjski MC 13-8 
 3. Sloboda Dita 13-8 
 4. Capljina 12-9 
 5. Hercegovac 11-10 
 6. SL IAT Leotar 10-11 
 7. Borac Nektar 9-12 
 8. Grude 8-13 
 9. Mladost MG 8-13 
 10. Sutjeska 8-13 
 11. Celik 8-13 
 12. Slavija 7-14 
Will join on later stage:
 1. Siroki Eronet
 2. Bosna S.


Igokea tab Lavell Blanchard - by Eurobasket News
Igokea have reached an agreement on terms of contract with LaVell Blanchard (201-G-81, agency: Beo Basket, college: Michigan). The 28-year-old guard/forward started the season in Khimik Yuznhy in Ukraine. LaVell Blanchard tallied 17.0 points, 9.3 boards and 1.7 assists per EuroChallenge game. In Superleague his stats read 11.9 points and 5.1 boards per appearance. The sides parted ways yesterday and LaVell Blanchard decided to move to Bosnia.


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


CBA All-Star Rosters Announced - by Arthur Volbert
The rosters have been named for the CBA All-Star game, to be played March 20.

Southern All Stars:

Starters:

Center: Wang Zhizhi Bayi; Power Forward: Zhang Kai Dongguan; Small Forward: Zhu Fangyu Guangdong; Shooting guard: John Lucas III Shanghai; Point Guard: Hu Xuefeng Jiangsu.

Substitutes:

Wang Shipeng Guangdong; Rodney White Zhejiang Lions; Lin Chih Chieh Zhejiang Lions, Liu Wei Shanghai, Yi Li Jiangsu, Gong Songlin Fujian, Ding Jinhui Zhejiang.

Northern All Stars:

Starters:

Center: Mengke Bateer Xinjiang; Power Forward: Li Xiaoxu Liaoning; Small Forward: Zhang Nan Tianjin; Shooting Guard: Yang Ming Liaoning; Point Guard: Zhang Qingpeng Liaoning.

Substitutes:

Xu Guozhong Xinjiang; Marbury Stephon (187-G-77, agency: Scenic Sports Group, LLC., college: Georgia Tech) Shanxi Zhongyu; Stromile Swift Shandong; Duan Jiangpeng Shanxi Zhongyu; Chen Lei Beijing; Ji Zhe Beijing; Zheng Zhun Shaanxi.

Hu Xuefeng has broken the index finger in his left hand, and announced that he will sit out the rest of this season, so he will need to be replaced. This also hurts Jiangsu's prospects in the playoffs.

The coaches of the 17 CBA teams also voted to pick their teams for the Rookie Challenge, to be played March 19.

Northern Rookies

Sui Ran Shandong, Tao Hanlin Shandong, Yu Shulong Jilin, Zhong Cheng Jilin, Zhang Biao Jilin, Xirelijiang Xinjiang, Yang Wenbo Shaanxi, Sun Shengyue Qingdao, Zhang Zhihan Tianjin, Zhang Ji Tianjin.

Southern Rookies

Cao Fei Zhejiang, Xu Zhong Hao Bayi, Zhang Chengyu Bayi, Feng Qi Dongguan, He Zhongmian Dongguan, Sun Zhe Dongguan, Dong Hanlin Guangdong, Li Gen Shanghai, Liu Yahui Jiangsu, Wu Nan Jiangsu.

The players for the Skills Challenge, 3-pointer Shootout and Dunking Contest, to be played March 19, are as follows:

Skills Challenge

Marbury Stephon (Shanxi Zhongyu); Lin Chih Chieh (Zhejiang Lions); Liu Wei (Shanghai); Xie Libin (Beijing);

3-pointer Shootout:

John Lucas III (Shanghai), Wang Ligang (Shanghai); Zhang Qingpeng (Liaoning); Xu Guozhong (Xinjiang); Jin Lipeng (Zhejiang Lions); Wei Mingliang (Shanxi Zhongyu);

Dunking Contest:

Wu Nan (Jiangsu), Cai Lilong (Jiangsu); Wang Fei (Zhejiang Lions); Stromile Swift (Shandong); Sean Williams (Fujian); Zaid Abbaas (Shanghai);


China to Appear in Schweitzer Junior Tourney, Li Muhao Keeps Growing - by Arthur Volbert
China has been invited to take the place of Canada and participate in the 25th Albert Schweitzer Tournament from April 3-10, in Mannheim, Germany. The tourney is the de facto world under-18 championship for this year.

The grouping of the tournament is as follows:

Group A
China, Italy, New Zealand, Germany

Group B
Brazil, Japan, Turkey, Germany U18

Group C
Argentina, Croatia, France, USA

Group D
Spain, Israel, Greece, Australia.

Chinese roster:
Shi Hongfei (Guangdong Hongyuan) 1993 1.80M Point Guard
Shan Zhiming (Guangdong Hongyuan) 1992 1.96M Power Forward
Li Muhao (216-C-92) (Dongguan New Century) 1992 2.17M Centre
Sun Tonglin (Dongguan New Century) 1992 2.08M Centre
Xu Jiahan (Shandong Kingston) 1993 1.90M Point Guard
Ren Kai (Zhejiang Chouzhou) 1992 2.05M Power Forward
Sun Hefeng (Dongguan New Century) 1992 2.04M Power forward
Gu Quan (Dongguan New Century) 1992 2.04M Small Forward
Yang Dapeng (Dongguan New Century) 1992 2M Small Forward
Zhang Bowen (Shanxi Fenqiu) 1992 1.90M Point Guard
Wang Pu (Guangdong Hongyuan) 1993 2M Power Forward
Tang Hanlin (Liaoning Panpan) 1992 1.94M Small Forward
Jia Tianchen (Beijing Capital Steel) 1992 1.90M Shooting Guard

Headcoach: Park Myung Soo

Park is from Korea, the first time China has used a Korean coach for one of its junior teams.

Ren Kai was listed as 208 cm at the Australian Olympic Youth Festival last fall. Li Muhao, Shi Hongfei, Shan Zeming, and Wang Pu were also at the youth festival.

Shi Hongfei was also on the team that won the Asian Under-16 Championship last year.

The most intriguing prospect on the team is Li Muhao, who is continuing to grow. Below are the latest statistics on Li from the Chinese website Baidu, provided by pryuen at https://www.yaomingmania.com/forum/index.php .

New Statistics from Baidu:
Age/Birth Date: age 18/year 1992
Height: 2.19M/7 ft 2
Weight: 100 KG/220 lbs
Wingspan: 2.25M
Standing Reach: 2.89M
Max Reaching Height (with running): 3.78M
Max Vertical: 91cm (36.4 inches)

Old statistics from hoopschina ealier in 2010:
Age/Birth Date: age 18/year 1992
Height: 2.17M/7 ft 1
Weight: 95 KG/210 lbs
Wingspan: 2.18M
Standing Reach: 2.82M
Max Reaching Height (with running): 3.65M
Max Vertical: 83cm (32.7 inches)

Pros:

Nimble; mobile; very co-ordinated; good passing skill; defensive minded; good timing in block shots;

Cons:

Too light; weak in contest; lazy/bad work ethic;

Li is the most heralded Chinese prospect since Yi Jianlian, who played in the Schweitzer tourney in 2002.



New NBA Player would arrive in China - by Robert Wang
D-league all star guard Joe Crawford (196-G-86) would arrive in China soon and would be showed up on the playoff for Jiang Su team. As we knew Jiang su team has a very good point guard Mr. Hu Xue feng, but Hu got an injury at the last regullar season game and team decided to find his backup. Firtly, team had contacted former NBA famous guard Damon Jones and had been in the negotiation of the contract. But team replaced the head coach Jason and new coach has his decission on the guard now and decided to give up on D Jones and showed interested in this younger NBA guard Joe Crawford. Joe C is 24 years old and listed as 6'5 from detroit. Joe was drafted at 2nd round 58 by Los Angels Lakers team. And has been played in NBA Lakers, Nicks and d-league Los Angels D-fenders. and he made d-league all-star game this year. Joe played 32 games in d-league with 32 minutes and average recives 17.8 points and 3.1 assists. If Joe arrived in Jiang Su, then team has to release 1 guy between Jamal and D Harvey. We will see who stays then.

*****************************************************
  COSTA RICA   


Surprise: Liceo falls to ARBA - by Gianni Pascucci
The most unexpected result of the Round 5 of Costa Rica Cup came from San Jose, where Kolbi Liceo de Costa Rica felt 90-92 to a strong ARBA San Ramon team, led by Dominican Amaury Ripoll (196-F-86), who scored 33 points, and former NT member Daniel Simmons (193-F-80, agency: Hoopdreamz Basketball), who scored 23 and hit the game-winnning basket with few seconds to go. In the other game of Group B, Escazu defeated San Luis Gonzaga 58-45 with 20 points from Gabriel Quesada (198-C-85). The standings are now as follows: ARBA 3-2, Liceo 3-1, Escazu 3-1, San Luis Gonzaga 0-5
No surprises, instead, in Group A: Ferreteria Brenes Barva destroyed Cartago with 83 points (!!) of difference, 122-39 on the road and Universidad de Costa Rica prevailed over Perez Zeledon, 78-70. The two winner teams are yet qualified for the next leg of the competition. The Group B updated table is: Barva 5-0, UCR 4-1, Cartago 1-4 and Perez Zeledon 0-5.


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


Stats Leaders - A1
Points Per Game
 Toni BIZACA
  Trogir
  (202-F-82)
  Avg: 25.3
 1. Bizaca, Trogir25.3 
 2. Vragovic, Dubrava20.6 
 3. Spahija, Svjetlost19.4 
 4. Mrva, Borik16.5 
 5. Filipovic, Sibenik16.5 
 6. Bilan, Sibenik16.0 
 7. Krolo, Darda15.6 
 8. Maric, Dubrava14.6 
 9. Sakic, Dubrava14.3 
 10. Krapic, Zabok14.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 Jurica SPAHIJA
  Svjetlost
  (203-F/C-83)
  Avg: 10.5
 1. Spahija, Svjetlost10.5 
 2. Bilan, Sibenik10.4 
 3. Bizaca, Trogir7.9 
 4. Vukicevic, Svjetlost7.2 
 5. Sakic, Dubrava7.1 
 6. Krapic, Zabok7.0 
 7. Rahimic, Sibenik7.0 
 8. Maric, Dubrava6.8 
 9. Krolo, Darda6.8 
 10. Macura, KK Split6.7 
Assists Per Game
 Luka PETKOVIC
  Siroki Eronet
  (190-G-88)
  Avg: 6.1
 1. Petkovic, Sibenik6.1 
 2. Sumic, KK Split4.7 
 3. Cosic, Svjetlost4.1 
 4. Tomeljak, Zabok4.1 
 5. Camagajevac, Darda3.6 
 6. Norac, Svjetlost3.6 
 7. Bosnjak, Dubrava3.5 
 8. Blajic, Trogir3.4 
 9. Radic, Dubrovnik3.3 
 10. Bubalo, Sibenik3.3 
Steals Per Game
 Vinko BOSNJAK
  Dubrava
  (186-G-80)
  Avg: 2.7
 1. Bosnjak, Dubrava2.7 
 2. Sumic, KK Split2.6 
 3. Norac, Svjetlost2.4 
 4. Petkovic, Sibenik2.3 
 5. Cosic, Svjetlost1.9 
 6. Blajic, Trogir1.9 
 7. Tomeljak, Zabok1.9 
 8. Katic, KK Split1.8 
 9. Bizaca, Trogir1.7 
 10. Kragic, Kastela1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Jere MACURA
  KK Split
  (205-F-80)
  Avg: 1.4
 1. Macura, KK Split1.4 
 2. Bilan, Sibenik1.1 
 3. Vladovic, Sibenik0.9 
 4. Bizaca, Trogir0.9 
 5. Sobin, KK Split0.8 
 6. Krolo, Darda0.7 
 7. Culjak, Dubrava0.7 
 8. Kamaldin, Darda0.7 
 9. Ridl, Darda0.6 
 10. Karac, Dubrovnik0.5 


Serbian teams make 3 of 4 against Croatians in Round 25 - by Eurobasket News
Round 25 of Adriatic league is completed. Games were played on Tuesday and Wednesday night.
Radnicki Kragujevac was too strong for No.1 Cibona 72-64 handing them 6th loss of the season. Marko Brkic (206-F/C-82, agency: Beo Basket) exploded with 26 points and 6 rebounds in this victory. Dragan Milosavljevic (198-G-89) followed with 13 pts for the hosts. On the other side, Samo Udrih (195-G-79) and Jamont Gordon (8 as) netted 15 and 12 points respectively. Radnicki 11-14, Cibona 19-6.
Crvena Zvezda was better than Zadar 77-72 for 11-14 score in Adriatic league. Zadar has one win more than the Serbian outfit. Boris Bakic (194-G-86, agency: Beo Basket) led the hosts with 19 points and Marko Keselj (205-F-88, agency: Beo Basket) also was great adding 17 pts, plus 7 rebounds. In defeat, Vedran Morovic (185-G-83, college: Olney Central CC) collected 20 pts and 8 assists.
Hemofarm grabbed valuable OT win 77-83 against Zagreb for 16-9 score in the regional championship. Milan Macvan (205-F-89) stepped up in this victory with 25 points and 11 rebounds. Kyle Hill (188-G-79, college: E.Illinois) and Goran Jagodnik (7 as) added 14 and 13 points respectively. In Zagreb (14-11), Krunoslav Simon (197-G/F-85) delivered 30 pts.
Cedevita outplayed the reigning champion 79-72 mostly owing to Marino Bazdaric (197-G/F-78), who scored 20 points and grabbed 6 rebounds. Andrija Zizic (207-C-80, agency: FCM) was behind him with 17 pts and 7 boards, while Jermaine Anderson (188-G-83, college: Fordham) added 14 pts and 6 rebs in this victory. In Partizan, Lester McCalebb replied with 19 points and 6 rebs. Lawrence Roberts added 12 points and 7 boards. Cedevita 13-12, Partizan 18-6.

Standings
1. Cibona 19-6
2. Partizan 19-6
3. Hemofarm 16-9
4. Buducnost 15-10
5. U.Olimpija 15-10
6. KK Zagreb 14-11
7. Cedevita 13-12
8. Zadar 12-13
9. Crvena Zvez. 11-14
10. Siroki Eronet 11-14
11. Radnicki K.
11-14
12. FMP 9-16
13. Helios 5-20
14. Bosna S. 5-20



*****************************************************

  D-LEAGUE   


Rockets re-assign Jermaine Taylor ro D-League - by Eurobasket News
The NBA Development League Rio Grande Valley Vipers announced today that their parent club, the NBA Houston Rockets, have re-assigned guard Jermaine Taylor (6'4'-G-86, college: Cent.Florida) to the Vipers.

Following his latest recall on February 23, Taylor averaged 4.0 points and 1.5 rebounds in 9.8 minutes over the course of four games fir the Rockets. Taylor scored seven points with four rebounds (two offensive) in 23 minutes of a loss at Utah on February 27. He also recorded a career-high eight points and two assists to go with two rebounds and one steal in 13 minutes of a win over Toronto on March 1.

In 21 games with the Rockets this season, Taylor is averaging 2.9 points and 6.8 minutes per game.

Taylor, who has had two previous assignments with the Vipers, is averaging 19.7 points and 4.2 rebounds in six games (two starts) with the Vipers.

'With the Houston Rockets at full strength it provides an opportunity for Jermaine Taylor to rejoin the Vipers for their stretch run. We think it will be a great experience for Jermaine to play a key role for the Vipers, as they finish their season and make a run in the playoffs. In addition, the assignment will allow Jermaine to continue his overall basketball development,' said Vipers General Manager Gersson Rosas, who is also the Vice President of Player Development for the Rockets.


Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com


Standings
D-League Standings
Central Division
 1. Iowa E. 33-11 
 2. Sioux Falls S. 27-15 
 3. Dakota W. 23-19 
 4. Erie Bay H. 18-25 
 5. Ft.Wayne MA 15-27 
Southwest Division
 1. Rio Grande 30-12 
 2. Austin T. 25-15 
 3. Maine R.Claws 25-17 
 4. Tulsa 66ers 24-18 
 5. Albuquerque 18-26 
West Division
 1. Utah F. 22-20 
 2. Idaho S. 20-22 
 3. Reno Bighorns 19-20 
 4. Bakersfield J. 15-27 
 5. Los Angeles D. 13-26 
 6. Springfield A. 7-35 


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Malik HAIRSTON
  San Antonio S.
  (198-G-87)
  Avg: 29.1
 1. Hairston, Austin T.29.1 
 2. Harris, Rio Grande26.9 
 3. Almond, Springfi.26.8 
 4. Williams, Sioux F.26.4 
 5. Farmer, Reno B.23.5 
 6. Johnson, Sioux F.23.1 
 7. Powell, Albuquerque22.2 
 8. Taylor, Idaho S.21.4 
 9. McLeod, Albuquer.21.2 
 10. Gee, Austin T.21.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Dwayne JONES
  Austin T.
  (211-C-83)
  Avg: 15.8
 1. Jones, Austin T.15.8 
 2. Dorsey, Rio Grande13.2 
 3. Johnson, Sioux F.11.8 
 4. Tolliver, Idaho S.11.4 
 5. Butch, Bakersfi.11.3 
 6. Harris, Rio Grande10.2 
 7. Barron, Iowa E.10.0 
 8. Bryant, Erie Bay H.10.0 
 9. Kurz, Ft.Wayne MA9.9 
 10. Reiner, Ft.Wayne.9.7 
Assists Per Game
 Curtis STINSON
  Iowa E.
  (187-G-83)
  Avg: 10.8
 1. Stinson, Iowa E.10.8 
 2. Conroy, Rio Grande10.0 
 3. Blalock, Reno B.7.5 
 4. Jackson, Erie B.7.4 
 5. Shakur, Tulsa 66ers7.2 
 6. Dickau, Ft.Wayne.7.1 
 7. Curry, Springfield A.7.1 
 8. Barrett, Idaho S.6.9 
 9. Gaines, Idaho S.6.9 
 10. Bailey, Sioux F.6.2 
Steals Per Game
 Orien GREENE
  Utah F.
  (193-G-82)
  Avg: 2.7
 1. Greene, Utah F.2.7 
 2. Gaines, Idaho S.2.3 
 3. Shakur, Tulsa 66ers2.3 
 4. Trepagnier, Iowa E.2.3 
 5. Jackson, Erie B.2.1 
 6. Robinson, Reno B.2.0 
 7. Stinson, Iowa E.2.0 
 8. Robinson, Los A.2.0 
 9. McLeod, Albuquer.2.0 
 10. Jeffers, Iowa E.1.9 
Blocks Per Game
 Gregory STIEMSMA
  Sioux Falls S.
  (211-C-85)
  Avg: 3.7
 1. Stiemsma, Sioux F.3.7 
 2. Looby, Albuquerque3.3 
 3. Ajinca, Maine RC3.1 
 4. Simmons, Idaho S.2.9 
 5. Jones, Austin T.1.8 
 6. Benson, Reno B.1.8 
 7. Daniels, Bakersfi.1.7 
 8. Trybanski, Reno B.1.6 
 9. McKenzie, Idaho S.1.5 
 10. Dorsey, Rio Grande1.5 


66ers acquire Jovan 'Wink' Adams out of free agency - by Eurobasket News
The Tulsa 66ers have announced that the team has acquired free agent guard Jovan 'Wink' Adams (6'0'-G-85, agency: ZAG Advocates, college: UNLV). The team is hoping Adams will fill the shoes of Mustafa Shakur down the home stretch. Shakur was called up to the Thunder on a 10 day contract earlier this week.

The 66ers are currently positioned to be able to make the playoffs, but they must continue to win.

Adams, a 6-0 guard, played most recently in Turkey, where he averaged 11.5 points, 4.5 rebounds, 3.2 assists and 1.8 steals in 18 games. Adams participated in the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas in 2009 as a member of the New York Knicks.

Adams played at the University of Nevada-Las Vegas and averaged 14.1 points, 3.8 rebounds, 2.6 assists and 1.6 steals in 133 games over four seasons for the Rebels. Adams was named to the 2008-09 All-Mountain West Conference First Team and All-Mountain West Tournament MVP during his senior season.

The Houston, Texas native will wear jersey number 7 and join the team today for practice. The updated 66ers roster is below:

# Name Pos. Ht. Wt. School

7 Jovan Adams G 6-0 200 UNLV
11 Cecil Brown G 6-4 200 UC Santa Barbara
17 Moses Ehambe G 6-6 210 Oral Roberts
44 DeVon Hardin C 6-11 250 California
50 Steven Hill C 7-0 245 Arkansas
99 Marcus Lewis F 6-8 265 Oral Roberts
15 Byron Mullens** C 7-0 275 Ohio State
23 Larry Owens F 6-7 215 Oral Roberts
41 Deron Washington F 6-7 215 Virginia Tech
21 Latavious Williams F 6-8 210 Christian Life Academy (Tx.)
**On NBA Assignment from Oklahoma City Thunder


Courtesy of www.gtrnews.com


*****************************************************
  DOMINICAN REPUBLIC   


Standings - District National
SRT Standings
 1. Sameji 5-1 
 2. CPN 4-2 
 3. Fernando 4-2 
 4. CDP 3-3 
 5. GUG 2-4 
 6. Cupes 0-6 


*****************************************************
  FYR MACEDONIA   


Stats Leaders - Superleague
Points Per Game
 Dimitar KARADZOVSKI
  Torus
  (189-G-84)
  Avg: 19.8
 1. Karadzovski, Torus19.8 
 2. Cekovski, Rabotnicki19.1 
 3. Ristic, Ovce Pole19.0 
 4. Simic, V.Osiguruvanje18.6 
 5. Held, Ovce Pole17.3 
 6. Dimcevski, Vardar 17.0 
 7. Stojanovski, V.Osig.16.7 
 8. Life, Feni Indistrija15.9 
 9. Held, Pelister15.7 
 10. Hadzibulic, Rabot.15.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Gjorgji CEKOVSKI
  Levski
  (202-F/C-81)
  Avg: 9.3
 1. Cekovski, Rabotnicki9.3 
 2. Krstevski, Vardar 8.0 
 3. Held, Pelister7.6 
 4. Simic, V.Osiguruvanje7.5 
 5. Ristic, Ovce Pole7.3 
 6. Gjorevski, MZT S.7.3 
 7. Pavlovski, Torus7.1 
 8. Televski, Pelister6.8 
 9. Dimcevski, Vardar 6.6 
 10. Held, Ovce Pole6.4 
Assists Per Game
 Milan MILJKOVIC
  Pelister
  (186-G-86)
  Avg: 6.5
 1. Miljkovic, Pelister6.5 
 2. Samardziev, Feni I.5.4 
 3. Karadzovski, Torus4.8 
 4. Mladenovic, Ovce Pole4.6 
 5. Mirakovski, Rabot.4.3 
 6. Kocov, Vardar 20004.2 
 7. Trajkovski, Plejme.3.7 
 8. Sokolov, Rabotnicki3.7 
 9. Ugrinoski, V.Osig.3.5 
 10. Tasevski, Torus3.4 
Steals Per Game
 Milan MILJKOVIC
  Pelister
  (186-G-86)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Miljkovic, Pelister2.3 
 2. Bogojev, Feni I.1.8 
 3. Tasevski, Torus1.6 
 4. Dimcevski, Vardar 1.6 
 5. Dimitrovski, Rabot.1.5 
 6. Kocov, Vardar 20001.5 
 7. Held, Ovce Pole1.4 
 8. Stojanovski, V.Osig.1.4 
 9. Mladenovic, Ovce Pole1.4 
 10. Held, Pelister1.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Toni SIMIC
  V.Osiguruvanje
  (210-C-76)
  Avg: 2.7
 1. Simic, V.Osiguruvanje2.7 
 2. Krstevski, Vardar 1.7 
 3. Pavlovski, Torus1.6 
 4. Televski, Pelister1.3 
 5. Kralevski, Plejme.1.1 
 6. Trajkovski, Feni I.0.9 
 7. Knezevic, Feni I.0.8 
 8. Ilic, Vardar 20000.6 
 9. Cekovski, Rabotnicki0.6 
 10. Bilbija, Ovce Pole0.5 


*****************************************************
  GERMANY   


Standings - 1. Bundesliga
1.Bundesliga Standings
 1. ALBA 21-6 
 2. EWE Baskets 19-6 
 3. Telekom B. 19-8 
 4. Goettingen 18-7 
 5. Brose Baskets 17-10 
 6. Dt.Bank SKY 17-10 
 7. Bremerhaven 16-11 
 8. NY Phantoms 15-12 
 9. EnBW L'burg 14-12 
 10. Art.Dragons 14-13 
 11. MBC 14-13 
 12. Walter Tigers 12-15 
 13. ratiopharm 10-17 
 14. LTi 46ers 8-19 
 15. TBB Trier 8-19 
 16. Duesseldorf 7-20 
 17. Phoenix Hagen 6-20 
 18. Pad.Baskets 5-22 


Stats Leaders - 1.Bundesliga
Points Per Game
 David TEAGUE
  LTi 46ers
  (196-G-83)
  Avg: 20.4
 1. Teague, LTi 46ers20.4 
 2. Buford, Bremerha.17.5 
 3. Copeland, TBB Trier16.0 
 4. Jenkins, ALBA15.4 
 5. Jeffers, LTi 46ers15.1 
 6. Burns, ratiopharm15.1 
 7. Reese, Dt.14.7 
 8. Suput, Brose B.14.6 
 9. Jenkins, Walter T.14.3 
 10. Oliver, Goettingen14.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Jeff GIBBS
  Bremerhaven
  (188-F-80)
  Avg: 9.3
 1. Gibbs, Bremerhaven9.3 
 2. Ensminger, Telek.8.6 
 3. Kale, Phoenix Hagen7.6 
 4. Johnson, LTi 46ers7.4 
 5. Doliboa, Dt.7.0 
 6. Burns, ratiopharm6.6 
 7. Boone, Goettingen6.6 
 8. Archibong, Duesseld.6.4 
 9. Oliver, Goettingen6.4 
 10. Turek, Phoenix .6.2 
Assists Per Game
 Louis CAMPBELL
  Bremerhaven
  (190-G-79)
  Avg: 6.3
 1. Campbell, Bremerha.6.3 
 2. Ratkovica, Walter T.5.7 
 3. Hamilton, NY Phant.5.6 
 4. Jordan, Phoenix .5.4 
 5. Jordan, Telekom B.5.2 
 6. Reese, Dt.4.8 
 7. Schaffartzik, NY Pha.3.8 
 8. Gamqrelidze, MBC3.7 
 9. Foster, EWE B.3.5 
 10. Wright, ALBA3.5 
Steals Per Game
 Roderick TRICE
  ratiopharm
  (191-F-84)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Trice, ratiopharm2.4 
 2. Jenkins, Walter T.1.9 
 3. Hamilton, NY Phant.1.8 
 4. Foster, EWE B.1.5 
 5. Martin, Bremerha.1.5 
 6. Bernard, MBC1.5 
 7. Anderson, Goett.1.5 
 8. Teague, LTi 46ers1.5 
 9. Burns, ratiopharm1.4 
 10. Ratkovica, Walter T.1.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Tibor PLEISS
  Brose Baskets
  (214-F/C-89)
  Avg: 1.6
 1. Pleiss, Brose B.1.6 
 2. Boumtje, EWE B.1.5 
 3. Turek, Phoenix .1.4 
 4. Ohlbrecht, Telek.1.4 
 5. Lyde, Bremerhaven1.0 
 6. Bryant, ratiopharm1.0 
 7. Majstorovic, EWE B.0.9 
 8. Barrett, Pad.Bask.0.9 
 9. Flomo, Telekom B.0.9 
 10. Chaney, EnBW L.0.9 


Michael Jenkins (Walter Tigers Tuebingen) Pregame Thoughts To Paderborn Baskets Game March 20th - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Michael Jenkins (191-G-86, college: Winthrop) is a 22 year old 192 cm guard from Kinston, North Carolina. He played at Winthrop (NCAA) from 2004-2008. He didnt play as much his first two seasons, but got increased playing time in his junior and senior years. As a junior, he averaged 14.8ppg, 3.8rpg, 3.2apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 45.9%, 3PTConf-1 (41.5%), FT: 70.2% in 34 games. In his senior year, he played 34 games and averaged 13.9ppg, 4.1rpg, 2.5apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 41.6%, 3PTConf-6 (36.8%), FT: 71.3%: and finished his career as the 10th leading scorer in Winthrop history with 1,253 points. With Winthrop, he was the Big South Conf. Regular Season Champion in 2005, 2006 and 2007 and won the Big South Conf Tournament from 2005-2008. He was named to the Big South Conf. All-Tournament Team in 2007 and 2008. In his first professional season 2008-2009, he was drafted by the Albany Patrons of the CBA and in November 2008 signed with the Albany Patroons playing 3 games and averaging 6.7ppg, 2.0rpg, FGP: 47.4%, but left during the season and moved to BC Buducnost Podgorica (Bosnia-1A) in Feb 2009. Currently he is playing for The Walter Tigers Tuebingen and spoke to eurobasket before the game against The Paderborn Baskets March 20th..

The Walter Tigers Tuebingen lost a wild OT game against The New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig 112-104. Are these the toughest games to lose or is it the blow out games?



Yeah overtime games are definitely tougher to lose than blow out games.

After a euphoric six game winning streak, the team has lost five of seven games. How is the mood in the team?


It's tough right now because we lost two games at home that we should have won but could not close.

Is the team feeling pressure of reaching the playoffs? The team has every chance of reaching the elite 8?


No we weren't feeling any pressure to make them but we knew we were in a very good position to definitely finish in the top 8. We have dug ourselves in a hole now and we just have to try to win out and hope we get some help from other teams.

The next game is against The Paderborn Baskets. What is your memory of the 93-81 win at home?

I don't really remember much. Just that we won, we played well as a team, and I had a big game.

You scored 26 points in the win. Are you looking extra forward to this game? Is this a team that fits your offensive play?


No I'm not more ready to play this game than I am any other game. I try to treat every game the same. It was a regular big game for me just like any other big game I've had this season.

How dangerous are the Paderborn Baskets. What will The Walter Tigers Tuebingen have to especially watch for in this game?


I'm not sure how dangerous they are nor what we need to watch for, but after we watch film and scout them we will have a better idea.

What will be the key to winning the game?



We just have to control their guards and we should be fine.

Who are your NCAA FINAL 4 picks?


Kansas, Kansas State, Villanova, & Kentucky
Thanks Michael for the chat.



The Deutsche Bank Skyliners And Serb Dragan Labovic Look For Luck In Diverting Serb Alba Berlin Coach Luka Pavicevic With A Piece Of String March 20th - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Dragan Labovic was recently in Belgrad to check a visa problem and might have gotten a brush up on Serb superstitions as he hopes that he will not have an unlucky streak like Johannes Herber has had with injuries the last few years, NBA legends John Stockton and Karl Malone never winning a NBA title in 37 years combined, or actress Jennifer Aniston striking out with men about as much as Reggie Jackson did in the majors, so that his positive 2-0 streak in a Frankfurt uniform can continue as he and the Deutsche Bank Skyliners will have the ultimate test against 8 time BEKO BBL champion Alba Berlin on March 20th at 19:00. Some common superstitions in Serbia are if one sits next to an open window then one will have an externally stiff neck. Often one sees older Serbs frantically closing windows in buses. Another common superstition is never to call a new born baby sweet, because it will be plagued by bad luck. However the most famous superstition may be never placing a handbag or wallet on the ground since the owner will become penniless. 'I am sure that Labovic and Pavicevic will talk at the shoot around. Labovic could get someone to sneak behind coach Pavicevic and attach a string to his wallet. When Pavicevic walks away then someone could pull the string and pull it out of his pocket. If Pavievic is superstitious then he will worry about luck and lose focus on game plan. This could be a big distraction', joked Phoenix Hagen American Quentin Pryor (193-G/F-83, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: Morehead St.). 'Labovic should try to get his team to help gather in the coins if the wallet of Pavicevic is on the ground. If a loss means losing the wallet, then Frankfurt should try to get the money (points for win) before Alba Berlin has the wallet (win) in their hands again', laughed ex TV Langen center Ruben Spoden (202-F-89). Ex Eisbaeren Bremerhaven guard Giordan Watson (178-G-85, college: Cent.Michigan) took a different approach to the Serb superstition and took a more American approach. 'Frankfurt has to make sure that Labovic doesnt break any mirrors', added Giordan Watson (178-G-85, college: Cent.Michigan).

The Deutsche Bank Skyliners did have much luck with the dragon from Artland and now have their hands full with the eloquent albatross bird from Berlin. It is the largest of all flying birds and can cover long distances with little exertion. It will be interesting to see how well The Deutsche Bank Skyliners can hinder the Albatros from using their wings positively. 'They have to shoot them out of the sky. On the court, they have to limit their quick shots, stop their big men, their fast break, and their pick and role', joked ex Skyliner forward Qarran Calhoun (203-F-86, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Houston). The Albatros bird is also known for making a special ritual by dancing when they are breeding. 'Frankfurt may have no control how Alba Berlin does their breeding in the offseason for getting new talent, but they could prevent a Julius Jenkins (187-G-81, college: Georgia Southern) or Immanuel McElroy (193-G-80, college: Cincinnati) from starting a funky dance after a spectacular play or thunderous dunk. they wont allow Alba Berlin to do a dance. If they want to dance, then they can go to Atlanta and do the dirty bird dance there all they want. You see that dance at Atlanta Falcons games after Jamal Anderson made a touchdown. He shaked his arms looking like wings of a bird', joked Qarran Calhoun.

Many critics are asking if the 2009-2010 Alba Berlin team is as strong as last years team, but if one studies the roster on paper, then it is clear to see that the team seemed to be a little weaker at the start of the season, but in the last months, they added a lot of depth with Derrick Byars (202-G/F-84, agency: Priority Sports, college: Vanderbilt), Jurica Golemac (209-F-77, agency: Beo Basket), Cemal Nalga and Lucca Staiger (196-G-88, college: Iowa St.) The team lost Americans Casey Jacobsen and Ansu Sessay and Serb Alexsandar Nadjfeji. Berlin management seemed content with keeping the bulk of last years team and letting the team chemistry grow and only adding additional pieces to the team. American Lee Cummard didnt get past preseason not fulfilling the requirements on the court and Bosnian Kenan Bajrmovic and was unable to full fill expectations averaging only 6,7ppg, 3,7rpg and 1,0apg in 11 games in the BEKO BBL Alba Berlin is quietly resting a top the BEKO BBL standings with a record of 21-6. They started the season slowly winning three of five games, but then dominated the German league having a 17-2 record. Only 2009 BEKO BBL champion EWE Baskets Oldenburg and BG Goettingen were able to claim victory. Since then, they have a 4-2 record, but have lost two of the last three games, but responded cold heartedly after a two games losing streak squashing Phoenix Hagen 83-50 and remain a hot favourite of winning the 2010 BEKO BBL title. 'Alba Berlin has been so successful mainly because each player is so dangerous, they all play together, use their strength, and are just very disciplined', warned Quentin Pryor. 'A big difference this season seems to be their consistency at each position. Alba Berlin has always been strong. They are clicking at each position this season. They play so unselfish and there is always a man open', stressed Nordlingen Giants guard Giordan Watson (178-G-85, college: Cent.Michigan). Their defense this season also has been stellar as they have kept the opponent to 70 points or less in 17 of 26 games. 'Alba Berlin seem to always be able to take away your strength on offense and they force you to beat them from outside', commented Telekom Baskets Bonn American Bryce Taylor

The biggest strength of Alba Berlin is the pick and role which the club tends to perform to perfection at times about as easily as LeBron James (203-F-84) can make a full court shot in his free time. 'The Alba Berlin pick and role is so strong because they space the floor so well and they make you pick your position by either helping and leaving a shooter or staying and leaving the roll guy open', expressed Quentin Pryor. Recently The Telekom Baskets travelled to Berlin and saw first hand how potent the Alba Berlin pick and roll can be as they got destroyed 83-48. 'Alba Berlin has four big men that can shoot the ball and share the ball well. So they can beat you with the shot from the guard, kick inside, or outside. They clearly have the best pick and role play in the league', warned Telekom Baskets Bonn American Bryce Taylor (196-G-86, agency: Priority Sports) Phoenix Hagen recently also saw how dangerous the Alba Berlin pick and role can be as they gave up 83 points. 'If Frankfurt wants to be successful in defending the Alba Berlin pick and role, then they should not let the guard go over the screen. They have to force him to go the other way which will take the guy thats at the screen out of the play. He is then not as dangerous if he cant roll down the lane', warned Quentin Pryor. 'Frankfurt can limit the Alba Berlin pick and roll by taking away what their bigs do best and force them to their weak hand', added Bryce Taylor 'Alba Berlin is very well coached and execute very well. It is difficult for any team to guard the pick and roll when there are so many unselfish players', added Giordan Watson (178-G-85, college: Cent.Michigan).

Two interesting duels will be big men Dragan Labovic (207-C/F-87) vs Cemal Nalger and Super Tez Robertson vs Immanuel McElroy. At the end of 2009, The Deutsche Bank Skyliners were flirting with the idea of bringing in the big Turk Cemal Nalga, but they were to slow as Alba Berlin were quicker and signed him. He has been pretty solid averaging 4,7ppg and 4,6rpg in 11 minutes. 'This will be a very good matchup. Nalga is more fitter and athletic, but Labovic can get to the basket and find his teammates. It will be interesting to watch who wins this duel', added Deutsche Bank Skyliner coach Murat Didin (agency: Interperformances ) Phoenix Hagen American Quentin Pryor has the best memory of both big men as he saw both players the last two weekends. 'This will be a good test for Labovic, because the Berlin guys play pretty much the same way he does as they get a lot of touches. There will be a lot of weight being thrown around in the Laboic-Nalga matchup. Those are two big dudes. Both are bruising and simple. Their games depend on their strength and they do nothing flashy. Nalga is very physical and big and I think, he has more experience', stressed Quentin Pryor. MBC Serb guard Radenko Pilcevic (188-G-86) has high hopes for Dragan Labovic (207-C/F-87) as he is content that the big Serb can break Alba Berlin. 'Labovic has to prove that there are better players and teams than Alba Berlin in the BEKO BBL', warned Radenko Pilcevic (188-G-86). Another interesting duel could be Quantez Robertson-Immanuel McElroy. Two great athletic defenders, but Mcelroy had the better game in the Alba Berlin 59-53 win in Frankfurt as he scored 10 points, grabbed 13 rebounds and dished out three assists while Robertson scored two points, got three rebounds, two assists and two steals. Robertson has shown in the last months that he can rebound with the best of them, but a lack of experience is the only thing going against the ex Auburn guard. 'Mcelroy is one of the best defenders in the league and Robertson is athletic and plays hard, but the edge goes to the more experienced and proven Mcelroy', stated Bryce Taylor.' Mcelroy is a tough hardnosed player so Robertson will be in for a challenge', said Giordan Watson (178-G-85, college: Cent.Michigan). 'This will be a very interesting duel, since both are good defenders and solid scorers', commented Quentin Pryor.

Since the climatic semi final win over Alba Berlin in 2005, where guys like Chris Williams and Tyrone Ellis led the then Opel Skyliners into the BBL final, Frankfurt has only a 3-7 record against the Albatros, but have built installed a special albatross cage in the Ballsporthalle which has rewarded them with a 3-1 record. Overall the record in the Ballsporthalle stands at 9-9. One of the biggest and most emotional wins in the last years was the 81-67 trouncing in January 2006 as it was the debut of ex Skyliner coach Charles Barton. It was only a shame that the team was unable to take this big win and grow off it as they won little more that season and had to win on the last day at home against The EWE Baskets Oldenburg to stay in the BBL. The last two years have been dominating with a 74-58 win in 2008 as American Derrick Allen added 19 points and six rebounds and in 2009, they won 73-66 as ex Skyliner Lorenzo Gordon chipped in with 15 points and six rebounds. In Berlin, the Deutsche Bank Skyliners have not won since the 2005 Quarterfinal playoffs and have an 0-5 record since then and have been outscored in the last five years in Berlin 447-340. 'Frankfurt should go through the same routine that they had before playing The Artland Dragons. Whatever they did that helped them play good against The Artland Dragons, they should repeat before playing Alba Berlin', added Quentin Pryor.

Alba Berlin is led by 28 year old 187 cm guard American Julius Jenkins (187-G-81, college: Georgia Southern) who has developed into one of the top players in the BBL after first being recognized in the 2004-2005 season as he averaged 27,1ppg in the second Bundesliga for Nurnberg. Last season he averaged 14.8ppg, 2.3rpg, Assists-4 (4.2apg), FGP: 52.6%,. This season, he is averaging 15,5ppg, 1,8rpg and 2,6apg. He has scored in double figures 21 times and his best scoring game in the BEKO BBL was 31 points against The Bayer Giants Leverkusen. After a very slow start, he has increased his shooting to 48% from outside and 46% from the field. He is an explosive scorer from the point guard or the shooting guard position; possesses the ability to score and create his own shot at anytime; Has very long arms and great leaping ability; unlimited range on the jump shot, which allows him to stretch the defense. 'You have to pray that he misses. You have to be physical with him and make sure the bigs hedge hard on ball screens', warned Omari Westley (201-F-82, college: Cleveland St.) 27 year old 209cm center Montenegran Blagota Sekulic (209-F/C-82, agency: FCM) is averaging 10,6ppg and 4,9rpg. He came to Alba Berlin shortly before the BBL Cup last season and was an instrumental part in the team winning. He was the third leading scorer averaging 9.5ppg, 4.1rpg, FGP: 57.0%, FT: 68.9%; Euroleague: 3 games: 10.3ppg, 4.3rpg. He is a smart player that can move very well. He plays a good pick and role that is difficult to defend, warned Ex Braunschweig cemter Jannik Freese. This season, he has scored in double figures 20 times, had one double double and his best scoring game in the BEKO BBL was 24 points against The Telekom Baskets Bonn.

29 year old 193cm guard Immanuel McElroy is playing his third season in Berlin and is averaging 9,8ppg, 5,4rpg and 3,2apg. He is already on his way with fighting for the MVP award in 2010. His overall quickness, combined with his mental toughness, makes him well-suited as a defender in the attacking defense. He is very athletic, a 40-inch vertical jump and a bench press approaching 300 pounds, ability to break defenders down with his dribble and his explosiveness to the basket makes him an effective scorer. He also possesses good court vision and excellent ball-handling skills, giving him the ability to distribute the ball, particularly in the transition game. He is a natural leader who makes others around him better players. He also has very much experience having won three BBL cups and two BBL league titles. 'If you want to slow dowm Mcelroy, you have to deny him the ball and give him the jump shot until he starts to make some', warned Omari Westley . Mcelroy who has never been known as a good shooter has really improved his shooting the last few years. He has scored in double figures 12 times and had his best ever rebounding game with 13 against Frankfurt last November. His bests coring game was 29 points against The Artland Dragons.

28 year old 207cm center Adam Chubb (207-F/C-81, college: Pennsylvania) is playing his fifth season in Germany after having found experience in Giessen, Bremerhaven and The Artland Dragons. He won the BBL cup in 2008 and 2009 and is currently averaging 10,4ppg and 3,7rpg. His rebounding has gone down, but he continues to be a very athletic big man and runs the floor extremely well. He is a sound fundamental player who has good hands, is a fine low-post presence and is a good passer to players who are open or cutting to the basket. He can defend a center in the low-post as well as a power forward perimeter player. He harmonizes very nicely with Blagota Sekulic (209-F/C-82, agency: FCM). 'Chubb is not as explosive anymore, but he is still a very good player. He is more your typical big man', added Omari Westley 'Chubb is athletic and has good moves to the basket. You have to box him out and not give him the position to be successful against him', said Jannik Fresse. He missed five games this season due to injury and has scored in double figures 13 times and his best scoring game in the BEKO BBL was 25 points against Cologne.

American Rashad Wright (189-G-82, college: Georgia) is a 27 year old 189cm guard who was drafted by the Indiana Pacers in 2004 and is playing his second season with Alba Berlin. Last season, he averaged 7.9ppg, 3.1rpg, 2.5apg, FGP: 58.3%, 3PT: 28.1%, FT: 66.3%. This season, he is splitting the point guard duties with Dirk Bauermann favourite Steffen Hamann (194-G-81) and is averaging 8,4ppg, 3,1rpg and 3,5apg. He has been playing well averaging 26 minutes as Hamann only 17,6 minutes per game. 'You have to play Wright solid and limit his open looks', stressed Omari Westley. He has scored in double figures 8 times and his best scoring game in the BEKO BBL was 19 points against Phoenix Hagen. The team got 25 year old 202m American Derrick Byars (202-G/F-84, agency: Priority Sports, college: Vanderbilt), who had a short stint with Cologne in 2007 playing only four games. He was drafted by the Portland Trailblazers in 2007. This season averaging 7,9ppg, and 2,2rpg. ' He is a very talented player', stressed Alba Berlin guard Immanuel McElroy. Byars has scored in double figures 8 times and his best scoring game this eaosn was 21 points against The Giessen 46ers. 33 year old 205cm Serb forward Dragan Dojcin is playing his third season with Alba Berlin and is a lefthanded power forward, very quick and is a very good shooter from the distance. He can also play under the basket. This season, he is averaging 6,1ppg, 2,3rpg and 1,2apg. Frankfurt will really have to keep an eye on him and not let him run hot from outside, because once he gets going, he can quickly make a 3 point game to a 10 point game. He has scored in double figures 4 times this season.

28 year old 194cm German guard Steffen Hamann (194-G-81) is playing his second season in Berlin after playing from 1997-2008 in Bamberg. This season, he is averaging only 4,8ppg, 1,7rpg, 2,0apg and 1,2spg. He may not be an offensive force, but a very solid point guard that is an aggressive defender and can penetrate with the best of them. This season he has scored in double figures 2 times and his best scoring game was against Alba Berlin in 2004. 24 year old 198cm forward Philip Zwiener (198-F-85, agency: Court Side) was promised more playing time this season, but hasnt really gotten it averaging 8 minutes per game and it is difficult showing much on offense with such a deep roster. He is averaging 2,7ppg and 1,1rpg. He has scored in double figures 2 times and his best BEKO BBL scoring game was 17 points against The New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig. A few months ago Ago Alba Berlin got experienced 32 year old 207 cm Slovenian-Croatian Jurica Golemac (209-F-77, agency: Beo Basket) who is a tall power forward with great passing skils and court vision. He can shot very well from the perimeter, has good timing for the rebound on both ends of the court and can play center if needed. He has played for top teams like Efes Pilsen, Hapoel Jersualem and Ural Great Perm in the last years. He started the season playing for Panathinaikos but averaged only 2,5ppg, 2,5rpg and 1,0apg in 11 minutes. He has won the Slovenian Cup three times and played in the Slovenian Allstar game four times. This season, he is averaging 5.9ppg, 3,5rpg and 2,4apg. He best scoring game was 11 points against The Telekom Baskets Bonn. At the start of 2010 as American Adam Chubb (207-F/C-81, college: Pennsylvania) was injured, the team picked up 22 year old 208 cm center Turk Cemal Nalger. He played for Galatasaray Istanbul the last three years. This season, he is averaging 4,4ppg and 4,7rpg and is a solid role player from the bench that likes to bang. The team recently added 21 year old 196cm German shooting guard Lucca Staiger (196-G-88, college: Iowa St.) who suddenly left Iowa State to come home to play professional basketball. Last season, he played 32 games for Iowa State averaging 8,2ppg, 2,2rpg and 1,5apg. He probably wont see much playing time this season as he is being groomed for next season. This season, he is averaging 2,5ppg in very limited playing time. He once scored 106 points in a youth game as he was 16 years old. He made his debut in the German National team last summer at the European Championships averaging 5,0ppg and ,2rpg.

The Deutsche Bank Skyliners come to Berlin with a lot of self confidence after the very convincing 77-65 win against The Artland Dragons and have absolutely nothing to hide. They will still be without Aubrey Reese, but they have enough options at the guard position to get the team past Alba Berlin. Frankfurt has a big help under the boards with Dragan Labovic (207-C/F-87) who will give Murat Didin more stability in the paint. It is important to focus on the whole team, but even if one is having a good day doing that, one still has to keep an eye on American Julius Jenkins (187-G-81, college: Georgia Southern) who can explode at any time during a game. 'I remember seeing him go crazy at the Top 4 in Hamburg last season. I only played against him once last season and he came off the bench and played very smart and controlled. Frankfurt will have to watch him', warned Giordan Watson (178-G-85, college: Cent.Michigan). It seems like Julius Jenkins (187-G-81, college: Georgia Southern) is the team quarterback and Frankfurt will want him to be making incomplete passes instead of bombs for touchdowns. 'Frankfurt has to limit the Jenkins looks and when he is on then it seems like the whole team gets going. Frankfurt has to take care of the ball, because Berlin is dangerous after the turnover. Berlin is good at getting back on defense, but Frankfurt should attack them as much as possible. Berlin has to control the lane and boards and wear down Pascal Roller (180-G-76)', warned Quentin Pryor. There are also two other factors that should lead The Deutsche Bank Skyliners down the right road towards success. 'Frankfurt will win if they can limit mistakes and dont let Alba Berlin get easy baskets, because they are already efficient on offense and Frankfurt also has to make them work hard on defense in a hope to slow down the Berlin offense', added Giordan Watson (178-G-85, college: Cent.Michigan). Quentin Pryor has a secret tip for Frankfurt. 'Alba Berlin is apt to score each time when you turn over the ball. They did it in the film that we watched and in our loss, so Frankfurt should try to limit their turnovers', warned Quentin Pryor. Alba Berlin host The Deutsche bank Skyliners on March 20th at 19:00.



Quentin Pryor (Phoenix Hagen) Pregame Thoughts To Duesseldorf Giants Game March 20th - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Quentin Pryor (193-G/F-83, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: Morehead St.) is a 25 year old 193cm shooting guard/small forward from Eupora, Mississippi and is playing his second season with Phoenix Hagen. He started his college basketball career at Jackson State, before finishing at Morehead State from 2005-2007. In his senior year, he played 30 games averaging11.4ppg, 4.6rpg, 2.1apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 46.3%, 3Pts: 36.8%, FT: 71.7%. In 2007, he started his professional basketball career in Germany with FC Schalke 04 playing 29 games and averaging 15.1ppg, 4.3rpg, 2.2apg, Steals-1 (2.5spg), FGP: 55.8%, 3PT: 37.4%, FT: 75.2%. Last season for Phoenix Hagen, he played 30 games averaging 14.7ppg, 3.8rpg, 3.0apg, 1.7spg, FGP: 60.5%, 3PT: 30.3%, FT: 75.2. He spoke to Eurobasket before the game against The Duesseldorf Giants on March 20th

Phoenix Hagen is riding a 10 game losing streak. The last win was on January 2nd. Has this losing streak felt like an eternity?


Yes it has because we only play once a week so it seems like forever...2 1/2 months is a long time

Does Phoenix Hagen have anything planned this week to do differently just to get your mind of the losing streak and focused for Duesseldorf?

No we don't have anything special planned. Its just another game in a long season

Who has been the most vocal on the team in the last weeks just trying to motivate the team as much as possible?


Everyone is being vocal because we are all tired of the losing and wants to put an end to this streak

Did any Berlin player give you words of encouragement after the 83-50 loss?


No...I don't think any of them have ever been in situations like this especially in Berlin!!!

The next game is against The Duesseldorf Giants. What are your memories from the 85-77 win at home?



It was a back and forth game all day until the last couple of minutes. We were able to make some shots and free throws to seal the win.

The team must have a lot of confidence despite the 10 game losing streak because you are playing a team that you have beaten and a team that is simply beatable but on the other hand they are suffering a six game losing streak.

We have to be confident going into every game. All games are the same no matter who you are playing. I'm sure Duesseldorf will be the same way. Someone's streak will end Saturday. Hopefully ours.


How dangerous are the Duesseldorf Giants? They seem to be a lot better than their 15th place in the standings shows.


They are a pretty solid team. I think they have had more bad luck than anything else. They have lost a lot of games late after playing good for long stretches of the game.

Who is more dangerous Brendan Winters or Koko Archibong?


They are both dangerous players. They both have freedom to play their games; but I think Archibong is little more because he can go in or out.

What will be key to winning the game?

The key to winning this game will be who is the hungriest. Both teams are fighting to stay in league and are on long losing streaks.

Who are your early 2010 NCAA Final Four picks?


I got Kansas, Kansas State, Kentucky, and Baylor...Kentucky over Kansas 75-70...Syracuse a little shaky now.
Thanks Quentin for the chat.



Jason Bonne (BG Goettingen) Pregame Thoughts To MBC Game March 20th - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Jason Boone (198-F/C-85, college: New York U.) is a 24 year old 198cm power forward/center from Sugar Loaf, New York. He is playing his third season with MEG Goettingen. He played at New York University (NCAA 3) from 2003-2007. In his senior year, he played 28 games averaging 14.1ppg, 9.6rpg, 2.4bpg, 2.9apg, FG: 63.0%, FT: 64.3%. Two seasons ago, he played at Bernau (Regionalliga) before making the jump up three leagues to MEG Goettingen. Last season, he averaged 4.4ppg, 4.0rpg, FG: 53.7%.. He took some time to talk to eurobasket before the game against Mbc March 20th.

Is the team somewhat relieved that this week is no Eurochallenge game or is the team so used to the schedule that it wouldnt have minded playing Tuesday?


After a loss it is always good to get back to basics. I think this week without a game has helped us to get our focus back.

What is your impression of FMP and what kind of a series can we expect?


That's a great question, we've been focusing on MBC so I can't really tell you. I talked to Charles Lee and he said they are young and strong, so if I had to say now, I'd say it's going to be an up-tempo physical series.

Have you digested the 85-76 loss to The Telekom Baskets yet?


Yeah, we had to watch it over one time to try and notice our mistakes but like I've said, we've switched our focus to this weekends game against MBC.

Will a loss like this not rattle the team? Will the team bounce back against MBC?


You never know, but our coaching staff has done a great job so far this week preparing our team to face them. We know what we need to do and if we can do it, then we will be successful.

The next game is against MBC. What is your memory of the 95-71 win at MBC earlier this year?


Although they scored 71, that was one of our best defensive showings. MBC is the kind of team that's capable of scoring 100 points against any team in this league. They play hard and fast, but we did a good job of team defense the first time around. And we are looking to improve this weekend.

The game is a rare Saturday afternoon TV game at 15:00. Do you like playing that early?



I don't remember the last time we played that early, but we've moved our practice schedule up to the afternoon this week so we will be ready.

MBC is confident since they beat you in preseason. Does a game so far back stay in the back of your minds or is that too long ago?


We played them twice in the preseason and once during the regular season so they are familiar with us, as we are with them. I think both teams have improved since then, but anytime you get to play a team that's beaten you, you will play harder.

MBC plays a style similar to BG Goettingen but not as extreme. Is it more difficult or easier to play against a team that plays a style like yours?


'similar...but not as extreme' is a good way to put it. We both play with a lot of energy and focus on defensive pressure but we are very used to that kind of play from practice and I think it's going to work in our favor.

What is your impression of Anatoly Kashirov? He has improved a lot since the last game


I went to see Chris Oliver in the All-Star game and realized then that he made the team and that makes him one of the best centers in the league right? He's a big boy with a soft touch, but any chance you get to play against one of the better big men in the league is a challenge that I look forward to.

What is the status of Dwayne Anderson. When will he be back in the lineup?


He's working hard to make a speedy recovery, but we definitely would rather him take a few extra days then to come back too soon. Our schedule really picks up and if you miss a week you could end up missing 3-5 games.

What will be the key to winning the game?


The same thing it always is, we must pressure the ball and play solid team defense as well as win the rebounding battle. When we do that, whether we hit shots or not, we've been fairly successful.

Are you already looking forward to the trips in the next Eurochallenge games?


Some of the best moments this season have been getting a chance to travel and hang out with my teammates on the road. We definitely want to take care of business in this round of 8 and head to the Final Four but we can't get ahead of ourselves.
Thanks Jason for the chat.



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


Jamar Butler left due lack of payment - by Eurobasket
The American Gurad Jamar Butler (185-G-85, agency: 540 Sports, college: Ohio St.) left Gymnastikos Olympia Larissas in March doe to lack of payment as sources informed Eurobasket.
Bulter was suppose to be paid on the 15th of March 2010, but the payment never showes on his bank statement. Jamar continued practicing for the next 10 days hopping it was just a delay in the payment. during this period, he recived small payments for the ammount due but never received a full payment as planed neither these multiple ammounts accumulated to reach the full ammount.
bulter played 18 games with Gymnastikos Olympia Larissas and averaged 11.5ppg, 1.6rpg, 2.8apg and 0.6spg.


Interview with Steven Leven - by Serafim Karaiskakis
Steven Leven, the Wyoming graduate spoke to Eurobasket.com:

Eurobasket.com: You graduated from Wyoming and then you had several workouts with NBA teams, why you believe you did not make it?

Steven Leven: I started out at Auburn actually, but due to the program breaking some rules a lot from the team had to transfer. The program had some discipline put on them, for example they could not make the Ncaa tournament for a few season and so on.After college i did have a fare few work outs but just wasn't in the right place at the right times, and for a guy like me and the way i play sometimes that's all that it takes to catch on...but it was a great experience. i had a great time in summer league and going through the whole process, but thinking back i should have stayed in school for my last year!

Eurobasket.com: Why you decided to leave Australia and play in Europe?

Steven Leven: Well Australia at the time and even currently have some issues with the league there, financially mainly, but as the old saying goes ' its always hard to go back home sometimes' and for me there was a lot of pressure put on me from outside influences and off court and i feel it was better i move on, and the fact that i played in Europe my first year as a import player because i didn't know i could get my British passport was a eye opener.

Eurobasket.com: Tell us your opinion about British NT?

Steven Leven: The whole GB program is first class, in my time with them i have had a very good experience and have the upmost respect for our coaches in the program, you look at both coach Finch and coach Nurse and they are doing great thing in the US i have learned a lot of both of them, and especially coach Nurse as he is a real good players coach especially with the guards. Coach Finch, coach Garbaletto and Lewis play a very important role in the program too and even though i am not a part of it this summer, i think they will be doing great things leading up to the Olympics, and hopeful i can get back in the picture before then with a strong season next season.

Eurobasket.com: You know the British BBL, which local players you believe they can play in bigger European leagues?

Steven Leven: Well firstly the BBL is a lot better than most of Europe give credit. Its a tough league physically, but maybe the only difference is the level of import or young talent.BBL has a lot of players that are very good and good do well in Europe, i am still kind of young in the sense of European experience so my opinion is probably not the best but i know a lot of talent that play in the BBL and there is not just one guy but a few guys.

Eurobasket.com: Who is the best Australian player in your opinion now.

Steven Leven: There are a few playing good in Europe right now, but apart from Bogut and Andersen from the NBA, this year you cant go past what Alex Maric is doing, and the way he is dominating at times not only domestically but on a European level also.It will be a big loss for the Australian team if he chooses to play for Serbia and is allowed to. Statistically Brad Newly is having a strong season in turkey i believe.

Eurobasket.com: Did you have offer from Greece last season to play for Kavala? What happened?

Steven Leven: That situation was tricky as i was in the process of changing my representation and the deal went wrong from the start, but i would have loved for that to work out and maybe in the future it could work out as Greece is one league i think would fit my game and a league i would do well in.

Eurobasket.com: Your last team was from Holland, did you enjoy the league there?

Steven Leven: Yes the Giants was a very ambitious club and i hear they are doing well this season with and i aim to play in Europe in the future. Coach Eric is a very astute coach and very technical and i feel he has a very big future in European basketball.I had just had my new born son so it was a difficult time for me, but coach and all the Giants were great. It was hard coming in late and playing with six imports as it takes some time to find your role and spot in the club, but it was a learning adjustment for sure.

Eurobasket.com: Why you are free agent now? What offers you had this season?

Steven Leven: I had a pretty serious calf injury that i did in preparation with GB national team before European championships in Poland, and it took a few months to get over 100%.I really have no clue why i am free agent right now as i know i can help a good club be better, hopefully i get that chance, the season is not over but i do want to sign early this summer and be in a club for not only one season but for many, so we will see what the future brings!

Eurobasket.com: Inform us your strong points inside the game and what aspects you should improve?

Steven Leven: My strong points would be my ability to play at high speed, my athletic ability and up-tempo style, also stretching the defence with my outside shooting.Getting to the basket is something i am just as good as shooting, as i don't consider myself just a shooter, but rather a scorer! and getting out in passing lanes for steals and being a hassel on the perimeter defensively.My weakness would be my whole game, as i believe the moment you stop trying to improve all aspects offence, defence and knowledge that this time you should retire.

Eurobasket.com: Where do you want to play in the near future and why?

Steven Leven: I would love to be in Greece, Spain, or some leagues like this,but not so much where but what style and situation. I want to be with a club that has ambition, is secure, and want me as much as i want them, i want to be with a club that i can help not for just one season but for more and build.



https://www.serwrites.blogspot.com/



A1, Round 20 review: Easy wins for PAO and Olympiakos - by Eurobasket News
Panathinaikos - Kavala/Panor. 81-63
Panathinaikos had an easy job against Kavala staying on top of A1 standings with almost perfect 19-1 score. Mike Batiste (203-F-77, college: Arizona St.) stepped up for the Greens with 18 points and 10 rebounds. Andrew Nicholas (191-G-81, college: Maryland) followed him with 15, while Dimitris Diamantidis (6 as) and Sarunas Jasikevicius added 11 pts each. Bruno Sundov collected 21 points and 9 rebounds for Kavala (5-15).

Panionios - Marousi BC 73-75
Marousi grabbed 73-75 win against Panionios mostly owing to Jared Homan (206-C-83, college: Iowa St.) and William Keys (188-G-77, college: N.Mexico St.), who scored 18 and 16 points respectively. Homan pulled down 5, while Keys had 8 rebounds and 5 assists beside that. Konstantinos Kaimakoglu added 13 pts and 9 boards. In the loosing squad, Tyrese Rice delivered 17 pts. Marousi 15-5, Panionios 9-11.

Peristeri GS - Aris 69-63
Peristeri celebrated valuable win against Aris as both teams had 9-10 record before this meeting. Jamie Arnold (203-F-75, agency: Avi Zilberman, college: Wichita St.) and Marcus Faison (196-G-78, agency: Lanshire Group, college: Siena) stepped up for the hosts with 17 and 16 points respectively. Clifford Hammonds helped with 14 pts. In Aris, Kiki Clark netted 25 pts.

Trikalla - Olympiakos 74-109
Olympiakos cruised past Trikalla on the road getting 20 points from Loukas Mavrokefalides (207-C-84). Josh Childress (203-G/F-83, college: Stanford) and Yotam Halperin delivered 15 and 13 points in this victory. The hosts got 27 points and 5 boards from David Young. Olympiakos 17-3, Trikalla 6-14.

Ilysiakos - PAOK 77-81
PAOK was too strong for the last ranked Ilysiakos 77-81. Lazaros Papadopoulos (210-C-80) shined in PAOK with double-double of 16 points and 15 rebounds. Kenny Gregory (197-G/F-78, college: Kansas) delivered one point les than him. In defeat, Vonteego Cummings collected 15 points. PAOK 9-11, Ilysiakos 4-16.

AEK - Panellinios 79-77
AEK celebrated tiny 79-77 home win against Panellinios improving to 8-12 in Greek top division. Periklis Dorkofikis (206-F-80) shined in this victory with 17 points and 8 rebounds, Taurean Green (183-G-85, college: Florida) scored 15 and Martynas Mazeika added 12 pts. Visitors got 23 pts from Kosta Charalampidis and they dropped to 13-7.

VAP Kolossos - Olimpia L. 91-62
VAP Kolossos destroyed Olimpia Larissa 91-62 staying on the fifth place with 12-8 record. Costas Harissis (211-F/C-79, agency: Elfus-Siegel Management (ESM), college: USC) led the winners with 17, while Robert Dozier (206-F-85, college: Memphis) added 16 points and 6 rebounds. Jason Fontenet replied with 24 points in loss and his team dropped to 4-16.


Stats Leaders - A1
Points Per Game
 A.J. ABRAMS
  Trikalla
  (180-G-86)
  Avg: 17.3
 1. Abrams, Trikalla17.3 
 2. Erceg, Panionios16.4 
 3. Childress, Olympiakos16.2 
 4. Arnold, Perister.16.0 
 5. Green, AEK15.4 
 6. Kleiza, Olympiakos15.1 
 7. Kaimakoglou, Marou.14.9 
 8. Harris, VAP K.14.6 
 9. Gregory, PAOK14.6 
 10. Monroe, PAOK14.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Christophe MASSIE
  Olimpia L.
  (206-F-77)
  Avg: 10.7
 1. Massie, Olimpia L.10.7 
 2. Bryant, Panionios7.7 
 3. Francis, AEK7.7 
 4. Papadopoulos, PAOK7.4 
 5. Carter, Ilysiakos7.3 
 6. Arnold, Perister.7.0 
 7. Dozier, VAP K.6.3 
 8. Homan, Marousi BC6.3 
 9. Erceg, Panionios6.1 
 10. Alexander, Kavala.6.0 
Assists Per Game
 Dimitris DIAMANTIDIS
  Panathinaikos
  (196-G-80)
  Avg: 5.1
 1. Diamantidis, Panath.5.1 
 2. Dickel, Trikalla4.6 
 3. Karidas, Ilysiakos4.5 
 4. Teodosic, Olympiakos4.4 
 5. Lukas, Marousi BC4.2 
 6. Spanoulis, Panath.3.8 
 7. Vasiljevic, VAP K.3.8 
 8. Papaloukas, Olymp.3.7 
 9. Green, AEK3.6 
 10. Collins, Kavala/P.3.3 
Steals Per Game
 DeJuan COLLINS
  Kavala/Panor.
  (188-G-76)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Collins, Kavala/P.1.8 
 2. Cummings, Ilysiakos1.8 
 3. Nikolaidis, AEK1.8 
 4. Diamantidis, Panath.1.7 
 5. Green, Olimpia L.1.6 
 6. Katsares, Trikalla1.6 
 7. Hammonds, Perister.1.6 
 8. Lukas, Marousi BC1.6 
 9. Miles, Aris1.5 
 10. Green, AEK1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Brent PETWAY
  Vichy
  (203-F-85)
  Avg: 2.2
 1. Petway, Ilysiakos2.2 
 2. Vougioukas, Panellin.1.7 
 3. Harissis, VAP K.1.3 
 4. Homan, Marousi BC1.1 
 5. Benton, Ilysiakos1.0 
 6. Haislip, Panathin.1.0 
 7. Mavroidis, Marou.1.0 
 8. Fotsis, Panathinaikos0.9 
 9. Childress, Olympiakos0.8 
 10. Carter, Ilysiakos0.8 


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


Standings - Eredivisie
Eredivisie Standings
 1. GasTerra F. 27-3 
 2. Giants 22-8 
 3. Eiff.Towers 21-8 
 4. ZZ Leiden 19-12 
 5. M.Magix 18-13 
 6. DeFriesland 16-15 
 7. EclipseJet 11-19 
 8. Upstairs Weert 10-20 
 9. Landstede 5-26 
 10. Rotterdam 3-28 


Stats Leaders - Eredivisie
Points Per Game
 Danny GIBSON
  ZZ Leiden
  (180-G-84)
  Avg: 18.9
 1. Gibson, ZZ Leiden18.9 
 2. Palmer, Upstairs.18.3 
 3. Boxley, ZZ Leiden17.5 
 4. Thomas, M.Magix16.7 
 5. Monroe, DeFriesl.16.6 
 6. Haryasz, GasTerra.16.1 
 7. Hendley, Landstede15.8 
 8. Sanders, EclipseJet15.4 
 9. McGhee, ZZ Leiden15.0 
 10. LeMelle, ZZ Leiden14.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 Patrick HILLIMAN
  Rotterdam
  (206-F/C-82)
  Avg: 10
 1. Hilliman, Rotterdam10.0 
 2. Palmer, Upstairs.9.2 
 3. Haryasz, GasTerra.8.9 
 4. Ellis, GasTerra F.8.5 
 5. McGhee, ZZ Leiden8.3 
 6. Monroe, DeFriesl.8.0 
 7. Beasley, Eiff.Tow.7.7 
 8. Gordon, Landstede7.7 
 9. Griffin, Giants7.6 
 10. Boxley, ZZ Leiden7.5 
Assists Per Game
 Torey THOMAS
  M.Magix
  (180-G-85)
  Avg: 7.1
 1. Thomas, M.Magix7.1 
 2. Oliver, Eiff.Towers5.5 
 3. Porter, Upstairs.4.8 
 4. Defares, Giants4.3 
 5. Bostain, GasTerra.4.2 
 6. Gibson, ZZ Leiden4.1 
 7. Bauscher, GasTerra.4.1 
 8. Slagter, Giants4.0 
 9. Moore, DeFriesland4.0 
 10. Blackwood, DeFriesl.4.0 
Steals Per Game
 Torey THOMAS
  M.Magix
  (180-G-85)
  Avg: 3.1
 1. Thomas, M.Magix3.1 
 2. Bauscher, GasTerra.2.7 
 3. Rodgers, EclipseJet2.6 
 4. Dourisseau, GasTerra.2.5 
 5. de Randamie, Eclip.2.4 
 6. Flowers, M.Magix2.3 
 7. Oliver, Eiff.Towers2.3 
 8. Kimbrough, Giants2.3 
 9. Bostain, GasTerra.2.3 
 10. Mason, EclipseJet2.3 
Blocks Per Game
 James HUGHES
  M.Magix
  (211-C-83)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Hughes, M.Magix1.8 
 2. Hilliman, Rotterdam1.5 
 3. Boxley, ZZ Leiden1.4 
 4. Haryasz, GasTerra.1.3 
 5. Slor, ZZ Leiden1.3 
 6. Kuijper, ZZ Leiden0.8 
 7. Sanders, EclipseJet0.8 
 8. Porter, Upstairs.0.8 
 9. Richardson, Eiff.Tow.0.7 
 10. Williams, Landstede0.7 


*****************************************************
  IBL   


IBL Central Oregon Hotshots name Osa Esene head coach - by Trask Frost
News Release: Central Oregon Hotshots announce new head coach Osa Esene


Hotshots team looks to rebound from roughest record in five years

Hotshots announce first eight roster players


Last season/2009: the 2009 season was the roughest for the Hotshots in five years as the team finished 6-14. There were some superb performances during this rough win-loss season for the Hotshots, highlighted by Damian Browne (20G, 14.3pts, 14.6rbd) who played far bigger than his 65 listing and finished tied for first in the league in rebounding. The point guard position was manned by Travis Noble (20G, 18.4pts, 4.5ast) who also put in an All-Star effort. Central Oregon received a late boost of scoring from Riley Luettgerodt (10G, 24.1pts, 4.7 rbd) who played in just seven games- but filled it each night, several times better than 30.

This season/ the 2010 roster: the 2010 will again feature hidden gems also known as late developers and/or players who may be at the Division 1 level of play but were not at that level at college. Owner Mikal Duiliothe Hotshots intends to win more games and we intend to compete for the IBL Championship but the primary role of the team is to give players a chance to show that they are at the overseas level of basketball. For some players, the Hotshots opportunity will show them that they are not at this level and for other players, they will make it and move on to overseas play. The Hotshots play 14 different opponents in 2010. The Hotshots take a trip to the Midwest to play; that trip includes a game at Holland Michigan, a game at Kankakee Illinois and 2 games at Battle Creek (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2N422ki9psk).

Head Coach Osa Esene: Osa Esene co-coached and trained a bit here and there with the Central Oregon Hotshots in 2009, but will take the reigns in 2010- as head coach. Esene played college basketball at University of Hawaii-Hilo where, in his senior year, Esene was the leading scorer in the conference (22 points per game) and in that year, Esene was not only First Team All Pac West, but as well, Osa was the Conference Player of the Year (2005). Osa Esene played professional basketball overseas in Germanys division 3 and division 2 levelsfor three yearsand in one of those seasons, Esene averaged 23.0 points per game. After three years of overseas basketball, Esene returned to the Portland metropolitan area (Oregon) where he played a few games with the Vancouver Volcanoes (IBL) but more importantly, started to develop his coaching and training emphasis. Three years later and the partial season with the Hotshots as a trainer and partial season co-coach- Osa Esene is ready to take the reigns as head coach. Esene has been working for a year pluswith Court Sessionsa basketball training company based in Portland Oregon owned and ran by Edward LeBlanc. LeBlanc and Court Sessions have trained 100s of basketball clients per year for over ten years. LeBlanc and Court Sessions have worked with all levels of players including collegiate players and NBA players. LeBlanc and Court Sessions will work with Esenee to bring a training atmosphere to the Hotshots and move it from a community professional team which has worked in the pastto nowa training and development team. Owner Mikal Duilioit is time for this change; while I loved the community type team, the rest of the IBLs talent is skyrocketing, so we have to step it up and move to a coach with a training and development emphasis.

Guards
6' 5' Desi Crisp- played college basketball at the University of North Carolina Pembroke. Desi Crisp has since played in various minor leagues in the SE states. Desi Crisp is represented by Adam Prossin.

6' 3' Hassan Stewart- played at Hamilton College where he averaged 20.8 pts, 5 assists and 7.3 rebounds per game.

6' 4' Justin Lockhart- played at Avila University where he averaged 15 pts, 3 assists and 5 rbs per game.

6' 1' Travis Noble- played college ball at Montana State Northern where he was a prolific scorer. Noble played for the Hotshots in 2009 (the only returning Hotshots player) and in fact, he made the All Star team last year for the Hotshots.

Forwards
6' 7' Chris Sessions- played college basketball at Utah State University and recently played in Division 2 Austria where his team won a championship and he was 1st in rebounding, 2nd in scoring; Chris is represented by Winning Ways.

Post players
6' 8' Tony Akpan, played football at University of Hawaii; Akpan also played basketball at the University of Hawaii. Tony went on to play overseas basketball for a few years after college. In the last two years, Akpan has played against various CBA teams (China) in IBL exhibition games. Akpan is a tremendous rebounder and defender.

6' 8' Isaiah Bryant- played at University of Incarnate Word in San Antonio.

6' 7' Adam Rankin, played at Foothills College in Los Altos, California.

Roster note: four more players will be named to the Hotshots after two IBL tryoutsOrlando and Tallahassee Florida.











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


Standings - Iceland Express League
Express L. Standings
 1. KR 17-4 
 2. Keflavik 17-5 
 3. Grindavik 16-6 
 4. Stjarnan 15-7 
 5. UMFN 15-7 
 6. Snaefell 13-7 
 7. Tindastoll 9-13 
 8. IR 8-13 
 9. Hamar 7-15 
 10. Fjolnir 7-15 
 11. Breidablik 5-17 
 12. FSU 1-21 


*****************************************************
  ISRAEL   


Standings - National League
National League Standings
 1. Macc.Habikaa 16-6 
 2. Hap.Tivon 14-8 
 3. Megido/Yok. 14-8 
 4. Macc.Ashdod 13-9 
 5. Hap.Haifa 13-9 
 6. Elitzur Yavne 12-10 
 7. Kohav Yair 11-11 
 8. Hapoel Beeri 11-11 
 9. Elitzur Ramla 10-12 
 10. Beer Yaakov 9-13 
 11. Lev Hasharon 9-13 
 12. Hod Hasharon 8-14 
 13. Kiryat Ata 7-15 
 14. Natzrath Elite 7-15 


Stats Leaders - National League
Points Per Game
 Robert BROWN
  Hap.Haifa
  (195-F-80)
  Avg: 29.7
 1. Brown, Hap.Haifa29.7 
 2. Asbury, Hap.Tivon27.6 
 3. Markson, Elitzur .23.0 
 4. Byerson, Natzrath.21.5 
 5. Jackson, Kiryat Ata21.4 
 6. Clemente, Macc.Ash.21.2 
 7. Drayton, Beer Y.21.1 
 8. Paris, Hapoel Beeri20.7 
 9. Simhon, Hod H.19.8 
 10. Hicks, Kohav Yair19.7 
Rebounds Per Game
 Stanley BRANDY
  Hod Hasharon
  (200-F-67)
  Avg: 12.7
 1. Brandy, Hod H.12.7 
 2. Paris, Hapoel Beeri12.1 
 3. Byerson, Natzrath.12.0 
 4. Clemente, Macc.Ash.11.4 
 5. Peterson, Elitzur .11.2 
 6. Auter, Macc.Hab.9.7 
 7. Drayton, Beer Y.9.7 
 8. Tzubrevitch, Elitzu.9.5 
 9. Lee, Kiryat Ata9.2 
 10. Jackson, Kiryat Ata9.0 
Assists Per Game
 Ilan BERKOVICH
  Hap.Haifa
  (187-G-75)
  Avg: 7.2
 1. Berkovich, Hap.H.7.2 
 2. Nenikashvili, Megido.6.6 
 3. Huli, Lev Hasharon6.0 
 4. Arieli, Hap.Tivon5.5 
 5. OFIR FARHI Macc..5.5 
 6. Shifman, Hapoel Beeri5.1 
 7. Brandwein, Elitzu.5.1 
 8. Golan, Lev Hasharon5.1 
 9. Cohen, Natzrath.4.8 
 10. Skverer, Macc.Hab.4.5 
Steals Per Game
 Ofir FARHI
  Macc.Ashdod
  (187-G-86)
  Avg: 2.7
 1. OFIR FARHI Macc..2.7 
 2. Asbury, Hap.Tivon2.4 
 3. Markson, Elitzur .2.4 
 4. Berkovich, Hap.H.2.2 
 5. Young, Elitzur Ramla2.0 
 6. Brandy, Hod H.1.9 
 7. Matalon, Megido/Y.1.9 
 8. Karpels, Elitzur .1.9 
 9. Cohen, Hapoel Beeri1.8 
 10. Harush, Kohav Yair1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Brad BYERSON
  Natzrath Elite
  (201-F-85)
  Avg: 1.8
 1. Byerson, Natzrath.1.8 
 2. Auter, Macc.Hab.1.7 
 3. Paris, Hapoel Beeri1.4 
 4. Tzubrevitch, Elitzu.1.3 
 5. Aiden, Hapoel Beeri1.2 
 6. Markson, Elitzur .1.1 
 7. Peterson, Elitzur .1.0 
 8. Martin, Elitzur Yavne1.0 
 9. Brandy, Hod H.1.0 
 10. Carr, Megido/Yok.1.0 


National League Round: 22 (Regular Season) - by Eurobasket News
Hod Hasharon - Hap.Haifa 95-99
Hod Hasharon was beaten by Hapoel Haifa 95:99. Robert Brown (195-F-80, agency: Gross Zeev ISA, college: Buffalo) top-scored for the winners with 26 points, whilst Eliyaho Elad and Berkovich Ilan had 19 each. Brandy Stanley replied with 26 points and 13 boards in defeat.

Elitzur Ramla - Macc.Ashdod 92-71
Elitzur Ramla rolled over Maccabi Ashdod 92:71. Zetin Young paced all the winners with 21 points, Almoznino Oshri netted 19 and Shaltiel Or scored 15. Clemente Ramon finished the night with 32 points in the losing case.

Elitzur Yavne - Lev Hasharon 89-91
Elitzur Yavne was beaten by Lev Hasharon 89:91 at the Regular Season Round 22. Bayo Arigbon (196-F-86, college: San Diego Chr.) poured in 21 points and Shiran Yotam netted 20. Markson Bryant ended up with 32 points in the losing effort.

Natzrath Elite - Hapoel Beeri 93-104
Natzrath Elite lost to Hapoel Beeri 93:104 at the Regular Season Round 22. David Paris (206-F-84, agency: Ronsport, college: Bowie St.) paced all the winners with 32 points ans 13 rebounds, while Rubinstein Lior posted 22. Ben Hemo Oren netted 24 points in the losing effort.

Beer Yaakov - Kohav Yair 100-88
Beer Yaakov overcame Kohav Yair 100:88 as E.J. Drayton (204-F-82, agency: Strategic Sports, college: Charlotte) stepped up with 29 points and Levi Lior nailed 22. Zelkovicth Aviram ended up with 26 points in the losing effort.



*****************************************************
  JUCO   


Action heats up in Danville - by Eurobasket News
The March Madness continued in Danville as the DII National tournament enjoyed the second day of action. First two semifinalists are known. Cincinnati State shot down Brown Mackie College 75:65 to advance into the next round of action. The Surge opened the game with eight points in a row. But Brown Mackie quickly erased the deficit and the teams stayed close throughout the reminder of the half. Brown Mackie managed to accumulate a 40:33 lead at the interval. The Lions stretched the margin at 10 points at the start of the second half but could not escape. Cincinnati drew things level at 50. The Surge went on a 7:0 run to jump in front and soon built a 10-point cushion. Brown Mackie could not trim the deficit and had to surrender at the end. Rayshawn Goins scored 20 points and grabbed 11 boards to lead Cincinnati State. Jamarien Paul-Brown netted 14 points in the win. Brian Word and David Sanders responded with 15 points apiece for the Lions.
Cincinnati State will now face Lewis & Clark in the semis. The Pioneers defeated Cecil College for the spot in the semifinal. Gavin Scott scored 17 points as Lewis & Clark celebrated an 83:72 victory. Cecil dominated early in the encounter. They earned a 27:19 lead midway through the first half. But the Pioneers pulled together late in the half to cut the deficit to just two points 35:37. Lewis & Clark came off the dressing room a different team as they 13:4 run to pull ahead. The Pioneers extended the gap to 13-point mark midway through the half and controlled the game throughout the rest of the way. Anthony Jones knocked down 14 points in the winning effort. Harold Washington (6'2'-G) responded with 22 points for Cecil. Adam Johnson delivered 20 points and 13 rebounds in defeat.
Kishwaukee College will face Lincoln College, while Louisburg College will take on Kirkwood CC in other two quarterfinals.



Three Rivers and Navarro are through into DI National Championship semis - by Eurobasket News
Three Rivers became the first NJCAA DI National Championship semifinalists. They outgunned Northwest Florida State 83:73 in the first quarterfinal battle. The Raiders got to a slow start allowing Northwest Florida accumulate a 38:36 lead at the interval. But the second half turned things around in this one. Three Rivers took control as they unleashed 47 points and rallied to a comfortable win at the end. Marquise Carter knocked down 26 points to lead the effort. Josh Terry added 19 points for the Raiders. Northwest Florida responded with 22 points and 6 boards from Brian Bryant. Sherrard Brantley nailed 17 points in defeat.
Navarro joined Three Rivers in the semis. The Bulldogs prevailed against East Mississippi 72:58. Darian Thibodeaux fired eight three-pointers en route to game-high 30 points to lead Navarro into the next round of action. Navarro earned a 38:35 halftime lead and maintained it well throughout the second part of the clash. Matt Pressey contributed 20 points for the winners. Deonte Alexander responded with 17 points for East Mississippi. Richard Dixon had 10 points in the loss.
College of Eastern Utah will fight against Wallace State CC, while Walters State CC will face Howard College for two remaining spots in the semis.



*****************************************************
  KOSOVO   


Standings - Superleague
SuperLeague Standings
 1. Sigal Prishtina 22-2 
 2. Trepca 21-5 
 3. Bashkimi 18-7 
 4. Peja 13-12 
 5. Kosova 10-16 
 6. Bambi 8-17 
 7. Col.Eurosport 6-20 
 8. Drita 3-21 


*****************************************************
  KUWAIT   


Kazma Host's first round of Golden 4 - by Corey Washington
The top 4 clubs in Kuwait will square off today to begin the Golden 4 playoffs Todays games will be played at Kazma Club starting with home team Kazma taking on Qadsia at 5:00PM. Following will be Kuwait Club vs Al Jahra at 7:00PM

Action between these 4 clubs will be some of the best basketball Kuwait has seen in a long time... Key players to watch:

Kuwait Club: USA (G) Andre Pitts , USA (C) Ira Clark, BAH (F) Al Mutawa
Al Jahra Club: USA (F) Cedric Taylor, USA (G) Anthony Jones, KUW (G) Dari Abdel Azeez
Al Qadsia Club: USA (F) Micheal Christensen
Kazma Club: USA (F)Omari Westley, USA (C) John Oden



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


LBL Round: 14 (Regular Season) - by Eurobasket News
Liepaja - Barons 65-77
Barons registered the 15th win in the season as they overcame Liepaja on the road. Alexey Zorin (208-C-82) topscored with 16 points for Barons. Rinalds Sirsnins netted 12 points in the victory. Laimis Kisielius responded with 21 points and 8 rebounds for Liepaja.

Ventspils - VEF Riga 87-79
Ventspils shot down visiting VEF Riga behind 22 points and 8 rebounds from Mareks Jurevicus (198-G/F-85). Ronalds Zakis added 20 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists for the defending champions. Ingus Bankevics responded with 22 points for VEF Riga.

Zemgale - Valmiera 79-82
Valmiera narrowly defeated Zamgale on the road for the 8th win. Daviin Davis (193-F-85, college: Weber St.) scored 29 points and grabbed 7 rebounds to lead the visitors. Janis Kaufmanis added 14 points for Valmiera. Jekabs Rozitis netted 22 points and pulled down 9 caroms in defeat.



LBL Standing
LBL Standings
 1. Barons 15-4 
 2. Valmiera 8-9 
 3. Liepaja 8-10 
 4. VEF Riga 7-2 
 5. Ventspils 6-4 
 6. Zemgale 3-18 
 7. Keizarmezs 0-18 


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Martins BERKIS
  Snaefell
  (199-F-85)
  Avg: 18.5
 1. Berkis, Keizarmezs18.5 
 2. Davis, Valmiera18.0 
 3. Timermanis, Barons18.0 
 4. Efejuku, Barons17.2 
 5. Gulbis, Zemgale16.6 
 6. Kojenets, Liepaja16.4 
 7. Silavs, Keizarmezs16.3 
 8. Valeika, Valmiera15.1 
 9. Jurevicus, Ventspils14.9 
 10. Kisielius, Liepaja14.9 
Rebounds Per Game
 Arturas VALEIKA
  Valmiera
  (206-F-85)
  Avg: 10.5
 1. Valeika, Valmiera10.5 
 2. Kojenets, Liepaja7.9 
 3. Zorin, Barons7.0 
 4. Renfroe, VEF Riga6.1 
 5. Silavs, Keizarmezs6.0 
 6. Jurevicus, Ventspils5.6 
 7. Rozitis, Zemgale5.6 
 8. Davis, Valmiera5.3 
 9. Zakis, Ventspils5.3 
 10. Gulbis, Zemgale5.2 
Assists Per Game
 Alex RENFROE
  VEF Riga
  (190-G-86)
  Avg: 6.8
 1. Renfroe, VEF Riga6.8 
 2. Silavs, Keizarmezs5.6 
 3. Jeromanovs, Liepa.4.5 
 4. Sirsnins, Barons3.8 
 5. Vilums, Liepaja3.4 
 6. Strelnieks, Ventspils3.4 
 7. Jurevicus, Ventspils3.3 
 8. Bergmanis, Zemgale3.1 
 9. Bertans, Ventspils2.5 
 10. Efejuku, Barons2.5 
Steals Per Game
 Rinalds SIRSNINS
  Barons
  (186-G-85)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Sirsnins, Barons2.5 
 2. Renfroe, VEF Riga2.2 
 3. Silavs, Keizarmezs2.2 
 4. Bertans, Ventspils2.1 
 5. Osins, Keizarmezs2.0 
 6. Strelnieks, Ventspils1.7 
 7. Vilums, Liepaja1.6 
 8. Davis, Valmiera1.6 
 9. Vitols, Barons1.4 
 10. Jurevicus, Ventspils1.4 
Blocks Per Game
 Daviin DAVIS
  Valmiera
  (193-F-85)
  Avg: 1.4
 1. Davis, Valmiera1.4 
 2. Rozitis, Zemgale1.3 
 3. Cresnar, Valmiera1.0 
 4. Zorin, Barons0.8 
 5. Selakovs, VEF Riga0.8 
 6. Nelyubov, VEF Riga0.6 
 7. Blaus, Ventspils0.5 
 8. Bambis, Zemgale0.5 
 9. Valeika, Valmiera0.5 
 10. Kosuskins, Liepaja0.5 


*****************************************************
  LITHUANIA   


Stats Leaders - LKL
Points Per Game
 Valdas DABKUS
  Rudupis
  (204-F-84)
  Avg: 21.3
 1. Dabkus, Rudupis21.3 
 2. Kazevicius, Alytus A.19.5 
 3. Aleksandrova., Alytus A.19.4 
 4. Sirvydis, Sakalai18.3 
 5. Ruikis, Suduva18.0 
 6. Kuzminskas, Siauliai16.1 
 7. Kelys, Perlas16.1 
 8. Gvezdauskas, Nevez.15.6 
 9. Kieza, Suduva15.3 
 10. Ezerskis, Techasas15.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Egidijus DIMSA
  Nevezis
  (205-C-85)
  Avg: 9.4
 1. Dimsa, Nevezis9.4 
 2. Kieza, Suduva8.6 
 3. Silinskis, Nevezis7.6 
 4. Valanciunas, Perlas7.5 
 5. Vilkius, Neptunas7.5 
 6. Tatarunas, Alytus A.7.4 
 7. Janisius, Suduva7.4 
 8. Valukonis, Aisciai7.3 
 9. Adomaitis, Alytus A.7.2 
 10. Cepukaitis, Aisciai6.9 
Assists Per Game
 Tomas GAIDAMAVICIUS
  Juventus
  (191-G-82)
  Avg: 6
 1. Gaidamaviciu., Juven.6.0 
 2. Broadus, Suduva5.9 
 3. Viskontas, Perlas5.7 
 4. Low, Siauliai5.1 
 5. Janavicius, Aisciai5.1 
 6. Ginevicius, Lietuv.4.8 
 7. Ezerskis, Techasas4.7 
 8. Popovic, Lietuvos.4.6 
 9. Kelys, Perlas4.5 
 10. Maceina, Rudupis4.4 
Steals Per Game
 Andrius ALEKSANDROVAS
  Alytus Alita
  (197-G-86)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Aleksandrova., Alytus A.2.5 
 2. Ginevicius, Lietuv.2.4 
 3. Popovic, Lietuvos.2.3 
 4. Vileita, Rudupis2.2 
 5. Valukonis, Aisciai2.2 
 6. Kelys, Perlas2.2 
 7. Jomantas, Lietuv.2.1 
 8. Birgelis, Suduva2.0 
 9. Lipkevicius, Aisciai1.9 
 10. Pakamanis, Juven.1.9 
Blocks Per Game
 Aurimas KIEZA
  Keravnos
  (202-F-82)
  Avg: 2.7
 1. Kieza, Suduva2.7 
 2. Silinskis, Nevezis2.4 
 3. Begic, Zalgiris1.6 
 4. Valanciunas, Perlas1.5 
 5. Valanciunas, Lietuv.1.3 
 6. Cepukaitis, Aisciai1.2 
 7. Zyle, Aisciai1.1 
 8. Tatarunas, Alytus A.1.1 
 9. Volkus, Techasas1.1 
 10. Leonavicius, Sakalai0.9 


Standings - LKL
LKL Standings
 1. Lietuvos Rytas 19-1 
 2. Zalgiris 18-1 
 3. Siauliai 16-5 
 4. Juventus 11-9 
 5. Neptunas 11-10 
 6. Techasas 11-11 
 7. Perlas 10-13 
 8. Rudupis 9-11 
 9. Sakalai 7-13 
 10. Suduva 7-14 
 11. Alytus Alita 5-15 
 12. Nevezis 5-15 
 13. Aisciai 5-16 


*****************************************************
  MONTENEGRO   


BC Primorje hires Slobodan Savovic as new Head Coach - by Dragan Scepanovic
Sport Director of Basketball Club Primorje Mr. Mijuskovic Rasa announced that Basketball Club Primorje signing of Mr. Slobodan Savovic (1979, college: Ohio St.) as a new Head Coach. Savovic will replace Marinko Kovacevic who parted ways with the club few days ago. Basketball Club Primorje currently has just 3 wins for 17 appearances in MNT1A league. In the last round, they will meet Basketball Club Mornar from Bar in city of Bar. At the same time, that will be the first game of coach Savovic on Primorje's bench this season.

*****************************************************
  NBA   


Sean Marks has season-ending shoulder surgery - by Eurobasket News
New Zealander Sean Marks (6'10'-F-75, college: California) will miss the remainder of the National Basketball Association season for the New Orleans Hornets after undergoing surgery on his right shoulder.

Marks' surgery was pronounced a success and he will begin rehabilitation immediately with an eye on next season, the Hornets' website reported.

Niggles have reduced Marks' season to his fourth quietest in 10 years in the NBA. He played just 75 minutes in 14 games, compared to his career-high 60 games last season. This year's output was just 10 points and 23 rebounds.

The 34-year-old has now completed two-season stints with five different NBA teams -- Toronto, Miami, San Antonio, Phoenix and New Orleans.

The injury- depleted Hornets have 13 games remaining and trail Portland by seven games for the eighth spot in the Western Conference standings, leaving them with little hope of repeating their 2008/09 foray into the post-season.


Courtesy of hwww.3news.co.nz


Wednesday's games (11) review - by Eurobasket News
Memphis G. - Houston R. 94-107
Aaron Brooks (6'0'-G-85, agency: Buck Andre, college: Oregon) set a Houston record by hitting seven 3-pointers without a miss and scored 31 points, and the Rockets snapped the Grizzlies' seven-game road winning streak with a 107-94 victory. Luis Scola (6'9'-F/C-80) and Kevin Martin netted 20 and 18 points respectively. Zach Randolph collected 30 points and 15 rebounds in defeat.

Minnesota T. - Utah Jazz 100-122
Paul Millsap (6'7'-F-85, college: Louisiana Tech), who had 21 points and 11 rebounds, and Kyle Korver (6'7'-F-81, college: Creighton) added a season-high 20 points on his 29th birthday to help the Jazz extend Minnesota's losing streak to 11. Carlos Boozer collected 19 points and 11 rebounds. Corey Brewer and Al Jefferson netted 17 pts for the Wolves.

New Jersey N. - Philadelph.76 97-108
Andre Iguodala (6'6'-G-84, college: Arizona) scored 20 points, Jrue Holiday (6'3'-G-90, college: UCLA) added 19 points, seven rebounds and seven assists and the Philadelphia snapped a five-game losing streak with a 108-97 victory over the Nets on Wednesday night. Elton Brand added 12 pts and 8 boards in this win. On the other side, Chris Douglas-Roberts shined with 23 pts.

Atlanta H. - Toronto R. 105-106
Andrea Bargnani (6'10'-F/C-85) had 22 points and 11 rebounds for the Raptors, 2-10 in their last 12 games. Demar DeRozan (6'7'-F-89, college: USC) scored 19 and Hedo Turkoglu had 3 points less than him. Jamal Crawford had a season-high 33 points for the Hawks, who had won four straight and 10 of their last 13. Al Horford had 18 points and 14 rebounds, Mike Bibby added 17 points and Maurice Evans had 16.

New York K. - Boston C. 97-109
Paul Pierce (6'7'-F-77, college: Kansas) scored 29 points, Kevin Garnett had 22 and Boston cruised to its third straight lopsided victory at home, 109-97 over the New York Knicks on Wednesday night. Marquis Daniels (6'6'-F-81, college: Auburn) netted 10 points last night. In NY Knicks, David Lee shined with 29 points, 9 rebounds and 7 assists.

San Antonio S. - Orlando M. 84-110
Vince Carter (6'5'-G-77, college: N.Carolina) had 24 points and eight assists, and the Magic smothered Duncan to beat San Antonio 110-84 on Wednesday night. Rashard Lewis (6'10'-F-79) helped with 20 points last night. Richard Jefferson responded with 20 points and 6 rebounds in defeat.

Oklah.City T. - Charlotte B. 92-100
Stephen Jackson (6'8'-F-78, college: Butler Co.CC) scored 18 of his 20 points in the second half, Stephen Graham (6'6'-G-82, college: Oklahoma St.) matched a career high with 19 points filling in for the injured Gerald Wallace, and the Bobcats sent poor-shooting Kevin Durant and the Thunder to only their fourth loss in 21 games. Durant had 26 points and 10 rebounds in this meeting.

Indiana P. - Cleveland C. 94-99
LeBron James (6'8'-F-84) had 32 points, nine rebounds and nine assists in Cleveland's 99-94 victory over the Indiana Pacers. With the win, Cleveland (54-15) became the first team this season to clinch a division title. Antawn Jamison (6'9'-F-76, college: N.Carolina) had 17 points and 9 rebounds. Troy Murphy replied with 19 points and 15 boards in defeat.

N.Orleans H. - Golde State W. 121-131
Reggie Williams (6'5'-G/F-86, agency: Interperformances, college: VMI) scored 22 points, 18 in the fourth quarter, to help the Warriors overcome a 21-point deficit and beat the New Orleans Hornets 131-121 on Wednesday night. Monta Ellis (6'4'-G-85) came up with 28 points and 13 assists, while Anthony Tolliver added 30 points and 6 boards. In NO Hornets, David West shined with 36 points and 15 rebs.

Milwaukee B. - LA Clippers 93-101
Chris Kaman (7'0'-C-82, college: Cent.Michigan) had 20 points and seven rebounds for Los Angeles Clippers. Drew Gooden (6'10'-F-81, agency: Arik Krayn Services, college: Kansas) followed him with 16 points and 11 rebounds. Brandon Jennings led Milwaukee with 21 points, and John Salmons scored one less.

Chicago B. - Dallas M. 106-113
Caron Butler (6'7'-F-80, college: Connecticut) scored 27 points, and Dirk Nowitzki had 26 as the Mavericks won for the 14th time in 15 games. They'd tied the NBA's longest winning streak this season with 13 straight, then ended it with a thud - a 34-point loss to New York on Saturday night. In Chicago Bulls, Acie Law (6'3'-G-85, college: Texas A&M) delivered 22 points.


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 LeBron JAMES
  Cleveland C.
  (203-F-84)
  Avg: 29.9
 1. James, Clevelan.29.9 
 2. Durant, Oklah.Ci.29.7 
 3. Anthony, Denver N.28.8 
 4. Bryant, LA Lakers27.7 
 5. Wade, Miami Heat26.7 
 6. Ellis, Golde S.25.4 
 7. Nowitzki, Dallas M.25.0 
 8. Bosh, Toronto R.24.0 
 9. Granger, Indiana P.23.1 
 10. Stoudemire, Phoeni.22.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Dwight HOWARD
  Orlando M.
  (207-F-85)
  Avg: 13.1
 1. Howard, Orlando M.13.1 
 2. Camby, LA Clippers12.1 
 3. Randolph, Memph.11.9 
 4. Lee, New York K.11.7 
 5. Noah, Chicago B.11.4 
 6. Bosh, Toronto R.11.2 
 7. Boozer, Utah Jazz11.2 
 8. Gasol, LA Lakers11.0 
 9. Love, Minnesota T.10.9 
 10. Bogut, Milwauke.10.5 
Assists Per Game
 Chris PAUL
  N.Orleans H.
  (183-G-85)
  Avg: 11.2
 1. Paul, N.Orleans H.11.2 
 2. Nash, Phoenix Suns11.2 
 3. Williams, Utah Jazz10.4 
 4. Rondo, Boston C.9.7 
 5. Kidd, Dallas M.9.2 
 6. James, Clevelan.8.6 
 7. Westbrook, Oklah..8.0 
 8. Davis, LA Clippers8.0 
 9. Arenas, Washingt.7.2 
 10. Harris, New J.6.7 
Steals Per Game
 Rajon RONDO
  Boston C.
  (186-G-86)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Rondo, Boston C.2.3 
 2. Paul, N.Orleans H.2.3 
 3. Ellis, Golde S.2.3 
 4. Jackson, Charlott.1.9 
 5. Kidd, Dallas M.1.9 
 6. Wade, Miami Heat1.8 
 7. Curry, Golde S.1.8 
 8. Bryant, LA Lakers1.7 
 9. Ariza, Houston R.1.7 
 10. Iguodala, Philadel.1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Dwight HOWARD
  Orlando M.
  (207-F-85)
  Avg: 2.7
 1. Howard, Orlando M.2.7 
 2. Bogut, Milwauke.2.5 
 3. Oden, Portland TB2.3 
 4. Smith, Atlanta H.2.1 
 5. Haywood, Washingt.2.1 
 6. Camby, LA Clippers2.0 
 7. Dalembert, Philad.2.0 
 8. Andersen, Denver N.1.9 
 9. Perkins, Boston C.1.8 
 10. Lopez, New J.1.8 


Standings
NBA Standings
Eastern Conference
Atlantic Div.
 1. Boston C. 43-24 
 2. Toronto R. 33-33 
 3. New York K. 24-44 
 4. Philadelph.76 24-44 
 5. New Jersey N. 7-61 
Central Div.
 1. Cleveland C. 54-15 
 2. Milwaukee B. 36-30 
 3. Chicago B. 31-36 
 4. Detroit P. 23-45 
 5. Indiana P. 22-46 
Southeast Div.
 1. Orlando M. 49-21 
 2. Atlanta H. 43-24 
 3. Charlotte B. 35-32 
 4. Miami Heat 35-34 
 5. Washington W. 21-45 
Western Conference
Northwest Div.
 1. Denver N. 47-22 
 2. Utah Jazz 44-24 
 3. Oklah.City T. 41-25 
 4. Portland TB 41-28 
 5. Minnesota T. 14-55 
Pacific Div.
 1. LA Lakers 50-18 
 2. Phoenix Suns 42-26 
 3. LA Clippers 26-43 
 4. Sacramento K. 23-45 
 5. Golde State W. 19-48 
Southwest Div.
 1. Dallas M. 46-22 
 2. San Antonio S. 40-26 
 3. Memphis G. 36-33 
 4. Houston R. 35-31 
 5. N.Orleans H. 33-37 


Rockets re-assign Jermaine Taylor ro D-League - by Eurobasket News
The NBA Development League Rio Grande Valley Vipers announced today that their parent club, the NBA Houston Rockets, have re-assigned guard Jermaine Taylor (6'4'-G-86, college: Cent.Florida) to the Vipers.

Following his latest recall on February 23, Taylor averaged 4.0 points and 1.5 rebounds in 9.8 minutes over the course of four games fir the Rockets. Taylor scored seven points with four rebounds (two offensive) in 23 minutes of a loss at Utah on February 27. He also recorded a career-high eight points and two assists to go with two rebounds and one steal in 13 minutes of a win over Toronto on March 1.

In 21 games with the Rockets this season, Taylor is averaging 2.9 points and 6.8 minutes per game.

Taylor, who has had two previous assignments with the Vipers, is averaging 19.7 points and 4.2 rebounds in six games (two starts) with the Vipers.

'With the Houston Rockets at full strength it provides an opportunity for Jermaine Taylor to rejoin the Vipers for their stretch run. We think it will be a great experience for Jermaine to play a key role for the Vipers, as they finish their season and make a run in the playoffs. In addition, the assignment will allow Jermaine to continue his overall basketball development,' said Vipers General Manager Gersson Rosas, who is also the Vice President of Player Development for the Rockets.


Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com


Tom Penn 'surprised' and 'disappointed' he is fired by Trail Blazers - by Eurobasket News
Thomas Penn, the right-hand man to general manager Kevin Pritchard, has been fired by the Trail Blazers. Tuesdays decision comes nearly 10 months after he was promoted to vice president of Basketball Operations.

Penn late Tuesday night said he was surprised and disappointed when team president Larry Miller called him into his Rose Quarter offices Tuesday afternoon and informed him he was being relieved of his duties.

Penn, however, would not say why he was fired.

I cant speak to specifics and I prefer not to, Penn said. I dont think it is appropriate.

Penn was gracious and thankful Tuesday night.

Ive moved on. Its been an unbelievable run, Penn said. I fell in love with Rip City.

In a prepared statement, Miller cited philosophical differences as the reason for the dismissal of Penn, who joined the Trail Blazers as assistant general manager in 2007.

We felt it was in the organization's best interest to move in a different direction at this time, Miller said. This was not an easy decision, as Tom has played an integral role for us the past three seasons. We thank him for his contributions and wish him the best in the future.

Penn came to the Blazers from the Memphis Grizzlies in May of 2007 and served as the teams assistant general manager until he was promoted to vice president on May 18, 2009.

A former criminal defense lawyer in Illinois, Penns duties with the Blazers included negotiating player contracts, structuring player trades, evalutating talent and managing day-to-day basketball operations. Prior to entering sports management, he served as a basketball player agent in 1994.

Around the league he is widely regarded as a salary cap expert. He helped the NBA in the drafting of the 2005 Collective Bargaining Agreement.

His expertise with league rules and the salary cap allowed the Blazers to gain a trade exception in the 2007 NBA draft, which allowed them to make a trade with Phoenix for the rights to Rudy Fernandez.

Penn was pursued heavily last spring for the general manager position with the Minnesota Timberwolves, but turned down the job after the Blazers promoted him.

He said he has not looked for another job since.

Penn recently returned from a scouting trip at the Big East Championships and appeared on Rip City Live, the pregame show of Comcast SportsNet, before Sundays game against Toronto.


Courtesy of www.oregonlive.com


NBA approves sale of Charlotte Bobcats to Michael Jordan - by Eurobasket News
Michael Jordan (6'7'-F-63, college: N.Carolina) became a basketball star at North Carolina. Now he'll try to turn around the state's money-losing NBA team by becoming the first ex-player to be a majority owner in the league.

The NBA's Board of Governors on Wednesday unanimously approved Jordan's $275 million bid to buy the Charlotte Bobcats from Bob Johnson. Jordan will take over the team immediately after serving as a minority investor with the final say on basketball decisions since 2006.

'Purchasing the Bobcats is the culmination of my post-playing career goal of becoming the majority owner of an NBA franchise,' Jordan said in a statement. 'I am especially pleased to have the opportunity to build a winning team in my home state of North Carolina.

'I plan to make this franchise an organization that Charlotte can be proud of, and I am committed to doing all that I can to achieve this goal.'

The six-time NBA champion and five-time league MVP will be charged with turning around the fortunes of the 6-year-old Bobcats, who are on pace to lose about $30 million this season because of sluggish ticket and sponsorship sales.

The 47-year-old Jordan, who will assume about $150 million in debt in the deal, becomes the second black majority owner of a major pro sports team. He replaces the first in Johnson, who paid $300 million for the expansion franchise, but lost tens of millions annually and saw the value of the team decline as Charlotte fans struggled to warm to the NBA again after the Hornets left for New Orleans in 2002.

'The best decision I made since acquiring the Bobcats was to convince my friend Michael to become an investor in the Bobcats and to appoint him as managing member of basketball operations,' Johnson said in a statement. 'As the new majority owner of the Bobcats, his dedication will be stronger now more than ever.'

Commissioner David Stern predicted last week the deal would be approved easily by the league's owners. Stern said last week that background and financial checks on Jordan produced nothing that would stop the deal, and expressed optimism Jordan's iconic status in this area will boost the franchise.

Jordan grew up in Wilmington, N.C., and led North Carolina to an NCAA title with a last-second shot before starring with the Chicago Bulls. Jordan briefly ran the Wizards basketball operations and returned as a player with Washington before being fired from his management role in 2003.

'We are pleased that Michael Jordan's purchase of majority ownership of the Bobcats was approved by the NBA's Board of Governors and closed in such a smooth and expeditious fashion,' Stern said. 'We look forward to the continued growth of the Bobcats, on and off the court, under his leadership.'

The Bobcats (34-32) entered Wednesday's home game against Oklahoma City in sixth place in the Eastern Conference as they eye their first playoff berth. Team officials hope a playoff appearance after Jordan took control would boost interest and ticket sales in the franchise, which plays in a 5-year-old downtown arena.

'While there is still plenty of work to do both on and off the floor, our attendance, television ratings, corporate support and on-court performance are headed in the right direction,' Bobcats president Fred Whitfield said. 'That trend will only continue as Michael transitions into all facets of our business.'

Jordan, who has declined interview requests since striking a deal to buy the team on Feb. 26, is scheduled to hold a news conference on Thursday night.


Courtesy of www.charlotteobserver.com


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


NABC Division I Districts 1-12 Awards 2009-10 - by Eurobasket
Dictrict 1

Coach of the Year: Fran McCaffery of Siena
1st Team
Marqus Blakely (6'5'-F) of Vermont
Alex Franklin (6'5'-F-88) of Siena
John Holland (6'5'-F/G-88) of Boston University
Ronald Moore (6'0'-G-88) of Siena
Edwin Ubiles (6'6'-G/F-86) of Siena
2nd Team
Muhammad El-Amin (6'5'-G) of Stony Brook
Ryan Rossiter (6'9'-F-89) of Siena
Ryan Thompson (6'6'-G) of Rider
Frank Turner (5'10'-G-88) of Canisius
Greer Wright (6'7'-F-89) of Binghamton


Dictrict 2

Coach of the Year: Gary Williams of Maryland
1st Team
Al-Farouq Aminu (6'9'-F-90) of Wake Forest
Sylven Landesberg (6'6'-G-90) of Virginia
Gani Lawal (6'9'-F-88) of Georgia Tech
Jon Scheyer (6'5'-G-87) of Duke
Greivis Vasquez (6'6'-G-87) of Maryland
2nd Team
Trevor Booker (6'7'-F-87) of Clemson
Malcolm Delaney (6'3'-G-89) of Virginia Tech
Kyle Singler (6'8'-F-88) of Duke
Ishmael Smith (6'0'-G-88) of Wake Forest
Nolan Smith (6'2'-G-88) of Duke


Dictrict 3

Coach of the Year: Robbie Laing of Campbell
1st Team
James Florence (6'1'-G-88) of Mercer
Joseph Harris (6'5'-F) of Coastal Carolina
Adnan Hodzic (6'9'-C-88) of Lipscomb
Artsiom Parakhouski (6'11'-C-87) of Radford
Ben Smith (5'10'-G) of Jacksonville
2nd Team
Nick Barbour (6'3'-G-89) of High Point
Daniel Emerson (6'8'-F-86) of Mercer
Jonathan Rodriguez (6'5'-F-87) of Campbell
Josh Slater (6'3'-G-89) of Lipscomb
Jamarco Warren (5'11'-G-88) of Charleston Southern


Dictrict 4

Coach of the Year: Fran Dunphy of Temple
1st Team
Lavoy Allen (6'9'-F) of Temple
Kevin Anderson (6'0'-G-88) of Richmond
Jordan Crawford (6'4'-G-88) of Xavier
Rodney Green (6'5'-G-88) of La Salle
Damian Saunders (6'7'-F-88) of Duquesne
2nd Team
Ryan Brooks (6'4'-G) of Temple
Keith Cothran (6'4'-G-86) of Rhode Island
Delroy James (6'8'-F-87) of Rhode Island
Shamari Spears (6'6'-F-86) of Charlotte
Chris Wright (6'8'-F-88) of Dayton


Dictrict 5

Coach of the Year: Jim Boeheim of Syracuse
1st Team
Da'Sean Butler (6'7'-F-88) of West Virginia
Luke Harangody (6'8'-F-88) of Notre Dame
Wesley Johnson (6'7'-F-87) of Syracuse
Greg Monroe (6'11'-C-90) of Georgetown
Scottie Reynolds (6'2'-G-87) of Villanova
2nd Team
Jerome Dyson (6'3'-G-87) of Connecticut
Lazar Hayward (6'6'-F-86) of Marquette
Jeremy Hazell (6'5'-G-86) of Seton Hall
Dominique Jones (6'4'-G-88) of South Florida
Andy Rautins (6'4'-G-86) of Syracuse


Dictrict 6

Co-Coach of the Year: Tad Boyle of Northern Colorado and Stew Morrill of Utah State
1st Team
Luke Babbitt (6'9'-F-89) of Nevada
Kyle Gibson (6'5'-G-87) of Louisiana Tech
Armon Johnson (6'3'-G-89) of Nevada
Adrian Oliver (6'4'-G-88) of San Jose State
Jahmar Young (6'5'-G) of New Mexico State
2nd Team
Anthony Johnson (6'3'-G-86) of Montana
Damian Lillard (6'2'-G-90) of Weber State
Jared Quayle (6'1'-G-85) of Utah State
Magnum Rolle (6'11'-C/F-86) of Louisiana Tech
Tai Wesley (6'7'-F-86) of Utah State


Dictrict 7

Coach of the Year: Matt Painter of Purdue
1st Team
Robbie Hummel (6'8'-F-89) of Purdue
Kalin Lucas (6'0'-G-89) of Michigan State
Demetri McCamey (6'3'-G-89) of Illinois
E'Twaun Moore (6'4'-G-89) of Purdue
Evan Turner (6'7'-G/F-88) of Ohio State
2nd Team
Talor Battle (6'0'-G-88) of Penn State
Manny Harris (6'5'-G-89) of Michigan
Trevon Hughes (6'0'-G-87) of Wisconsin
John Shurna (6'8'-F-90) of Northwestern
DeShawn Sims (6'8'-F-88) of Michigan


Dictrict 8

Coach of the Year: Frank Martin of Kansas State
1st Team
Cole Aldrich (6'11'-C-88) of Kansas
James Anderson (6'6'-G-89) of Oklahoma State
Sherron Collins (5'11'-G-87) of Kansas
Damion James (6'7'-G/F-87) of Texas
Donald Sloan (6'3'-G-88) of Texas A&M
2nd Team
Craig Brackins (6'10'-F-87) of Iowa State
LaceDarius Dunn (6'4'-G-87) of Baylor
Marcus Morris (6'8'-F) of Kansas
Jacob Pullen (6'0'-G-89) of Kansas State
Ekpe Udoh (6'10'-F/C-87) of Baylor


Dictrict 9

Coach of the Year: Mark Few of Gonzaga
1st Team
Matt Bouldin (6'5'-G-88) of Gonzaga
Elias Harris (6'8'-F-89) of Gonzaga
Orlando Johnson (6'5'-G-89) of UC Santa Barbara
Dior Lowhorn (6'7'-F-87) of San Francisco
Omar Samhan (6'11'-C-88) of St. Mary's
2nd Team
Keion Bell (6'3'-G) of Pepperdine
T.J. Campbell (5'9'-G-88) of Portland
Mickey McConnell (6'0'-G-89) of St. Mary's
T.J. Robinson (6'8'-F) of Long Beach State
Robin Smeulders (6'10'-F-87) of Portland


Dictrict 10

Coach of the Year: Tony Shaver of William and Mary
1st Team
Chaisson Allen (6'4'-G-89) of Northeastern
Charles Jenkins (6'3'-G-89) of Hofstra
Gerald Lee (6'10'-F-87) of Old Dominion
Cam Long (6'4'-G-88) of George Mason
Larry Sanders (6'11'-F-88) of Va. Commonwealth
2nd Team
Denzel Bowles (6'10'-F) of James Madison
Jamie Harris (5'10'-G) of Drexel
Matt Janning (6'4'-G/F-88) of Northeastern
Joey Rodriguez (5'10'-G-88) of Va. Commonwealth
David Schneider (6'3'-G-87) of William & Mary


Dictrict 11

Coach of the Year: Tony Barbee of UTEP
1st Team
Derrick Caracter (6'9'-F-88) of UTEP
Aubrey Coleman (6'4'-G-87) of Houston
Jerome Jordan (7'0'-C-86) of Tulsa
Elijah Millsap (6'6'-G-87) of UAB
Elliot Williams (6'5'-G-89) of Memphis
2nd Team
Randy Culpepper (6'0'-G-89) of UTEP
Ben Uzoh (6'3'-G-88) of Tulsa
Hassan Whiteside (7'0'-F-89) of Marshall
Tyler Wilkerson (6'8'-F) of Marshall
Derek Williams (6'1'-G-85) of SMU

Dictrict 12


Coach of the Year: Brad Stevens of Butler
1st Team
Keith Benson (6'11'-C-88) of Oakland
Robert Glenn (6'7'-F) of IUPUI
Gordon Hayward (6'9'-G/F-90) of Butler
Johnathon Jones (5'11'-G-88) of Oakland
Shelvin Mack (6'3'-G-90) of Butler
2nd Team
Norris Cole (6'1'-G-88) of Cleveland State
Vaughn Duggins (6'3'-G-87) of Wright State
Rahmon Fletcher (5'10'-G-88) of Green Bay
Matt Howard (6'8'-F) of Butler
Brandon Wood (6'2'-G-89) of Valparaiso


Seton Hall fires Gonzalez after four seasons for poor conduct - by Eurobasket News
Fed up by his antics on and off the court, Seton Hall fired basketball coach Bobby Gonzalez on Wednesday after a 19-win season.

The dismissal came roughly 12 hours after the coach known as 'Gonzo' endured an 87-69 loss in the opening round of the NIT, a game in which Seton Hall forward Herb Pope was ejected for hitting Texas Tech player below the belt and Gonzalez picked up his seventh technical foul of the season.

By noon, Gonzo was gone.

'Performance and success are not measured solely by wins and losses, but also in the conduct of those associated with the program,' said Patrick Hobbs, the university law school dean who has been overseeing the athletic department since July.

'We have expectations as to how our coaches and players will conduct themselves, and they are expected to treat everyone they interact with, whether officials, the press or our students, with the utmost respect, maturity and professionalism. Those core expectations must be met.'

University president Monsignor Robert Sheeran informed Gonzalez of the decision around noon.

'I told him that I lost my confidence in his ability to coach and lead this program,' Sheeran said in a conference call. 'I spoke with people on and off the campus and I made the decision. The decision was mine and it was in the best interests of Seton Hall University.'

The Pirates went 19-13 this season, including 9-9 in the Big East, both four-year highs for Gonzalez. However, he failed to get Seton Hall to the NCAA tournament, posting a 66-59 overall record and a 29-45 league mark.

Gonzalez led Manhattan to four 20-win seasons and two NCAA tournaments in seven years before replacing the fired Louis Orr at Seton Hall.

'We respect the effort he put in,' Hobbs said. 'He wanted to win. He wanted to be the right fit. But he's a mercurial talent, a lightning rod. In the end, when you look at the totality of it, on the court, off the court, Coach Gonzalez was not the right fit for Seton Hall.'

Hobbs would not say whether Gonzalez was fired with cause. The coach was given a contract extension through the 2015 season in the fall.

Gonzalez was not immediately available for comment.

Sheeran said that Hobbs has been reviewing the basketball program for most of the year and that he asked him for a recommendation last week. Sheeran said he decided to fire Gonzalez at 9 a.m., adding the coach was very professional and calm when informed of the decision.

Villanova coach Jay Wright said Gonzalez is a good coach, but he also understands his quirks and intensity.

'He's Gonzo and he is what he is,' Wright said. 'And in our business, there's not a lot of characters anymore because it's so demanding and there's a such a microscope on you. I'm not saying it's good or bad. I'm saying it is what it is. Some people like it, some people don't.'

The firing came two days after women's coach Phyllis Mangina resigned after 25 years.

Hobbs wants to hire a coach who can be successful immediately in the Big East. Among the young coaches who might be considered for the job are Fran McCaffrey of Siena, Tom Pecora of Hofstra, Chris Mooney of Richmond and Duke assistant Chris Collins.

The volatile Gonzalez has had run-ins with other coaches and officials, threw forward Robert Mitchell off the team on Sunday after being criticized by the player, and also had players get in trouble on and off the court.

Mitchell was arrested on Tuesday and charged with entering a house in South Orange on Monday and robbing eight people at gunpoint, Essex County prosecutors said. He was charged with robbery, kidnapping and burglary. All three offenses carry 10- to 20-year maximum prison sentences.

Fans at the Prudential Center on Tuesday night started chanting 'Robert Mitchell' as the game against Texas Tech started. Pope then was ejected early in that game for punching Darko Cohadarevic below the waist; Pope maintained that the Red Raiders player elbowed him in the head before he retaliated.

Gonzalez later picked up his final technical foul, and fan chants turned to 'Fire Bobby.'

When asked after the game if he heard the chants and taunts, Gonzalez just said, 'No.'

A week before this season started, transfer guard Keon Lawrence was involved in a traffic accident on the Garden State Parkway in which he was driving in the wrong direction, seriously injuring the driver of the other vehicle.

Lawrence was charged with assault by auto and driving with a suspended license, and was suspended for the first eight games of the season.

When asked to put the basketball season into perspective, Hobbs was blunt: 'I would call it not a successful year.'

Players were informed of the firing, athletic director Joseph Quinlan said.

'They all spent considerable time with Coach Gonzalez and they have a bond that still exists,' Quinlan said. 'It's a little bit of a disruption in their lives.'

Gonzalez had a tough time recruiting within New Jersey, with only Paterson Catholic (current guard Jordan Theodore and incoming freshman Fuquan Edwin) sending recruits to Seton Hall.

'I had an unusual relationship with Coach Gonzalez,' longtime St. Anthony coach Bob Hurley said Wednesday. 'There never really was a comfort zone.

'I had a comfort zone with Seton Hall, sending many players there in the past, but not recently. Whoever gets the job will personality-wise be different than Coach Gonzalez. I would consider sending our players there.'


Courtesy of www.sportsillustrated.cnn.com


Barack Obama picks Kansas to win tourney - by Eurobasket News
President Barack Obama will bank on Kansas to make him two-for-two in predicting NCAA tournament champions as commander-in-chief.

Obama made his picks on ESPN again this year and picked the Jayhawks, the tournaments top seed, to cut down the nets in Indianapolis. Obama talked about the play of senior point guard Sherron Collins as one of the main reasons for backing Kansas.

I always like teams who have experience in the backcourt, said Obama, who correctly picked North Carolina to win the Big Dance last year.

Obama picked Kansas to beat Kentucky in the national championship and had Villanova and Kansas State filling out his Final Four.

Obama, who graduated from Columbia and Harvard law school, went with fellow Ivy League school Cornell to upset Temple in the first round before falling to Wisconsin. The president also had Siena winning their first-round game over Purdue.

Courtesy of www.nypost.com


NABC Division I Districts 13-24 Awards 2009-10 - by Eurobasket
Dictrict 13

Coach of the Year: Steve Donahue of Cornell
1st Team
Jeff Foote (7'0'-C) of Cornell
Chris Harris (6'2'-G-86) of Navy
Jeremy Lin (6'3'-G) of Harvard
CJ McCollum (6'3'-G) of Lehigh
Ryan Wittman (6'6'-F) of Cornell
2nd Team
Noruwa Agho (6'3'-G) of Columbia
Louis Dale (5'11'-G) of Cornell
Vlad Moldoveanu (6'9'-F-88) of American
Kyle Roemer (6'3'-G/F-85) of Colgate
Zack Rosen (6'1'-G) of Pennsylvania


Dictrict 14

Coach of the Year: Geno Ford of Kent State
1st Team
Kenny Hayes (6'2'-G-87) of Miami (OH)
Jarrod Jones (6'9'-F-90) of Ball State
David Kool (6'3'-G-87) of Western Michigan
Rodney Pierce (6'2'-G-87) of Buffalo
Chris Singletary (6'4'-G-88) of Kent State
2nd Team
Jordan Bitzer (6'3'-G) of Central Michigan
Brandon Bowdry (6'6'-F-88) of Eastern Michigan
Justin Greene (6'8'-F) of Kent State
Carlos Medlock (6'0'-G-87) of Eastern Michigan
Xavier Silas (6'5'-G-88) of Northern Illinois


Dictrict 15

Coach of the Year: Todd Bozeman of Morgan State
1st Team
Michael Deloach (6'0'-G-86) of Norfolk State
Jason Flagler (6'4'-G/F) of South Carolina State
Reggie Holmes (6'4'-G) of Morgan State
C.J. Reed (6'3'-G) of Bethune-Cookman
Kevin Thompson (6'8'-F-89) of Morgan State
2nd Team
Dewayne Jackson (6'8'-F) of Morgan State
Marcus Neal (6'5'-G-86) of Delaware State
Darnell Porter (6'4'-G-88) of South Carolina State
Frisco Sandidge (6'6'-F-87) of Delaware State
Vincent Simpson (6'1'-G-88) of Hampton


Dictrict 16

Coach of the Year: Ben Jacobson of Northern Iowa
1st Team
Jordan Eglseder (7'0'-C-88) of Northern Iowa
Osiris Eldridge (6'3'-G-88) of Illinois State
Clevin Hannah (5'11'-G-87) of Wichita State
Adam Koch (6'8'-F-88) of Northern Iowa
Josh Young (6'1'-G-88) of Drake
2nd Team
Kwadzo Ahelegbe (6'2'-G-88) of Northern Iowa
Kenny Lawson (6'9'-C-88) of Creighton
Sam Maniscalco (6'0'-G-88) of Bradley
Dinma Odiakosa (6'8'-F-85) of Illinois State
Kyle Weems (6'6'-F-89) of Missouri State


Dictrict 17

Coach of the Year: Steve Alford of New Mexico
1st Team
Jimmer Fredette (6'2'-G) of BYU
Dairese Gary (6'1'-G-88) of New Mexico
Darington Hobson (6'7'-G/F-87) of New Mexico
Kawhi Leonard (6'6'-F-91) of San Diego State
Tre'Von Willis (6'4'-G-88) of UNLV
2nd Team
Jackson Emery (6'3'-G-87) of BYU
Roman Martinez (6'6'-F-88) of New Mexico
Andy Ogide (6'9'-F-87) of Colorado State
Chace Stanback (6'8'-G/F-89) of UNLV
Malcolm Thomas (6'9'-F-88) of San Diego State


Dictrict 18

Coach of the Year: Tom Moore of Quinnipiac
1st Team
Sean Baptiste (6'3'-G-88) of Fairleigh Dickinson
James Feldeine (6'4'-G-88) of Quinnipiac
Corey Hassan (6'4'-G-87) of Sacred Heart
Justin Rutty (6'7'-F) of Quinnipiac
Jaytornah Wisseh (6'1'-G-88) of Long Island
2nd Team
Karon Abraham (5'9'-G) of Robert Morris
Akeem Bennett (6'3'-G/F) of St. Francis (NY)
Ricky Cadell (6'2'-G) of St. Francis (NY)
Jeremy Goode (5'9'-G-87) of Mount St. Mary's
Devin Sweetney (6'6'-G/F-87) of St. Francis (PA)


Dictrict 19

Coach of the Year: Billy Kennedy of Murray State
1st Team
Ivan Aska (6'7'-F-90) of Murray State
Wesley Channels (6'3'-G-88) of Austin Peay
Kenneth Faried (6'8'-F/C-89) of Morehead State
Trenton Marshall (6'5'-G/F-87) of Jacksonville State
Isacc Miles (6'2'-G-88) of Murray State
2nd Team
Frank Davis (6'2'-G-87) of Tennessee Tech
B.J. Jenkins (6'0'-G-88) of Murray State
Tyler Laser (6'1'-G) of Eastern Illinois
Justin Stommes (6'7'-G/F) of Eastern Kentucky
Josh Taylor (6'6'-F) of Eastern Kentucky


Dictrict 20

Coach of the Year: Herb Sendek of Arizona State
1st Team
Landry Fields (6'7'-G/F) of Stanford
Quincy Pondexter (6'6'-F-88) of Washington
Jerome Randle (5'10'-G-87) of California
Klay Thompson (6'6'-G-90) of Washington State
Nic Wise (5'10'-G) of Arizona
2nd Team
Ty Abbott (6'3'-G-88) of Arizona State
Patrick Christopher (6'5'-G-88) of California
Dwight Lewis (6'5'-G-87) of USC
Isaiah Thomas (5'8'-G) of Washington
Derrick Williams (6'8'-F) of Arizona


Dictrict 21

Coach of the Year: Kevin Stallings of Vanderbilt
1st Team
Demarcus Cousins (6'11'-F) of Kentucky
Devan Downey (5'9'-G-87) of South Carolina
Tasmin Mitchell (6'7'-F-86) of LSU
Jarvis Varnado (6'9'-F-88) of Mississippi State
John Wall (6'4'-G) of Kentucky
2nd Team
Jermaine Beal (6'3'-G-87) of Vanderbilt
Wayne Chism (6'9'-F-87) of Tennessee
A.J. Ogilvy (6'11'-C-88) of Vanderbilt
Patrick Patterson (6'9'-F-89) of Kentucky
Trey Thompkins (6'10'-F-90) of Georgia


Dictrict 22

Coach of the Year: Mike Young of Wofford
1st Team
Noah Dahlman (6'6'-F-89) of Wofford
Andrew Goudelock (6'1'-G-88) of College of Charleston
Donald Sims (6'1'-G-87) of Appalachian State
Ben Stywall (6'5'-F-87) of UNC Greensboro
Cameron Wells (6'1'-G-88) of Citadel
2nd Team
Brandon Giles (6'6'-G-88) of Western Carolina
Donovan Monroe (6'1'-G-88) of College of Charleston
Jake Robinson (6'8'-F-87) of Western Carolina
Amu Saaka (6'6'-F-88) of Furman
Jeremy Simmons (6'8'-F-89) of College of Charleston

Dictrict 23


Coach of the Year: Bob Marlin of Sam Houston State
1st Team
Anatoly Bose (6'6'-G/F-88) of Nicholls State
Marquez Haynes (6'3'-G-86) of UT-Arlington
Ashton Mitchell (5'11'-G-88) of Sam Houston State
Kevin Palmer (6'6'-G/F-87) of Texas A&M CC
Patrick Sullivan (6'9'-C-88) of Southeastern La.
2nd Team
Corey Allmond (6'1'-G-88) of Sam Houston State
Gilberto Clavell (6'6'-F-89) of Sam Houston State
Deandre Hall (6'6'-G) of Texas Southern
Darnell Hugee (6'7'-F) of Prairie View A&M
Garrison Johnson (6'5'-G-88) of Jackson State

Dictrict 24

Coach of the Year: Johnny Jones of North Texas
1st Team
Brandon Hazzard (6'2'-G-87) of Troy
Tyren Johnson (6'8'-F-88) of Louisiana-Lafayette
Nate Rohnert (6'5'-G-87) of Denver
A.J. Slaughter (6'3'-G) of Western Kentucky
Desmond Yates (6'7'-F-86) of Middle Tennessee
2nd Team
Greg Gantt (6'2'-G) of Florida Atlantic
George Odufuwa (6'8'-F-88) of North Texas
Steffphon Pettigrew (6'5'-F) of Western Kentucky
Brandon Reed (6'3'-G) of Arkansas State
Tim Williams (6'2'-G-89) of South Alabama



*****************************************************
  NCAA2   


Augusta State advances to third straight Elite Eight - by Eurobasket News
Augusta State senior guard Ben Madgen tallied a game-high 28 points and senior forward Fred Brathwaite (6'4'-G/F-87) registered 25 points and a game-high seven rebounds as the Jaguars held off Montevallo to claim a 79-71 victory Tuesday night in the championship game of the 2010 NCAA Southeast Regional in Christenberry Fieldhouse.

With the win, the No. 4 Jaguars captured their third consecutive NCAA Regional title and advance to the NCAA Elite Eight for the third straight season. The victory -- ASUs 31st consecutive home win -- lifted the Jags to 29-3 on the year. Montevallo, playing in the Southeast Region for the first time after reaching the South Region championship game four times, closed their season with a 25-8 record.

The victory improved ASU to 14-7 all-time in the NCAA Tournament, including 13-3 under sixth-year head coach Dip Metress. The Jags closed out their 2009-10 home schedule with an 18-0 home record and became the first team in school history to go undefeated at home. ASUs senior class of Madgen, Daniel Dixon, Brathwaite, Greg Hire and Alex Smith posted a 57-4 home record during their careers. The win -- the Jags ninth straight in NCAA Regional play -- also avenged an 81-77 loss to the Falcons 10 days ago in the Peach Belt Conference Tournament semifinals.

ASU will face Northeast Regional champion Bentley in the National Quarterfinals of the Elite Eight at the MassMutual Center in Springfield, Mass., on March 24 at 8:30 p.m.

ASU hit eight of its first 13 shots from the field to open the game. A Travis Keels layup put the Jaguars up 21-12 with 11:00 to play. Brathwaite then hit a pair of free throws, followed by a Madgen jumper to boost that lead to 25-13 with 8:33 left in the first half.

The lead grew to 13 twice, the largest margin of the half. Greg Hire hit a pair of free throws with 4:06 to play for the first 13-point margin. UM answered with a Ronald Severtsgaard free throw but ASUs Alex Smith hit one of two from the line to keep the margin at 13.

Montevallos Tauras Dortch hit a 3-pointer from the corner to cut the lead down to nine, but Severtsgaard traveled on the ensuing inbounds play, giving ASU the ball with 4.8 seconds remaining. Madgen came off two screens to catch the inbounds at the top of the key, where he was fouled in the act of taking a 3-pointer by Mark Plaza. With zeros on the scoreboard, Madgen hit all three free throws that gave ASU a 41-30 halftime lead.

The Jaguar lead grew to as many as 14 in the opening 10 minutes of the second half. Greg Hire, who hit all three of his field goal attempts, drained a 14-footer from the elbow that made the lead 47-33. UM cut its deficit to 10 following a Plaza layup, but ASU responded with a Brathwaite jumper at the 14:32 mark that left ASU out in front 53-39. But that would be the last ASU field goal for nearly eight minutes as Montevallo rallied.

The Falcons went on a 12-1 run over the next six minutes that cut the lead down to three. Plaza scored seven straight points for the Falcons, all on driving layups. He was fouled on the final drive and converted the 3-point play with 10:05 left to pull within six. Freddy Little (6'0'-G-86) capped the run with a driving layup of his own followed by a Demarcus Richard free throw that brought the ASU margin to three with over eight minutes to go.

Down 54-51, Montevallo surrendered two free throws to Madgen before a Freddy Little layup cut the lead back to three with 7:21 to play. Madgen responded for the Jaguars with two free throws and a jumper at the 6:34 mark that pushed the lead back to seven, but Little drained a trey and Plaza drove in for another layup to pull the Falcons within 60-58 at the 4:45 mark.

ASU senior point guard Daniel Dixon stopped the bleeding and turned the momentum with a 3-pointer from the left elbow on ASUs next possession, bringing the 2,131 fans in attendance back to their feet. Little answered with a driving layup, bending around an ASU defender in the air to bank his shot off the glass. That bucket brought the Falcons within 63-60, but they would get no closer as the Jaguars scored seven straight points, including a thunderous put-back dunk from Brathwaite, that left the score 70-60 with 1:13 to play.

Forced to foul, UM put Madgen on the line where he hit four straight over the final 48 seconds to seal the victory. Madgen hit all 14 of his free throw attempts in the game, scoring a game-high 28 points with five rebounds and two assists.

Brathwaite was named the regionals Most Outstanding Player with his 25-point performance, connecting on 11-of-13 shots from the field. The senior guard/forward from Columbus, Ga., also hit his only 3-point attempt and led the team with seven rebounds. He eclipsed the 1,000-point plateau in his career with a 17-foot jumper at the 14:32 mark of the second half. Alex Smith added nine points for ASU while Hire had eight and Dixon seven with nine assists. The Jaguars shot 57 percent from the floor in the game, including 65 percent (13-of-20) in the second half alone. ASU was also 76 percent from the line and held a 26-19 rebounding advantage.

Little led the Falcons with 23 points as he hit five-of-eight 3-pointers. Plaza added 20 and a team-high seven assists while Gerald January scored nine with a team-best six rebounds. UM shot even better than ASU, hitting 58 percent (28-48) in the game and 65 percent in the second half. Montevallo did have 13 turnovers to only 10 for Augusta State. (Box Score) (Photos)

All-Tournament Team
Fred Brathwaite, AUGUSTA STATE, MOST OUTSTANDING PLAYER
Ben Madgen (6'4'-G-85, college: Augusta St.), AUGUSTA STATE
Freddy Little, Montevallo
Mark Plaza, Montevallo
Kevis Cornwell (6'2'-G), Anderson

Montevallo Head Coach Danny Young
I thought our kids played really hard and they battled all the way down the stretch. The difference for us is that we had a hard time getting to the foul line. The difference in the scores was the foul shots.

(On attacking the basket) That was our game plan again was to attack the basket and we didnt do a very good job at it.

(On switching Freddy in the defense) I needed to get Plaza on Madgen and try not to wear him out defensively.

(On Augusta State) They played really well, and it is hard to beat them at home.

Augusta State Head Coach Dip Metress
My seniors are the reason why we are going back to Massachusetts. I am glad that they had the chance to win this last game on their home floor.

(On the good plays the seniors made) Very difficult to have lead and have a team come back and cut it and still keep your composure they did a great job in going to the next play and encouraging each other.

Augusta States Daniel Dixon
Thank God for allowing us to be here and to have this opportunity. It means a lot to us seniors; we did not want to lose this last game at home.

(On guarding Freddy little) It takes a lot of energy to guard him because all he does is come off the screens. I credit my team; they helped me out so much when I got caught up in the screens.

Augusta States Ben Madgen
(On winning the NCAA Regional three times in four years) We are pretty lucky. We work very hard in the off season preparing, and after winning our first regional we are still hungry to win the next one. It is really good to share this with the rest of these guys and coach.

(On going back to Springfield) We have some unfinished business. We want to win if all, but we are just going to take it one game at a time.

Augusta States Greg Hire
(On the score being 52-50) I just had confidence in guys on the floor. I was waiting for Daniel to hit it and incredible shot. You just have confidence in group you have on the floor.

(On last home game win) We have the best community support. They were loud the entire game and they pump you back up. It is hard to get down cause they get you right back up.

Augusta States Fred Brathwaite
(On determination) I got a little down on myself, I had three turnover and my teammates told me to keep playing hard and just stick with it. I told myself I was not going to let us lose.

Augusta States Alex Smith
(On going to Springfield and winning regional) Its a new experience for me. I think that it is an absolute blessing that I was able to come to this program and do great things. I am really happy to be a part of this team.


Courtesy of www.aug.edu


Pumas reach NCAA Elite 8 - by Eurobasket News
The Saint Joseph's College men's basketball team completed their run through the NCAA Midwest Regional with a 104-103 triple overtime victory over Quincy University at the Sportscenter in Owensboro, Kentucky. Phillip Collins (6'3'-G) converted his third game-winning basket of the tournament to push SJC to its fourth Elite Eight appearance in the program's history. SJC is the first eighth seed to reach the Elite Eight since seeding started in 1994.

The Hawks (23-9) led by as many as 14 points in the second half through a strong effort from Josh Brock in the post. QU led 59-49 with just over six minutes left in the game, but behind a hustling defensive effort the Pumas (20-11) charged back into the contest.

In the closing seconds, the Hawks held a 69-67 lead with Andreas Coleman at the line. Coleman converted one of two foul shots to keep SJC within one possession. Dayvon Sloan (5'10'-G) (Fr., Louisville, Ky./ Waggener) rushed the ball up to the front court and converted a long three-pointer with less than three seconds left in regulation. QU's last second shot went long the game went to overtime.

Quincy took control in the extra period by taking an 80-73 lead with less than two minutes on the clock. Three consecutive turnovers and fouls by the Hawks put Sloan on the line where he converted six straight free throws. Josh Edmonds connected on two from the charity stripe with 15 seconds left to give QU an 85-82 lead. However, Courtney Belger fouled Sloan attempting a three-point basket with nine seconds left. Sloan's shots were true and the game was force to a second overtime.

SJC took control in the second extra period as Austin Peebles (Sr., Forsyth, Ill./Maroa-Forsyth) converted an offensive rebound into a lay-up to give the Pumas a 90-87 lead. Billy Baptist tied the game with a long three-point basket from the corner, but Sloan answered again a quick three of his own to put SJC back on top 93-90.

Leading 95-92 with just over a minutes to play, Mookie Pierre (6'4'-G) drained another three-point basket to tie the game. Both the Hawks and Pumas had opportunities to win the game, but their final possessions miss-fired and the marathon went to a third overtime.

Pierre opened the third overtime frame with a three-point play but Sloan converted two foul shots and a three-point basket to give SJC a 100-98 lead. Still leading by two points with less than 30 seconds in the game, Tyler Burke hit a clutch three-point basket from the corner to give the Hawks a 103-102 lead. SJC set up their final possession and spread the floor. Through precise ball movement Michael Lipton (Fr., Crown Point, Ind./Crown Point) was left open from 17 feet, but missed wide left. Collins slid into the lane for the offensive rebound and put-back to give the Pumas a 104-103 lead with nine tenths on the clock. QU's half-court shot missed and SJC advanced to the Elite Eight.

Mookie Pierre finished with 32 points to lead the Hawks as he also earned a spot on the All-Tournament Team. Justin Brock finished with 21 points and 11 rebounds before fouling out of the contest. Brock was also selected to the All-Tournament Team after recording a double-double

Dayvon Sloan scored a game high 45 points, all after halftime to push the Pumas to victory. Andrew Helmer (6'4'-G/F) (Sr., Highland, Ind./Highland) finished with 17 points and a team high seven rebounds before fouling out of the game. Phillip Collins added 16 points and was named the Most Outstanding Player. Helmer and Sloan also represented SJC on the All-Tournament team.

The Pumas will play Cal Poly Pomona in Springfield, Massachusetts on Wednesday. Tip-off at the MassMutual Center is scheduled for 6 p.m. EST.


Courtesy of www.saintjoe.edu


*****************************************************
  NEW ZEALAND   


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Eric DEVENDORF
  Waikato
  (193-G-87)
  Avg: 37
 1. Devendorf, Waikato37.0 
 2. Jones, Nelson27.7 
 3. Webster, Harbour .25.5 
 4. Tisby, Otago25.5 
 5. Rose, Southlan.25.0 
 6. Winitana, Cougars24.3 
 7. Amaya, Otago24.0 
 8. Hudson, Wellington23.0 
 9. Leasure, Taranaki22.0 
 10. Abercrombie, Waika.21.5 
Rebounds Per Game
 Alex PLEDGER
  Waikato
  (216-C-87)
  Avg: 15.5
 1. Pledger, Waikato15.5 
 2. Tisby, Otago14.0 
 3. Boucher, Harbour .12.0 
 4. Rickert, Harbour .10.5 
 5. Horvath, Wellington9.7 
 6. Vukona, Nelson9.0 
 7. Langrell, Bay H.8.7 
 8. Frank, Wellington8.3 
 9. Terrell, Bay Hawks8.3 
 10. Johnson, Taranaki8.0 
Assists Per Game
 Dillon BOUCHER
  Harbour Heat
  (196-F-75)
  Avg: 6.5
 1. Boucher, Harbour .6.5 
 2. Kench, Cougars6.0 
 3. Amaya, Otago5.5 
 4. Connell, Bay Hawks4.7 
 5. Franklin, Harbour .4.0 
 6. Vukona, Nelson4.0 
 7. Hudson, Wellington4.0 
 8. Rougeau, Southl.4.0 
 9. Bartlett, Bay H.3.7 
 10. Frank, Wellington3.7 
Steals Per Game
 Corey WEBSTER
  Harbour Heat
  (185-G-88)
  Avg: 6.5
 1. Webster, Harbour .6.5 
 2. Rougeau, Southl.4.5 
 3. Wurtz, Cougars3.7 
 4. Boucher, Harbour .3.0 
 5. Te Huna, Manawatu3.0 
 6. Kench, Cougars3.0 
 7. Hudson, Wellington2.7 
 8. Bartlett, Bay H.2.7 
 9. Rose, Southlan.2.5 
 10. Devendorf, Waikato2.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Rene ROUGEAU
  Southland Sharks
  (198-G-86)
  Avg: 3.5
 1. Rougeau, Southl.3.5 
 2. Abercrombie, Waika.3.0 
 3. Pledger, Waikato2.0 
 4. Cartwright, Harbou.2.0 
 5. Horvath, Wellington1.7 
 6. Harrison, Nelson1.7 
 7. Terrell, Bay Hawks1.7 
 8. Tisby, Otago1.5 
 9. Connell, Bay Hawks1.0 
 10. Daniel, Bay Hawks1.0 


Sean Marks has season-ending shoulder surgery - by Eurobasket News
New Zealander Sean Marks (6'10'-F-75, college: California) will miss the remainder of the National Basketball Association season for the New Orleans Hornets after undergoing surgery on his right shoulder.

Marks' surgery was pronounced a success and he will begin rehabilitation immediately with an eye on next season, the Hornets' website reported.

Niggles have reduced Marks' season to his fourth quietest in 10 years in the NBA. He played just 75 minutes in 14 games, compared to his career-high 60 games last season. This year's output was just 10 points and 23 rebounds.

The 34-year-old has now completed two-season stints with five different NBA teams -- Toronto, Miami, San Antonio, Phoenix and New Orleans.

The injury- depleted Hornets have 13 games remaining and trail Portland by seven games for the eighth spot in the Western Conference standings, leaving them with little hope of repeating their 2008/09 foray into the post-season.


Courtesy of hwww.3news.co.nz


Standings Men
NBL Standings
 1. Waikato 3-0 
 2. Harbour Heat 2-0 
 3. Wellington 2-1 
 4. Bay Hawks 2-1 
 5. Nelson 2-1 
 6. Cougars 2-2 
 7. Manawatu 0-2 
 8. Otago 0-2 
 9. Southland Sharks 0-2 
 10. Taranaki 0-2 


*****************************************************
  PALESTINE   


Standings - Men
PBBA Standings
 1. De La Salle 4-0 
 2. Orthodox R. 3-0 
 3. Terrasanta 2-1 
 4. Catholic A. 2-1 
 5. Hiteen 2-1 
 6. Sarriyet 2-1 
 7. Ibdaa D. 2-1 
 8. Orth. Thaq. BS 2-2 
 9. Ebal 2-2 
 10. Islami 1-2 
 11. Al Ahli 1-2 
 12. Orthodox BJ 1-2 
 13. Qalandia 1-2 
 14. Bethlehem 1-3 
 15. RaI AlSaleh 0-3 
 16. AlAroob YC 0-3 


PBBA Week II Continued: Catholic Action on the edge, Orthodox Ramallah stable, Qalandia going strong and EIBAL Champ of the week - by Tamara Awartani
Catholic Action vs. Ahli 96 - 92
Catholic Action started off strong and not until Ahli AlQuds realized what they got themselves into in the first quarter that they gave Catholic Action a very hard time to win the game 'importless' but with their experience and skills got close.
Catholic Action players Shadi Bahnan (180-G-87) with his penetrations along with the young Ibrahim Habash's shots who has great potential assisted by Ty Brunson (203-F/C-80, college: Mass.-Lowell) who was the winning card for Catholic Action with his under basket moves and snatching all rebounds.
While AlAhli led by Raed Diyab (184-G-74) assited by Ismael Sweiti (181-G-81) 's penetrations & shots along with Sameh Hdeib (191-C-81) under basket and with Rami Al Bakri (185-G-77) 's 3 pointers were able to keep up and lead 2 quarters.
31/14, 17/19, 27/26, 21/33


Orthodoxi Ramallah vs. AlRa'I Saleh 97 64
A more of a practice game for Orthodoxi Ramallah players which gave the coach a chance to try out most of his players, while it was a good experience game for AlRa'i Saleh young players.
Ahmad Deeb the key of Orthodox Ramallah led the team with his shots and several assists to Ammar Jalytah on fastbreak , along with Khalil Hussary & Yamen Hweit's shots while their import Joseph Zait was an all around scorer. However AlRa'I highly depended on Nick Tuggle (198-G/F-84, college: E.Tenn.St.), who was all over the court with several shots, penetrations, assists and steals and ended the game with an amazing dunk, assisted by Samer Hadad, Ahmad Nofal, Bashar Abdel Qader, Firas Asali and Bashar AlJabi.
26/11, 15/13, 23/16, 33/24


Qalandia vs. Hiteen 91 81
A close game filled with crowd excited to watch the game cheering for their teams, Qalandia led most of the game while Hiteen was trying to catch up at all times and had a great comeback in the 4th but were unlucky with many of their shots.
Qalandia led by Nizar Shehadeh who hit several 3pointers, assisted by their import Jon Sheets who had a major role in the win, along with Ismael Hamad under basket and Omar Jatar and Adham Jarzawi's shots.
While Hiteen's players played strong with great teamwork especially Malcolm Thomas (192-F-85, college: Widener) hitting several shots and assists along with Sa'ed Darwazeh & Haytham Qanaeer who both played great inside and outside along with Asad Asfouri and the star Shadi Takruri is back along with Mohammed AlHilu but it wasnt enough to win the game.
14/13, 24/18, 33/26, 20/24


Eibal vs. Ibdaa 106 105
The game of the week and what a game with double overtime! Eibal the team with their long basketball history are back on track by being the only team beating Ibdaa the 2009 undefeated double champ.
Eibal team started the game with full determination and focus to win the game, Jamal Walker (193-G/F-81, college: Briar Cliff) scoring from all over the court, short and long, surely gave Eibal an edge, not to forget the role of the local players who also had a major part, such as Qasem Turabi (194-F/C-90), Basheer Abdelazeez (178-G-78), Tamer Qanadeelo (192-F/C-80) and Naeem Turabi (185-F-81).
While Mahdi Eid (194-F-81) led the team in scoring along with Jimmy Williams (196-G-86, college: Alders.-Broad.) getting 46 points, 8 rebounds and 3 assists and who forced overtime by hitting the buzzer shot, Khaled Khamees also hit 3pointers, assisted by Yousef Adawi and Abdallah Jaber, moreover Yahia Al Khatib (190-G-77)'s experience played a role.
20/21, 20/24, 3rd & 4th (53/48), 5th & 6th (13/12)



PBBA Week III: Terrasanta teamwork, Orthodox Ramallah 3rd win, Ibdaa focused, Eibal easy, De La Salle 3rd win, Hiteen comeback, Sarriyeh barely, Orthodox Beit Jala saved - by Tamara Awartani
Terrasant Beit Hanina vs. Orthodox Bethlehem 108 106
A close game with an exciting end where Orthodox Bethlehem were leading the game but inexperienced players cost them the game in the last minute.
The game was mostly an outside game hitting several 3pointers for both teams but the height of 3 main Orthodox Bethlehem players gave them an advantage under basket.

Jeremy Schreiber (185-G-83, college: Webber) led his team by scoring 46 points, hitting 8 3pointers especially in the last quarter, 4 rebounds, 2 steals and 11 assists that surely gave his teammates a boost, assisted by Peter Qandalft hitting 7 3pointers scoring 28 points, 7 rebounds, 4 steals and 6 assists, Vicane Deldelian hitting 3 3pointers scoring 13 points with perfect 7 assists in the right timing to lead the game, while Rafiq Nassrallah played under basket with 15points snatching 16 rebounds, along with Mathia Nassers 6 rebounds.
While Orthodox Bethlehem mainly depended on Raed Barakat and Osama Abu Jaber with their experience hitting several 3 pointers and penetrating along with
Firas Freij (173-F-87) hitting 3pointers, Ibrahim AlBandak under basket along with Tavaris Watts (203-F-85, college: UTEP) played inside and out scoring several 3pointers and a beautiful dunk along with several rebounds.
However, the loss of focus and bad decisions in the last quarter cost them the game, while Terrasanta stayed in focus and were more determined.
27/25, 22/31, 28/31,28/22

Orthodox Ramallah vs. Qalandia 84 71
A close call for Orthodox Ramallah who werent focused and determined in the start along with having several unlucky shots, Qalandia on the other hand were more energetic, focused with great teamwork.
Orthodox Ramallah's import shots and Ahmad Deeb penetrations, shots and assists to Ammar Jalyta got them back on track to lead the 4th quarter to win the game.
While Qalandia played great defense, teamwork and outside game, with
Jon Sheets (185-G-85, college: Maine) leading the team with his 3pointers and assits to Nizar Shehadeh who in turn also hit a couple of 3pointers and assists to Ismael Hamad, Adham Jazrawi, Moyad Matkh who added up points with their 3pointers and penetrations.
17/24, 24/10, 13/23, 30/10


Ibdaa vs. Catholic Action 95 61
A more of a practice game for Ibdaa to get their energy and focus back while it was of good game experience for Catholic Action young players who have great potential.
Ibdaa with his well known players were back on track, with the skilled Point Guard
Yahia Al Khatib (190-G-77) leading his team along with his unstoppable 3poitners assisted by Jimmy Williams (196-G-86, college: Alders.-Broad.) who also hit several 3pointers and beautiful dunk scoring 31 points, grabbing 7 rebounds and 4 assists. The new comer to Ibdaa Mahdi Eid (194-F-81) also put his touches with his game along with the skilled Khaled Khamees and Husam Obeid.
While Catholic Action players,
Shadi Bahnan (180-G-87) who is playing with his heart every game determined to keep his team stable along with the young Ibrahim Al Habash (194-F-75) a 17year old player who has great potential able to compete on such a level are being all around the court scoring depending on their shots and quickness in stealing balls and fastbreaks, assisted by Ty Brunson (203-F/C-80, college: Mass.-Lowell) who gives those young players a push to stay in the game with his long experience and skills under basket.
22/20, 25/12, 21/14, 27/15

Eibal vs. Aroob 100 81
A good game for both teams, Eibal having an easy game after a great win over the 2009 champ, while Aroob the new comer to the superleague was able to tag along.
Eibal led by
Jamal Walker (193-G/F-81, college: Briar Cliff) with his penetrations and shots, along with Basheer Abdelazeez (178-G-78) and the young shooting guard Saleh Al Hindi (178-G-88) hitting several 3pointers.
While AlAroob highly depended on
Tim Nelson (186-G-86, college: Oklahoma S&A) who led his team bringing them close in 3 quarters scoring 27points, 5 assists and 2 steals along with Ghaleb Hreimi and Mohammed Janazrah.
21/25, 27/20, 26/22, 26/13

De La Salle vs. Orthodoxi Beit Sahour 94 74
A practice game for De La Salle and a good game for Orthodoxi Beit Sahour to reorganize their cards especially with their coach quitting that should ring a bell.
De La Salle with their 3rd straight win were organized mostly playing an outside game having a lot of young good shooters and also depending on their quickness, led by Telly Rafidi a 19 year old player full of passion for the game, along with Tawfiq Richard, Hassan Awad, Johnny Ishaq and
Justin Bourne (198-F, college: Alaska-Fairb.) hitting several 3 pointers.
While Beit Sahour still need the game experience and were behind in the 1st quarter but tried their best to catch up for the rest of the game, they depended on Husam Kokali and
Andre Moss (201-F/C-84, college: Eckerd) under basket, with the penetrations and quickness of Maher Kassis, Rami Salsa, Oday Hilal and Fares Kokaly.
30/13, 15/18, 27/22, 22/21


Hiteen vs. Ahli 106 85
The game proved that Hiteen are coming back strong with their determination and highly skilled players while Ahli also played strong having experienced skilled players but it wasnt enough to keep up with Hiteen's game.
Hiteen's quickness, focus and teamwork amongst its players Shadi Takruri one of the best point guards in Palestine assisted by Mohammed AlHilu with great shots, Sa'ed Darwazeh and Haitham Qana'eer under basket, along with
Malcolm Thomas (192-F-85, college: Widener) who gave them an edge scoring 48 points and several assists.
However, Ahli 'importless' played strong leading two quarters but slowly gave up in the end, led by
Raed Diyab (184-G-74) one of the experienced point guard in Palestine assisted by Ismael Sweiti (181-G-81), Rami Al Bakri (185-G-77) and Amjad Shurafa.
20/21, 35/24, 23/26, 28/14

Sarriyet Ramallah vs. Islami Bethlehem 67 - 54
What a game which was more of a referees game I would say with the unbalanced foul calls on both teams and that surely in turn affected the players game tremendously and the game in a whole.
ٍIslami Bethlehem gave Sarriyet Ramallah 'importless' a tough time to win the game,
Ibrahim Al Habash the key to Sarriyet Ramallah was able to gain control of the game with his penetrations, shots, and assists to Hassan Jadeh who was the star of Sarriyet Ramallah with his defense and fastbreaks along with Saleem Sakakini under basket however his attitude affected his playing along with foul trouble. While Hanna Sahwani led Islami hitting several 3pointers and penetrations but was held back with the foul trouble from the 2nd quarter as well as Jamal Ward (198-F-79, agency: 011 Sports, college: Chattanooga) who also was constrained with foul trouble but was able to have several shots, a great dunk and snatching several rebounds, while Fares Sweiti, plays stable in every game having unstoppable great under basket moves even with double teaming also having several rebounds, Islami also lost Luis Sudah a major player in the game who was out of the game from a knee injury.
16/14, 19/13, 13/18, 19/9

Orthodoxi Beit Jala vs. AlRa'I Saleh 73 66
A breathtaking game till the last minute - Ra'I Saleh sure have great potential with their young players who have held up against one of the known experienced teams and stood out beyond Beit Jala's expectations.
Beit Jala who if it werent for Kamal Mukarker's 3 pointer and Rimon Zreineh's score and foul in the last minute, they would have surely lost the game. Beit Jala depended on
Mike Grinder (191-G/F-80, college: Simpson (CA)) 's 3pointers and shots along with Raed Abu Rumman (188-F-81) 's moves under basket and rebounding as well as getting several assists from Kamal Mukarker and Khalil Harb, Rimon Zreineh also had a good role in scoring for the time he played.
While Ra'I Saleh coached by an American where fully focused and passionate and that alone played a huge role in staying in the game, they were organized, communicated and played good defense.
Nick Tuggle (198-G/F-84, college: E.Tenn.St.) was the major driver of the team hitting several 3 pointers, fade away shots, nice moves and great assists to Saif Barahmeh, Ahmd AlIraqi who had several steals and fastbreaks but due to their age and inexperience in the last few seconds it cost them the game.
20/15, 14/16, 16/21, 23/14



*****************************************************
  PERU   


Yuta Kurihara strengthens San Marcos - by Eurobasket News
San Marcos are getting ready for the new season. They strengthened their roster with addition of Japanese player Yuta Kurihara (176-G-81). The 28-year-old guard was last seen in the Delaware Destroyers in the NPBL. Yuta Kurihara also participated at the Eurobasket Summer League in New York. He played for Team Istanbul.


*****************************************************
  POLAND   


Standings - 1 Liga
1Liga Standings
 1. Siarka T. 23-6 
 2. Zastal ZG 23-6 
 3. MMKS DG 22-7 
 4. Big Star 20-9 
 5. Spojnia S. 19-10 
 6. LKS Lodz 17-11 
 7. Sokol L. 16-14 
 8. Znicz Basket 15-14 
 9. Start Lublin 14-15 
 10. Trefl SSA 12-17 
 11. Zubry 10-19 
 12. Gornik Wal. 9-20 
 13. MOSiR Krosno 9-20 
 14. Tempcold AZS 9-21 
 15. Sudety JG 8-21 
 16. AZS AWF K-ce 6-22 


DBE Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Michael WRIGHT
  PGE Turow
  (203-F-80)
  Avg: 20.7
 1. Wright, PGE Turow20.7 
 2. Scott, ISS Sportino20.0 
 3. Day, ISS Sportino19.1 
 4. Mays, Znicz19.0 
 5. Chappell, Znicz18.5 
 6. Swanson, AZS K.18.2 
 7. Williamson, Znicz17.9 
 8. Logan, Assec.Pr.17.5 
 9. Okafor, Polpharma17.4 
 10. Miller, Polonia Azbud17.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 Darrell HARRIS
  SKK Kotwica
  (208-C-84)
  Avg: 11.4
 1. Harris, SKK K.11.4 
 2. Daniels, Energa C.8.4 
 3. Kuzminskas, Trefl S.8.4 
 4. Chappell, Znicz8.3 
 5. Ibrahim, ISS S.7.9 
 6. Bigus, ISS Sportino7.9 
 7. Okafor, Polpharma7.4 
 8. Bigus, Polonia 20117.2 
 9. Wallace, PGE Turow7.1 
 10. NaNa, Polonia Azbud7.0 
Assists Per Game
 Krzysztof SZUBARGA
  Anwil
  (182-G-84)
  Avg: 6.7
 1. Szubarga, Anwil6.7 
 2. Loyd, Stal SW5.9 
 3. Swanson, AZS K.5.6 
 4. Smith, SKK Kotwica5.0 
 5. Logan, Assec.Pr.4.8 
 6. Brazelton, Energa C.4.8 
 7. Ewing, Assec.Pr.4.6 
 8. Snieg, Polonia 20114.3 
 9. Hughes, Polonia .4.0 
 10. Joyce, Anwil3.9 
Steals Per Game
 Quinton DAY
  ISS Sportino
  (185-G-84)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Day, ISS Sportino2.5 
 2. Chappell, Znicz2.5 
 3. Majewski, Polph.2.3 
 4. Swanson, AZS K.2.2 
 5. Logan, Assec.Pr.2.2 
 6. Godbold, Stal SW2.1 
 7. Angley, Polpharma2.0 
 8. Mays, Znicz2.0 
 9. Szubarga, Anwil1.9 
 10. Laczynski, Poloni.1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Leszek KARWOWSKI
  Polonia 2011
  (209-F-75)
  Avg: 1.7
 1. Karwowski, Polonia .1.7 
 2. Wallace, PGE Turow1.5 
 3. Harris, SKK K.1.4 
 4. Kesicki, ISS S.1.2 
 5. Misiewicz, Znicz1.1 
 6. Wyka, Znicz1.1 
 7. Kuzminskas, Trefl S.1.1 
 8. Lapeta, Assec.Pr.0.9 
 9. Bigus, ISS Sportino0.8 
 10. Kulig, Polpharma0.8 


Stats Leaders - 1Liga
Points Per Game
 Tomasz CELEJ
  Start Lublin
  (198-F/G-78)
  Avg: 20.7
 1. Celej, Start Lublin20.7 
 2. Sterenga, Gornik W.20.4 
 3. Pacocha, Big Star19.0 
 4. Mazur, Spojnia S.17.9 
 5. Lopatka, Asec.Pro.17.6 
 6. Pluta, MOSiR K.17.4 
 7. Flieger, Zastal ZG17.1 
 8. Storozynski, Asec.P.16.4 
 9. Kulikowski, Zubry16.0 
 10. Weatherspoon, Znicz B.15.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Tomasz WOJDYLA
  Zastal ZG
  (201-F-77)
  Avg: 11.8
 1. Wojdyla, Sudety JG11.8 
 2. Sterenga, Gornik W.10.2 
 3. Storozynski, Asec.P.9.8 
 4. Lopatka, Asec.Pro.9.6 
 5. Grudzinski, Spojn.9.6 
 6. Lisewski, MMKS D.9.4 
 7. Kulikowski, Zubry9.3 
 8. Mis, Siarka T.8.8 
 9. Czech, Sudety JG8.6 
 10. Kwiatkowski, Start L.8.5 
Assists Per Game
 Marcin STOKLOSA
  Spojnia S.
  (188-G-77)
  Avg: 8.1
 1. Stoklosa, Spojn.8.1 
 2. Sikora, Start Lublin6.2 
 3. Basinski, MMKS D.4.8 
 4. Trepka, LKS Lodz4.7 
 5. Baran, Siarka T.4.7 
 6. Glapinski, Sokol L.4.6 
 7. Rapucha, Zubry4.6 
 8. Pacocha, Big Star4.2 
 9. Wilczek, Tempcold.4.1 
 10. Szczypka, MMKS D.4.1 
Steals Per Game
 Marcin FLIEGER
  Zastal ZG
  (182-G-84)
  Avg: 3
 1. Flieger, Zastal ZG3.0 
 2. Szpyrka, Siarka T.2.9 
 3. Sikora, Asec.Pro.2.7 
 4. Stoklosa, Spojn.2.4 
 5. Basinski, MMKS D.2.4 
 6. Krupa, Siarka T.2.3 
 7. Nowak, Znicz B.2.2 
 8. Chodkiewicz, Zastal Z.2.2 
 9. Koszuta, Spojnia S.2.2 
 10. Szczepaniak, LKS L.2.1 
Blocks Per Game
 Rafal KULIKOWSKI
  Zubry
  (204-C-85)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Kulikowski, Zubry2.3 
 2. Lisewski, MMKS D.2.3 
 3. Milewski, AZS A.1.8 
 4. Mis, Siarka T.1.4 
 5. Wrobel, Gornik Walb.1.3 
 6. Jarmakowicz, Zastal Z.1.2 
 7. Marculewicz, Zubry1.1 
 8. Pisarczyk, Siarka T.1.1 
 9. Czech, Sudety JG1.0 
 10. Pisarczyk, LKS Lodz0.9 


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


Mayaguez returns Dan Langhi - by Eurobasket News
Indias de Mayaguez announced signing with Dan Langhi (208-F-77, college: Vanderbilt). The 32-year old American is not a new face in Mayaguez as he already spent there last BSN season. Langhi was appeared in 42 games averaging 17.3 points and 9 rebounds. He ended the contest as a fourth best rebounder.
Dan Langhi finished the season in Mexican LNBP few recently. He played for Halcones Rojos reaching the LNBP Finals. However, they didnt make it as Halcoes Xalapa was too strong for them and managed to defend the title with ease.
Before Halcones Rojos and Indias de Mayaguez, Dan Langhi played for Guaynabo and Japanese team OSG Phoenix. In 2005//06 he was a member of the German team BS|Energy Braunschweig. There ha played 15 games averaging 13.1 points and 7.1 rebounds. A year before, Langhi played in Italian Serie A for Snaidero Udine. In this very strong competition he had 10.6 ppg and 6 rpg for 34 games.
Dan Langhi also has valuable NBA experience, as he was a member of Milwaukee Bucks, GS Warriors, Phoenix Suns and Houston Rockets. The best numbers he had on season 2001/02 as with the Rockets: 33 games: 2.7ppg, 1.2rpg, FGP: 37.4%, FT: 55.2%. Langhi is a product of Vanderbilt University.


Standings - BSN
BSN Standings
 1. Ponce 4-1 
 2. Guaynabo 4-1 
 3. Capitanes 3-0 
 4. San German 3-2 
 5. Bayamon 3-3 
 6. Quebradillas 2-2 
 7. Isabela 2-3 
 8. Santurce 1-3 
 9. Humacao 1-3 
 10. Mayaguez 0-5 


Stats Leaders - BSN
Points Per Game
 Christian DALMAU
  Bayamon
  (194-G-77)
  Avg: 25
 1. Dalmau, Bayamon25.0 
 2. Maye, Mayaguez23.5 
 3. Millsap, Humacao20.0 
 4. Copeland, San G.20.0 
 5. Nailon, Quebradillas19.5 
 6. Priutt, Isabela19.2 
 7. Gainous, Santurce18.5 
 8. Perez, Isabela18.4 
 9. Mays, Humacao18.3 
 10. Figueroa, Guaynabo18.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 Shawn PRIUTT
  Isabela
  (208-C-85)
  Avg: 15.2
 1. Priutt, Isabela15.2 
 2. Traylor, Bayamon12.8 
 3. Walker, Guaynabo10.5 
 4. Dyer, San German10.2 
 5. Millsap, Humacao10.0 
 6. Aubry, Capitanes9.3 
 7. Collins, Ponce9.2 
 8. Jones, Quebradillas9.0 
 9. Nailon, Quebradillas8.5 
 10. Gainous, Santurce8.3 
Assists Per Game
 Christian DALMAU
  Bayamon
  (194-G-77)
  Avg: 7.8
 1. Dalmau, Bayamon7.8 
 2. Russell, Quebradillas6.5 
 3. Cruz, Ponce6.0 
 4. Hatton, Ponce4.4 
 5. Cruz, Capitanes4.3 
 6. Copeland, San G.4.0 
 7. Graham, Mayaguez4.0 
 8. Guzman, Guaynabo3.8 
 9. Green, Isabela3.8 
 10. Mojica, Bayamon3.5 
Steals Per Game
 Walter HODGE
  Santurce
  (183-G-86)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Hodge, Santurce2.5 
 2. Copeland, San G.2.4 
 3. Berdiel, Humacao2.0 
 4. Perez, Isabela1.8 
 5. Mojica, Bayamon1.8 
 6. Figueroa, Guaynabo1.4 
 7. Mays, Humacao1.3 
 8. Walker, Guaynabo1.3 
 9. Santiago, Santurce1.3 
 10. Cortes, Capitanes1.3 
Blocks Per Game
 James MAYE
  Mayaguez
  (201-G/F-81)
  Avg: 2
 1. Maye, Mayaguez2.0 
 2. Priutt, Isabela2.0 
 3. Berdiel, Humacao2.0 
 4. Gainous, Santurce1.8 
 5. Mays, Humacao1.8 
 6. Russell, Quebradillas1.5 
 7. Nieves, Santurce1.5 
 8. Millsap, Humacao1.5 
 9. Perez, Isabela1.4 
 10. Villafane, Santurce1.3 


Mayaguez continues winless as they fall to Guaynabo - by Luis Ramirez
The Mayaguez Indians are the only BSN team which has yet to win a game this season, their record now stands at 0-5. Last night the Guaynabo Mets had an explosive 4th quarter to beat the Indians 85-73.

The 1st quarter saw the Indians ahead 24-20 but the half ended with the Mets in the lead 40-38. In the 3rd quarter the Indians came back and once again took the lead as the quarter closed 58-53.

It looked like the Indians were headed for their 1st win, but then came the 4th quarter, a 3 pointer from Carlos Escalera gave the Mets the lead for good with 8:20 to go in the game. The Indians committed several turnovers and went cold on offense, just as the Mets got hot and with 2:02 to go in the game the Mets were comfortably in the lead by 15 points, 82-67. The Mets cruised the rest of the way.

For Guaynabo, Marcus Fizer (203-F-78, agency: Priority Sports, college: Iowa St.) scored 31 points followed by Angel Figueroa with 18 points.

For Mayaguez, James Maye scored 19 points while Paul Graham III scored 17 points.
This was the only game on tap last night in the BSN.



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


Stats Leaders - Men
Points Per Game
 O'Darien BASSETT
  Craiova
  (188-G-86)
  Avg: 21.6
 1. Bassett, Craiova21.6 
 2. Krstanovic, U.Mobi.21.1 
 3. Pesic, Timisoara19.2 
 4. Bubanja, Brasov19.2 
 5. Peciukas, Mures18.5 
 6. Mandic, Oradea18.4 
 7. Mack, Steaua T.18.2 
 8. Dzambic, Timisoara17.8 
 9. Santana, Municipal B.17.7 
 10. Lawrence, U.Mobite.17.0 
Rebounds Per Game
 Justin HERNDON
  CSU Sibiu
  (208-C-83)
  Avg: 10.6
 1. Herndon, CSU Sibiu10.6 
 2. Harvey, Craiova10.1 
 3. Carutasu, Ploiesti9.4 
 4. Masiulis, Mures9.3 
 5. Krstanovic, U.Mobi.9.3 
 6. Waterstradt, Munici.8.2 
 7. Paltinisanu, Timis.8.2 
 8. Miskovic, CSU S.8.0 
 9. Roschnafsky, Gladia.7.7 
 10. Mijajlovic, Munici.7.6 
Assists Per Game
 Jarrett HOWELL
  Gaz Metan
  (188-G-84)
  Avg: 5.6
 1. Howell, Gaz Metan5.6 
 2. Cooley, Mures5.6 
 3. Cuic, U.Mobitel.CN5.0 
 4. Dzambic, Timisoara5.0 
 5. Fometescu, Dinamo B.4.7 
 6. Howard, Gladiato.4.4 
 7. Mitchell, Oradea4.3 
 8. Dawson, Gladiato.4.3 
 9. Bassett, Craiova4.2 
 10. Mladenovic, Brasov4.1 
Steals Per Game
 JuJuan COOLEY
  Mures
  (175-G-82)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Cooley, Mures2.4 
 2. Johnson, CSU Sibiu2.4 
 3. Howell, Gaz Metan2.3 
 4. Mitchell, Gaz Metan2.2 
 5. Medvedj, U.Mobite.2.1 
 6. Mack, Steaua T.2.0 
 7. Dawson, Gladiato.2.0 
 8. Maric, Oradea2.0 
 9. Mitchell, Oradea1.9 
 10. Seals, Otopeni1.9 
Blocks Per Game
 Arturas MASIULIS
  Mures
  (210-C-80)
  Avg: 2.3
 1. Masiulis, Mures2.3 
 2. Lazar, Oradea2.0 
 3. Herndon, CSU Sibiu1.8 
 4. Dragovic, Craiova1.6 
 5. Dragusin, Pitesti1.6 
 6. Wiggins, Steaua T.1.3 
 7. Bubanja, Brasov1.2 
 8. Pantelic, Steaua T.1.0 
 9. Harvey, Craiova1.0 
 10. Rhymer, Gaz Metan1.0 


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


Unics and CSKA reach Cup Final - by Eurobasket News
Unics and CSKA will play in the Russian Cup Final tomorrow. They defeated Khimky and Spartak Saint Petersburg respectively today in the opening day of the Final Four action.
Unics shot down Khimky 88:78. Unics bravely entered the game and accounted for 24 points in the starting stanza. The Kazan outfit built a 7-point lead into the second stanza. Khimky adjusted their offence in the second period and cut the margin at 5 points at halftime. The third quarter did not change things as Unics maintained advantage and were up 66:61 with ten minutes to go. The Kazan team did not give too many chances for Khimky running away for the win at the end. Kresimir Loncar (210-F-83) delivered 24 points to lead Unics. Terrell Lyday (190-G-79, college: BYU) added 18 points and 9 assists, while Igor Zamanskiy (202-F-77) had 17 points in the victory. Fedor Dmitriev (205-F-84) knocked down 16 points for Khimky. Keith Langford (193-G/F-83, college: Kansas) and Kelly McCarty (201-F-75, agency: Avi Zilberman, college: S.Mississippi) chipped in 15 points each in the loss.
CSKA bettered Spartak Saint Petersburg 88:75 as Ramunas Siskauskas (197-G-78) accounted for 16 points. Spartak were eager to challenge CSKA in Moscow. The visitors quickly started the game and enjoyed a 19:16 lead at the first break. But CSKA levelled things up in the second stanza and eked out a 35:34 lead at the interval. The third stanza proved decisive. CSKA stepped on the gas and stormed to a 14-point lead heading into the final period. Spartak found no answer and had to surrender at the end. J.R. Holden (185-G-76, college: Bucknell) nailed 14 points for CSKA. Levance Fields (178-G-87, college: Pittsburgh) replied with 17 points for Spartak. James White (198-G-84, agency: Court Side, college: Cincinnati) and Milovan Rakovic (208-C-85) finished with 16 points apiece in the losing case.



*****************************************************
  SAUDI ARABIA   


Lauderdale to Al Hilal - by Ali Ahmed
Al Hilal basketball team management agreed terms with the American Center Priest Lauderdale (221-C-73, college: Central State) to play for them till the end of the season.

Outlook:
Specialist in dunking on his tiptoes

Awards/Achievements:
FIBA Champions Cup South Conference Champion -02
Eurobasket.com All-Bulgarian League Player of the Year -03
Eurobasket.com All-Bulgarian League Center of the Year -03, 04
Eurobasket.com All-Bulgarian League Import Player of the Year -03
Eurobasket.com All-Bulgarian League 1st Team -03, 04
Eurobasket.com Bulgarian League All-Imports Team -03, 04
Eurobasket.com Bulgarian League All-Defensive Team -03, 04
Bulgarian League Regular Season Champion -03, 04
Eurobasket.com All-Europe 2003 Honorable Mention
Bulgarian National Cup Winner -03, 04
Bulgarian League All-Star Game -04
Eurobasket.com All-Bulgarian League Play-Offs Best Player -04
Bulgarian League Champion -03, 04
Bulgarian National Team -04
Bulgarian League Regular Season Champion -05
Arab Club Championships -07 (Bronze)
Asia-Basket.com All-WABA 2nd team -09
WABA Club Championships -09 (Winner)
Iranian Superleague Champion -09



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


FMP hires Bosko Djokic as new Head Coach - by Eurobasket News
FMP announced signing of Bosko Djokic as a new Head Coach. Djokic will replace Vlado Djurovic (agency: Interperformances ), who parted ways with the club few days ago.
Bosko Djokic is coming to FMP from Radnicki Basket. He took over Radnicki in December and it seems his work was good enough to attract FMP's attention. Radnicki Basket had poor start in A League, but after Djokic took them over, the team managed to avoid relegation.
Bosko Djokic is not a new face in FMP as he led it to Adriatic league title in 2004. Next season, FMP was Serbia and Montenegro Cup winner. He left FMP in 2005 for Avala Ada and later Pivovarna Lasko. With the Slovenian squad, Djokic reached the National Cup Finals.
On season 2008/09, Bosko Djokic was a Head Coach of Montenegrin team Niksic. He also has experience from Russia as a HC of Autodorozhnik Saratov.
FMP currently has just 9 wins for 25 appearances in Adriatic league. In the last round, they will meet Buducnost at home. At the same time, that will be the first game of coach Djokic on FMP's bench this season.


Serbian teams make 3 of 4 against Croatians in Round 25 - by Eurobasket News
Round 25 of Adriatic league is completed. Games were played on Tuesday and Wednesday night.
Radnicki Kragujevac was too strong for No.1 Cibona 72-64 handing them 6th loss of the season. Marko Brkic (206-F/C-82, agency: Beo Basket) exploded with 26 points and 6 rebounds in this victory. Dragan Milosavljevic (198-G-89) followed with 13 pts for the hosts. On the other side, Samo Udrih (195-G-79) and Jamont Gordon (8 as) netted 15 and 12 points respectively. Radnicki 11-14, Cibona 19-6.
Crvena Zvezda was better than Zadar 77-72 for 11-14 score in Adriatic league. Zadar has one win more than the Serbian outfit. Boris Bakic (194-G-86, agency: Beo Basket) led the hosts with 19 points and Marko Keselj (205-F-88, agency: Beo Basket) also was great adding 17 pts, plus 7 rebounds. In defeat, Vedran Morovic (185-G-83, college: Olney Central CC) collected 20 pts and 8 assists.
Hemofarm grabbed valuable OT win 77-83 against Zagreb for 16-9 score in the regional championship. Milan Macvan (205-F-89) stepped up in this victory with 25 points and 11 rebounds. Kyle Hill (188-G-79, college: E.Illinois) and Goran Jagodnik (7 as) added 14 and 13 points respectively. In Zagreb (14-11), Krunoslav Simon (197-G/F-85) delivered 30 pts.
Cedevita outplayed the reigning champion 79-72 mostly owing to Marino Bazdaric (197-G/F-78), who scored 20 points and grabbed 6 rebounds. Andrija Zizic (207-C-80, agency: FCM) was behind him with 17 pts and 7 boards, while Jermaine Anderson (188-G-83, college: Fordham) added 14 pts and 6 rebs in this victory. In Partizan, Lester McCalebb replied with 19 points and 6 rebs. Lawrence Roberts added 12 points and 7 boards. Cedevita 13-12, Partizan 18-6.

Standings
1. Cibona 19-6
2. Partizan 19-6
3. Hemofarm 16-9
4. Buducnost 15-10
5. U.Olimpija 15-10
6. KK Zagreb 14-11
7. Cedevita 13-12
8. Zadar 12-13
9. Crvena Zvez. 11-14
10. Siroki Eronet 11-14
11. Radnicki K.
11-14
12. FMP 9-16
13. Helios 5-20
14. Bosna S. 5-20



*****************************************************

  SLOVENIA   


Standings - 1A
Telemach League Stage Two Standings
Places 1-8
 1. Helios 0-0 
 2. Krka 0-0 
 3. Rudar 0-0 
 4. Sentjur 0-0 
 5. Geoplin Slovan 0-0 
 6. Zlatorog 0-0 
 7. Parklji 0-0 
 8. U.Olimpija 0-0 
Play-out
 1. Polzela 0-0 
 2. Luka Koper 0-0 
 3. Sencur CP 0-0 
 4. Elektra Esotech 0-0 
Will join on later stage:
 1. TCG Mercator
Stage One Standings


Stats Leaders - 1A
Points Per Game
 Sandi CEBULAR
  Sentjur
  (196-G-86)
  Avg: 23.1
 1. Cebular, Sentjur23.1 
 2. Dragic, Geoplin .17.4 
 3. King, Polzela17.1 
 4. Snow, Helios16.7 
 5. Crenshaw, Sentjur16.6 
 6. Cup, Elektra .16.5 
 7. Mucic, Rudar16.4 
 8. Feeley, Elektra .16.0 
 9. Drzic, Luka Koper15.7 
 10. Bubnic, Zlatorog15.3 
Rebounds Per Game
 Shawn KING
  Polzela
  (208-C-82)
  Avg: 10.3
 1. King, Polzela10.3 
 2. Feeley, Elektra .8.5 
 3. Thondique, Polzela7.7 
 4. Nikolic, Krka7.4 
 5. Cup, Elektra .6.8 
 6. Djapa, Parklji6.6 
 7. Virijevic, Sencur C.6.6 
 8. Markic, Luka Koper6.2 
 9. Muric, Parklji6.1 
 10. Bubnic, Zlatorog6.1 
Assists Per Game
 Tadej KOSTOMAJ
  Elektra Esotech
  (186-G-87)
  Avg: 6
 1. Kostomaj, Elektr.6.0 
 2. Crenshaw, Sentjur5.3 
 3. Anzulovic, Rudar4.5 
 4. Cmer, Zlatorog4.0 
 5. Mocnik, Helios3.9 
 6. Nachbar, Luka Koper3.8 
 7. Cebular, Sentjur3.2 
 8. Jersin, Parklji3.1 
 9. Udrih, Polzela3.1 
 10. Petrovic, Helios2.7 
Steals Per Game
 Gregor HAFNAR
  Umana Reyer
  (195-G-77)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Hafnar, Polzela2.1 
 2. Dragic, Geoplin .1.9 
 3. Udrih, Polzela1.7 
 4. Jersin, Parklji1.7 
 5. Lapornik, Sentjur1.7 
 6. Jovanovic, Sencur C.1.6 
 7. Markic, Luka Koper1.6 
 8. Strnad, Zlatorog1.6 
 9. Cebular, Sentjur1.5 
 10. Rucigaj, Sentjur1.5 
Blocks Per Game
 Shawn KING
  Polzela
  (208-C-82)
  Avg: 1.9
 1. King, Polzela1.9 
 2. Nikolic, Krka1.4 
 3. Djapa, Parklji0.9 
 4. Cup, Elektra .0.9 
 5. Virijevic, Sencur C.0.8 
 6. Ibok, Polzela0.8 
 7. Lucic, Krka0.8 
 8. Sjekloca, Elektr.0.7 
 9. Sviridov, Polzela0.7 
 10. Simovic, Sentjur0.7 


League Play-Off schedule - by Zeljko Zule
Round 1 (27/03)/Round 8 (21/04): Parklji-Pro Tek Zasavje, Krka-Geoplin Slovan, Helios-Sentjur, Zlatorog-Union Olimpija.
Round 2 (31/03)/Round 9 (28/04): Union Olimpija-Geoplin Slovan, Pro Tek Zasavje-Krka, Sentjur-Parklji, Helios-Zlatorog
Round 3 (03/04)/Round 10 (30/04): Helios-Union Olimpija, Parklji-Zlatorog, Krka-Sentjur, Geoplin Slovan-Pro Tek Zasavje
Round 4 (07/04)/Round 11 (05/05): Union Olimpija-Pro Tek Zasavje, Sentjur-Geoplin Slovan,Zlatorog-Krka, Helios-Parklji
Round 5 (10/04)/Round 12 (08/05): Parklji-Union Olimpija, Krka-Helios, Geoplin Slovan-Zlatorog, Pro Tek Zasavje-Sentjur
Round 6 (14/04)/Round 13 (12/05): Union Olimpija-Sentjur, Zlatorog-Pro Tek Zasavje, Helios-Geoplin Slovan, Parklji-Krka
Round 7 (17/04)/Round 14 (15/05): Krka-Union Olimpija, Geoplin Slovan-Parklji, Pro Tek Zasavje-Helios, Sentjur-Zlatorog


*****************************************************
  SPAIN   


Cajasol extends with coach Plaza - by Eurobasket News
Cajasol announced that Head Coach Joan Plaza signed one-year contract extension. It means that Plaza will remain on duty at least until the end of 2011/2012 season. Last summer he signed one-year deal with the club, who makes good results this season. Cajasol is currently No.5 in ACB with 15 wins in 25 appearances. It is clear that the club's Management is very pleased with Plaza's work and they decided to continue with the coach for at least one more year.
Joan Plaza came to Seville from Madrid. He spent three years with the Whites as a Head Coach. In 2007 they managed to win the trophy in EuroCup and Plaza was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-ULEB Cup Coach of the Year -07. At the same year, Real Madrid was ACB champion. Last season, the Whites were stopped in the Semifinals.
Joan Plaza started as Assistant Coach in Madrid and in 2006 he got the promotion. Before that, he worked three years as AC in Joventut Badalona. On season 2000/01, Plaza their U20 Head Coach.
In the next round of ACB, Cajasol will meet Bilbao on the road.


*****************************************************
  SWEDEN   


Stats Leaders - Basketligan
Points Per Game
 Gordon WATT
  Uppsala
  (198-F-86)
  Avg: 20.6
 1. Watt, Uppsala20.6 
 2. Klaric, Eco Orebro19.9 
 3. McKnight, Plannja19.5 
 4. Rush, Gothia Basket19.0 
 5. Palm, Boras18.9 
 6. Sigurdarson, Sunds.17.9 
 7. Akingbade, Jamtl.16.8 
 8. Spagrud, Sundsvall16.0 
 9. Carter, Gothia B.15.8 
 10. Nystrom, Boras15.6 
Rebounds Per Game
 Michael PALM
  Boras
  (208-C-79)
  Avg: 11.1
 1. Palm, Boras11.1 
 2. Konare, Jamtland10.4 
 3. Watt, Uppsala9.1 
 4. Spagrud, Sundsvall8.9 
 5. Akingbade, Jamtl.8.9 
 6. Rush, Gothia Basket8.4 
 7. Akesson, Plannja7.5 
 8. Mottram, Gothia B.7.5 
 9. Jonzen, Uppsala7.1 
 10. Djordjic, Soder.7.0 
Assists Per Game
 Andrew PLEICK
  Eco Orebro
  (196-G-80)
  Avg: 6.3
 1. Pleick, Eco Orebro6.3 
 2. Levin, Sundsvall5.8 
 3. Grant, Norrkoping5.8 
 4. Chuk, Sodertalje5.3 
 5. Mbemba, Solna5.0 
 6. Carter, Gothia B.4.9 
 7. Mitchell, Solna4.6 
 8. Gervin, Norrkoping4.5 
 9. Larsson, Plannja4.3 
 10. McKnight, Plannja3.9 
Steals Per Game
 Rhys CARTER
  Gothia Basket
  (190-G-84)
  Avg: 2.9
 1. Carter, Gothia B.2.9 
 2. Chuk, Sodertalje2.2 
 3. McKnight, Plannja2.0 
 4. Grant, Norrkoping2.0 
 5. Mbemba, Solna2.0 
 6. Crone, Sodertalje2.0 
 7. Hellgren, Jamtland1.9 
 8. Mitchell, Solna1.8 
 9. Gervin, Norrkoping1.8 
 10. Pleick, Eco Orebro1.7 
Blocks Per Game
 Joakim KJELLBOM
  Norrkoping
  (213-C/F-79)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Kjellbom, Norrkoping2.1 
 2. Rosendahl, Plannja1.8 
 3. Konare, Jamtland1.5 
 4. Palm, Boras1.5 
 5. Rush, Gothia Basket1.2 
 6. Ayuba, Norrkoping1.1 
 7. Walker, Sodertalje0.8 
 8. Akesson, Plannja0.8 
 9. Spagrud, Sundsvall0.8 
 10. Drains, Norrkoping0.7 


*****************************************************
  SWITZERLAND   


Standings - LNA
LNA Standings
 1. Lugano Tigers 22-4 
 2. SAV Vacallo 21-6 
 3. Starwings 20-8 
 4. Fribourg 19-7 
 5. BBC Nyon 14-12 
 6. Monthey 13-14 
 7. SAM Massagno 10-16 
 8. Geneva Devils 10-16 
 9. Boncourt 8-19 
 10. Lausanne 7-19 
 11. MGS 2-25 


*****************************************************
  TAIWAN   


Week 8 MVP: Chen Chih-chung - by Chris Wang
33-year-old Yulon veteran point guard Chen Chih-chung won Week 8 MVP award. Chen averaged 17.3 points, 6.7 rebounds and 8.3 assists for the week and led Yulon Luxgen to a 3-0 week to climb to second place on the standing.

Chen is averaging 11.7 points, 3.2 rebounds and 3.5 assists for the season. Despite his minutes were reduced because of his age, Chen is still an integral part in Yulon's half court set and the team's most reliable leader for his experience and hustle.

2010 SBL Weekly MVPs
Week 8: Chen Chih-chung, Yulon
Week 7: Derek Stribling, TB
Week 6: Jonathan Sanders, PY
Week 5: Alexus Foyle, TM
Week 4: Shawn Hawkins, KKL
Week 3: Chang Chih-feng, Dacin
Week 2: Tseng Wen-ting, Yulon
Week 1: Jonathan Sanders, PY


Stats Leaders
SBL Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
1. Alexus Foyle, TM 26.2
2. Shawn Hawkins, KKL 25.9
3. Derek Stribling, TB 21.5
4. Cheng Jen-wei, KKL 20.4
5. Yang Ching-min, TB 19.1
Rebounds Per Game
1. Jon Sanders, PY 12.8
2. Jeff Jones, BOT 11.6
3. Shawn Hawkins, KKL 10.9
4. Alexus Foyle, TM 10.4
5. Tseng Wen-ting, Yulon 9.7
Assists Per Game
1. Chen Shih-nian, TB 4.2
2. Wu Yung-jen, TM 4.2
3. Tseng Wen-ting, Yulon 3.9
4. Jon Sanders, PY 3.6
5. Chen Chih-chung, Yulon 3.5
Steals Per Game
1. Chang Chih-feng, Dacin 2.4
2. Tseng Wen-ting, Yulon 2.1
3. Jon Sanders, PY 1.7
4. Lee Hsueh-lin, Yulon 1.6
5. Ouyang Ching-heng, TM 1.6
Blocks Per Game
1. Tseng Wen-ting, Yulon 2.9
2. Cheng Jen-wei, KKL 1.9
3. Jeff Jones, BOT 1.5
4. Tien Lei, Dacin 1.4
5. Byron Allen, Dacin 1.3


*****************************************************
  TURKEY   


TBL, Round 23 review: Efes Pilsen celebrates, surprising loss for Fenerbahce Ulker - by Eurobasket News
Darussafaka - Fener.Ulker 79-74
The last ranked Darussafaka surprised Fenerbahce Ulker last night handing it 4th loss of the season. Jermareo Davidson (208-F-84, college: Alabama) was the leading player in this victory with 23 points and 14 rebounds. Quincy Douby (191-G-84, college: Rutgers) also scored 23 pts and handed out 6 assists beside that. In defeat, Emir Preldzic (206-F-87, agency: Beo Basket) shined with 22 points and 5 boards. Darussafaka 5-18, Fenerbahce Ulker 19-4.

Besiktas - Oyak Renault 74-82
Oyak Renault celebrated valuable 74-82 road win against Besiktas and it has 7-16 score now (14th palce). Olumuyiwa Famutimi (197-G-84, college: Arkansas) paced his team to victory with 21 points and 8 rebounds. Alex Scales (192-G-78, college: Oregon) followed with 18 pts. Cevher Ozer (206-F/C-83, agency: 1x1 Sports) replied with 18 points and 7 boards in loss.

Karsiyaka - Efes Pilsen 82-109
Efes Pilsen blasted Karsiyaka remaining on top of TBL standings with 20-3 record. Charles Smith (193-G-75, college: N.Mexico) and Igor Rakocevic (191-G-78) led the Turkish powerhouse with 24 and 22 points respectively. Kaya Peker added 15 points in this victory. Ryan Toolson (193-G-85, college: Utah Valley St.) answered with 24 points and 5 assists in loss. His Karsiyaka dropped to 11-12.

Aliaga - Bornova 79-85
11-12 for Bornova and 9-14 for Aliaga after this game. Tyler Smith (201-F-86, college: Tennessee) was totally the best player in victory almost registering triple-double: 26 points, 8 rebounds and 9 assists. Lorenzo Gordon (201-F-83, agency: Hart Sports Mngm, college: Oklahoma City) replied with 26 points and 7 boards in defeat.

Antalya - Banvit 84-82
Antalya grabbed thriller win against No.3 Banvit improving to 11-12 in TBL. Aaron Jackson (193-G-86, college: Duquesne) led the hosts with 20 points and 6 rebounds. Banvit (16-7) got 18 pts from Keith Simmons (196-G-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Holy Cross) and 13 from Goran Cakic.

Tofas - Galatasaray 73-87
12th victory of the season for Galatasaray, who got 22 points and 5 assists from Evren Buker (194-F-85). Darius Washington (188-G-85, college: Memphis) also was good scoring 21, while Michael J Wilkinson added 19 points and 6 rebs. Radoslav Rancik had double-double of 11 points and 13 rebs. In defeat, Brandon Bowman (204-F-84, college: Georgetown) had 19 pts and 7 rebs. Galatasaray 12-11, Tofas 10-13.

Mersin - Erdemir 94-83
Dominic James (180-G-86, college: Marquette) stepped up for Mersin in this game with 21 points and 5 assists. Asim Pars (212-C-76, agency: World Sport Agency) and James Baron followed him with 18 points each (5 and 6 rebs respectively). In the loosing squad, Leon Williams (203-F/C-86, agency: Elfus-Siegel Management (ESM), college: Ohio) nailed 23 points. Mersin 8-15, Erdemir 11-12.

T.Telekom - Kepez Bld 87-75
Turk Telekom registered comfortable 87-75 win against Kepez for 13-10 score in TBL. Umit Sonkol (206-F-82) shined for the hosts with 25 and Bekir Yarangume (198-F-79) scored 5 points less than him. Visitors got 19 points from Ersin Gorkem (195-F-77) and they dropped to 6-17.



Stats Leaders - D1
Points Per Game
 Quincy DOUBY
  Darussafaka
  (191-G-84)
  Avg: 23.7
 1. Douby, Darussafaka23.7 
 2. Shipp, Bornova20.2 
 3. Chatman, Besiktas18.4 
 4. Brown, Bornova18.1 
 5. Hosley, Aliaga17.8 
 6. Baxter, Besiktas17.6 
 7. Toolson, Karsiyaka17.6 
 8. Stanojevic, Kepez B.17.0 
 9. Williams, Erdemir16.8 
 10. McClinton, Aliaga16.7 
Rebounds Per Game
 Jermareo DAVIDSON
  Darussafaka
  (208-F-84)
  Avg: 10.9
 1. Davidson, Darussaf.10.9 
 2. Heytvelt, Oyak R.9.9 
 3. Williams, Erdemir9.2 
 4. Hosley, Aliaga8.5 
 5. Aldemir, Karsiyaka7.8 
 6. Greene, Antalya7.4 
 7. Elegar, Bornova7.3 
 8. Bowman, Tofas7.1 
 9. Smith, Karsiyaka7.1 
 10. Brown, Bornova6.5 
Assists Per Game
 Hakan KOSEOGLU
  Erdemir
  (188-G-81)
  Avg: 8.2
 1. Koseoglu, Erdemir8.2 
 2. Chatman, Besiktas6.1 
 3. Ermis, Banvit5.0 
 4. Douby, Darussafaka4.9 
 5. James, Mersin4.4 
 6. Acik, T.Telekom4.4 
 7. Erden, Bornova4.2 
 8. Jackson, Antalya4.1 
 9. Holston, Karsiyaka4.0 
 10. Preldzic, Fener.Ulker4.0 
Steals Per Game
 Quinton HOSLEY
  Aliaga
  (198-G/F-84)
  Avg: 2.9
 1. Hosley, Aliaga2.9 
 2. Chatman, Besiktas2.4 
 3. Shipp, Bornova2.3 
 4. Douby, Darussafaka2.3 
 5. Erden, Kepez Bld2.3 
 6. Smith, Efes Pilsen2.1 
 7. James, Mersin2.0 
 8. Famutimi, Oyak R.2.0 
 9. Jackson, Antalya1.9 
 10. Adams, Oyak R.1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Omer ASIK
  Fener.Ulker
  (211-C-86)
  Avg: 1.6
 1. Asik, Fener.Ulker1.6 
 2. Aldemir, Karsiyaka1.5 
 3. Denison, Tofas1.4 
 4. Elegar, Bornova1.3 
 5. Solak, Galatasaray1.3 
 6. Davidson, Darussaf.1.3 
 7. Bowman, Tofas1.2 
 8. Davis, Banvit1.2 
 9. Heytvelt, Oyak R.1.1 
 10. Wilkinson, Galatasa.1.0 


Standings - TBL
TBL Standings
 1. Efes Pilsen 20-3 
 2. Fener.Ulker 19-4 
 3. Banvit 16-7 
 4. Besiktas 15-8 
 5. T.Telekom 13-10 
 6. Galatasaray 12-11 
 7. Karsiyaka 11-12 
 8. Antalya 11-12 
 9. Bornova 11-12 
 10. Erdemir 11-12 
 11. Tofas 10-13 
 12. Aliaga 9-14 
 13. Mersin 8-15 
 14. Oyak Renault 7-16 
 15. Kepez Bld 6-17 
 16. Darussafaka 5-18 


*****************************************************
  U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS   


Aska and Racers set to do battle in NCAA's - by David Edole
Murray State is seemingly America's dark horse. Everyone from President Obama on down is picking the 13th-seeded Racers to upset Vanderbilt today in a first-round game in the West Regional at New Orleans. Murray State not only has the Presidential seal of approval but carries a gaudy 30-4 record into the tournament.
St. Croix native Ivan Aska (201-F-90) leads Murray in scoring with 10.6 ppg and is second in rebounding with five. The game is scheduled to start at 2:30 pm and can be seen live here https://www.ncaa.com/brackets/basketball/men/

Baylor Looking to End Tournament Drought
Baylor's return from the ashes after nearly receiving the death penalty from the NCAA five years ago has been amazing. The Bears reached the NCAA Tournament for the first time in 20 years in 2008 and are back again this year with a 25-7 record and the No. 3 seed in the South Regional. They face Sam Houston State in a first-round game today at New Orleans.
The one thing Baylor hasn't done during its resurgence, though, is win a game in the NCAAs as it was ousted in the first round by Purdue two years ago. The Bears' last tournament victory came in 1950 when they beat Brigham Young.
Baylor knows all about the 60-year drought and hopes to end it against a fellow Texas school.
'A win would be huge for this program,' senior guard Tweety Carter said. 'We didn't come up here just to win one game, though. We've come up here to win games and that's what we've worked to do all season long, so we're going to continue that. Any time you get an opportunity to make history, you want to do that, and you want to do it by winning games. So we've got to continue to just strive for that.'
When Baylor reached the NIT final before losing to Penn State last season, it marked the Bears' first four postseason victories of any kind since 1950. However, the Bears admit a win in the NCAAs would be more meaningful.
'Now after we've done so well in the NIT, it's a situation for our players to understand the importance and pressure and how to handle that,' coach Scott Drew said. 'Hopefully, we'll be able to be successful and learn what it would mean to win in the NCAA Tournament. No matter how many games you have or haven't won in the NCAA Tournament, any time you win, those are great memories and something that a school remembers and cherishes.'



*****************************************************
  UBL   


UBL ( Johnathan Uchendu) - by Ozzie Denson



Arkansas Warriors-Semi-Pro Basketball Team
8100 Orchard Drive
P.O. Box 904
Little Rock, Arkansas 72203
Telephone: 501-539-3340 Email: arkwarriors@yahoo.com
Website: www.arkwarriors.info

PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The Arkansas Warriors (Semi-Pro Basketball Team) member of the United Basketball League is elated to have established the Community Service Award in memory of Johnathan Uchendu, a former team member of the Warriors. Johnathan Uchendu, 22, was killed November 2009 in a hit and run accident. Johnathan was persistent and compassionate about playing basketball and enjoyed working with younger children. He started at Pulaski Robinson High School, then to Purdue (Boilers) and the Arkansas Warriors. Prior to his death, Johnathan signed a contract to play for an NBA developmental league. To keep Johnathan s memory alive, the Arkansas Warriors will honor selected men and women each year to recieve the Johnathan Uchendu Community Service Award. The following recipients will be honored and recognized on Saturday, March 20, 2010: Jody Abernathy, Don Banks, Joe Bolden, Dr. Christopher Cathey, and Felix T. Eason. The First Annual Reception for the Johnathan Uchendu Community Service Award 2010 recipients will be held Saturday, March 20, 2010 at 4:30 p.m to 5:30 p.m. ($8.00 Donation) at the Marriott Courtyard Little Rock West, 10900 Financial Centre Park, Little Rock, Arkansas. The award criterion is based on ones commitment, years of service, and dedication to serving youth and the community. For information, contact the Office Manager at 501-539-3340. Information about the Arkansas Warriors visit www.arkwarriors.info .

www.ublhoops.com


UBL Arkansas Warriors Service Award Night - by Ozzie Denson


PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The Arkansas Warriors (Semi-Pro Basketball Team) member of the United Basketball League is elated to have established the Community Service Award in memory of Johnathan Uchendu, a former team member of the Warriors. Johnathan Uchendu, 22, was killed November 2009 in a hit and run accident. Johnathan was persistent and compassionate about playing basketball and enjoyed working with younger children. He started at Pulaski Robinson High School, then to Purdue (Boilers) and the Arkansas Warriors. Prior to his death, Johnathan signed a contract to play for an NBA developmental league. To keep Johnathan s memory alive, the Arkansas Warriors will honor selected men and women each year to recieve the Johnathan Uchendu Community Service Award. The following recipients will be honored and recognized on Saturday, March 20, 2010: Jody Abernathy, Don Banks, Joe Bolden, Dr. Christopher Cathey, and Felix T. Eason. The First Annual Reception for the Johnathan Uchendu Community Service Award 2010 recipients will be held Saturday, March 20, 2010 at 4:30 p.m to 5:30 p.m. ($8.00 Donation) at the Marriott Courtyard Little Rock West, 10900 Financial Centre Park, Little Rock, Arkansas. The award criterion is based on ones commitment, years of service, and dedication to serving youth and the community. After the reception, the Arkansas Warriors and Texas Wranglers will Tip-Off at 7:00 p.m. (UALR Fieldhouse) This game will be held in the memory of Johnathan Uchendu and his Warriors Jersey Number will be retired. For more information, contact the Office Manager at 501-539-3340 or visit the Arkansas Warriors website www.arkwarriors.info .



*****************************************************

  UKRAINE   


Erik Daniels leaves Azovmash - by Eurobasket News
Azovmash and Erik Daniels (204-G/F-82, college: Kentucky) have agreed on terms of contract termination. The 27-year-old forward joined Azovmash this season. He tallied 14.8 points, 6.o boards and 3.4 assists per game in the VTB-League. In EuroCup his stats read 21.0 points, 10.4 boards and 2.8 assists, while in Superleague Erik Daniels delivered 17.0 points, 6.4 rebounds and 3.1 assists per appearance. Last season Erik Daniela spent in D-League. He posted 21.0 points, 9.9 rebounds and 4.6 assists playing for the Erie Bay Hawks.


Stats Leaders - Men
Points Per Game
 Khalid EL-AMIN
  Budivelnyk
  (178-G-79)
  Avg: 23.4
 1. El-Amin, Budivelnyk23.4 
 2. Karim, DniproAzot21.1 
 3. Thomas, Fe.20.2 
 4. McClintock, Mykolaiv19.6 
 5. Mitchell, Khimik18.9 
 6. Curry, Azovmash18.4 
 7. Williams, Halychyna17.5 
 8. Atanackovic, Gryfo.17.5 
 9. DeGroat, BC Odessa17.5 
 10. Crowe, Dnipro17.1 
Rebounds Per Game
 Michael FRASER
  Hoverla
  (203-C/F-84)
  Avg: 11.6
 1. Fraser, Hoverla11.6 
 2. Thomas, Fe.11.5 
 3. McClintock, Mykolaiv7.8 
 4. Morton, DniproAzot7.3 
 5. Pettway, Dnipro7.3 
 6. Hunter, Fe.7.1 
 7. Finn, Halychyna7.1 
 8. Rizvic, Azovmash7.0 
 9. Dubnyuk, Pulsar6.9 
 10. Agafonov, Khimik6.8 
Assists Per Game
 Jason CROWE
  Dnipro
  (193-G-76)
  Avg: 7
 1. Crowe, Dnipro7.0 
 2. Blassingame, BC Od.6.5 
 3. Sparks, Hoverla5.8 
 4. Mitchell, Khimik5.4 
 5. Karim, DniproAzot5.3 
 6. El-Amin, Budivelnyk5.3 
 7. Burtt, Fe.5.3 
 8. Lukashov, BC Kyiv5.1 
 9. Love, Mykolaiv4.5 
 10. Koljevic, Khimik4.4 
Steals Per Game
 Fred HOUSE
  Azovmash
  (195-F-78)
  Avg: 3
 1. House, Azovmash3.0 
 2. Crowe, Dnipro2.2 
 3. El-Amin, Budivelnyk2.1 
 4. Jeromanovs, Mykol.2.0 
 5. Perry, BC Donetsk1.9 
 6. Nesbitt, Kryvbasb.1.7 
 7. Mitchell, Khimik1.7 
 8. Zabirchenko, BC Ky.1.7 
 9. Sparks, Hoverla1.7 
 10. Curry, Azovmash1.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Viacheslav KRAVTSOV
  BC Kyiv
  (212-C-87)
  Avg: 2.8
 1. Kravtsov, BC Kyiv2.8 
 2. Rizvic, Azovmash2.1 
 3. McClintock, Mykolaiv2.0 
 4. Pettway, Dnipro1.9 
 5. Morton, DniproAzot1.6 
 6. Balashov, BC Odessa1.6 
 7. Owens, BC Donetsk1.3 
 8. Agafonov, Khimik1.3 
 9. Matyukevych, Mykol.1.1 
 10. Sokur, DniproAzot1.0 


*****************************************************
  UNITED KINGDOM   


Stats Leaders - BBL
Points Per Game
 Mike COOK
  Sheffield S.
  (193-G/F-84)
  Avg: 27.2
 1. Cook, Sheffield S.27.2 
 2. Bratton, Worthing.24.3 
 3. Wierzbicki, Leices.21.2 
 4. Moore, Everton T.21.1 
 5. Yanders, Scottish.20.6 
 6. Harrison, MK Lions20.3 
 7. Valencia, Plymouth R.20.0 
 8. Patton, Sheffiel.19.7 
 9. Toney, Sheffield S.19.5 
 10. Middleton, Worceste.19.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 Tafari TONEY
  Sheffield S.
  (203-F/C-86)
  Avg: 10.8
 1. Toney, Sheffield S.10.8 
 2. Johnson, Leiceste.10.5 
 3. Janusauskas, London C.9.4 
 4. Rodrigo, Essex P.9.2 
 5. Rowe, Plymouth R.9.1 
 6. Richard, Worthing.8.2 
 7. Gariba, London C.7.9 
 8. New, MK Lions7.8 
 9. Valencia, Plymouth R.7.2 
 10. Martin, Guildford H.7.1 
Assists Per Game
 Jessie SAPP
  Scottish R.
  (191-G-)
  Avg: 7.7
 1. Sapp, Scottish R.7.7 
 2. Martin, Plymouth.7.5 
 3. Moore, Everton T.6.0 
 4. Patton, Sheffiel.5.1 
 5. Drakeford, Guildfor.5.0 
 6. Westbrooks, Leices.4.6 
 7. Yanders, Scottish.4.6 
 8. Jackson, Newcastl.4.5 
 9. Middleton, Worceste.4.4 
 10. Peterson, Cheshire.4.1 
Steals Per Game
 Trey MOORE
  Everton T.
  (192-G-75)
  Avg: 2.5
 1. Moore, Everton T.2.5 
 2. Babalola, Evert.2.4 
 3. Peterson, Cheshire.2.3 
 4. Middleton, Worceste.2.3 
 5. O'Reilly, Cheshire.2.1 
 6. Sapp, Scottish R.2.1 
 7. Normantas, Worceste.2.0 
 8. Jivens, London C.1.9 
 9. Adu, Essex Pirates1.9 
 10. Martin, Plymouth.1.9 
Blocks Per Game
 Kadiri RICHARD
  Worthing T.
  (203-F-80)
  Avg: 2.1
 1. Richard, Worthing.2.1 
 2. Johnson, Leiceste.1.9 
 3. Hanke, Scottish R.1.7 
 4. Toney, Sheffield S.1.5 
 5. Morris, MK Lions1.1 
 6. Young, Cheshire J.1.0 
 7. Copeland, Scottish.1.0 
 8. Janusauskas, London C.1.0 
 9. Holmes, MK Lions0.9 
 10. Flournoy, Newcastl.0.9 


*****************************************************
  USBA   


USBA Cancels Tryouts on March 20, 2010 - by USBA Media

Atlanta, Ga. (March 18, 2010) ---The United States Basketball Association (USBA) has canceled all local team tryouts. 'The tryouts were scheduled to be held in all team cities on Saturday, March 20, 2010,' said USBA Vice President of Basketball Operation Kenneth Green. The local team tryouts will not be held as previously advertised. 'We have been inundated with request for a tryout with one of our teams; however, we feel it prudent to cancel all team tryouts until further notice.' 'To be fair to everyone involved, registration procedures will not take place,' said Green. 'It appears the economy is still a factor in a lot of peoples lives.' 'We are a new league and we are responsible to our prospective players, we want our players to feel comfortable with our procedures and to hold tryouts just to collect money is something we will not do

'We are working tirelessly in our pursuit to establish a viable basketball company; our primary goal is to provide our fans and our employees the very best minor league professional basketball players from day one,' said USBA President and C.E.O., Duane Allen Jenkins. 'Allowing players to go to our cities at this time would not be in our best interest continued Jenkins. 'A major announcement about the USBA will be forthcoming before the end of the month, the basketball community deserves the best we can give, we will honor that commitment.'

USBA individual team tryouts were originally scheduled for March 20, 2010. Players were being charged a fee of $75.00 to participate in the tryouts. The league states it will not collect fees from anyone without proving the service intended. 'This scenario is committed by others in minor league basketball and we are clearly not like others who commit this type of egregious act,' said Jenkins. 'The basketball community will be astounded about the future of the USBA, so stay tuned.'

The USBA has fourteen teams in three divisions. The teams are spread out over nine southern states. Please refer to the league website at www.usbaball.com.

About the United States Basketball Association----The United States Basketball Association (USBA) is a mid spring thru early summer mens professional basketball league. The league headquarters is located in Atlanta, Georgia. The league as fourteen teams split into three divisions, spread out over nine southern states. Basketball players, coaches, dance team members and game day staff could be catapulted to enjoy further opportunities in the National Basketball Association Developmental League (NBADL), as well as exposure to other reputable professional basketball leagues from around the world. League website is www.usbaball.com .



*****************************************************
  VENEZUELA   


Standings - LPB
LPB Standings
1. Cocodrilos 10-4
2. Marinos 9-5
3. Guaros 8-4
4. Trotamundos 8-5
5. Gaiteros 8-5
6. Panteras 8-6
7. Guaiqueries 6-8
8. Gigantes 4-8
9. Bucaneros 3-11
10. Toros 2-10




*****************************************************

Women News

*****************************************************
  CAYMAN ISLANDS - Women  


Blue Team topple White in CIREBA All-Star Game - by Eurobasket News
Blue - White 59:58
Blue Team celebrated a narrow victory at the 2010 CIREBA All-Star Game. Scimone Campbell scored 12 points, grabbed 14 boards and issued 3 assists to lead the charge. She was trumped the MVP after the game.
White Team surged ahead early in the encounter. They maintained the advantage throughout the bigger part of the clash. But Bobeth O'Garro drained a late triple to propel Blue Team to a narrow victory at the end.
Lauren Keller delivered 10 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Christsania McLean added 7 points and 18 rebounds for Blue Team All-Stars. Kamila Nagy responded with 13 points, 6 boards and 4 assists for White Team. La-Torae Nixon finished with 10 points and 6 rebounds in defeat.
Kamila Nagy clinched the crown at the Three-Point Shootout contest. Eight contestants fought for the trophy. Kamila Nagy earned 10 points in the opening round to advance. Nagy and Bobeth O'Garro then made it into the Final round and the Dominos Lady Heels player emerged as the winner.



*****************************************************
  CROATIA - Women  


Standings - Women
A1 Standings
Groups A
 1. Gospic 4-0 
 2. Sibenik 3-1 
 3. Studenec O. 3-1 
 4. Croatia 2006 1-3 
 5. Medvescak 1-3 
 6. Ragusa 0-4 
Groups B
 1. Split 3-0 
 2. Biska Pula 3-1 
 3. Agram 2-1 
 4. Pozega 2-2 
 5. Zadar 1-3 
 6. Tresnjevka 0-4 


*****************************************************
  ESTONIA - Women  


Standings - Women
Meistriliiga Standings
 1. Eclex Tallinn 17-0 
 2. TLU 8-8 
 3. Audentes 7-9 
 4. Tartu Ulikooli 1-16 


*****************************************************
  EUROCUP - Women  


Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Nykesha SALES
  Besiktas
  (183-F/G-76)
  Avg: 25.5
 1. Sales, Besiktas25.5 
 2. Player, Olivais23.8 
 3. Pimenova, Cheva.22.0 
 4. Champion, CAB M.21.0 
 5. Villarroel, Sierre20.6 
 6. Kuzina, Dynamo M.20.5 
 7. Reid, Hatis Yerevan19.3 
 8. Milovanovic, ICIM A.19.3 
 9. Diacona, Sf. G.19.0 
 10. Mazic, Medvescak18.8 
Rebounds Per Game
 Jennifer FLEISCHER
  Poprad
  (195-C-84)
  Avg: 12.1
 1. Fleischer, Dexia12.1 
 2. Mazic, Medvescak11.8 
 3. Santos, AD Vagos11.5 
 4. Anosike, Targoviste11.0 
 5. Carter, CCC P.9.7 
 6. Little, AEL9.7 
 7. Veremeenko, Nadezhda.9.6 
 8. Sanford, EBE I.9.4 
 9. Whittington, Lattes M.9.2 
 10. Alyoshkina, Samsun9.2 
Assists Per Game
 Sharnee ZOLL
  Botas
  (170-G-86)
  Avg: 6.6
 1. Zoll, Botas6.6 
 2. Reid, Hatis Yerevan4.8 
 3. Berseneva, Nadezhda.4.8 
 4. Chapdelaine, MBK R.4.7 
 5. Keyru, Dynamo M.4.7 
 6. Zellous, Besiktas4.2 
 7. Zygelyte, Lemminkain.4.2 
 8. Kalentzou, Athinaikos4.2 
 9. Parau, Targoviste4.1 
 10. Pimenova, Cheva.4.0 
Steals Per Game
 Nykesha SALES
  Besiktas
  (183-F/G-76)
  Avg: 3.8
 1. Sales, Besiktas3.8 
 2. Radocaj, Hemofarm3.8 
 3. Anosike, Targoviste3.5 
 4. Johnson, Mondeville3.4 
 5. Doron, Targoviste3.4 
 6. Keyru, Dynamo M.3.3 
 7. Reid, Hatis Yerevan3.2 
 8. Villarroel, Sierre3.1 
 9. Zoll, Botas3.1 
 10. Rizvic, Hemofarm3.0 
Blocks Per Game
 Anastasiya VEREMEENKO
  Nadezhda O.
  (192-C-87)
  Avg: 3.1
 1. Veremeenko, Nadezhda.3.1 
 2. Sowinski, CAB M.2.2 
 3. Kuzina, Dynamo M.2.2 
 4. Lukacovicova, MBK R.1.9 
 5. Ivankovic, Sibenik1.8 
 6. Kovacevic, Hemof.1.8 
 7. Alyoshkina, Samsun1.7 
 8. Toma, Targoviste1.5 
 9. Ivancevic, Hapoel T.1.3 
 10. Razmaite, Sierre1.3 


Athinaikos and Nadezhda to meet in EuroCup Finals - by Eurobasket News
Nadezhda O. - Saarlouis 81-51
Nadezhda blasted Saarlouis in Game Two of the EuroCup Semifinals. It means that Nadezhda made impressive 143-107 in two matchups booking a spot for the last stage. Sheana Mosch (177-G/F-81, college: Duke) stepped up for the hosts tonight with 19 points. Anastasiya Veremeenko (192-C-87) followed her with 14 pts and 8 rebs, while Elena Baranova (8 rebs) and Katerina Snytsina (7 rebs) added 10 points each. In the loosing squad, Candyce Bingham (185-F-86, agency: LBM Management, college: Louisville) delivered 11 pts.

Athinaikos - Dynamo K. 60-55
Athinaikos registered another win against Dynamo Kursk advancing to EuroCup Finals. The Greek champion celebrated 60-55 victory tonight and 58-64 win in Game One. Ruth Riley (196-C-79, college: Notre Dame) shined with 17 points and 9 rebounds, Irena Vizbariene (196-F/C-77) had 10 points and 8 boards, while Dimitra Kalentzou helped with 9 pts. Donnette Snow (196-C-80, agency: LBM Management, college: Tennessee) answered with 11 points and 7 boards in defeat. Athinaikos and Nadezhda will meet two times, and Game 1 is scheduled for April 1st in Athens.


*****************************************************
  FRANCE - Women  


LFB Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
 Lenae WILLIAMS
  Mondeville
  (186-F-79)
  Avg: 16.7
 1. Williams, Mondeville16.7 
 2. Taylor, Nantes16.5 
 3. Houston, Tarbes15.3 
 4. Anderson, Villeneuve15.3 
 5. Akonga Nsimb., Arr.15.1 
 6. Eldebrink, Tarbes14.3 
 7. Humphrey, Calais14.2 
 8. Page, Aix-en-Prov.14.1 
 9. Sy, Nantes13.9 
 10. Krawczyk, Lattes M.13.9 
Rebounds Per Game
 Agathe NNINDJEM
  Toulouse
  (192-C-80)
  Avg: 9.4
 1. Nnindjem, Toulouse9.4 
 2. Neaves, Calais8.5 
 3. Sy, Nantes8.3 
 4. Bonnan, Mondeville8.1 
 5. Davis, Limoges7.8 
 6. Amant, Arras7.8 
 7. Stansbury, Aix-en-P.7.8 
 8. Humphrey, Calais7.8 
 9. Yacoubou-D., Tarbes7.7 
 10. Comfort, Villeneuve7.6 
Assists Per Game
 Kathleen MACLEOD
  Nantes
  (167-G-86)
  Avg: 6.2
 1. Macleod, Nantes6.2 
 2. Aubert, Mondeville5.6 
 3. Lepron, Tarbes4.9 
 4. Mitchell, Arras4.8 
 5. Spatharou, Limoges4.6 
 6. Tanqueray, Villeneuve4.2 
 7. Cousseins, Calais3.9 
 8. Hermouet, Toulouse3.6 
 9. Metcalf, Toulouse3.4 
 10. Cibert, Calais3.2 
Steals Per Game
 Caroline AUBERT
  Mondeville
  (168-G-80)
  Avg: 2.4
 1. Aubert, Mondeville2.4 
 2. Bremont, Armentie.2.3 
 3. Parham, Landes2.3 
 4. Hermouet, Toulouse2.2 
 5. Michel, Arras2.1 
 6. Mitchell, Arras2.0 
 7. Konate, Landes1.9 
 8. Gomis, Arras1.9 
 9. Spatharou, Limoges1.8 
 10. Whittington, Lattes M.1.8 
Blocks Per Game
 Leah METCALF
  Toulouse
  (173-G-83)
  Avg: 0.9
 1. Metcalf, Toulouse0.9 
 2. Gueye, Limoges0.9 
 3. Nnindjem, Toulouse0.8 
 4. Page, Aix-en-Prov.0.7 
 5. Fikiel, Toulouse0.7 
 6. Putnina, Mondeville0.6 
 7. Cousseins, Calais0.6 
 8. Nedovic, Armentie.0.6 
 9. Ayissi, Armentieres0.5 
 10. Taylor, Nantes0.5 


Mercury brings back Lenae Williams - by Eurobasket News
Phoenix Mercury general manager Ann Meyers Drysdale on Wednesday announced the signing of Lenae Williams (6'1'-F-79, college: DePaul) to a training camp contract. Per team policy, terms of the contract were not disclosed.

Williams spent the 2009-10 offseason overseas, participating in Eurocup competition for USO Mondeville in Mondeville, France. She was her teams leading scorer, posting averages of 17.0 points on 53.2 percent shooting, 2.7 rebounds and 1.7 assists in 33.1 minutes per game.

Williams, a 6-1 guard from DePaul University, was drafted by the Detroit Shock with the 18th pick (second round) of the 2002 WNBA Draft. She appeared in 27 games for the Shock that season, averaging 2.7 points per game. In 2003 she was a part of a trade that sent her to the Phoenix Mercury along with Edwina Brown, but never appeared in a game for the Mercury.


Courtesy of www.foxsportsarizona.com


*****************************************************
  HOLLAND - Women  


Standings - Women
Eredivisie Standings
EliteA
 1. HLB Account. 19-1 
 2. Wereldtickets.nl 11-10 
 3. Binnenland 9-10 
 4. Woonbron/DAS 7-13 
 5. Celeritas-D. 7-13 
EliteB
 1. ProBuild Lions 19-1 
 2. Eurosped Tw. 11-9 
 3. Amazone Leidsche 11-9 
 4. Grasshoppers 4-17 
 5. BV Lely 3-18 


*****************************************************
  HUNGARY - Women  


Standings - Women
A Standings
 1. MKB Eurol. 19-2 
 2. Szeged 19-2 
 3. MiZo Pecs 19-2 
 4. SEAT Lami 17-4 
 5. ZTE 11-10 
 6. BSE 10-11 
 7. Szolnok 8-13 
 8. Vasas-Csata 8-13 
 9. Atomeromu 8-13 
 10. Bajai NKK 5-16 
 11. BEAC 2-19 
 12. Cegledi EKK 0-21 


Stats Leaders - Women
Points Per Game
 Irina CRASNOSCIOC
  ZTE
  (192-F-81)
  Avg: 16.5
 1. Crasnoscioc, ZTE16.5 
 2. Radunovic, SEAT L.16.3 
 3. Ohlde, MiZo Pecs16.0 
 4. Vajda, MiZo Pecs15.8 
 5. Holt, MKB Eurol.15.8 
 6. Budimir, Bajai NKK15.4 
 7. Balint, Atomeromu15.4 
 8. Szlimak, BSE15.4 
 9. Sipaviciute, Szeged14.6 
 10. Czank, Vasas-Csata14.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 Jelena BUDIMIR
  Bajai NKK
  (192-C/F-85)
  Avg: 8.7
 1. Budimir, Bajai NKK8.7 
 2. Vajda, MiZo Pecs8.1 
 3. Licina, Cegledi EKK7.3 
 4. Zherzherunov., Sze.7.2 
 5. Cazac, Atomeromu7.1 
 6. Sipaviciute, Szeged6.7 
 7. Farkasinszki, Szolnok6.5 
 8. Holt, MKB Eurol.6.4 
 9. Krnjic, MiZo Pecs6.4 
 10. Keller, SEAT L.6.1 
Assists Per Game
 Csilla DARIDA
  Szolnok
  (175-G-78)
  Avg: 5.8
 1. Darida, Szolnok5.8 
 2. Ivanyi, MiZo Pecs4.9 
 3. Kocsis, BSE4.4 
 4. Englert, SEAT L.3.7 
 5. Pungor, Atomeromu3.5 
 6. Djelmis, SEAT L.3.4 
 7. Iva, Szeged3.4 
 8. Nemeth, Szeged3.3 
 9. Eordogh, MKB E.3.3 
 10. Furesz, Szeged3.1 
Steals Per Game
 Monika BUKOVSZKI
  ZTE
  (171-G-79)
  Avg: 3.7
 1. Bukovszki, ZTE3.7 
 2. Ivanyi, MiZo Pecs3.6 
 3. Iva, Szeged3.3 
 4. Vajda, MiZo Pecs3.0 
 5. Darida, Szolnok3.0 
 6. Pungor, Atomeromu2.9 
 7. Kocsis, BSE2.8 
 8. Laczi, Szeged2.6 
 9. Hadarics, MKB E.2.6 
 10. Szelesy, ZTE2.6 
Blocks Per Game
 Olena ZHERZHERUNOVA
  Szeged
  (191-F-78)
  Avg: 1.4
 1. Zherzherunov., Sze.1.4 
 2. Ievtushenko, Atome.1.3 
 3. Budimir, Bajai NKK0.8 
 4. Varda, BSE0.8 
 5. Vajda, MiZo Pecs0.8 
 6. Bagi, Vasas-Csata0.8 
 7. Milovanovic, MKB E.0.7 
 8. Szlimak, BSE0.6 
 9. Fejes, Vasas-Csata0.6 
 10. Crasnoscioc, ZTE0.6 


A League, Round 21 review: Three-way tie on top - by Eurobasket News
Cegledi EKK - Vasas-Csata 49-94
Vasas-Csata closed Round 21 with huge 49-94 road win against Cegledi. Timea Czank (176-G-86) and Lilla Adamecz (181-F-92) shined in the winning squad with 14 points each, while Krisztina Velkey and Dora Szondy added 12 pts. Viktoria Szabo replied with 17 points and 6 rebounds in defeat. Vasas-Csata 8-13, Cegledi 0-21.

MiZo Pecs - MKB Eurol. 60-75
MKB Euroleasing grabbed fantastic road win against MiZo Pecs joining them and Szeged on top of A League standings with 19-2 score. Amber Holt (183-G/F-85, college: Middle Tenn.St.) shined in victory with 19 points and 8 rebounds. MiZo got 20 pts and 5 boards from Nicole Ohlde (193-F/C-82, college: Kansas St.).

BSE - Atomeromu 65-68
8-13 for Atomeromu and 10-11 for BSE after this game. Krisztina Szemeredi (176-G-77, college: Michigan St.) delivered 18 points in victory. BSE got 14 pts and 7 assists from Boglarka Kocsis (170-G-83).

SEAT Lami - Szeged 81-92
Valuable road win for Szeged, who improved to 19-2. Bernadett Nemeth (173-G-80) was a key player in this victory with 22 points and 5 rebounds. Dagmar Imbergerova (188-C-76) delivered 20 points for 16 minutes in loss (6 triples).

ZTE - BEAC 88-51
11th victory of the season for ZTE, who got 19 points and 8 rebounds from Tunde Czukor (181-F-84). Monika Bukovszki (171-G-79) followed her with 18 points. In BEAC (2-19), Szilvia Horvath was the top scorer with just 8 points.

Vasas-Csata - Bajai NKK 73-60
Anna Lakloth (182-G-88) paced Vasas-Csata to this victory with 18 points and 6 rebounds. Dora Szondy (173-G-88) also had very important role adding 17 points and 10 rebs. In Bajai, Kata Furtos netted 17 points.


*****************************************************
  ITALY - Women  


Stats Leaders - Women
Points Per Game
 Brooke SMITH
  Comense
  (191-F/C-84)
  Avg: 16.9
 1. Smith, Comense16.9 
 2. Robert, Faenza16.9 
 3. Dixon, GMA Napoli16.9 
 4. Macchi, Familia Schio16.6 
 5. Cirov, Priolo15.4 
 6. Walker, GMA Napoli15.3 
 7. Machanguana, Bracco G.15.3 
 8. Brunson, Taranto15.1 
 9. Pascalau, Priolo13.8 
 10. Pinto, Faenza13.2 
Rebounds Per Game
 Marcedes WALKER
  GMA Napoli
  (191-C-86)
  Avg: 9.7
 1. Walker, GMA Napoli9.7 
 2. Robert, Faenza8.9 
 3. Brunson, Taranto7.9 
 4. Harper, Umana R.7.6 
 5. Willis, Livorno7.6 
 6. Smith, Comense7.4 
 7. Screen, Basket P.7.0 
 8. Machanguana, Bracco G.6.8 
 9. Harmon, Comense6.3 
 10. Seino, Priolo6.2 
Assists Per Game
 Adriana PINTO
  Faenza
  (169-G-78)
  Avg: 2.9
 1. Pinto, Faenza2.9 
 2. Eric, Vomero NA2.6 
 3. Macchi, Familia Schio2.6 
 4. Dixon, GMA Napoli2.3 
 5. Ballardini, Umana R.2.2 
 6. Moro, Familia Schio2.2 
 7. Goryanova, GMA N.2.1 
 8. Carpreaux, Livorno2.0 
 9. Martinez Pra., Bracco G.2.0 
 10. Haynie, Priolo1.9 
Steals Per Game
 Angela ZAMPELLA
  Comense
  (170-G-78)
  Avg: 6
 1. Zampella, Comense6.0 
 2. Carpreaux, Livorno4.8 
 3. Dixon, GMA Napoli4.8 
 4. Pinto, Faenza4.5 
 5. Ristic, Livorno4.4 
 6. Martinez Pra., Bracco G.4.4 
 7. Palie, Vomero NA4.2 
 8. Macchi, Familia Schio4.2 
 9. Robert, Faenza4.1 
 10. Fazio, Comense4.1 
Blocks Per Game
 Oleksandra PRYSTUPA
  Faenza
  (203-C-89)
  Avg: 1
 1. Prystupa, Faenza1.0 
 2. Harper, Umana R.0.9 
 3. Smith, Comense0.9 
 4. Alexander, Faenza0.9 
 5. Van Malderen, GMA N.0.8 
 6. Godin, Taranto0.7 
 7. Wabara, Bracco G.0.7 
 8. Ngoyisa, Familia .0.6 
 9. Cinili, Umbertide0.5 
 10. Zanoni, Bracco Geas0.5 


*****************************************************
  JUCO - Women  


NJCAA Division I National Tournament starts in Salina - by Eurobasket News
The D1 tournament got under way in Salina. The first two semifinalists became known. Labette made their way through into final four. They held off Northern Oklahoma in the opening round 94:76. The Cardinals were paced by 24 points from Kellindra Zackery (5'11'-G/F, college: S.Carolina). Satoria Bell added 20 points for the winners. Northern Oklahoma responded with game-high 30 points from Darcie Dick.
Next Labette faced Midland College and celebrated a 68:58 victory. The Cardinals stunned the third-seesed Midland with a 10:0 start to the game and did not look back en route to the victory. Satoria Bell provided 21 points and 8 caroms to lead the charge. Kellindra Zackery added 16 points and 6 rebounds in the win. Jessi Cowden (5'9'-G) nailed 12 points in the loss.
Gulf Coast also reached the semifinal stage. The Commoderes outgunned South Georgia Tech 79:53 in the opening game at the tournament. Gulf Coast dominated right from the start and posted a well-deserved win. Andrea Smith (5'8'-G-90) provided 20 points for the winners. Andrell Smith (5'8'-G-90) added 15 points for Gulf Coast. Monique Willis replied with 15 points and 16 rebounds for the Lady Jets.
Gulf Coast took on Monroe in the quarterfinal battle. Andrea Smith scored 30 points to help the Commodores account for a 74:64 win at the end. Angie Felton (5'7'-G-90) finished with 12 points in the victory. The Tribunes replied with 21 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists from Krystal Parnell.



*****************************************************
  LITHUANIA - Women  


Standings - LMKL
LMKL Standings
 1. TEO Vilnius 24-3 
 2. Cesis 24-3 
 3. Lemminkain. 16-10 
 4. Laisve 16-11 
 5. Aistes-Atletas 16-12 
 6. MRU 7-20 
 7. Ruta Siauliai 5-22 
 8. LAMMKK 0-27 


*****************************************************
  ROMANIA - Women  


Standings - Women
D1 Standings
A1
 1. Sf. Gheorghe 7-0 
 2. Targoviste 6-1 
 3. ICIM Arad 5-2 
 4. Alexandria 4-3 
 5. Satu Mare 3-4 
 6. Craiova 2-5 
 7. Oradea 1-6 
 8. Rapid Bucuresti 0-7 
A2
 1. Alba Iulia 5-1 
 2. Olimpia 4-2 
 3. Cluj Napoca 4-2 
 4. Iasi 3-3 
 5. Sp.Studentesc 2-4 
 6. Timisoara 2-4 
 7. Brasov 1-5 


*****************************************************
  SERBIA - Women  


Bojana Vulic signed for Radivoj Korac - by Dragana Vukovic
Today the management of Radivoj Korac Beograd announced that they signed Bojana Vulic (191-C-84) till the end of seasaon.Bojana Vulic played very successfully in Fiba Cup for Hatis Yerevan.She had 15.8 points,7.5 rebounds and 1.6 assists during 32.4 minutes and she was the main reason whay Hatis Yerevan passed in the second round of Fiba Cup.The management of Radivoj Korac Beograd expect from her to help the team in National Cup and in play off.

Radivoj Korac strenghtened team with Nevena Jovanovic - by Dragana Vukovic
Very ambitious management of Radivoj Korac Beograd signed Nevena Jovanovic (179-G-90) till the end of season.She had very good season in ZKK Kovin averaging 14.7 points,4.2 rebounds,1.8 assists for 36.3 minutes in 20 games.Nevena Jovanovic was a National Team player of all young selections and she has gold medal from U18 European Championship in Novi Sad in 2007.She will be real refreshment for front line of Radivoj Korac Beograd and she will help the team in National Cup and play off.

*****************************************************
  SWEDEN - Women  


Standings - Damligan
Damligan Standings
Group A
 1. 08 3-1 
 2. Sundsvall 2-2 
 3. Telge 2-2 
 4. Solna Vikings 1-3 
Group B
 1. Lulea BBK 3-1 
 2. Norrkoping 2-2 
 3. Sallen 2-2 
 4. Marbo Basket 1-3 
Places 9-12
 1. Visby 6-16 
 2. Eos 6-16 
 3. Umea 4-18 
 4. Brahe 2-20 


*****************************************************
  TURKEY - Women  


Standings - TBBL
TBBL Standings
 1. Fenerbahce 18-0 
 2. Mersin 16-2 
 3. Galatasaray 14-4 
 4. TED Kayseri 10-8 
 5. Tarsus Bld 10-8 
 6. Botas 9-9 
 7. Besiktas 8-10 
 8. Ceyhan Bld 8-10 
 9. Istanbul Univ. 6-12 
 10. Samsun 6-12 
 11. Cankaya 3-15 
 12. Kocaeli 0-18 


*****************************************************
  U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS - Women  


CAHS hoops star hopes to impress Prairie View coach - by David Edole
ST. THOMAS - When Myron Corbett saw Aesha Peters (91) walking the school halls as a seventh-grader, he knew he had another basketball player on his hands. She had never played the game before that moment, but she towered above her classmates and Corbett didn't waste any time.

'It was the second day of school and coach Corbett pulled me aside in the hallway,' said Peters, a standout center for the Charlotte Amalie High School girls basketball team. 'He told me to come to practice tomorrow and that I was going to play basketball.'

Fast forward five years.

Peters, now a 6-foot-4 senior, is a dominant force in the St. Thomas-St. John District IAA league and will visit Prairie View A&M University this weekend to entertain a possible full athletic scholarship offer.

'Aesha runs the floor extremely well for a big player and I found that out when she was in junior high,' said Corbett, whose Lady Chickenhawks are 13-4 overall this season and are undefeated in the league. 'I got excited back then and look where we are now.'

After entering her senior campaign with high expectations, Peters has answered the call. She is among the league leaders in scoring (13 points per game), rebounds (11.1 per game), and blocks (4 per game).

Thanks to her participation at a preseason tournament in Miami, Fla., and recruiting tapes sent out by Corbett, the University of Georgia, Florida International, North Florida and Howard have also shown interest.

'Just the opportunity to play under coach Cooper at Prairie View would be an honor,' Peters said.

Cynthia Cooper-Dyke, former head coach of the WNBA's Phoenix Mercury and two-time WNBA Most Valuable Player, has been coaching at PVAMU since 2005. Just two years ago, the Lady Panthers capped off their first 20-plus win season and won their second straight Southwestern Athletic Conference title.

In high school, Peters has made a reputation for herself as a shot blocker and a steady force in the paint. With a little more work, Corbett said, Peters can emerge as a scoring threat.

'She's definitely the tallest player to come out of CAHS since I've been here,' said Corbett, who has led the Lady Chickenhawks to 11 league titles in 13 years at their helm. 'She has a huge upside, too. Once she's in college and when she starts to hit the weights, she will be a tremendous scorer for any team.'

During his high school coaching career, Corbett estimated that he has helped 11 different girls move on to Division I basketball, including current Howard assistant coach Julie Flanders, who played at George Mason.

'This is nothing new for this program,' Corbett said. Fellow seniors Amara Williams and Shayla Kelly are also drawing college basketball interests.

Peters, who always remembers being the tallest girl in the gym, got a sneak preview to sports while watching her three older brothers play football and basketball. But while coming up the high school ranks, academics have always been important to her. Peters' success in the classroom has made her more appealing to college coaches as well.

'Sometimes, it's hard to juggle school and basketball,' said Peters, who maintains a 3.5 grade-point average and scored 1,200 on her SATs. 'Like tonight, I have two projects to work on right after practice and a test to study for because we also have a game coming up. It can be tough.'

Corbett said her school studies off the court have kept Peters more reserved on it.

'She really reminds me a lot of Tim Duncan when he played high school ball here,' Corbett said. 'He was kind of the same way as her. Quiet. Not too flashy. But Aesha has done everything we've asked of her. After she helps lead her team through the postseason, a college basketball career awaits.'
BY Aaron Gray


*****************************************************
  UNITED KINGDOM - Women  


Standings - Women
EBL Standings
 1. Sheffield H. 17-1 
 2. UWIC Archers 15-3 
 3. Leeds C. 13-4 
 4. Nottingham W. 13-4 
 5. Northumbria 10-8 
 6. Barking Abbey 8-8 
 7. Sevenoaks S. 8-9 
 8. Brixton T. 6-12 
 9. London M. 4-13 
 10. Birmingham 0-15 
 11. Wellingborough 0-17 


*****************************************************
  WNBA - Women  


Mercury brings back Lenae Williams - by Eurobasket News
Phoenix Mercury general manager Ann Meyers Drysdale on Wednesday announced the signing of Lenae Williams (6'1'-F-79, college: DePaul) to a training camp contract. Per team policy, terms of the contract were not disclosed.

Williams spent the 2009-10 offseason overseas, participating in Eurocup competition for USO Mondeville in Mondeville, France. She was her teams leading scorer, posting averages of 17.0 points on 53.2 percent shooting, 2.7 rebounds and 1.7 assists in 33.1 minutes per game.

Williams, a 6-1 guard from DePaul University, was drafted by the Detroit Shock with the 18th pick (second round) of the 2002 WNBA Draft. She appeared in 27 games for the Shock that season, averaging 2.7 points per game. In 2003 she was a part of a trade that sent her to the Phoenix Mercury along with Edwina Brown, but never appeared in a game for the Mercury.


Courtesy of www.foxsportsarizona.com


Storm adds Hampton to 2010 training camp roster - by Eurobasket News
Seattle Storm Head Coach and Director of Player Personnel Brian Agler announced today the addition of 6-3 forward Devanei Hampton (6'3'-F/C-87, college: California) to the 2010 training camp roster.

A Berkeley, CA native and former Cal Bears teammate of Storm forward Ashley Walker, Hampton, is currently playing for Utex Row Rybnik in Poland, averaging 13.2 points, 6.7 rebounds and one steal in 23 games.

In Cal career history, Hampton ranks fifth in rebounds (876), sixth in points scored (1588), fifth in field goals attempted (1325) and made free throws (331), sixth in made-field goals (625), and eighth in blocked shots (78). Hampton is also just the seventh player in Cal history to score 1,500 points in her career and is a member of the Pac-10 1,500 point and 750 rebound clubs.

The Seattle Storm will open its 2010 WNBA schedule on Sunday, May 16 in a 6 p.m. matchup versus the Sparks at KeyArena. The Storm will play on national television four times with all broadcasts airing on ESPN2. Highlighting the Storms national television coverage is a KeyArena home game against defending WNBA Champion and league MVP Diana Taurasi and the Phoenix Mercury at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, July 27.

For additional information about the Storm or 2010 Storm full-season tickets or ticket packages, please call 206-217-WNBA or log on to stormbasketball.com.

About the Seattle Storm
The Seattle Storm, which celebrated its 10th anniversary in 2009, is one of seven independently owned teams in the WNBA, the worlds preeminent womens professional basketball league. Established in 2000, the Storm is committed to bringing outstanding professional basketball to a diverse and rapidly growing fan base. The team also plays an active role in promoting literacy, health and fitness, support for women and girls and youth basketball in local communities. More information is available at stormbasketball.com


Courtesy of www.sportspagemagazine.com


Atlanta Dream reunites Miller twins - by Eurobasket News
Kelly Miller (5'10'-G-78, college: Georgia) had almost given up on the idea of ever again playing on the same basketball team as her twin sister, Coco.

Not since 2001 had the twins played together at the University of Georgia and sisterly reunions almost never play out in professional sports.

But that all changed for Kelly Miller on Wednesday when the Atlanta Dream signed her to a two-year free-agent contract and re-signed Coleen Miller (5'9'-G-78, college: Georgia) to a two-year deal.

Im so excited to be playing for Atlanta, Kelly said. Coco and I have dreamed about playing on the same team again and are so grateful for this opportunity.

Coco said shes thankful that the Dream decided to hold a reunion.

We havent played together since our days at UGA, so Im really looking forward to it, Coco said. Its like a dream come true.

Kelly, a 5-foot-10 guard, started 25 of 34 games for the Minnesota Lynx last year and averaged 4.4 points and two assists. She has averaged 7.6 points and 2.6 assists during her nine-year career.

I think Atlanta is the perfect fit for me, Kelly said. They love to get up and down the floor and they have some of the fastest players in the league. They have a great mix of veterans and young talent, so its going to be an exciting season.

Coco, a 5-9 guard, averaged 3.9 points and 1.5 rebounds for the Dream last year. She thinks Kelly will add a lot to the team.

Im really looking forward to the upcoming season, Coco said. With the new roster additions and talented returning players, its going to be a very exciting year for the Dream.

But the biggest winners from having Kelly and Coco on the same team will be their mother and father or, more specifically, their wallets.

The parents shuttled between Atlanta and Minnesota watching the twins play last year.

This will definitely make it easier on my parents, Kelly said. They wont have to split their time between two cities and now they can cheer for one team.


Courtesy of www.ajc.com