Eurobasket Daily News Report:

EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 2/25/2012

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Men News

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ACPBL

Addition to Hudson Valley Kingz roster - by Mike Lee
The Hudson Valley Kingz have signed Jimmy Bosque (6'2'-G), a 6'2' guard from the Bronx, New York. Bosque played collegiately at CUNY Manhattan and averaged 10.3 points per game during the 2008-09 season. Kingz owner, Donald Herring expressed that the team is really high on him. 'He is very athletic, brings a lot of energy, plays great defense, and plays hard all the time and all over the court, said Herring.

The Hudson Valley Kingz currently have a 6-2 record and currently lead the ACPBL Big Apple Division. Their next game will be a home contest against the Hartford Lightning on March 3rd. The Lightning currently hold the top spot in the ACPBL North Division with a 5-2 record.

ACPBL going on with 10 teams .. - by Gianni Pascucci
Commisioner Graham communicated to Usbasket.com that starting from Feb.16th, The Buffalo Warriors and The Center Court All-Stars have ceased operations. There was insurmountable amount of negative cash flow within both organizations. The teams were failing to meet their financial obligations to their respected venues and vendors. After multiple discussions there was no need to have The ACPBL potentially carry or replace these teams. The owners and Mr. Graham have decided to move forward with a 10 team model in which all 10 teams will make the playoffs. 'I feel this is a fantastic opportunity for the league to have a more cost effective model for traveling. The ups and downs of minor league basketball are amazing, but with a solid foundation in place we can all succeed.' states Brian Graham about the moment of his league

Standings

ACPBL Standings

Big Apple Division
1. Hudson Valley		6-2
2. NYC 524		5-5
3. Toms River S.		2-6
4. Manhattan P.		1-7
North Division
1. Hartford L.		5-2
2. Garden St. R.		5-3
3. North Jersey P.		3-3
4. Buffalo W.		1-3
South Division
1. Palmieri Jeans		7-1
2. Beltway B.		4-3
3. Bay Area Sh.		4-4
4. Center Court		1-3

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ADRIATIC LEAGUE

Standings

Adriatic League Standings

1. Maccabi T-A			18-1
2. Cedevita			15-4
3. Partizan			14-6
4. Buducnost			13-6
5. Siroki WWin			12-9
6. Cibona			11-9
7. Union Olimpija			11-9
8. KK Zagreb CO			11-10
9. Radnicki K.			9-10
10. Crvena Zvezda			9-12
11. Hemofarm			5-15
12. Krka			5-15
13. Helios			5-15
14. Zlatorog			2-19

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

David SIMON
  Radnicki K.
  (207-C-82)
  Avg: 20.4

1. Simon, Radnicki K.	20.4
2. Scott, Radnicki K.	18.5
3. Kasun, KK.	17.6
4. Panic, Zlatorog	17.5
5. Vucevic, Buducnost	16.9
6. Simon, KK.	16.7
7. Pilepic, Siroki W.	15.5
8. Pavkovic, Radnicki	14.7
9. Gay, Helios	14.1
10. Pekovic, Partizan	13.7

Rebounds Per Game

Boris SAVOVIC
  Hemofarm
  (206-F-87)
  Avg: 11.4

1. Savovic, Hemofarm	11.4
2. Vucevic, Buducnost	9.7
3. Kasun, KK.	8.0
4. Macvan, Partizan	8.0
5. Simon, Radnicki K.	7.3
6. Pasalic, Helios	6.2
7. Scott, Radnicki K.	5.8
8. Popovic, Crvena Z.	5.7
9. Thompson, Union O.	5.6
10. Pavic, Krka	5.6

Assists Per Game

Steven MARKOVIC
  Radnicki K.
  (190-G-85)
  Avg: 7.4

1. Markovic, Radnicki	7.4
2. Pavkovic, Radnicki	6.7
3. Vladovic, Siroki W.	5.0
4. Vujasinovic, Zlato.	4.9
5. Mulaomerovic, KK Z.	4.5
6. Papaloukas, Macca.	4.2
7. Simon, KK.	3.9
8. Draper, Cedevita	3.8
9. Covic, Crvena Z.	3.4
10. Kus, Cibona	3.4

Steals Per Game

D.J. GAY
  Helios
  (183-G-89)
  Avg: 2.3

1. Gay, Helios	2.3
2. Dasic, Union Olimp.	1.9
3. Simon, KK.	1.8
4. Markovic, Radnicki	1.8
5. Ramljak, Siroki W.	1.6
6. Dragic, Krka	1.6
7. Hendrix, Maccabi	1.5
8. Papaloukas, Macca.	1.5
9. Draper, Cedevita	1.5
10. Lucic, Partizan	1.4

Blocks Per Game

Shawn JAMES
  Maccabi T-A
  (208-C-83)
  Avg: 1.5

1. James, Maccabi T-A	1.5
2. Simon, Radnicki K.	1.3
3. Vucevic, Buducnost	1.1
4. Savovic, Hemofarm	1.0
5. Scott, Radnicki K.	0.9
6. Hendrix, Maccabi	0.9
7. Thompson, Union O.	0.9
8. Pekovic, Partizan	0.8
9. Ilic, Crvena Zvezda	0.8
10. Collins, Siroki W.	0.8

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ARGENTINA

Standings - LigaA

LigaA Standings

1. Obras		18-7
2. Penarol		17-7
3. Libertad S.		17-8
4. Lanus		17-9
5. Atenas		15-10
6. Sionista		15-10
7. La Union		15-11
8. Quimsa		13-12
9. GECR Indalo		13-12
10. Regatas C.		12-14
11. Wuber-Est.Bahia		9-15
12. Boca Jrs		9-16
13. Olimpico LB		9-16
14. Club 9		8-16
15. Quilmes MP		8-18
16. San Mart.C.		6-20

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AUSTRALIA

Hammer time in Sydney - by Hugh McAuliffe
He captained the Sydney Kings to their first ever championship win in 2003. Now, the man they call 'The Hammer' is back to lead the Sydney Kings once again. Shane Heal (182-G-70) has been appointed as Head Coach for the remainder of the 2011/12 season. His appointment is effective immediately.

Shane flew in to Sydney this morning to address a team meeting at which time, interim CEO, Ian Robilliard , confirmed Heal's appointment.

'Technically, it was a rest day for the team today, ahead of our clash against Townville on Sunday afternoon at the Sydney Entertainment Centre; but we called the players and coaching staff together to formally introduce Shane as the new Head Coach,' Robilliard said.

'It is a great feeling to have secured Shane Heal for the role of Head Coach. The club definitely considers him a Sydney Kings Legend; and someone who is involved with our program. Having played in the purple and gold, he knows first hand what it means to wear in our colours, to win a championship, and to play at the Kingdome. If he can instil half of his Sydney Kings personal experience into our roster, it could help our team of committed professionals become a champion team.

'The obvious question is, will Shane continue to coach the Sydney Kings for the 2012-2013 season? The answer is that our focus remains on the current season and helping Shane with his program. We have an agreement in place with him to fill the Head Coach position for the rest of the 2011-2012 season. For clarity, he will work with us up to and including our last game against the Wollongong Hawks on March 24, and I believe he will show the same commitment to that role as he always did as a player,' Robilliard said.

Speaking about his new appointment, Shane heal said he was really excited to be the new Head Coach of the Sydney Kings and also to be back in Sydney.

'The last time I stepped on to the Sydney Kings home court in an official capacity was in the Championship game in 2003. I can't wait until Sunday to re-join the team at the Kingdome. It is a place that holds so many fond memories for me,' Shane said.

'Before I get there, we will only have one session together prior to the Townsville game on Sunday so there wont be time to make too many adjustments. I will really be working on getting their mindset right and belief in themselves. I am looking forward to sitting down with the team to talk about philosophies and expectations. I will meet with them all individually too; and hope to put them in an environment where they can play well individually within the team structure. If we can do that in a short period of time, we can turn around this five-game losing streak.

'The real work will begin next week, when we can make some bigger adjustments. It is another short week with a critical game on Friday; but I am confident we can improve again with the extra practices. Ian 'Moose' Robilliard has established a culture where this teams gets along well and they have stuck together through a tough time. It would be great for them to be rewarded for that with some wins in these next six games. I lam looking forward to the challenge and being part of it,' Shane said.

Shane debuted as an NBL player with the Brisbane Bullets in 1988 and was named Rookie of the Year. Two years later, he won the 1990 NBL Most Improved Player Award. In total, he played 440 games in the NBL; as well as playing for Minnesota Timberwolves and San Antonio Spurs in the NBA in 1996-1997 and 2003-2004 respectively. He also represented Australia in four Summer Olympics in 1992, 1996, 2000, and 2004. Heal retired from playing professional basketball for a second and last time, on February 14, 2009.

Standings - NBL

NBL Standings

1. Breakers		17-6
2. Wildcats		16-7
3. Crocodiles		13-10
4. Taipans		13-10
5. Blaze		12-9
6. Tigers		10-13
7. Kings		8-14
8. 36ers		6-16
9. Hawks		6-16

Stats Leaders - NBL

Points Per Game

Patrick MILLS
  Tigers
  (183-PG-88)
  Avg: 18.6

1. Mills, Tigers	18.6
2. Tragardh, Tigers	17.4
3. Lisch, Wildcats	17.1
4. Wilson, Taipans	16.8
5. Khazzouh, Kings	16.6
6. Johnson, 36ers	16.3
7. Wilkinson, Breakers	16.0
8. Worthington, Blaze	16.0
9. Deleon, Blaze	15.7
10. Abercrombie, Brea.	14.7

Rebounds Per Game

Julian KHAZZOUH
  Kings
  (209-C-86)
  Avg: 10.7

1. Khazzouh, Kings	10.7
2. Holmes, Crocodiles	9.6
3. Grant, Kings	8.5
4. Simpsons, 36ers	8.1
5. Johnson, 36ers	8.0
6. Crosswhite, Taipa.	7.7
7. Worthington, Blaze	7.0
8. Vukona, Breakers	6.5
9. Bose, Kings	6.4
10. Jackson, Breakers	6.3

Assists Per Game

Cedric JACKSON
  Breakers
  (191-G-86)
  Avg: 6.1

1. Jackson, Breakers	6.1
2. Mills, Tigers	5.0
3. Crosswell, 36ers	4.7
4. Gibson, Blaze	4.7
5. Bruce, Kings	4.4
6. Gill, Crocodiles	4.1
7. Martin, Wildcats	3.7
8. Martin, Hawks	3.5
9. Ubaka, Tigers	3.3
10. Dillon, Tigers	3.2

Steals Per Game

Damian MARTIN
  Wildcats
  (188-PG-84)
  Avg: 2.5

1. Martin, Wildcats	2.5
2. Jackson, Breakers	2.5
3. Robbins, Wildcats	1.8
4. Mims, Crocodiles	1.4
5. Tovey, Wildcats	1.3
6. Gill, Crocodiles	1.3
7. Glover, Hawks	1.2
8. Bartlett, 36ers	1.2
9. Deleon, Blaze	1.2
10. Crawford, Croco.	1.1

Blocks Per Game

Julian KHAZZOUH
  Kings
  (209-C-86)
  Avg: 2.1

1. Khazzouh, Kings	2.1
2. Simpsons, 36ers	1.5
3. Grant, Kings	1.4
4. Nevill, Wildcats	1.3
5. Johnson, 36ers	1.2
6. Abercrombie, Break.	1.1
7. Crosswhite, Taipa.	1.0
8. Worthington, Blaze	0.9
9. Martin, Wildcats	0.8
10. Forman, Hawks	0.8

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AUSTRIA

Standings - A Bundesliga

A Standings

Group A
1. Klosterneub.		17-5
2. Gmunden		16-6
3. Wels		16-6
4. Oberwart		15-7
5. Kapfenberg		15-7
6. Gussing		11-11
Group B
1. Furstenfeld		9-13
2. UBSC Graz		8-13
3. BC Vienna		8-13
4. Arkadia		4-18
5. St.Polten		1-21

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Stjepan STAZIC
  BC Vienna
  (199-G-78)
  Avg: 26.9

1. Stazic, BC Vienna	26.9
2. Booker, St.Polten	26.0
3. Wade, Arkadia	24.4
4. Drenovac, Arkadia	21.7
5. Reed, Oberwart	19.9
6. Djuric, Gussing	19.2
7. Shavies, Furstenf.	18.2
8. Fears, Kapfenberg	18.2
9. Rakocevic, BC Vi.	17.6
10. Shaw, Oberwart	17.0

Rebounds Per Game

Zarko RAKOCEVIC
  BC Vi.
  (204-F-84)
  Avg: 13.8

1. Rakocevic, BC Vi.	13.8
2. Werner, Wels	9.1
3. Oppland, Gmunden	7.8
4. Reed, Oberwart	7.8
5. Gordon, Kapfenberg	7.7
6. Scott, Gussing	7.1
7. Skurdauskas, Arkad.	6.8
8. Nelson, Kapfenberg	6.8
9. Moric, UBSC G.	6.8
10. Robinson, Fursten.	6.7

Assists Per Game

Benedikt DANEK
  Arkadia
  (176-PG-86)
  Avg: 6.3

1. Danek, Arkadia	6.3
2. Fears, Kapfenberg	5.7
3. Schreiner, Kapfe.	5.2
4. Shavies, Furstenf.	5.1
5. Klepeisz, Gussing	5.0
6. Stazic, BC Vienna	4.7
7. Rakocevic, BC Vi.	4.6
8. Milosevic, St.Polt.	4.4
9. Lanegger, Klostern.	4.2
10. Hollins, Oberwart	4.0

Steals Per Game

Jeremy FEARS
  Kapfenberg
  (196-G-85)
  Avg: 2.5

1. Fears, Kapfenberg	2.5
2. Shavies, Furstenf.	2.2
3. Pryor, Wels	2.2
4. Schreiner, Kapfe.	2.2
5. Brown, Wels	1.6
6. Jandl, Oberwart	1.5
7. Milosevic, St.Polt.	1.5
8. Wade, Arkadia	1.5
9. Mayer, Gmunden	1.3
10. Artner, Oberwart	1.3

Blocks Per Game

Zarko RAKOCEVIC
  BC Vi.
  (204-F-84)
  Avg: 3.2

1. Rakocevic, BC Vi.	3.2
2. Scott, Gussing	1.2
3. Ware, Furstenfeld	1.1
4. Koch, Gussing	0.9
5. Kohlmaier, Wels	0.8
6. Moric, UBSC G.	0.6
7. Skurdauskas, Arkad.	0.6
8. Brown, Wels	0.6
9. Francois, BC Vienna	0.5
10. Greimeister, Klos.	0.5

A Bundesliga Round 2: Oberwart Gunners defeat group leader Xion Dukes - by Eurobasket News
There were only 2 rounds played so far and it's still very beginning of the Second Stage in A Bundesliga.

The most surprising game was a loss of top-ranked Xion Dukes (17-5) in Klosterneuburg on Friday night. Hosts were edged by fifth ranked Oberwart Gunners (15-7) 60-59. Xion Dukes were trailing by 1 point at halftime but managed to get 1-point lead after three quarters before a 15-13 charge of Oberwart Gunners, which allowed them to win the game. American guard Vernard Hollins (190-80, college: Wright St.) saved the victory by scoring 18 points and 5 rebounds (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field). The other American import forward Joe Dean Shaw (199-87, college: Nevada) contributed with 12 points for the winners. American swingman Curtis Bobb (198-78, college: Utah St.) replied with 14 points and 7 rebounds for Xion Dukes. Defending champion moved-up to fourth place in Bundesliga. Xion Dukes at the other side still keep top position with five games lost. Oberwart Gunners are looking forward to face Gussing Knights (#6) at home in the next round. Xion Dukes will play against Kapfenberg Bulls (#5) and are hoping to win this game.
An interesting game for Gmunden Swans (16-6) which hosted in Gmunden one of their biggest challengers Kapfenberg Bulls (15-7). Second ranked Gmunden Swans had an easy win 88-61. It was a key game for the second position in Bundesliga. Serbian forward Enis Murati (194-88) scored 19 points and 8 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and Florian Schoeninger chipped in 18 points and 9 assists during the contest. American power forward Demetrius Nelson (203-86, college: Citadel, agency: Court Side) responded with 14 points and 7 rebounds. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Gmunden Swans maintains second position in Bundesliga with 16-6 record behind leader Klosterneub. Kapfenberg Bulls at the other side dropped to the fifth place with seven games lost. Gmunden Swans will play against Raiffeisen Wels (#3) on the road in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Kapfenberg Bulls will play against the league's leader Xion Dukes in Klosterneuburg and hope to get back on the winning track.
An interesting game for Furstenfeld Panthers (9-13) which hosted in Furstenfeld 4th ranked Arkadia Lions (4-18). First ranked Furstenfeld Panthers had an easy win 83-65. Anthony Shavies notched a double-double by scoring 16 points, 12 rebounds and 6 assists to lead the effort. Even 22 points by Radosav Spasojevic did not help to save the game for Arkadia Lions. Furstenfeld Panthers maintains first position in Bundesliga with 9-13 record. Loser Arkadia Lions keep the fourth place with 18 games lost. Furstenfeld Panthers will meet BC Vienna (#3) in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Arkadia Lions will play against the league's second-placed UBSC Graz and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
The game in Gussing supposed to be also worth to mention about. Third ranked Raiffeisen Wels (16-6) played at the court of 6th ranked Gussing Knights (11-11). Raiffeisen Wels smashed Gussing Knights 106-73. The best player for the winners was Davor Lamesic who had a double-double by scoring 21 points, 11 rebounds and 9 assists. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Raiffeisen Wels maintains third position in Bundesliga with 16-6 record behind leader Klosterneub. Gussing Knights at the other side keep the sixth place with 11 games lost. Raiffeisen Wels' next round opponent will be league's second-placed Gmunden Swans in Gmunden and it will be for sure the game of the week. Gussing Knights will play on the road against Oberwart Gunners (#4) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

In the last game of round 2
In Bundesliga St.Polten was beaten by UBSC Graz on the road 91-74.
The most impressive performance of 2nd round was 22 points, 13 rebounds and 5 assists by Zarko Rakocevic of BC Vienna.

Group Group A

Gussing - Wels 73-106

The game in Gussing supposed to be also worth to mention about. Third ranked Raiffeisen Wels (16-6) played at the court of 6th ranked Gussing Knights (11-11). Raiffeisen Wels smashed Gussing Knights 106-73. The game without a history. Raiffeisen Wels led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated down low during the game scoring 66 of its points in the paint compared to Gussing Knights' 20. Raiffeisen Wels forced 19 Gussing Knights turnovers. The best player for the winners was the former international forward Davor Lamesic (203-83, agency: Interperformances) who had a double-double by scoring 21 points, 11 rebounds and 9 assists. American guard Todd Brown (196-87, college: Wright St., agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement) chipped in 23 points and 6 rebounds (on 10-of-12 shooting from the field). Four Raiffeisen Wels players scored in double figures. American forward Carleton Scott (200-88, college: Notre Dame) produced a double-double by scoring 19 points and 11 rebounds and point guard Claudio Vancura (179-92) added 13 points respectively for the hosts. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Raiffeisen Wels maintains third position in Bundesliga with 16-6 record behind leader Klosterneub. Gussing Knights at the other side keep the sixth place with 11 games lost. Raiffeisen Wels' next round opponent will be league's second-placed Gmunden Swans in Gmunden and it will be for sure the game of the week. Gussing Knights will play on the road against Oberwart Gunners (#4) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Wels: T.Brown 23+6reb, D.Lamesic 21+11reb+9ast, A.Farokhmanesh 20+2ast, M.Kohlmaier 13+6reb+1ast, J.Werner 9+4reb, R.Vieider 7+2reb
Gussing: C.Scott 19+11reb, C.Vancura 13+1reb+1ast, M.Klepeisz 10+1reb, T.Klepeisz 9+2reb+2ast, A.Djuric 7+3reb+1ast, E.Kadic 7+1reb

Klosterneub. - Oberwart 59-60

The most surprising game was a loss of top-ranked Xion Dukes (17-5) in Klosterneuburg on Friday night. Hosts were edged by fifth ranked Oberwart Gunners (15-7) 60-59. Xion Dukes were trailing by 1 point at halftime but managed to get 1-point lead after three quarters before a 15-13 charge of Oberwart Gunners, which allowed them to win the game. American guard Vernard Hollins (190-80, college: Wright St.) saved the victory by scoring 18 points and 5 rebounds (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field). The other American import forward Joe Dean Shaw (199-87, college: Nevada) contributed with 12 points for the winners. American swingman Curtis Bobb (198-78, college: Utah St.) replied with 14 points and 7 rebounds and international guard Moritz Lanegger (190-90, agency: Interperformances) added 11 points in the effort for Xion Dukes. Defending champion moved-up to fourth place in Bundesliga. Xion Dukes at the other side still keep top position with five games lost. Oberwart Gunners are looking forward to face Gussing Knights (#6) at home in the next round. Xion Dukes will play against Kapfenberg Bulls (#5) and are hoping to win this game.
Top scorers:
Oberwart: V.Hollins 18+5reb+2ast, J.Dean Shaw 12+4reb, E.Rizvic 9+4reb+2ast, N.Gacesa 7+1reb, H.Artner 5+1ast, J.Johnson 3+6reb+2ast
Klosterneub.: C.Bobb 14+7reb+1ast, D.Zeleznik 13, M.Lanegger 11+2reb+3ast, C.Nagler 8+4reb+2ast, C.Greimeister 6+3reb+1ast, M.Rachar 4+6reb+1ast

Gmunden - Kapfenberg 88-61

An interesting game for Gmunden Swans (16-6) which hosted in Gmunden one of their biggest challengers Kapfenberg Bulls (15-7). Second ranked Gmunden Swans had an easy win 88-61. It was a key game for the second position in Bundesliga. The game without a history. Gmunden Swans led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They made 17-of-21 charity shots (81.0 percent) during the game. Gmunden Swans outrebounded Kapfenberg Bulls 41-30 including a 29-18 advantage in defensive rebounds. It was a great shooting night for Gmunden Swans especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 52.4 percentage. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 24 assists comparing to just 9 passes made by Kapfenberg Bulls' players. Serbian forward Enis Murati (194-88) scored 19 points and 8 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and the former international guard Florian Schoeninger (186-83) chipped in 18 points and 9 assists during the contest. American power forward Demetrius Nelson (203-86, college: Citadel, agency: Court Side) responded with 14 points and 7 rebounds and his fellow American import guard Jeremy Fears (196-85, college: Bradley, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement) scored 16 points. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Gmunden Swans maintains second position in Bundesliga with 16-6 record behind leader Klosterneub. Kapfenberg Bulls at the other side dropped to the fifth place with seven games lost. Gmunden Swans will play against Raiffeisen Wels (#3) on the road in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Kapfenberg Bulls will play against the league's leader Xion Dukes in Klosterneuburg and hope to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Gmunden: E.Murati 19+8reb+3ast, F.Schoeninger 18+1reb+9ast, D.Oppland 15+9reb, M.Oppland 10+3reb+2ast, R.Poiger 10+3reb+1ast, M.Curry 9+4reb+2ast
Kapfenberg: J.Fears 16+3reb+1ast, D.Nelson 14+7reb, S.Knabl 13+4reb, D.Mayes 7+3reb, L.Gordon 6+10reb+2ast, T.Schreiner 4+2reb+6ast

Group Group B

UBSC Graz - St.Polten 91-74

No shocking result in a game when third ranked UBSC Graz (8-13) beat at home 5th ranked St.Polten (1-21) 91-74. The game was mostly controlled by UBSC Graz. St.Polten was better in fourth quarter 18-14. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They dominated on the defensive end, holding St.Polten to just 5 points in second quarter. UBSC Graz made 24-of-29 charity shots (82.8 percent) during the game, while St.Polten only scored eight points from the stripe. UBSC Graz players were unselfish on offense dishing 27 assists comparing to just 14 passes made by St.Polten's players. The best player for the winners was Croatian forward Marko Moric (207-81) who scored 22 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists. Croatian power forward Milan Stegnjaic (204-81) chipped in 15 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists. American swingman Roy Booker (191-84, college: SE Missouri St.) produced 19 points and the former international forward Martin Speiser (202-83) added 11 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists respectively for the guests. Four UBSC Graz and five St.Polten players scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. UBSC Graz moved-up to second place in Bundesliga. St.Polten at the other side keeps the fifth position with 21 games lost. UBSC Graz's next round opponent will be Arkadia Lions (#4) in Traiskirchen.
Top scorers:
UBSC Graz: M.Moric 22+8reb+6ast, C.Knor 18+4reb, S.Grum 16+1reb+3ast, M.Stegnjaic 15+6reb+6ast, T.Ambrose 9+3reb+2ast, S.Schaal 5+2reb+8ast
St.Polten: R.Booker 19+3reb+1ast, F.Kramer 12+2reb, N.Milosevic 12+5ast, I.Bakovic 11+7reb+2ast, M.Speiser 11+5reb+4ast, D.Friedrich 4+4reb+1ast

Furstenfeld - Arkadia 83-65

An interesting game for Furstenfeld Panthers (9-13) which hosted in Furstenfeld 4th ranked Arkadia Lions (4-18). First ranked Furstenfeld Panthers had an easy win 83-65. The hosts trailed by 1 point after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 4-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 83-65. Furstenfeld Panthers outrebounded Arkadia Lions 38-20 including a 16-4 advantage in offensive rebounds. American guard Anthony Shavies (191-83, college: Missouri St., agency: Interperformances) notched a double-double by scoring 16 points, 12 rebounds and 6 assists to lead the effort and the other American import power forward Gary Ware (205-83, college: Purdue, agency: TSS Management) supported him with 21 points and 10 rebounds. Five Furstenfeld Panthers players scored in double figures. Even 22 points by Montenegrin power forward Radosav Spasojevic (204-92) did not help to save the game for Arkadia Lions. Serbian forward Djordje Drenovac (203-92, agency: Interperformances) added 14 points and 5 rebounds for the guests. Furstenfeld Panthers maintains first position in Bundesliga with 9-13 record. Loser Arkadia Lions keep the fourth place with 18 games lost. Furstenfeld Panthers will meet BC Vienna (#3) in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Arkadia Lions will play against the league's second-placed UBSC Graz and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Furstenfeld: G.Ware 21+10reb, J.Robinson 18+7reb+1ast, A.Shavies 16+12reb+6ast, K.Payton 15+7reb+4ast, P.Radakovics 10+1ast, L.O'Neal 3+1reb+5ast
Arkadia: R.Spasojevic 22+1reb+2ast, D.Drenovac 14+5reb, P.Skurdauskas 8+7reb+1ast, B.Danek 6+2reb+8ast, A.Percan 6+1reb+1ast, J.Blazevic 4

Lamesic's double-double lands him (Second Stage) Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
28-year old forward Davor Lamesic (203-F-83, agency: Interperformances) put on an amazing game in the last round for Wels and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 2 (Second Stage).
He had a double-double of 21 points and 11 rebounds, while his team outclassed Gussing (#6, 11-11) with 33-point margin 106-73. Wels maintains the 3rd position in Austrian league. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier in Second Stage. Wels will need more victories to improve their 16-6 record. Lamesic has many years of experience at Wels, through which he has constantly improved.

Second best performed player last round was Marko Moric (207-F-81) of UBSC Graz. He is Croatian forward in his first season at UBSC Graz. In the last game Moric recorded impressive 22 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists. Of course he lead UBSC Graz to another comfortable win 91-74 over St.Polten (1-21) being unquestionably team leader. The Second Stage is still at the very beginning and this victory may help a lot. Let's wait for the next round. Moric is a newcomer at UBSC Graz and quickly became one of team's most reliable players.

Third place about best performers goes to forward Enis Murati (194-F-88) of league's second-best Gmunden. Murati scored 19 points and grabbed eight rebounds. He was a key player of Gmunden, leading his team to a 88-61 easy win against Kapfenberg (#5, 15-7). Gmunden needs these victories very badly if they think about taking over top position in Group A. Their record at this point is 16 victories and 6 lost games. Murati has a very solid season. In 22 games in Austria he scored 9.0ppg.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Gary Ware (205-F/C-83) of Furstenfeld - 21 points and 10 rebounds
5. Carleton Scott (200-F-88) of Gussing - 19 points and 11 rebounds
6. Todd Brown (196-G-87) of Wels - 23 points and 6 rebounds
7. Anthony Shavies (191-G-83) of Furstenfeld - 16 points, 12 rebounds and 6 assists
8. Vernard Hollins (190-G-80) of Oberwart - 18 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assists
9. Radosav Spasojevic (204-F/C-92) of Arkadia - 22 points and 2 assists
10. Florian Schoeninger (186-G-83) of Gmunden - 18 points and 9 assists

The Player of the week is choosen based on efficiency calculation, but also including game result, importance of the game, if played recorded double-double/triple-double, etc.
The efficiency formula is a combination of various formulas used by different basketball organizations/leagues. We got involved many basketball scouts and journalists to assure it's accuracy.
The formula: 1.5*PTS + 3*(REB+AST+ST+BL-TO) - 2*BSAG - 4*PF + 3*PFRV + 4*(2FGPM+3FGPM) + 1.5*FTM - 3*(2FGPA-2FGPM) - 3*(3FGPA-3FGPM) - (FTA-FTM)

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BAHRAIN

Standings

Premier League Standings

1. Muharraq		16-1
2. Al Manama		14-4
3. Al Ahli		13-4
4. Al Hala		11-6
5. Issa Town		11-7
6. Sitra		9-8
7. Nuwaidrat		8-9
8. Al Ittihad		7-9
9. Bahrain Club		2-15
10. Al Najma		2-15
11. Samaheej		1-16

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BALTIC LEAGUE

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Denzel BOWLES
  Siauliai
  (208-F/C-89)
  Avg: 19.3

1. Bowles, Siauliai	19.3
2. Krumins, Jelgava	19.1
3. Kalve, Valmiera	18.0
4. Cipruss, Tarvas	17.8
5. Barinov, Naglis P.	16.5
6. Pilk, TTU	16.4
7. Mayo, Liepaja	16.2
8. Amis, Tartu Ulikool	16.1
9. Hallik, Tarvas	15.5
10. Young, Ventspils	14.8

Rebounds Per Game

Kaspars CIPRUSS
  Tarvas
  (210-C-82)
  Avg: 9.5

1. Cipruss, Tarvas	9.5
2. McClure, Kedainiai	9.3
3. Ringmets, Rapla	8.6
4. Mednis, Turiba	8.0
5. Johnson, Naglis P.	7.8
6. Arnold, TTU	7.7
7. Bowles, Siauliai	7.4
8. Galdikas, Neptunas	7.1
9. Barinov, Naglis P.	7.1
10. Rozitis, Valmiera	6.9

Assists Per Game

Rashaun BROADUS
  Siauliai
  (183-PG-84)
  Avg: 5.3

1. Broadus, Siauliai	5.3
2. Kriisa, Tarvas	5.0
3. Rinkevicius, Nagli.	4.6
4. Sirsnins, Tarvas	4.5
5. Strelnieks, Ventsp.	4.3
6. Ezerskis, Lietkabe.	4.3
7. Dainys, Neptunas	4.3
8. Benn, Naglis Palan.	4.2
9. Maceina, Juventus	4.2
10. Kadziulis, Rudupis	4.1

Steals Per Game

Rinalds SIRSNINS
  Tarvas
  (186-PG-85)
  Avg: 2.7

1. Sirsnins, Tarvas	2.7
2. McKee, Triumph	2.7
3. Salenga, Rudupis	2.2
4. Krumins, Jelgava	2.0
5. Akenparg, TTU	1.8
6. Virsis, Valmiera	1.8
7. Laane, Rapla	1.8
8. Keedus, TTU	1.8
9. Hughes, Pieno Z.	1.7
10. Matulionis, Lietk.	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Bamba FALL
  Kalev/Cramo
  (216-C-86)
  Avg: 2.7

1. Fall, Kalev/Cramo	2.7
2. Rozitis, Valmiera	2.1
3. Johnson, Naglis P.	1.8
4. Gumeniuk, Juventus	1.6
5. Staniulis, Lietkab.	1.3
6. Amis, Tartu Ulikool	1.2
7. Morgan, Pieno Z.	0.9
8. Leiteris, Liepaja	0.9
9. McClure, Kedainiai	0.9
10. Jefferson, Triumph	0.8

Standings - Men

Baltic League Standings

Elite Division
1. Siauliai			13-3
2. Triumph			11-4
3. Ventspils			11-5
4. Kalev/Cramo			11-7
5. Rudupis			10-6
6. Kedainiai			8-9
7. Juventus			8-10
8. Pieno Zvaigzdes			7-9
9. Tartu Ulikool			6-12
10. Baltai Kaunas			4-12
11. Liepaja			3-15
Challenge Cup
1. Tarvas			10-2
2. Naglis Palangos			6-4
3. Neptunas			6-4
4. Barsy Atyrau			3-7
5. Jelgava			1-7
6. Techasas			10-2
7. Sakalai			9-5
8. Valmiera			8-4
9. TTU/Kalev			3-9
10. Rapla			2-8
11. Turiba			2-8

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BELARUS

Standings - Premier League

Premier League Standings

1. Minsk-2006		16-1
2. Grodno-93		16-2
3. Rubon		10-8
4. BGUIR-RTI		8-10
5. SBK Osipovichi		7-12
6. Minsk-2006 II		6-13
7. Sozh Gomel		0-17

Stats Leaders - Premier League

Points Per Game

Ronaldas RUTKAUSKAS
  Minsk-.
  (203-F-92)
  Avg: 19.9

1. Rutkauskas, Minsk.	19.9
2. Sitnik, SBK O.	16.5
3. Ignatchik, Minsk-.	15.3
4. Mishukov, SBK O.	15.1
5. Knox, Minsk-2006	14.3
6. Ovdeenko, Grodno-.	14.0
7. Hawkins, Minsk.	13.7
8. Kojenets, Minsk.	13.2
9. Matyukevych, Grod.	13.0
10. Zakhar, BG.	12.8

Rebounds Per Game

Pavel BLIZNETS
  Sozh Gomel
  (205-C-94)
  Avg: 11.4

1. Bliznets, Sozh Gom.	11.4
2. Zakhar, BG.	9.9
3. Rutkauskas, Minsk.	9.8
4. Ovsepian, Rubon	7.5
5. Mishukov, SBK O.	7.3
6. Kojenets, Minsk.	7.2
7. Krisevich, Minsk-.	6.7
8. Drobyshevski., Soz.	6.6
9. Matyukevych, Grod.	6.5
10. Knox, Minsk-2006	5.9

Assists Per Game

Dzmitry KUZMIN
  Grodno-93
  (196-G-75)
  Avg: 5

1. Kuzmin, Grodno-93	5.0
2. Akulich, Rubon	4.8
3. Papruha, BG.	3.7
4. Kudrautsau, Minsk.	3.6
5. Charykau, SBK O.	3.4
6. Volk, SBK O.	3.0
7. Ignatchik, Minsk-.	2.9
8. Nakic, Minsk-20.	2.7
9. Korzh, Grodno-93	2.6
10. Eldridge, Minsk-2.	2.4

Steals Per Game

Dmitri AKULICH
  Rubon
  (192-G-86)
  Avg: 2.5

1. Akulich, Rubon	2.5
2. Zakhar, BG.	2.2
3. Sapegin, Rubon	2.2
4. Eldridge, Minsk-20.	2.0
5. Charykau, SBK O.	2.0
6. Papruha, BG.	2.0
7. Vabischevich, SBK	2.0
8. Ovsepian, Rubon	1.9
9. Malkov, Rubon	1.8
10. Sitnik, SBK O.	1.8

Blocks Per Game

Yaraslau KURAPAU
  Minsk-20.
  (200-F-91)
  Avg: 0

1. Kurapau, Minsk-20.	0.0
2. Akulich, Rubon	0.0
3. Kudrautsau, Minsk.	0.0
4. Sivalko, Rubon	0.0
5. Krisevich, Minsk-.	0.0
6. Shuleyko, Grodno-.	0.0
7. Korzh, Grodno-93	0.0
8. Shestilovski., Soz.	0.0
9. Korneenkov, Minsk-.	0.0
10. Sharipov, SBK O.	0.0

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

BELGIUM

Standings - Division I

D1 Standings

1. Spirou		13-6
2. Oostende		12-6
3. Antwerp		11-6
4. Aalstar		11-7
5. Leuven		10-8
6. M.Hainaut		9-8
7. Liege		7-11
8. Gent		5-14
9. Verviers-Pep.		3-15

Stats Leaders - Division I

Points Per Game

Christopher COPELAND
  Aalstar
  (203-F-84)
  Avg: 20.2

1. Copeland, Aalstar	20.2
2. Bostic, Liege	17.2
3. Mallet, Spirou	16.3
4. Rich, Oostende	15.7
5. Taylor, M.Hainaut	14.9
6. Green, Spirou	14.7
7. Lojeski, Oostende	14.3
8. Black, Antwerp	14.1
9. Haynes, Gent	13.9
10. Tofi, Leuven	13.7

Rebounds Per Game

Graham BROWN
  Gent
  (205-C-84)
  Avg: 8.5

1. Brown, Gent	8.5
2. Love, Verviers-Pep.	7.9
3. Mejri, Antwerp	7.4
4. McLean, Leuven	7.2
5. Young, Aalstar	7.0
6. Merriex, Verviers.	6.8
7. Booker, Oostende	6.2
8. Wright, Oostende	6.2
9. Matela, Liege	5.8
10. Bostic, Liege	5.6

Assists Per Game

Dominic WATERS
  Liege
  (185-PG-86)
  Avg: 3.8

1. Waters, Liege	3.8
2. Djordjevic, Ooste.	3.7
3. Bosco, Gent	3.5
4. Marnegrave, Leuven	3.3
5. Thompson, Verviers.	3.3
6. Black, Antwerp	3.2
7. Singletary, M.Hain.	3.0
8. Winston, Oostende	2.9
9. Rich, Oostende	2.9
10. Mallet, Spirou	2.8

Steals Per Game

Sean SINGLETARY
  M.Hainaut
  (183-PG-85)
  Avg: 2.5

1. Singletary, M.Hain.	2.5
2. Dagunduro, Leuven	2.4
3. Black, Antwerp	2.4
4. Wilson, Antwerp	2.3
5. Steinbach, Aalstar	1.9
6. Mallet, Spirou	1.9
7. Ruoff, Aalstar	1.8
8. Mukubu, Verviers.	1.8
9. Wright, Oostende	1.8
10. Bostic, Liege	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Salah MEJRI
  Antwerp
  (216-C-86)
  Avg: 2.5

1. Mejri, Antwerp	2.5
2. Riddick, Spirou	1.7
3. Jennings, Liege	1.5
4. Young, Aalstar	1.0
5. Love, Verviers-Pep.	0.9
6. Booker, Oostende	0.8
7. Holiday, Aalstar	0.6
8. Nivins, M.Hainaut	0.6
9. Vaughn, Antwerp	0.5
10. De Zeeuw, Vervier.	0.5

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

BOSNIA

Standings - BIH League

D1 Standings

1. Igokea		18-1
2. Bosna		14-4
3. Capljina		14-5
4. Varda HE		11-7
5. Leotar		11-8
6. Mladost		11-8
7. Hercegovac		8-10
8. Servitium		8-10
9. Borac Nektar		6-12
10. Celik		5-13
11. Zrinjski HT		5-14
12. Brotnjo		5-14
13. Vogosca		4-14
Play in international cups:
1. Siroki WWin		-

D1, Round 20: Another win for top-ranked Igokea - by Eurobasket News
Round 20 of the Bosnian D1 for men was played on Wednesday. The top-ranked Igokea managed to register its 18th win this season (18-1). They cruised past Servitium on the road 60-90. Milan Dozet (204-SF-79) was the leading player in victory with 17 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists. The second ranked Capljina failed against Varda in Visegrad. It was 81-68 win for the home squad. Ivan Miceta (205-FC-81, agency: 011 Sports) stepped up for Varda with 16 points and 8 boards. Bosna ASA BHT outplayed Zrinjski in Mostar with comfortable 83-102. Dino Hodzic (190-PG-90) top-scored in victory with 18 points (6 rebs). Also in this round, Borac was better than Brotnjo 90-76 and Mladost handed 79-71 loss to Hercegovac. Leotar was too strong for Vogosca 90-82. Round 21 is scheduled for the next weekend.

Regular Season - Round 20
Feb. 22, 2012 Servitium-Igokea 60-90
Feb. 22, 2012 Varda HE-Capljina 81-68
Feb. 22, 2012 Borac Nektar-Brotnjo 90-76
Feb. 22, 2012 Zrinjski HT-Bosna 83-102
Feb. 22, 2012 Mladost-Hercegovac 79-71
Feb. 22, 2012 Leotar-Vogosca 90-82

D1 Standings
1. Igokea 18-1
2. Bosna 14-4
3. Capljina 14-5
4. Varda HE 11-7
5. Leotar 11-8
6. Mladost 11-8
7. Hercegovac 8-10
8. Servitium 8-10
9. Borac Nektar 6-12
10. Celik 5-13
11. Zrinjski HT 5-14
12. Brotnjo 5-14
13. Vogosca 4-14

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

BRAZIL

Standings - BNL

NBB Standings

1. Pinheiros/Sky		17-4
2. Flamengo		15-3
3. S.Jose/Unimed		15-4
4. Unitri/Universo		14-6
5. Uniceub/BRB		13-6
6. Itabom/Bauru		12-6
7. Paulistano		12-7
8. Winner/Limeira		10-9
9. Cia do Terno		9-10
10. Vivo/Franca		7-12
11. Liga Sorocaba		7-13
12. Minas		6-13
13. Tijuca TC		5-15
14. Araraquara		2-18
15. Vila Velha		1-19

Santa Cruz sign new players - by Paulo Freire
The Santa Cruz/Rados/Pioneer is moving fast to build their roster for Brazil Cup South Region.
The managers of the team have announced new names to their roster.
The midia already went to their first practice to see the new faces.
The american guard Eryk Watson (190-G, college: Maryville, TN) is already in town in his first year playing in Brazil
From Spain comes in the brazilian forward Andre Almeida (200-F/G-81, agency: Global Sports Network) who had work in the pre season of Caja Laboral this season
The veteran B.A. Muniz (202-C-75) comes in the give more power in the paint area inside the basket.
The young point guard Murilo Parisotto (188-G-86) comes from Lajeado team
As a local player the managers brought in the small forward Gustavo Lawisch (193-F/C-85)

NBB Round 21 recap - by Eurobasket News
Pinheiros/Sky were back to the winning ways in Round 21 of NBB. The league leaders outscored Vila Velha 85:67 at home court to climb at 17-4 record. Shamell Stallworth (196-SG-80, agency: Interperformances, college: USF) finished with 21 points to lead the charge. The teams were tied after ten minutes of action but Pinheiros/Sky gradually picked up the slack and rallied to a comfortable win at the end. Marquinhos Vieira (207-F-84) finished with 18 points, while Olivinha Rodriguez (202-F-83) added 14 points for the winners. Vila Velha answered with 15 points from Isaac Goncalves (193-F/G-90).
Flamengo stayed in the second position as they celebrated the 15th win. Flamengo overcame visiting Joinville 97:83. Marcelo Magalhaes (199-F/G-75, agency: Interperformances) erupted for 40 points to lead the hosts. Caio Torres added 14 points in the win. Jose Victor Jeronimo (208-C-91) answered with 19 points for Joinville.
Defending champions Uniceub/BRB toppled Araraquara 105:66 on the road. Arthur Silva (199-F/G-82) delivered 22 points to lead the charge. Welington Dos Santos (185-PG-81) added 21 points in the victory. Araraquara answered with 14 points from Deivisson Costa (211-C-80).
Uberlandia proved too good against Liga Sorocaba 64:53. Luis Felipe Gruber (205-F-85) chipped in 16 points for the winners. Kenny Dawkins (175-G-87, college: Lamar) answered with 15 points for Liga Sorocaba.

Sao Jose mugs Tijuca in NBB slugfest - by Mel Devonne
Its was a hot and humid night in the Tijuca section of Rio de Janeiro at the un aiir conditioned Tijuca Tenis Clube,
where Sao Jose grinded out a 89-78 road win vs Tijuca.
It was an ugly win for Sao Jose, with the game getting off to a good start, but the second half was marred by alot bad calls from
the officials, cheap shots, and flagrant fouls from both teams.
Tijuca led at the half 37-32 before things got ugly in the 3rd and fourth quarters.
A good 4th quarter by Andre Laws, and two 3s and a 4 point play by Jefferson Antonio (207-F/C-83) sealed the victory for the visiting Sao Jose team.
Jefferson led Sao Jose with 21 , while Laws finished with 14, most in the 4th quarter.
Marcellus led Tijuca with 25 points.

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

BULGARIA

Bulgaria to host European Basketball Tour 2012 - by Maria Mitzova
Bulgaria will host the European Basketball Tour in 2012. Turkey, Poland and Ukraine will arrive to Sofia for a friendly tournament scheduled for July 24 - 26. The newly build Arena Armeec will be the venue for the event.
Previous three editions of the Tour were played in Cyprus and Israel, but now the organizing agency GPK Sports Management chose Bulgaria.
All four teams will be in a final stage of preparations for the European Qualifying Round. Qualifiers start August 15th.
GPK Sports Management Managing Director Haris Papadopoulos expects the European Basketball Tour 2012 in Bulgaria to have success with gathering audience from whole Europe, with the beautiful Arena in Sofia to be a great venue for such an event.
Participating teams will be in Sofia the day before the tournament, and they will play each other in three days - 24, 25 and 26 of July.

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

CANADA

Burks hot streak powers Mill Rats to brink of playoffs - by Eurobasket News
Antonio Burks (6'6'-F-82, college: SF Austin)' hot streak powered the Saint John Mill Rats to the brink of an the NBL Canada playoff berth, 127-115, in front of 1,994 fans at Harbour Station.

Burks nailed 6 of 7 three pointers in the first half and led all scorers at the half with 20 points.

Saint John made a strong statement about their playoff aspirations by leading the game from wire to wire. They outscored the Power in every quarter except for the last.

In first quarter action, the Mill Rats jumped ahead 11-4 with 8 minutes remaining after a few baskets from Stanley Ocitti (6'8'-F/C-80, college: Binghamton) and Darren Duncan. The Power were able to come back and close the quarter trailing behind Saint John 24-22.

Oshawa's Omari Johnson (6'9'-F, college: Oregon St.) opened up the second quarter, tying the game, but it was quickly answered by a three pointer from Antonio Burks. Burks continued to nail down 5 three pointers in the second quarter. Oshawa called a timeout with 4:09 left before half after a big play by Burks stealing the ball and passing off to Kevin Francis who in turn, passed it off to Anthony Anderson (5'11'-G-81, college: Massachusetts) for 2. This gave the Mill Rats a 9 point lead, 49-40.

Mill Rats guards Anthony Anderson and Darren Duncan played together well, setting each other up for a basket, continuing the Mill Rats run, 51-40. After an and 1 play by Anderson, the Power were finally able to get a basket off a free throw, ending the Mill Rats run, 56-41. The Mill Rats closed the half 60-48.

Anderson came alive in the third quarter netting 14 points for the Mill Rats. Stanley Ocitti contributed 8 points and 5 rebounds in the third as well. The Mill Rats closed the quarter leading 93-75.

The Power fought back in the last quarter but weren't able to make a comeback. With 2:44 remaining in the game, Mill Rats PJ Young and Power's Omari Johnson both received technical fouls. Mill Rats Courtland Bluford was able to contribute 7 points for the 7 minutes he played during the last quarter.

Anthony Anderson led the Mill Rats with 25 points, 11 assists and 4 rebounds, almost securing a triple double. Antonio Burks contributed 22 points (18 of these were three pointers), and Stanley Ocitti netted 16.

Oshawa Power was led by Tut Ruach (6'2'-G-85) with 23 points, 11 assists and 5 boards, while Brandon Robinson (6'6'-F-89, college: Clayton St.) and Omari Johnson netted 21 each.

The Mill Rats rise to 16-17 while the Power fall to 14-20.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Rainmen nip Kebs in key game - by Eurobasket News
Joey Haywood stopped short of calling Thursday nights showdown against the Quebec Kebs a must-win game for the Halifax Rainmen.

But while it might not have been that in a literal sense, there was little doubt it was a victory the Rainmen sorely needed in their quest to bounce the Kebs out of second place and secure home-court advantage in the first round of the National Basketball League of Canada playoffs.

Haywood scored 20 points, including 10 in a big second-quarter uprising, and Halifax eked out a 104-100 win in front of 2,894 edgy fans at the Metro Centre who watched the Rainmen slip into a 12-point hole early and then squander a 16-point advantage in the fourth quarter.

'We didnt fold up,' Haywood said. 'Its all mental. Sometimes teams are gonna have runs but weve gotta keep on playing hard and keep on playing with intensity and we did.'

Halifax (19-12) drew to within one game of the Kebs (21-12) and stayed a few steps ahead of the Saint John Mill Rats, who downed the Oshawa Power 127-115 at Harbour Station. The Rats (16-17) still have a mathematical chance of catching the Rainmen but will have to settle for fourth with one more loss or Halifax win. Saint John is in town tonight.

The Rainmen went into Thursdays game having lost six of eight, including a contest Monday night in Saint John in which they fell behind 18-3.

Tempting fate yet again, they missed their first six field-goal attempts while Quebec scored nine points. Haywood finally got the Rainmen on the board with a jumper from the foul line 3:41 in. But they were down 19-7 before closing out the quarter on a 10-2 run, including a three-point play by Chris Hagan (5'9'-G-89, college: Midwestern St.) with 1.3 seconds remaining that left them trailing only 21-17.

In the second period, Halifax held the Kebs to 6-of-23 shooting and outscored them 32-20 - with Haywood pacing the attack - to head to the locker-room in front 49-41.

They extended that lead in the third, with Tyrone Levett (6'5'-F-80, college: Alabama St.) scoring 12 of his team-high 22 points, and were up 86-71 after Darnell Hugee converted one of two free throws 90 seconds into the fourth.

'I thought we had it there and I thought we were gonna just keep it going, keep rolling, but we let them back in,' Halifax centre Richard Anderson said, then added with a smile: 'We made it exciting for the fans, and hopefully theyll come back tomorrow.'

The faint of heart probably could have done without that level of excitement. The Kebs ripped off a 15-0 run over the next three minutes to pull within one point and Jean-Richard Volcy (6'8'-F-82, college: N.Michigan) 's jumper with 5:30 left put the Kebs on top, 90-89, for the first time since midway through the second.

Haywood responded, though, by sinking a pair of shots from the charity stripe on the next possession to restore Halifaxs lead.

Levett followed with two more free throws, then made a huge block from behind as Kebs forward Taylor King appeared to be going in for an uncontested dunk.

Quebec cut its deficit to a point two more times but Anderson drained two from the line with 39 seconds to go to make it 102-98, then hauled down a key offensive rebound after Taliek Brown missed the second of two free throws with 21 seconds remaining.

Halifax ran another 14 seconds off the clock before the Kebs managed to foul Levett, who sank a free throw to give Halifax its final margin of victory.

'They left a smaller guy on me to box me out . . . so I was able to get inside position and get the rebound,' said Anderson, who finished the night with seven points and seven boards.

Hagan added 14 points and Bryan McCullough (6'6'-F/G-83, agency: KMG Sports Management, college: NC-Asheville) had 10 for the Rainmen.

Volcy topped the Kebs with 30 and MVP candidate Ralphy Holmes (6'4'-G-79, college: CS Fullerton) netted 25.

Courtesy of https://thechronicleherald.ca

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Manny PASQUALE
  Laure.
  (183-G-)
  Avg: 24.7

1. Pasquale, Laure.	24.7
2. King, TRU	23.1
3. Barbeau, Western	23.0
4. Dorsey, Cape Bret.	22.5
5. Fassett, St.Mary's	21.6
6. Barrett, Saskatch.	21.0
7. Mackinnon, Victoria	20.1
8. Ferguson, Alberta	19.7
9. Kok, TRU	19.3
10. Yu, UBC	19.0

Rebounds Per Game

Lien PHILLIP
  Windsor
  (203-F-89)
  Avg: 12

1. Phillip, Windsor	12.0
2. Lieffers, Saskatch.	11.2
3. Burke, UBC	10.7
4. Baker, Alberta	10.5
5. King, TRU	10.1
6. Coward, Lethbridge	9.8
7. Klassen, Acadia	9.6
8. Lual, UPEI	9.1
9. Desroches, New B.	8.8
10. Buckley, Laurier	8.5

Assists Per Game

Jimmy DORSEY
  Cape Breton
  (188-G-)
  Avg: 8.9

1. Dorsey, Cape Bret.	8.9
2. Barrett, Saskatch.	6.9
3. Collins, Windsor	6.0
4. Cunningham, Winnip.	5.8
5. Kanza Mata, Dalho.	5.7
6. Smith, TWU	5.6
7. Bonhomme, Brandon	5.6
8. Allin, Laurier	5.4
9. Kraus, Brock	5.3
10. Vernon, St.Franc.	5.2

Steals Per Game

Evens LAROCHE
  Concordia
  (193-F-)
  Avg: 2.9

1. Laroche, Concordia	2.9
2. Dorsey, Cape Bret.	2.8
3. Thomas, St.Franc.	2.7
4. Cote-K., UQ.	2.6
5. Carter, Lakehead	2.6
6. Collins, Windsor	2.6
7. Ogungbemi, Calgary	2.5
8. Oliver, Manitoba	2.5
9. Desmarais, Conco.	2.4
10. Russel, Lakehead	2.4

Blocks Per Game

Mike ANDREWS
  Bishop's
  (208-C-)
  Avg: 1.9

1. Andrews, Bishop's	1.9
2. Glisic, Toronto Un.	1.8
3. Bains, UBC	1.6
4. Fidler, Calgary	1.5
5. Coward, Lethbridge	1.4
6. Klassen, Acadia	1.4
7. Duke, UPEI	1.3
8. Dewar, Alberta	1.1
9. Ezenibe, St.Mary's	1.1
10. Bakovic, Calgary	1.1

CIS Standings

CIS Standings

Atlantic
1. St.Francis X.		15-4
2. Acadia		12-6
3. UPEI		12-7
4. Cape Breton		11-8
5. St.Mary's		9-10
6. Dalhousie		8-10
7. New Brunsw.		6-12
8. Memorial		1-17
CanWest Pacific Division
1. Victoria		14-4
2. UFV		13-5
3. UBC		13-5
4. TWU		10-8
5. TRU		6-12
6. UBC Okanagan		3-15
CanWest Prairie Division
1. Saskatchewan		16-4
2. Alberta		14-6
3. Lethbridge		11-9
4. Calgary		10-10
5. Manitoba		8-12
6. Brandon		7-13
7. Regina		5-15
8. Winnipeg		4-16
OUA East
1. Carleton		22-0
2. Ryerson		13-9
3. Ottawa		13-9
4. Laurentian		11-11
5. Toronto Univ.		10-12
6. York		5-17
7. Queen's		2-20
8. RMC		0-22
OUA West
1. Lakehead		21-2
2. McMaster		17-5
3. Laurier		16-6
4. Windsor		15-7
5. Brock		10-13
6. Guelph		8-14
7. Western		8-14
8. Waterloo		6-16
Quebec League
1. Concordia		12-2
2. McGill		9-6
3. UQAM		7-7
4. Laval		4-10
5. Bishop's		4-11

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CHINA

Stats Leaders - CBA

Points Per Game

J.R. SMITH
  Zhejiang C.
  (198-G-85)
  Avg: 34.4

1. Smith, Zhejiang C.	34.4
2. Hudson, Qingdao DS	33.6
3. Williams, Shanxi Z.	32.1
4. Gaines, Shanxi Zh.	29.4
5. McDonald, Fujian X.	28.1
6. Pickett, Xinjiang.	27.7
7. Akognon, DongGuan.	27.4
8. Roberson, Fujian XX	26.9
9. Chandler, Guangsha.	26.6
10. Mills, Xinjiang.	26.5

Rebounds Per Game

Donnell HARVEY
  TianJin R.
  (203-F/C-80)
  Avg: 14.6

1. Harvey, TianJin R.	14.6
2. Abbas, Fujian XX	14.5
3. Ramos, Guangsha L.	13.6
4. Gaines, Shanxi Zh.	13.5
5. Oyedeji, Qingdao DS	13.1
6. Hunter, Shandong	12.5
7. Lawal, Xinjiang.	12.3
8. Harris, Shanghai S.	12.2
9. Boone, Zhejiang C.	12.2
10. Randolph, DongGu.	12.0

Assists Per Game

Osama DAGHLES
  Jilin N.
  (198-G-79)
  Avg: 7.3

1. Daghles, Jilin N.	7.3
2. Yang, Liaoning H.	6.5
3. Marbury, Beijing	6.4
4. Hudson, Qingdao DS	6.3
5. Lu, Shanxi Zh.	5.8
6. Brooks, Guandong	4.7
7. Mengke, Xinjiang.	4.5
8. Fahed, TianJin R.	4.4
9. Oyedeji, Qingdao DS	4.3
10. Zhang, Liaoning H.	4.2

Steals Per Game

Tim PICKETT
  Xinjiang.
  (193-G/F-81)
  Avg: 2.9

1. Pickett, Xinjiang.	2.9
2. Hudson, Qingdao DS	2.9
3. Williams, Shanxi Z.	2.6
4. Daghles, Jilin N.	2.5
5. Lee, Beijing Ducks	2.5
6. Smith, Zhejiang C.	2.5
7. Vroman, Jiangsu D.	2.4
8. Lu, Shanxi Zh.	2.4
9. Marbury, Beijing	2.2
10. Anderson, Shando.	2.1

Blocks Per Game

ZhongHao XU
  Bayi Fubang
  (212-C-90)
  Avg: 2.3

1. Xu, Bayi Fubang	2.3
2. Boone, Zhejiang C.	1.7
3. Zhang, Shanghai S.	1.7
4. Douthit, Foshan	1.6
5. Randolph, DongGua.	1.6
6. Vroman, Jiangsu D.	1.6
7. Watkins, Jilin N.	1.5
8. Morris, Beijing Du.	1.5
9. Abbas, Fujian XX	1.4
10. Lawal, Xinjiang.	1.3

CBA Round 2 of Quarter-Finals - by Eurobasket News
Xinjiang F.T. - DongGuan L. 93-82

The game was mostly controlled by Xinjiang Flying Tige. DongGuan Leopards managed to win fourth quarter 26-23. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. American-Nigerian power forward Ike Diogu (203-83, college: Arizona St.) scored 29 points and 9 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and international guard Tal Co (191-91) chipped in 21 points and 13 rebounds during the contest. Four Xinjiang Flying Tige players scored in double figures. Nigerian-American guard Josh-Emmanuel Akognon (180-86, college: CS Fullerton) responded with 31 points and American forward Shavlik Randolph (208-83, college: Duke) scored 18 points and 7 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games.
Top scorers:
Xinjiang F.T.: D.Ike 29+9reb, C.Tal 21+13reb+3ast, P.Tim 12+5reb+2ast, T.ZhengDong 10+5reb+1ast, X.GuoChong 7+1ast, Y.Changdong 4+3reb
DongGuan L.: A.Josh-Emmanuel 31+2reb+1ast, R.Shavlik 18+7reb+1ast, Q.Biao 11+3reb+1ast, Z.Kai 6+6reb+4ast, F.Qi 5, L.Muhao 5+5reb

Shanxi Zh. - Shanghai S. 99-95

It looked good early as Shanghai Sharks took an 10-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Shanxi Zhongyu had a 30-17 second period charge getting the lead and Shanghai Sharks were not able to take back game control losing it eventually 95-99. Shanghai Sharks were plagued by 33 personal fouls down the stretch. Americans were the main players on the court. Forward Charles Gaines (201-81, college: S.Mississippi) notched a double-double by scoring 31 points and 17 rebounds to lead the effort and swingman Marcus Williams (201-86, college: Arizona, agency: Interperformances) supported him with 28 points and 6 rebounds. Even 30 points and 6 rebounds by forward Marcus Landry (201-85, college: Wisconsin) did not help to save the game for Shanghai Sharks. Forward Mike Harris (198-83, college: Rice) added 20 points and 10 rebounds for the guests. Both coaches tested many bench players in such tough game.
Top scorers:
Shanxi Zh.: G.Charles 31+17reb+3ast, W.Marcus 28+6reb+1ast, L.XiaoMing 15+1reb+4ast, P.Jiang 9+2ast, B.ZhaoBao 6+4reb, Y.PengFei 6+6reb
Shanghai S.: L.Marcus 30+6reb+1ast, H.Mike 20+10reb, Z.ZhaoXu 15+13reb, L.Wei 8+2reb+4ast, P.Fei 5+5reb, W.Yong-Liang 4+5reb+3ast

Guandong ST - Fujian XX 116-104

The game was mostly controlled by Guandong Tigers. Fujian SBS XunXin was better in second period 26-22. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Guandong Tigers forced 19 Fujian SBS XunXin turnovers. American point guard Aaron Brooks (183-85, college: Oregon) notched 23 points to lead the effort and international forward FangYu Zhu (201-83) supported him with 21 points and 5 rebounds (on 9-of-11 shooting from the field). Even a double-double of 24 points and 17 rebounds by American center Will McDonald (211-79, college: S.Florida) did not help to save the game for Fujian SBS XunXin. Center Hang Li (204-86) added 13 points and 7 rebounds for the guests. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches tested many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest.
Top scorers:
Guandong ST: B.Aaron 23+4reb+3ast, Z.FangYu 21+5reb+3ast, W.ShiPeng 13+3reb+3ast, S.James 12+9reb+3ast, H.Dong 10+6reb+3ast, W.Zheng 10+4reb
Fujian XX: M.Will 24+17reb+1ast, G.Lei 15+3reb+1ast, L.Yi Ting 14+3reb+2ast, Z.TaiLong 14+4reb+1ast, L.Hang 13+7reb, G.SongLin 10+1reb+3ast

Beijing Ducks - Guangsha L. 104-87

The game was mostly controlled by Beijing Ducks. Zhejiang Guangsha Lions was better in fourth quarter 23-18. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Beijing Ducks forced 21 Zhejiang Guangsha Lions turnovers. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 22 assists. American power forward Randolph Morris (211-86, college: Kentucky) notched 20 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists to lead the effort and forward Xiaochuan Zhai (205-93) supported him with 17 points and 9 rebounds. Even a double-double of 23 points and 10 rebounds by American power forward Rodney White (206-80, college: Charlotte) did not help to save the game for Zhejiang Guangsha Lions. American-Puerto Rican center Peter John Ramos (222-85) added 22 points and 10 rebounds for the guests. Five Beijing Ducks and four Zhejiang Guangsha Lions players scored in double figures. Both coaches tested many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest.
Top scorers:
Beijing Ducks: Z.YanXi 20+4reb+1ast, M.Randolph 20+7reb+4ast, Z.Xiaochuan 17+9reb, M.Stephon 14+4reb+7ast, C.Lei 12+2reb+1ast, J.Zhe 5+5reb+1ast
Guangsha L.: W.Rodney 23+10reb+3ast, R.Peter John 22+10reb, W.Zirui 15+3reb+1ast, L.Chih-Chieh 12+4reb+4ast, J.Lipeng 5+4reb, Z.Wei 4+3reb

Guangdong, Beijing, Shanxi Take 2-0 Leads in Playoffs - by Arthur Volbert
Guangdong, Beijing and Shanxi took 2-0 leads in their best-of-five playoff series while Xinjiang evened its series with Dongguan 1=1.

Aaron Brooks had 23 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists as Guangdong crushed Fujian 116-104. Zhu Fangyu had 21 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists. Wang Shipeng had 13 points, 3 rebounds and 3 assists. James Singleton had 12 points and 9 rebounds. Wang Zheng, Zhou Peng and Dong Hanlin each scored 10. Dong grabbed 6 rebounds. Liu Xiaoyu had 9 points and 5 rebounds. Anthony Roberson again did not play for Fujian. Will McDonald had 24 points and 17 rebounds. Guo Lei scored 15 and Zhao Tailong and Luo Yiting had 14. Li Hang had 13 points and 7 rebounds. Gong Songlin scored 10.

Beijing topped Zhejiang Guangsha 104-87. Randolph Morris had 20 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists. Zhu Yanxi had 20 points and 4 rebounds. Zhai Xiaochuan had 17 points and 9 rebounds. Stephon Marbury had 14 points, 4 rebounds and 7 assists. Chen Lei scored 12. Rodney White had 23 points and 10 rebounds for Guangsha. Peter John Ramos had 22 points and 10 rebounds. Wang Zirui had 15 points and 3 rebounds. Lin Chih-Chieh had 12 points, 4 rebounds and 4 assists.

Gaines Charles (201-F-81, college: S.Mississippi) had 31 points and 17 rebounds as Shanxi edged Shanghai 99-95. Marcus Williams had 28 points and 6 rebounds. Lv Xiaoming had 15 points, 4 assists and 6 steals. Pan Jiang scored 9. Yan Pengfei had 6 points and 6 rebounds and Bao Zhaobao had 6 points and 4 rebounds. Marcus Landry had 30 points and 6 rebounds for Shanghai. Michael Harris had 20 points and 10 rebounds. Zhang Zhaoxu had 15 points and 13 rebounds. Liu Wei had 8 points and 4 assists.

Xinjiang overcame Dongguan 93-82. Ike Dioju had 29 points, 9 rebounds and 3 blocks. Xirelijiang had 21 points, 13 rebounds and 3 assists. Tim Pickett had 12 points and 5 rebounds. Tang Zhengdong had 10 points and 5 rebounds. Mengke Bateer had 4 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists. Josh Akognon scored 31 for Dongguan. Shavlik Randolph had 18 points and 7 rebounds. Qiu Biao scored 11. Zhang Kai had 6 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. Sun Tonglin had 2 points and 9 rebounds. Gu Quan had 2 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists. Li Muhao had 5 points and 5 rebounds.

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

CYPRUS

Important announcement for all coaches - by Dr. Nasios Orinos
With the regular season over and with playoffs approaching, Eurobasket.com has run different analyses that can be useful for all teams.

IMPORTANT STATISTICS

1) All Cyprus League scoring (all teams together) averages at 78.5 pts/round. Same time last year this was at 70 pts.
2) League's best scoring teams (average)= Apollon 86.5 pts/game and Keravnos 83.1 pts/game (Ael's games in which it battled without Bosman or American players are not included in the calculation for consistency purposes)
3) Best scoring team on the road= Apollon 82 pts/game and Keravnos 81 pts/game

Team - Total Point Average
Apoel=78.6
Apollon=86.5
Etha=76.8
Keravnos=83.1
Omonoia=77.7
Enad=74.3
Aek=74.3
Ael=76.6

Team - Home Court Average
Apoel=83.4
Apollon=91.3
Etha=79.3
Keravnos=85.5
Omonoia=77.3
Enad=76
Aek=76.4
Ael=73.8

Team - On the Road Average
Apoel=73.9
Apollon=81.7
Etha=74.6
Keravnos=80.7
Omonoia=78
Enad=72.9
Aek=71
Ael=81.3

4) League's worst scoring team (average)= Enad and Aek =74.3 pts/game
5) League's best defensive team = Keravnos accepting 70.2 pts/game
6) League's best turnover team= Keravnos, averages 13.3 turnovers /game - besides its ability to score high, Keravnos wins mainly because it accepts a low average of points plus it keeps its turnovers low.
7) League's top scorer =Palalas - Ael + Subotic - Aek
8) Leagues top rebounder= Garcia - Aek and Watkins - Etha
9) Leagues top stealer = Panteli - Aek
10) Leagues top assist man=Nicolas Papadopoulos - Omonoia

Conclusion about the regular season

1)It looks like Keravnos has been the most stable team. It has the 2nd best offense and the best defense in the league and the best turnover average.
2)5 teams will battle for the championship (AEK, Apoel, Apollon, Etha and Keravnos).
3)ONLY 4 teams (Apoel, Apollon, Keravnos, Etha) have a positive indicator (score more pts than they accept).
4)ONLY 3 teams, Apoel, Keravnos and Apollon have been scoring above the cutoff point (78).
5)Keravnos and Apollon have been the two best scoring teams so far.
6)Keravnos has been the best defensive team so far with 70.2 points.
7)Strange but true, Aek has the league's top scorer, rebounder and stealer.

Note:

Statistics are provided by the Cyprus Statistical Service BUT are processed and analysed by eurobasket.com.

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

CZECH REPUBLIC

Standings - D2

1Liga Standings

1. J.Hradec		22-1
2. Sparta Praha		18-4
3. Opava B		17-6
4. Proton Zlin		15-7
5. Sokol H.Kralove		14-8
6. Sokol Prazsky		13-10
7. Liberec		10-12
8. Trutnov		10-12
9. Vysehrad		10-12
10. Litomerice		8-14
11. Prostejov B		8-14
12. Benesov		8-14
13. Mlada Boleslav		2-21
14. Kladno		1-21

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

DENMARK

Standings - 1st Division

1st Division Standings

1. Amager BK		15-3
2. Randers		15-3
3. Lemvig		12-5
4. Aarhus BF		12-6
5. Koge BK		11-7
6. Glostrup		9-9
7. Stevnsgade		8-8
8. Virum		7-9
9. Haderslev		6-12
10. Jonstrup		5-12
11. ALBA		4-12
12. Solrod		0-18

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

D-LEAGUE

All-Star Game 2012: Replacements announced - by Eurobasket News
Five NBA D-League top prospects were today selected as replacements in the 2012 NBA Development League All-Star Game presented by 26 seconds. On the West Team's roster, Zachary Andrews (6'8'-F/C-85, college: Bradley) (Los Angeles) will replace Brandon Costner (Los Angeles), Tyren Johnson (6'8'-F-88, college: La-Lafayette) (Rio Grande Valley) will replace Lance Thomas (New Orleans Hornets/Austin Toros), and Leo Criswell-Lyons (6'9'-F-87, college: Missouri) (Austin Toros) will replace Greg Smith (Houston Rockets/Rio Grande Valley Vipers). For the East, Ehambe Moses Randall (6'6'-G/F-86, college: ORU) (Iowa Energy) will replace Walker Russell (Detroit Pistons/Fort Wayne Mad Ants) and Lawrence Hill (6'8'-F-87, college: Stanford) (Maine Red Claws) will replace Tyrell Biggs (Canton Charge).
Russell, Thomas, and Smith are all being replaced following GATORADE Call-Ups to the NBA, while Biggs and Costner will sit out the game due to injury. The original 20 NBA D-League All-Stars were selected by a combination of the League's 16 head coaches and a fan vote.

Lyons, a 6-9, 240-pound forward out of Missouri is among the NBA D-League's leaders in scoring (16.6 points per game) and rebounds (8.8 rebounds per game) while Andrews, a 6-9, 230-pound forward out of Bradley ranks second in the NBA D-League in field goal percentage (.650) as a member of the NBA D-League-leading D-Fenders, who currently own a 26-10 record. Johnson is averaging 11.8 points and 5.2 rebounds for the Vipers. Ehambe is the Energy's second-leading scorer with 14.3 points per game and Hill is averaging 13.0 points and 7.0 rebounds for the Red Claws.

The sixth annual NBA D-League All-Star Game presented by 26 Seconds will take place on Saturday, Feb. 25 on Center Court at NBA All-Star Jam Session and will be televised live on NBA TV at 2 p.m. ET. The fifth-annual NBA Development League Dream Factory presented by Haier will begin at halftime of the All-Star Game with the Dunk Contest, which will also air live on NBA TV. Dream Factory will resume after the game concludes with the Shooting Stars and the 3-Point Competition.

NBA D-League All-Stars must be on an active NBA D-League roster in order to participate in the game.

The complete 2012 NBA D-League All-Star teams are listed below.

EAST ALL-STAR ROSTER

No. Player (Team) Pos. Ht. Wt. College

21 Marqus Blakely (Sioux Falls) F 6-5 220 Vermont

24 JamesOn Curry (Springfield) G 6-4 200 Oklahoma State

17 Ehambe Moses Randall (Iowa) G/F 6-6 215 Oral Roberts

21 Jeff Foote (Springfield) C 7-0 265 Cornell

24 Charles Garcia (Sioux Falls) C 6-10 230 Seattle

23 Lawrence Hill (Maine) F 6-8 235 Stanford

21 Darnell Lazare (Fort Wayne) F 6-8 240 Louisiana State

9 Keith McLeod (Erie) G 6-2 190 Bowling Green

6 Jerry Smith (Springfield) G 6-2 190 Louisville

24 Edwin Ubiles (Dakota) F 6-6 204 Siena

Head Coach: Kevin Young (Iowa)

Assistant Coaches: Gene Cross (Iowa)

Athletic Trainer: Jeremy MacVarish (Iowa)

WEST ALL-STAR ROSTER

No. Player (Team) Pos. Ht. Wt. College

13 Blake Ahearn (Reno) G 6-3 190 Missouri State

34 Zachary Andrews (Los Angeles) F 6-9 230 Bradley

9 Justin Dentmon (Austin) G 6-0 185 Washington

11 Jerome Dyson (Tulsa) G 6-3 180 Connecticut

15 Andre Emmett (Reno) F 6-5 220 Texas Tech

24 Gerald Green (Los Angeles) F 6-8 220 Gulf Shores Academy, TX (HS)

18 Tyren Johnson (Rio Grande Valley) F 6-7 225 Louisiana-Lafayette

33 Marcus Lewis (Tulsa) F 6-8 245 Oral Roberts

6 Leo Criswell-Lyons (Austin) F 6-9 240 Missouri

18 Elijah Millsap (Los Angeles) G 6-5 215 Alabama-Birmingham

Head Coach: Brad Jones (Austin)

Assistant Coaches: Taylor Jenkins (Austin), Alex Lloyd (Austin)

Athletic Trainer: Nixon Dorvilien (Austin)

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

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

ESTONIA

Baltic League. Tarvas enter Challenge Cup Final - by Eurobasket News
Tarvas - Sakalai 102:91

Rakvere Tarvas became the first finalists of Baltic League Challenge Cup. They defeated Sakalai for the second time in a row to seal the birth in the title series. Juris Umbrasko (197-G/F-79) stepped up with 33 points to lead the Estonian team.
Tarvas enjoyed a 7-point buffer after the game in Lithuania. The teams stayed close throughout the starting frame. The scoreboard read 22:22 after ten minutes of action. Sakalai fired 27 points in the second term to pull ahead for a narrow 49:48 halftime lead. Rakvere however exploded with 32 points in the third term to take a comfortable 80:64 lead at the final break. Sakalai fought till the final second but the mission was too difficult to be achieved. Tarvas will play in the Challenge Cup Final. Rinalds Sirsnins (186-PG-85) provided 26 points, while Kaspars Cipruss (210-C-82, agency: Interperformances) added 15 points for the winners. Virginijus Sirvydis (196-G/F-73) answered with 21 points for Sakalai. Evaldas Baniulis (201-F-87, college: S.Carolina) had 19 points in the loss.

Tarvas: Juris Umbrasko 33, Rinalds Sirsnins 26, Kaspars Cipruss 15
Sakalai: Virginijus Sirvydis 21, Evaldas Baniulis 19

Brandis Raley-Ross claims Estonian KML weekly honour - by Eurobasket News
American Brandis Raley-Ross (188-G-87) had an amazing evening in the last round for Tln Kalev and that's him to receive a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 21.
The 24-year old guard had the game-high 21 points adding nine rebounds and five assists for Tln Kalev in his team's victory, helping them to beat TTU (#5, 9-10) 74-60. Tln Kalev maintains the 6th position in Estonian KML. Tln Kalev is rather a weak team placed in lower part in the standings. They need more victories to improve their 8-15 record. Raley-Ross turned to be Tln Kalev's top player in his first season with the team. University of South Carolina graduate has very impressive stats this year. Raley-Ross is in league's top in points (6th best: 17.5ppg) and averages solid 2.0spg.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 24-year old Latvian guard Reinis Strupovics (192-G-87) of Valga/CKE. Strupovics impressed basketball fans with 27 points, 8 rebounds and 3 assists. Bad luck as Valga lost that game 78-89 to the higher-ranked Tartu Ulikool (#1, 19-2). Valga are still at the very bottom. 19 lost games are too many comparing to just three victories Valga managed to get this year. Strupovics is one of the most experienced players at Valga and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 20.9ppg (#1).

The third best performed player last round was Toomas Raadik (202-C-90) of Parnu (#7). Raadik scored 29 points and grabbed eleven rebounds (!!!). Despite Raadik's great performance Parnu lost 69-94 to the higher-ranked Kalev/Cramo (#2, 14-2). But his team cannot count on just a single shooter as he also needs help of the other teammates. Parnu can only dream about fighting for top spots in the league. They have rather bad season and 3-17 record places them close to the bottom of the standings. Too bad for Raadik he does not play for a better team. But maybe if he did, his season stats would not be that high. Raadik has individually a great season in Estonia. After 20 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 19.0ppg (2nd best) and rebounds with 7.8rpg (6th best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Lauris Blaus (204-C-90) of Valga - 16 points, 8 rebounds and 2 assists
5. Sten-Timmu Sokk (181-G-89) of Tartu Ulikool - 18 points, 3 rebounds and 6 assists
6. Valmo Kriisa (190-G-74) of Tartu Ulikool - 18 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists
7. Armands Skele (192-G-83) of Kalev/Cramo - 15 points, 8 rebounds and 3 assists
8. Bamba Fall (216-C-86) of Kalev/Cramo - 11 points and 8 rebounds
9. Kaido Saks (207-F-86) of Kalev/Cramo - 16 points and 5 rebounds
10. Marek Doronin (200-F/G-83) of Tartu Ulikool - 14 points

The Player of the week is chosen based on efficiency calculation, but also including game result, importance of the game, if played recorded double-double/triple-double, etc.
The efficiency formula is a combination of various formulas used by different basketball organizations/leagues. We got involved many basketball scouts and journalists to assure it's accuracy.
The formula: 1.5*PTS + 3* (REB+AST+ST+BL-TO) - 2*BSAG - 4*PF + 3*PFRV + 4* (2FGPM+3FGPM) + 1.5*FTM - 3* (2FGPA-2FGPM) - 3* (3FGPA-3FGPM) - (FTA-FTM)

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

EUROLEAGUE

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Mirza TELETOVIC
  Caja L.
  (206-F-85)
  Avg: 22

1. Teletovic, Caja L.	22.0
2. Spanoulis, Olympia.	17.9
3. McCalebb, Montepa.	17.6
4. Mallet, Spirou	16.6
5. Weems, Zalgiris	16.3
6. Domercant, Unics	16.1
7. Macvan, Partizan	15.3
8. Lorbek, FCB Regal	14.9
9. Krstic, CSKA	14.8
10. Carroll, Real Mad.	14.7

Rebounds Per Game

Milan MACVAN
  Partizan
  (206-C-89)
  Avg: 8.2

1. Macvan, Partizan	8.2
2. Motiejunas, Asseco	7.9
3. Kirilenko, CSKA	7.4
4. Slaughter, Brose B.	6.9
5. Akingbala, Nancy	6.9
6. Freeland, Unicaja	6.7
7. Kasun, KK.	6.6
8. Bourousis, Armani	6.5
9. May, KK.	6.4
10. Krstic, CSKA	6.4

Assists Per Game

Omar-Sharif COOK
  Armani Mit
  (186-PG-82)
  Avg: 5.5

1. Cook, Armani Mit	5.5
2. Rodriguez, Real M.	5.4
3. Batum, Nancy	5.2
4. Teodosic, CSKA	4.9
5. Diamantidis, Panat.	4.9
6. Prigioni, Caja L.	4.6
7. Blassingame, Assec.	4.5
8. Tunceri, Anadolu	4.5
9. Huertas, FCB Regal	4.3
10. Farmar, Maccabi	4.0

Steals Per Game

Pablo PRIGIONI
  Caja L.
  (191-G-77)
  Avg: 2.2

1. Prigioni, Caja L.	2.2
2. Gordon, Galatasaray	2.1
3. Sefolosha, Fener.U.	2.1
4. Linehan, Nancy	2.0
5. Slaughter, Brose B.	1.8
6. Batum, Nancy	1.7
7. Kirilenko, CSKA	1.7
8. McCalebb, Montepa.	1.6
9. Diamantidis, Panat.	1.6
10. Kinsey, Anadolu	1.6

Blocks Per Game

Andrei KIRILENKO
  CSKA
  (205-F-81)
  Avg: 2.4

1. Kirilenko, CSKA	2.4
2. Ibaka, Real Madrid	2.0
3. Riddick, Spirou	1.6
4. Begic, Real Madrid	1.6
5. Ilyasova, Anadolu	1.5
6. Fischer, Gescrap BB	1.4
7. Hendrix, Maccabi	1.3
8. Vazquez, FCB Regal	1.3
9. Slaughter, Brose B.	1.3
10. Perovic, FCB Regal	1.1

Top 16: Exciting Round Five - by Eurobasket Center

Group E

CSKA - Olympiakos 96-64
CSKA Moscow is the first team who booked a spot for the Euroleague Playoffs this season. The Russian powerhouse blasted Olympiakos 96-64 for 4-1 record in Group E. It is already clear that CSKA will be the winner of this pool at the end of Top 16. Andrey Vorontsevich (204-C-87) scored 15 points for the hosts, Milos Teodosic (195-G-87) had 14, while Darjus Lavrinovic (212-C-79) added 12 points and 5 rebounds. Andrei Kirilenko (205-F-81) collected 11 points and 7 boards. CSKA Moscow took control on Olympiakos from the very beginning and never looked back. Visitors got 12 points from Vassilis Spanoulis (193-G-82, agency: Beo Basket), who was their only player with double-digits. Pero Antic (210-F-82, agency: Beo Basket), Konstantinos Sloukas (197-G-90), Michalis Pelekanos (198-F-81) and Martynas Gecevicius (193-G-88) stopped to 7 points each. Olympiakos dropped to 2-3, but still controls its destiny and can advance to the playoffs with a win over GS Medical Park at home next week. Quarters: 30-16, 24-10, 18-18, 24-20. CSKA Moscow will meet Anadolu Efes in Istanbul.

Galatasaray - Anadolu Efes 64-56
Galatasaray Medical Park handed 64-56 loss to Anadolu Efes on Wednesday night. It means that Galata improved to 3-2 record in Group E of the Euroleague Top 16 and will have to beat Olympiakos as a guest in the next round to reach the Playoffs. Anadolu Efes dropped to 1-4 with no chance to advance. Luksa Andric (210-C-85, agency: Beo Basket) stepped up for the winners with 15 points and 7 rebounds. Joshua Shipp (196-G/F-86, college: UCLA), Jamon Lukas Gordon (191-G-84, college: Virginia Tech) and Jaka Lakovic (186-G-78) netted 9 points apiece. For Anadolu Efes, Stanko Barac (217-C-86) collected 16 points and 5 rebs. Sasha Vujacic (200-G-84) had 15 points and 8 rebounds, while Sinan Guler (193-G-83, agency: 1x1 Sports, college: Carroll, MT) stopped to 7 points. Galatasaray had a great start. They made 20-13 lead after ten minutes and jumped to 39-24 during the second period. Efes finally responded and cut the margin to 39-32 at the halftime. Ten minutes later it was 50-45 and Galatasaray opened the last period with 8-3 run. Efes came to minus six in the finish, but Jaka Lakovic iced the game from the line, 64-56, with 15.6 seconds left. Quarters: 20-13, 19-19, 11-13, 14-11. As mentioned above, Galatasaray will play in Greece next week. Anadolu Efes waits CSKA Moscow.

Group F

Real Madrid - Unicaja 86-65
Real Madrid demonstrated its power against Unicaja celebrating 86-65 home win in Round 5 of the Euroleague Top 16. Thanks to this victory Real Madrid joined Bilbao on the second place in Group F with 3-2 record. Unicaja stays the only winless team in this pool. The two Playoff berths from this group will be decided in the final week as the three teams still have options to advance. Nikola Mirotic (207-F/C-91) led the hosts with double-double of 18 points and 10 rebounds. Sergio Llull (190-PG-87) scored 15 and Jaycee Carroll (188-PG-83, agency: Priority Sports) followed with 2 points less. In the loosing squad, Gerald Fitch (191-G-82, agency: SportsTalent, college: Kentucky) delivered 15 points. Augusto Cesar Lima (206-C-91) (7 rebs) and Hrvoje Peric (203-F-85) scored 12 and 11 pts respectively. Unicaja had a great start as they made 14-22 lead in the first ten minutes, but Real Madrid took control on them after that and never looked back. Real tied the score at the HT and took 6-point lead before the last ten minutes, when they smashed Unicaja with impressive 27-12 for the final 86-65 victory. In the last and crucial round of Top 16, Real Madrid will meet Montepaschi in Siena. Unicaja waits Bilbao.

Gescrap BB - Montepaschi 60-59
Bilbao grabbed 60-59 thriller win against Montepaschi on Wednesday night for 3-2 record in Group F of the Euroleague Top 16. Bilbao will clinch a Playoffs spot with another win or if Real Madrid loses any of its remaining Top 16 games. Despite defeat, Montepaschi stays No.1 in this pool with 4-1 record. Marko Banic (205-F-84) top-scored for the winners with 16 points and he pulled down 8 rebounds. Raul Lopez (183-G-80) followed him with 15 points, but he was a hero of the night as he buried the game-winning shot at the buzzer. Montepaschi was 58-59 up and Bilbao had 6.4 seconds for the last possession, what was enough for the experienced Spanish point guard to bring Bilbao one of the biggest wins in its history. Alex Mumbru (202-F-79) added 10 points for the hosts. In Montepaschi, Igor Rakocevic (193-G-78) had 14 points and Bo McCalebb (183-PG-85, college: New Orleans) added two less. David Moss (196-F-83, agency: SportsTalent, college: Indiana St.) stopped to 10 points. Quarters: 7-8, 14-14, 18-17, 21-20. In the last round of Top 16, Bibao will meet Unicaja on the road. Montepaschi waits Real Madrid.

Group G

Fener.Ulker - Unics 94-87 OT
In one of the most exciting games in Top 16 history, Fenerbahce Ulker rallied from a 13-point fourth-quarter deficit to edge Unics 94-87 in overtime in front of almost 12,000 fans at Ulker Sports Arena in Istanbul, Turkey in Group G on Thursday. Unics was better than FB Ulker in the first round 76-71, so Fener needed at least 6-point win to keep their Playoffs hopes alive. The hosts managed to do it and they needed an extra five minutes to improve its record to 2-3 in Group G. Unics slipped to 3-2 and the last round will give us an answer who will advance to the next stage. Unics will advance if they beat PAO next week or if Fener losses to Armani in Milano. In order to advance, Fener needs to beat Armani and PAO to win in Kazan. Bojan Bogdanovic (203-G/F-89) had 20 points and 5 rebounds for Fener last night. Roko-Leni Ukic (196-G-84) scored 18 and Emir Preldzic (205-F-87, agency: Beo Basket) added 13 points. Unics got 33 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists from Lynn Greer (186-PG-79, college: Temple) (valuation 43). Michael Wilkinson (204-F-81, agency: Interperformances, college: Wisconsin) (5 rebs) and Henry Domercant (192-G-80, college: E.Illinois) scored 17 and 13 points respectively. Unics held 73-79 lead with 1:23 remaining in regular time. Emir Preldzic and Bojan Bogdanovic made free throws to bring FB Ulker within 77-79 with 25.5 seconds left in regulation. Wilkinson missed foul shots and Roko-Leni Ukic beat the shot clock with a rainbow jumper that sent the game to overtime, 79-79, setting Ulker Sports Arena on fire. The hosts jumped to 87-83 during the OT and later free throws by Preldzic and Bogdanovic allowed FB Ulker to get a 94-87 lead with 6 seconds left. Unics had the last possession, but they were unable to score. Quarters: 21-26, 21-18, 13-24, 24-11, 15-8 OT. Last round of Top 16 phase for Group G teams is scheduled for February 29.

Panathinaikos - Armani Mit 58-67
EA7 Emporio Armani Milan celebrated 58-67 victory at OAKA last night, but that was not enough as PAO won 57-78 in Milano more than a month ago. It means that Armani improved to 2-3 in Group G, but with no chance to advance. At the same time, PAO booked a spot for the Playoffs despite they dropped to 3-2. Nicolo Melli (205-F-91) top-scored in victory with 13 points. Antonis Fotsis (210-F-81) and Ioannis Bourousis (212-C-83, agency: FCM) had 12 points each in this meeting and they grabbed 17 rebounds together. In PAO, Dimitris Diamantidis (196-G-80) netted 12 points and Mike Batiste (203-F-77, college: Arizona St.) had 11 points, plus 7 rebounds. Ian Vougioukas (212-C/F-85, college: St.Louis) and David Logan (184-G-82, college: Indianapolis) stopped to 7 pts each. Visitors had 51-65 lead with 4 minutes to go. Nicolo Melli dunked then Romain Sato answered with a layup, but Panathinaikos could do little more than cut the margin of defeat, adding a Batiste layup and Sato free throws. Quarters: 11-16, 21-18, 14-19, 12-14. In the last round of Top 16, Panathinaikos will meet Unics in Kazan. Armani will host Fenerbahce Ulker.

Group H

Maccabi T-A - Zalgiris 70-66
Maccabi Electra had to work very hard to beat Zalgiris 70-66 on Thursday night. Thanks to this victory the Israeli powerhouse jumped to 3-2 in Group H and booked a ticket for the Euroleague Playoffs. Zalgiris remains the only winless team in this pool with 0-5 record. Keith Langford (193-G/F-83, college: Kansas) was the leading scorer in victory with 17 points. Richard Hendrix (203-F/C-86, college: Alabama) had 11 points and 9 rebounds, while Sofoklis Schortsanitis (206-C-85) nailed 10 points. Sonny Weems (198-G/F-86, college: Arkansas) responded with 20 points at the other side. Dainius Salenga (197-F-77) and DeJuan Collins (188-G-76, college: Tuskegee) (5 rebs) had 12 and 11 points respectively. Zalgiris had an amazing start. They made 11-25 lead after just ten minutes of play, but Maccabi immediately woke up after that cutting the margin to minus 4 until the halftime. Zalgiris won the next period with 11-12 for 5-point lead before the last ten minutes, but than Keith Langford and his teammates exploded with 11-2 run as Nokia Arena was rocking. Zalgiris didn't give up and they grabbed back 65-66 lead with 1:42 remaining in the game. Langford made 4-0 series on his own and there was something more than 24 seconds to go. Sony Weems went for an open three, but Smith flew in to block the shot and tried to take it in for a slam. But he missed the dunk, Zalgiris recovered and Weems tried again, but missed from downtown. This time Hendrix corralled the rebound, was fouled and iced the game with a free throw with 7 seconds left. Maccabi will meet Barcelona in the last round of Top 16. Zalgiris will host Bennet Cantu.

Bennet Cantu - FCB Regal 62-63
Regal Barcelona grabbed 62-63 thriller win in Cantu last night. It was a Round 5 of the Euroleague Top 16 phase and Barca managed to stay undefeated. They secured first place in Group H and booked a spot for the Playoffs. At the other side, Cantu dropped to 2-3 with no chance to advance. Boniface Ndong (213-C-77) led the Spanish champs with 13 points and 5 rebounds. Juan Carlos Navarro (192-G-80) had 12 and Erazem Lorbek (209-F/C-84, college: Michigan St.) added 10 points, plus 6 rebounds. The hosts got 14 points and 8 boards from Giorgi Shermadini (216-C-89). Doron Perkins (188-PG-83, college: Santa Clara) had 12 points, 7 rebs and 5 assists, and third scorer in defeat was Maarten Leunen (206-F-85, college: Oregon) with 9 points. Barca made 0-9 run during the last period for 58-61 lead with something more than 5 minutes to go. Doron Perkins and Giorgi Shermadini answered with mini 4-0 run for 62-61 Cantu lead with 40 seconds remaining. Juan Carlos Navarro made two free throws with 26 seconds to go for a 62-63 Barcelona lead before Basiles potential game-winning jumper from the right baseline went off the front of the rim and out just before the final buzzer. Quarters: 18-18, 15-17, 17-17, 12-11. Barca waits Maccabi in the last round of Top 16. Cantu will go to Kaunas.

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

FINLAND

Standings - Korisliiga

Korisliiga Standings

1. Kataja		25-5
2. Pyrinto		22-10
3. Nilan Bisons		21-8
4. Kauhajoki		20-11
5. ToPo		18-14
6. KTP		13-19
7. Salon Vilpas		12-20
8. LrNMKY		11-20
9. Kouvot		11-20
10. Korihait		10-20
11. Namika Lahti		8-24

Stats Leaders - Korisliiga

Points Per Game

Tim BLUE
  KTP
  (205-F-84)
  Avg: 22.5

1. Blue, KTP	22.5
2. Zeno, Nilan Bisons	20.7
3. Beidler, Kauhajoki	19.2
4. Holloway, Salon V.	19.0
5. Newson, Kataja	18.7
6. Durham, Salon Vilp.	18.7
7. Crocker, KTP	18.5
8. Griffin, ToPo	18.3
9. Brooks, Namika L.	18.1
10. Tiedeman, LrNM.	18.1

Rebounds Per Game

John FIELDS
  Salon Vilpas
  (205-F-88)
  Avg: 13.2

1. Fields, Salon Vilp.	13.2
2. Durham, Salon Vilp.	11.1
3. Blue, KTP	10.4
4. Beidler, Kauhajoki	9.5
5. Williams, Pyrinto	9.1
6. Newson, Kataja	9.0
7. Hairston, Salon V.	8.7
8. McDade, Nilan B.	8.3
9. Brown, Kouvot	7.9
10. Zeno, Nilan Bisons	7.8

Assists Per Game

Malik MOORE
  Namika L.
  (192-G-77)
  Avg: 4.9

1. Moore, Namika L.	4.9
2. Ivey, Nilan Bisons	4.9
3. Hannah, Kauhajoki	4.6
4. Virtanen, Kataja	4.3
5. Williams, Pyrinto	4.2
6. Haynes, LrNM.	4.1
7. Sarcevic, KTP	4.0
8. Walker, Kataja	3.7
9. Holloway, Salon V.	3.4
10. Nikkarinen, Kouvot	3.2

Steals Per Game

Juha STEN
  Kataja
  (191-G-83)
  Avg: 2.5

1. Sten, Kataja	2.5
2. Williams, Pyrinto	2.3
3. Beidler, Kauhajoki	2.3
4. Moore, Korihait	2.2
5. Williams, Pyrinto	1.8
6. Haynes, LrNM.	1.7
7. Crocker, KTP	1.7
8. Jordan, Kouvot	1.7
9. Newson, Kataja	1.7
10. Holloway, Salon V.	1.7

Blocks Per Game

John FIELDS
  Salon Vilpas
  (205-F-88)
  Avg: 2.1

1. Fields, Salon Vilp.	2.1
2. Beidler, Kauhajoki	1.9
3. Blue, KTP	1.5
4. Hairston, Salon V.	1.3
5. Zeno, Nilan Bisons	0.9
6. Lehtoranta, Kataja	0.9
7. Williams, Pyrinto	0.8
8. Jones, Nilan Bisons	0.8
9. Hamm, LrNM.	0.7
10. Bell, KTP	0.7

KORISLIIGA: Bisons beat ToPo again - by Rauno Hurmalainen
Korisliiga, round 32: Torpan Pojat (Helsinki) didn't beat Bisons (Loimaa) a single time during the regular season - by playing. Tonight Bisons came to Helsinki and winning 87-96 (48-54). This time it was sharpshooter Jeb Ivey (190-G-80, college: Portland St.) who stole the show by knocking down 31 points for the Bisons. Martin Zeno (196-G-85, college: Texas Tech) added 22 pts. Justin Hawkins (201-F-85, college: N.Mexico St.) led ToPo with 24 pts.
Pyrinto (Tampere) was winning the ninth game in a row as KTP (Kotka) was defeated 82-71 (40-38). Kenneth Lowe (192-G-80, college: Purdue) was early in foul troubles, but leading anyway the hosts with 24 pts. Tim Blue (205-F-84, college: Middle Tenn.St.) (KTP) had again a double-double 22pts/11rbs. YMCA Lahti loosing 24th time this season as Vilpas (Salo) came and won 73-92 (35-43). Emmanuel Holloway (188-G-86, college: Illinois St.) (Vilpas) scored game high 25 pts.
ToPo - Bisons 87-96 (48-54). (Justin Hawkins 24, Josh Wilson 18, Chase Griffin 15 - Jeb Ivey 31, Martin Zeno 22, Mikko Koivisto 15. A: 1198).
Pyrinto - KTP 82-71 (40-38). (Kenneth Lowe 24, Antero Lehto 19, Damon Williams 18 - Tim Blue 22/11, Jukka Matinen 20, Jeremy Williams 12. A: 822).
YMCA Lahti - Vilpas 73-92 (35-43). (Brant Bailey 24, Sami Pekkola 16, Malik Moore 11/8a - Emmanuel Holloway 25, Allen Durham 23/12, Roope Ahonen 17. A: 732).
1.Division:
Huima - BC Nokia 88-79 (52-41). (Marcel Liukko 26, Treylon Manning 22/5a, Baboucarr Bojang 18/17 - Darren Townes 19, Gerald January 16, Timo Riihela 15/6a).

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

FRANCE

Stats Leaders - N1

Points Per Game

Ville KAUNISTO
  Blois
  (204-F-82)
  Avg: 18.5

1. Kaunisto, Blois	18.5
2. Bigote, Cognac	17.3
3. Pridotkas, Brest	17.2
4. Petrovic, Orchy	17.0
5. Bluntt, Orchy	16.9
6. Pearson, Angers B.	16.8
7. Almanson, Challans	16.4
8. Thomas, Roche	16.2
9. Avramovic, Chart.	16.0
10. Belser, Charlevil.	16.0

Rebounds Per Game

Ville KAUNISTO
  Blois
  (204-F-82)
  Avg: 12

1. Kaunisto, Blois	12.0
2. Jaiteh, CFBB	10.6
3. Caskill, Cognac	10.4
4. Avramovic, Chart.	8.9
5. Pearson, Angers B.	8.7
6. Sanborn, Lievin	8.3
7. Toney, Charleville	8.0
8. Pridotkas, Brest	8.0
9. Cabarkapa, Rueil	7.7
10. McClark, Clermont	7.7

Assists Per Game

Johan RATHIEUVILLE
  Brest
  (177-G-85)
  Avg: 6.9

1. Rathieuville, Brest	6.9
2. Calvez, Charleville	5.2
3. Barbry, Orchy	4.8
4. Brochard, Blois	4.7
5. Daube, Le Puy	4.6
6. Ball, St Quentin	4.6
7. Dessart, Lievin	4.5
8. Berquier, Chartres	4.2
9. Tillon, Montbrison	4.2
10. Godin, Cognac	4.1

Steals Per Game

Aurelien TOTO N'KOTE
  Roche
  (194-F-79)
  Avg: 2.1

1. Toto N'Kote, Roche	2.1
2. Calvez, Charleville	2.0
3. Ball, St Quentin	1.8
4. Pistre, Charleville	1.8
5. Bichard, St Quentin	1.8
6. Dessart, Lievin	1.7
7. Koundjia-S., Le Puy	1.7
8. Bigote, Cognac	1.6
9. Daube, Le Puy	1.6
10. Cretaux, Lievin	1.6

Blocks Per Game

Yannis MORIN
  CFBB
  (206-C/F-93)
  Avg: 1.6

1. Morin, CFBB	1.6
2. N'Diaye, Souffel	1.6
3. Alingue, Souffel	1.6
4. Caskill, Cognac	1.6
5. Sanborn, Lievin	1.4
6. Davis, Blois	1.2
7. Traore, Angers B.	1.2
8. Ipouck, Chartres	1.1
9. Toney, Charleville	1.0
10. Diame, Rueil	1.0

Standings - ProA

ProA Standings

1. Chalon		16-3
2. Gravelines		15-3
3. Paris-Levallois		13-5
4. Orleans		12-6
5. Nancy		12-6
6. Le Mans		12-7
7. ASVEL		10-8
8. Roanne		8-10
9. Dijon		8-10
10. Cholet		8-10
11. Strasbourg		8-11
12. Nanterre		7-11
13. Le Havre		5-13
14. Pau-Lacq-Orthez		5-13
15. Poitiers		5-14
16. Hyeres-Toulon		2-16

Standings - ProB

ProB Standings

1. Boulazac		18-4
2. Limoges		18-4
3. Chalons-Reims		15-7
4. Fos Ouest		15-8
5. Maurienne		14-9
6. Bordeaux		12-11
7. Lille		12-11
8. Bourg		11-11
9. Boulogne		11-11
10. Nantes		11-12
11. Evreux		10-12
12. St Vallier		10-13
13. Antibes		10-13
14. Le Portel		9-13
15. Denain		9-14
16. Rouen		8-14
17. Quimper		5-17
18. Vichy		4-18
19. St Etienne		0-0

Standings - N1

NM1 Standings

1. St Quentin		17-5
2. Charleville		17-6
3. Orchy		16-6
4. Souffel		15-7
5. Roche		15-8
6. Cognac		14-8
7. Blois		14-9
8. Challans		12-10
9. Sorgues		12-10
10. Brest		12-11
11. Lievin		12-11
12. Chartres		10-12
13. Angers BC 49		9-13
14. Rueil		9-13
15. Clermont		8-15
16. Le Puy		4-18
17. Montbrison		3-19
18. CFBB		2-20

Stats Leaders - ProA

Points Per Game

Eric CHATFIELD
  Paris-.
  (191-G-79)
  Avg: 21.7

1. Chatfield, Paris-.	21.7
2. Rochestie, Le Mans	19.5
3. Hughes, Hyeres-T.	18.5
4. Hamilton, Paris-.	17.5
5. Gipson, Pau-Lacq.	17.2
6. Causeur, Cholet	16.7
7. Williams, Paris-.	16.7
8. Cox, Le Havre	16.2
9. Nelson, Cholet	15.8
10. Holland, Roanne	15.8

Rebounds Per Game

Lamont HAMILTON
  Paris-.
  (208-C/F-84)
  Avg: 8.6

1. Hamilton, Paris-.	8.6
2. Elonu, Pau-Lacq.	7.9
3. Akingbala, Nancy	7.8
4. Aminu, Chalon	7.6
5. Greer, Strasbourg	7.6
6. Allen, Strasbourg	7.2
7. Nsonwu-Amadi, Roa.	7.1
8. Armstrong, AS.	7.1
9. Falker, Cholet	6.7
10. Vebobe, Cholet	6.6

Assists Per Game

Kareem REID
  Hyeres-Toulon
  (178-PG-75)
  Avg: 7.9

1. Reid, Hyeres-Toulon	7.9
2. Rochestie, Le Mans	6.7
3. Parker, AS.	6.3
4. Wise, Le Havre	5.8
5. Linehan, Nancy	5.7
6. Pellin, Orleans	5.3
7. Barrett, Roanne	4.9
8. Dixon, Dijon	4.8
9. Schilb, Chalon	4.8
10. Gipson, Pau-Lacq.	4.7

Steals Per Game

Andrew ALBICY
  Gravelines
  (178-PG-90)
  Avg: 2.4

1. Albicy, Gravelines	2.4
2. Batum, Nancy	2.1
3. Linehan, Nancy	2.1
4. Riley, Nanterre	2.0
5. Melody, Dijon	1.8
6. Wise, Le Havre	1.8
7. Fournier, Poitiers	1.7
8. Gipson, Pau-Lacq.	1.7
9. Acker, Le Mans	1.7
10. Nelson, Cholet	1.6

Blocks Per Game

Alexis AJINCA
  Strasbourg
  (215-C-88)
  Avg: 2.2

1. Ajinca, Strasbourg	2.2
2. Falker, Cholet	1.4
3. Gobert, Cholet	1.3
4. Akingbala, Nancy	1.2
5. Batum, Nancy	1.1
6. Hamilton, Paris-.	1.1
7. Issa, Gravelines	1.1
8. Nichols, Cholet	1.0
9. Jackson, Roanne	1.0
10. Akpomedah, Grave.	0.9

Stats Leaders - ProB

Points Per Game

Moses SONKO
  Bourg
  (198-F-83)
  Avg: 18.5

1. Sonko, Bourg	18.5
2. Davis, Le Portel	18.3
3. McCray, Boulogne	18.3
4. Denave, St Vallier	17.4
5. Siggers, Rouen	17.3
6. Paelay, Quimper	16.4
7. Wood, Evreux	16.0
8. Barro, Bourg	16.0
9. Prowell, St Vallier	15.4
10. Smith, Lille	15.3

Rebounds Per Game

Christophe MASSIE
  Limoges
  (206-C/F-77)
  Avg: 11.8

1. Massie, Limoges	11.8
2. Wood, Evreux	11.3
3. Badiane, Antibes	9.3
4. Rossiter, Denain	9.3
5. Monroe, Boulazac	9.2
6. Osby, Maurienne	9.2
7. Allen, Antibes	9.0
8. Barro, Bourg	9.0
9. Badiane, Nantes	8.7
10. Daniels, Chalons-.	8.3

Assists Per Game

Ronnie TAYLOR
  Le Portel
  (188-PG-81)
  Avg: 7.4

1. Taylor, Le Portel	7.4
2. Copeland, Bourg	5.6
3. Rowland, Evreux	5.5
4. Patiejunas, Rouen	5.4
5. Darnauzan, Mauri.	5.3
6. Mouillard, Quimper	5.2
7. Mullins, Chalons-.	5.2
8. Darrigand, Bordeaux	5.0
9. Denave, St Vallier	4.7
10. Sauret, Lille	4.6

Steals Per Game

Chris MCCRAY
  Boulogne
  (196-G/F-84)
  Avg: 2.6

1. McCray, Boulogne	2.6
2. Charles, Nantes	2.6
3. Paelay, Quimper	2.2
4. Flowers, Vichy	2.0
5. Allen, Antibes	2.0
6. Shiloh, St Vallier	2.0
7. Eito, Vichy	1.8
8. Denave, St Vallier	1.8
9. Stanley, Boulogne	1.7
10. Taylor, Le Portel	1.7

Blocks Per Game

Moussa BADIANE
  Antibes
  (205-C-81)
  Avg: 2

1. Badiane, Antibes	2.0
2. Gay, Fos Ouest	1.7
3. Badiane, Antibes	1.6
4. Osby, Maurienne	1.6
5. Jefferson, Vichy	1.2
6. Ford, Bordeaux	1.1
7. Massie, Limoges	1.0
8. Dunn, Rouen	0.9
9. Daniels, Chalons-.	0.9
10. Adjiwanou, Boula.	0.9

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

GERMANY

The Fraport Skyliners Face No Kevin Durant, But A Ear-Splitting Arena And Belligerent BBC Bayreuth Team February 25th - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
Two months ago, the small basketball world in Bayreuth was about as exciting and comparable to if Lebron James were ever to be traded to small market team Memphis Grizzlies, ex Artland Dragons Darius Hall and Michael hakim Jordan going back to the Artland Dragons to have a smiling contest with the loser to tangle with mascot Toby the dragon in a mud pit or the current buzz that is actually happening in Berlin with famous coach Otto Rehagel coming to save Hertha Berlin and keep them in the Bundesliga. The rumor of NBA mega superstar Kevin Durant (206-G/F-88, college: Texas) joining the team the Bavarian team had transformed the city into Durant fever and put the quaint city onto the world basketball map. Even though the city never got to see the American do his magic on the court, the possibility of what he could have done on the court and how he could of helped the team win removed some boring and laid back afternoons for some into an exciting and magical dreamland. With Jeremy Lin and Linmania taking the big apple by storm presently, BBC Bayreuth fans may be dreaming of a new basketball mania for the future, but for now basketball life is back to normal in the Richard Wagner city as the team is still fighting to reach the beko BBL playoffs despite a slump presently. For BBC Bayreuth German big man Stefan Schmidt, the whole Kevin Durant (206-G/F-88, college: Texas) is old news, but he still remembers how life was in early December 2011. I was surprised at the beginning about the Durant rumors and we sat together and talked about it and we agreed not to talk about it and just concentrate on our games. At that point the topic of Durant was forgotten. The whole Durant rumor wasnt really as spectacular as many may have expected. I dont read Bayreuth newspapers, so I didnt really follow what was happening. I thought it was only funny that suddenly as Durant wa sin the news, everyone was interested in little old Bayreuth. Everything is back to normal, but the only difference now is that I am not getting 50 messages a day asking if Durant was coming, smiled Stefan Schmidt.

The last time BBC Bayreuth won the BEKO BBL title was in 1989 a few months before German tennis legends Boris Becker and Steffi Graf won Wimbeldon together, Sebastian Vettel was only two years old and late Boston Celtic Reggie Lewis was slowly making a name for himself in the NBA. Back then the team was called Steiner Bayreuth and had German basketball legends like Michael Koch, Hansi Gnad and Calvin Oldham and success was as common in 88 and 89 for the club as winning was fr Rhein Energie Colonge was from 2004-2006. After being regulated in 1999 due to financial reasons, the team had to start at scratch in the Regionaliga and fought its way back up to the PRO A and finally landed back in the BEKO BBL in 2010.

Last season, BBC Bayreuth were saved at the end as MBC lost on the last game day and the Bavarian team finished with a record of 9-25 and a 16th place finish. The team started off with two losses against The New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig and the Giessen 46ers before winning a big game at home against 2010 Eurochallenge champion BG Goettingen. However instead of continuing the winning streak, the club suffered a five game losing streak before recovering and going on a two game winning streak beating Phoenix Hagen and TBB Trier on the road.The team then finished the season with a record of 6-18. I think their guards were a big part of their success. But they have had injuries as well this season. Gibson is a solid point, and Ginyard was a great player as well. Harris came in and was a solid back up. I think the guards but then you had Reiner in the middle as well and he gave them a guy on the block that can score', added John Bynum. It didnt help the team either that they lost five games by five or less points. If they had won at least three of those games, they would have had their ticket to the beko BBL sooner for next season. They havd all the pieces, but couldnt seem to put it together better. Their strength was that they have high quality players at each position. Our biggest problem when we played them was not being able to keep Danny Gibson in front of us on the press', warned Quentin Pryor. It also has been surprising that the club wasnt able to have more success even with strong experienced players like Jared Reiner and Koko Archibong on the roster. I just think it has just been one of those seasons for them. It is there first year in the league but still on paper if you were to look at that team, they are a good team. I dont know what it is but they beat us twice so I cant really say nothing negative about them. I think their weakness is just playing consistent for 40 minutes, they played well at times and have let ups and at this level you cant have too many let ups but like I said, they didnt have a let up against us either time', warned John Bynum. 'I think chemistry had been their weakness', said Quentin Pryor. If the team hadnt had a big 86-79 win against The Deutsche Bank Skyliners at home at the end of the season and finished winning four of the last five games near the end of the season, the yprobably would be back to traveling to less exciting cities like Kirchheim and Cuxhaven
Despite their poor record last season, the organization was in high spirits for the upcoming season and maintained head coach Andreas Wagner for a second season. However Andreas Wagner has had a steady rise as head coach and is coaching for the second time in the BEKO BBL. Wagner also has had a secret formula of how to help basketball clubs reach the next level as he brought FC Bayern Munich from the Regionaliga to the second Bundesliga in 2004, led the Nordlingen Giants from the PRO to the BEKO BBL in 2008 and had another trick up his sleeve bringing BBC Bayreuth from the PRO A into the BEKO BBL in 2010. Of course, the question was can he keep BBC Bayreuth in the BEKO BBL in 2011? The club made a pretty big house cleaning as seven players left. The team held forward and shot block ace Ibekwe Ekene and young Germans Simon Schmitz and Stefan Schmidt. The club brought in experienced point guard Kevin Hamilton who had led the New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig into the playoffs twice in a row and is one of best defenders in the Beko BBL. Mr everything on the court Beckham Wyrick was added who won titles with Bamberg. The team brought also brought in ex NBA player Brandon Hunter for the dirty work under the boards, banger Maksym Shtein to give stability from the bench, versatile forward Tyler Smith, sharp shooter Osvaldo Jenaty who can give shooting clinics in any Beko BBL arena, Beko BBL rookie Corey Stokes who is Mr efficient and German Tom Spoler. Stokes got injured and returned back to the StatesWagners motto was that he rather wanted a strong starting five then solid 12 man rotation. But if you look at the roster and record, one can see that the team has stability from top to bottom. The team recently got 21 year old 192cm Estonian Rain Veideman to help out at the guard position. He last played at Tartu and is a U-20 player.

After a slow start this season where the club lost the first four games of the season, the team surprisingly let go of Andreas Wagner and bringing in experienced Dutch coach Marco van Den Berg who coached in Holland form 1996-2011 winning two titles there. The team also brought back point guard Danny Gibson and since then the team went on a 5-2 record with big wins against EnBW Ludwigsburg and the Telekom Baskets Bonn as they came to Frankfurt in December winning 79-71 as Gibosn and Ibekwe hit big shots in the fourth quarter to secure the win. Van Den Berg has changed the team philosophy and brought success to the team quickly and was rewarded last week with an early contract extension. Despite the Kevin Durant (206-G/F-88, college: Texas) rumors and injury to Kevin Hamilton, BBC Bayreuth have brought a refreshing game to the Beko BBL in the first two months. Bayreuth is a good team. I believe that people have underestimated them. Defensively they do their home work on their opponents and have detailed game plans, warned Josh Young who saw BBC Bayreuth let up only 53 points in Tuebingen. In the first games BBC Bayreuth let up an average 83 points, but since Van Den Berg took over, the team has only let up an average 68 points per game in those six games. The team can score if needed and scored over 80 points twice and even if they are keeping teams to under 70 points, defense is still an area where the team can improve. Their outside shooting is their biggest strength. Gibson really gets their offense going. He provides instant offense and is great in transition. He is the floor general that has been important for their success. If they had a weakness then their pick and roll defense and transition. The few points that we got, we got on transition. But it is hard to pinpoint it in one game since we looked so bad and made them look so good, added Josh Young. Last season, The Frankfurt Skyliners split the game series winning in Frankfurt 83-75 as Dashaun Wood had 26 points, four rebounds and seven assists and in the return game had problems with the noise level in Bayreuth losing 86-79 despite 29 points from Dashaun Wood. However since the big win in Frankfurt, the team has been struggling a bit having a 3-8 record. They had a big win at home against Bremerhaven and against Alba Berlin, but since that big win against 8 time Beko BBL champion, the team lost 4 games in a row and couldnt hold the momentum. Last weekend, they celebrated a big road win in the always tough Osthalle against the LTi Giessen 46ers. Despite being known for being tough to beat at home because of the noise level, BBC Bayreuth only has a 6-5 record at home and need to get out of their slump. We seemed to have lost our rhythm at the Allstar break. Nobody really knows why. We have good practices, but cant transform it into games. I hope that we can lose our black sheep soon and find rhythm again. We are having problems on offense. Our defense is good, but cant take that energy into our offense. Jeanty and Gibson have had problems shooting the ball, warned Stefan Schmidt.

The Fraport Skyliners are looking to start a new winning record on the road after their bitter loss in Bremerhaven last week, but at the same time win their second game in a row. After averaging giving up only 64 points in 11 games recently, leading up to the FC Bayern Munich game, the troops of Muli Katurin had given up a total average of 79 points in the four games prior to the last game. The team found back to their defense strength allowing FC Bayern Munich only to getting 49 points with great pick and roll defense and showing the heart of a lion again. If we can play defense again the way we did against FC Bayern Munich, then we will have good chances to win, stressed Skyliner Quantez Robertson. BBC Bayreuth may only be in 13th place, but is still a dangerous team that Frankfurt has to be aware of and be awake for 40 minutes. They are a very athletic team and we will have to be ready for them. It will come down to our defense which has been our staple. One can win letting up 80 points, but with our team it has been keeping a team to 40-50 points, smiled Sklyiner forward Jacob Burtschi. We have to move the ball and our good defense sparks our offense. Once we get stops early, we have to get out on transition, warned Skyliner guard Michael Thompson. BBC Bayreuth know that they have to use their home court advantage . We cant worry about Frankfurt, but concentrate more on our game. We cant let Tim Ohlbrecht have another big game again. We owe it to our fans to play with passion, so our home court becomes our sixth man, warned BBC Bayreuth center Stefan Schmidt.

BBC Bayreuth is led by Danny Gibson who is a 27 year old 180cm point guard from Madison, Indiana who is playing his fourth season in Germany and second in the BEKO BBL. In 2007-2008, he slowly made a name for himself in the German basketball world as he played for the Cuxhaven BasCats (Germany-ProA, starting five): 28 games: 15.6ppg, 2.9rpg, 4.2apg, 1.1spg, 2FGP: 51.4%, 3FGP: 38.1%, FT: 76.3%. In 2008-2009, he played his first season in the top German league for Giants Noerdlingen (Germany-1.Bundesliga, starting five): 34 games: 12.2ppg, 1.9rpg, 3.5apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 49.3%, 3PT: 38.2%, FT: 66.0%. In 2009-2010 he made the jump for the cheese in Holland and promptly led the league in scoring for Zorg and Zekerheid Leiden (Holland-Eredivisie, starting five): 43 games: Score-1 (18.3ppg), 2.8rpg, Assists-5 (4.3apg), 1.4spg, FGP: 55.4%, 3PT: 42.3%, FT: 73.3%. He was named MVP in the Dutch league and was an allstar. Last season for BBC Bayreuth he played 34 games: 12.0ppg, 1.6rpg, 3.6apg, FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 40.8%, FT: 79.4%. Osvaldo Jeanty is a 28 year old 183cm guard from Gloucester, Canada. He is a combo guard who is a shooter run the offence guy as a point and a scorer shooter at the two. A good shooter with unlimited range and incredibly consistent. He defends bigger guards extremely well because of his strength. He is as tough a competitor as you will find. Extremely hard worker, determined and focused. Great attitude. If deference to team goals and sacrificing personal gain are what coaches are looking for, then Osvaldo Jeanty is your man. His focus is on the execution of game plans, belief in his coach, and faith in his teammates to deliver a common goal. A most refreshing perspective in an age where so many young athletes are preoccupied with what they're getting. He played at : Carleton (CIS) from 2002-2007. He played for Nordlingen helping team advance to the Beko BBL in 2008. In 2009-2010, he also played for CS Gaz Metan Medias (Romania-Div.A): Romanian League: 2 games: 11.5ppg, 3.5rpg, 1.0apg; Balkan League: 3 games: 7.0ppg, 2.3rpg, 1.0apg, 1.0spg, in Jan.'10 signed at LTi Giessen 46ers (Germany-1.Bundesliga, starting five): 14 games: 13.1ppg, 2.3rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 54.1%, 3PT: 40.7%, FT: 86.7%. Last season for BBC Bayreuth he played 12 games: 9.9ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 54.8%, 3PT: 32.8%, FT: 88.0%.

Kevin Hamilton from New York is a 27 year old 193cm guard. He played at Holy Cross with ex Skyliner Keith Simmons from 2002-2006. He played in Poland the last few years and in the summers in Puerto Rico. He played under coach Sebastian Machowski in Poland and was made into a point guard even though he has been a shooting guard most of his career. He scored 17,9ppg in his last season at Holy Cross and last season he led the Polish league in assists. What makes him so dangerous is his scoring and his potential and ability to score are limitless. In college, I averaged almost 18 points per game. I have been a shooting guard for most of my career. Two seasons ago, I had to play point guard in Poland. I always thought that I was a good passer. I think passing has come naturally to me. I have enjoyed playing point guard, stressed Kevin Hamilton. The best thing that teams can do is to keep the ball out of Hamiltons hands, but that is about as impossible as doing the same to Lebron James. We tried to keep the ball out of his hands. We didnt want him to make plays. He is a true point guard. He is a great passer and makes things happen for them. When he gets going, it is hard to stop the team, warned ex Braunschweig guard Steven Wright. In 2009-2010 Hamilton played 39 games: 10.1ppg, 3.8rpg, Assists-3 (5.4apg), Steals-2 (1.9spg), FGP: 63.7%, 3PT: 33.9%, FT: 77.6%. He is one of those rare players that has triple double potential. Last season for Braunschweig, he played 39 games: 9.0ppg, 4.1rpg, 4.3apg, Steals-1 (1.9spg), FGP: 53.9%, 3PT: 33.3%, FT: 67.0%. Last summer, he played for Indios de Mayaguez (Puerto Rico-BSN): 11 games: 8.5ppg, 5.5rpg, 7.7apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 49.1%, 3PT: 18.4%, FT: 66.7%. Ekene Ibekwe is a 26 year old 296cm forward with American/Nigerian roots. He is a long, lean dynamic player with unlimited athletic potential that can score in the post and brings energy to the team on defense with his shot blocking ability. He played at Maryland from 2004-2007. He turned professional in 2007 and played in Israel and in France for Bensancon where he was France PRO B champion. In 2008-2009, he played for Aku Selcuk Universitesi Konya (Turkey-TBL, starting five): 28 games: 18.6ppg, 8.3rpg, 1.2apg, 1.8spg, Blocks-5 (1.8bpg), FGP: 60.6%, 3PT: 38.7%, FT: 57.0%. In 2009-2010, he played for Bld Antalya (Turkey-TBL) in Jan.'10 signed at Genc Banvitliler (Turkey-TB2L, starting five): 10 games: 21.2ppg, 10.6rpg, 1.2apg, 2.2spg, 2.1bpg, FGP: 58.8%, 3PT: 39.1%, FT: 59.2%. Last season, he started with The Artland Dragons averaging 11,8ppg, 5,8rpg, 1,1apg and 1,3bpg. He then had a very short stay in Israel for Ashkelon (Israel-Premier League) averaging 6,0ppg and 4,7rpg. He neded the season with BBC Bayreuth playing 15 games: 11.5ppg, 5.7rpg, 1.0apg, 1.4bpg, FGP: 57.4%, FT: 54.7%.

Tyler Smith is a 25 year old 201cm forward from Pulaski, Tennessee. He played at Iowa (NCAA) from 2006-2007 and at Tennessee (NCAA) from 2007-2010, but had to leave early because of disciplinary reasons going to play for Bornova Bld (Turkey-TBL): 12 games: 16.8ppg, 6.8rpg, 4.1apg, 1.4spg, FGP: 53.1%, 3PT: 42.9%, FT: 72.5%. he remained with the team last year playing 19 games: 15.4ppg, 7.9rpg, 3.7apg, FGP: 55.3%, 3PT: 13.3%, FT: 70.6%. he reached the NCAA Sweet 16 in 2008 with Tennessee and last season was a Turk Allstar and won the slam dunk contest. Brandon Hunter is a 31 year old 201cm forward from Cincinnati, Ohio. He played at Ohio Univ. (NCAA) from 1999-2003 with Beko BBL players Steven Esterkamp and Patrick Flomo. He was drafted by the Boston Celtics in 2003 in the second round at #56.He played at total of 67 NBA games for Boston and Orlando from 2003-2005. Since then he has had a very fruitful career in Europe playing in countries like Greece, Italy, Turkey, Israel, Lativa and Puerto Rico. He played three complete seasons in Italy and belonged to the top big men never averaging less than 8,6 rpg. Last season, he played for Aliaga Petkim (Turkey-TBL): 19 games: 10.9ppg, 6.3rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 52.1%, FT: 60.4%; in Mar.'11 moved to BK Ventspils (Latvia-LBL): Latvian League: 18 games: 11.5ppg, 6.6rpg, 1.7apg, 1.0spg, FGP: 56.1%, FT: 48.8%; EuroChallenge: 3 games: 11.7ppg, 6.7rpg, 1.3apg; Baltic League: 4 games: 12.0ppg, 7.0rpg, 1.3apg.

Maksym Shtein is a 31 year old 206cm center from the Ukraine who is the typical solid role player from the bench that just does his job. He is a big guy who runs the floor extremely well, is able to play both inside positions defensively because of his mobility and speed, likes to play physical and with contact, has nice post-up moves underneath the basket and good hands cutting through the zone, good shooting skills enable him to play also minutes offensively on Position four and is a confident and fearless player who will produce at any level. He has played in Germany since 1996 for teams like MTV Stuttgart, Ludwigsburg, ratiopharm Ulm (2002-2007 with 155 games), Deutsche Bank Skyliners, TBB Trier and last season with the Eisbaeren Bremerhaven where he played 35 games: 3.5ppg, 2.1rpg. Beckham Wyrick is a 27 year old 198cm forward from Cincinnati, Ohio that ha splayed in Germany since he was a rookie in 2006. He played for NC-Wilmington (NCAA) from 2002-2006 together with Bamberg floor general John Goldsberry. Wyrick played for Bayer Giants Leverkusen from 2006-2008. He then had a successful stay with the Brose Baskets Bamberg from 2008-2010 winning a Beko BBL title and cup. Last season, he played for FC Bayern Muenchen (Germany-ProA): 25 games: 8.8ppg, 4.7rpg, FGP: 52.8%, 3PT: 30.4%, FT: 68.4%. Simon Schmitz is a 21 year old 188cm point guard that began his basketball career in 2005 with SG Bad Duerkheim/Speyer junior team. In 2008-2009, he played for BIS Baskets Speyer (ProB, starting five) where he played together with German national player Elias Harris. He played German League: 20 games: 14.1ppg, 4.0rpg, 3.7apg, FGP: 51.5%, 3PT: 33.6%, FT: 79.1%; also TV Bad Bergzabern (2.Regionalliga): 8 games: 14.5ppg. Last season, he played for Science City Jena (ProA): 29 games: 10.9ppg, 3.0rpg, 2.9apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 44.7%, 3PT: 36.4%, FT: 80.2%, in Mar.'10 also played at Mitteldeutscher BC Weissenfels (1.Bundesliga). Last season, he played at the European Championships U20 in Croatia -10: 9 games: 10.3ppg, 3.0rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 56.5%, 3PT: 38.6%, FT: 80.0%. Last season, the German played 31 games: 3.3ppg. 22 year old 206cm center Stefan Schmidt who was born in Schwandorf. He started his basketball career with Franken Hexer (2.Regionalliga) in 2006. In 2007-2008, he played for SELLBYTEL Baskets Nuernberg (ProA, starting five): 20 games: 3.2ppg, 2.7rpg, FGP: 39.5%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 66.7%. In 2008-2009, he played for Franken Hexer (ProB, starting five): 29 games: 9.4ppg, 7.8rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 51.3%, 3PT: 25.3%, FT: 75.0%. Last season, he played only three games for BBC Bayreuth. He has played for the German U-18 and U-20 German national teams. Last season, he played 21 games: 0.7ppg, 1.6rpg.

German Players Abroad Report - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
A new category is starting this week at Eurobasket where a look is taken at German players playing abroad and how they fared in games. German national player Dirk Nowitzki (213-F-78) helped the Dallas Mavericks to win their game against Philadelpha 75-82 in the NBA last Friday. He recorded 28 points and 12 rebounds (made all of his six free throws). It was the game of the round between two top 3 ranked teams in group W Southwest Div.. Dallas Mavericks has a very solid 21-13 record this season.

German national player Chris Kaman (213-C-82, college: Cent.Michigan) helped the New Orleans Hornets win their game against Utah Jazz 86-80 in the NBA last Monday. Kaman scored 27 points and grabbed 13 rebounds. New Orleans Hornets has 8-25 record this season. Kaman has played so far 25 games for New Orleans Hornets this season (plays for them since 2011), last game stats: 27pts 13reb 2ast 1blocks 2steals 3FGP:0-0 2FGP:12-22 FT:3-4 .

Ex ratiopharm Ulm forward Konrad Wysocki (201-F-82, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Princeton) helped PGE Turow to win their game against closely ranked Polpharma 103-80 in Polish PLK last Sunday. He scored 13 points, had 4 rebounds and dished out 3 assists.

Urule Igbavboa (205-C-87, college: Valparaiso) who plays in Swedish Basketligan could not help LF Basket (18-12) to beat Boras despite Igbavboa's very good performance on Thursday. He scored 15 points and grabbed 7 rebounds. But LF Basket (#5) was defeated 118-91:

U22international power forward Tilo Klette (206-C/F-77) helped Levanga Hokkaido to win their game against fourth ranked Hitachi SR 73-79 in Japanese JBL last Sunday. He scored 17 points and grabbed 9 rebounds. Levanga Hokkaido (14-18) is placed fifth.

Keith Waleskowski (204-C/F-80, college: Dayton) who plays in Italian Lega2 could not help Tezenis Verona (8-12) to beat Centrale Latte Waleskowski hdid not beat the league record on Sunday evening. He scored 2 points and grabbed 8 rebounds. But Tezenis Verona (#5) was defeated 58-70 at home by lower ranked (#6) Centrale Latte. It was Tezenis Verona's third consecutive lost game in a row.

Former U18international center Mike Dejworek (210-87, college: Citadel) helped Bakken to win their game against second ranked Horsholm 63-79 in Danish Ligaen last Saturday. He recorded 4 points and 8 rebounds. Bakken Bears (23-2) is placed fifth. It was Bakken's 19th consecutive victory in a row. Dejworek's team will play only one more game in Regular Season.

Jorg Rottgardt (191-G-81) who plays in Danish Ligaen could not help Falcon (6-19) to beat Svendborg despite his very good performance on Thursday. Rottgardt scored 13 points. But Falcon (#5) was defeated 94-109 at home by higher ranked (#2) Svendborg. It was Falcon's fourth consecutive lost game in a row. There are only 2 games left until the end of Regular Season.

Dorian Baclawski (189-G-86) helped AZS UWM Olsz. to win their game against 11th ranked GKK Gorzow 78-101 in Polish 2Liga last Sunday. He recorded 9 points and 4 rebounds. Inter Parts AZS UWM Olsztyn (9-9) is placed fifth in Group A.

Kiril Wachsmann (203-C/F-83, agency: Edge Sports, college: Iona) who plays in Spanish LEB Gold could not help Melilla_Baloncesto (15-10) to beat Navarra He cannot count Friday's game as one of the best ones. Wachsmann scored 0 points. But Melilla Baloncesto (#5) was defeated 83-75 on the road by much lower ranked (#13) Navarra.

Joachim Thoss (203-C-81) helped Alaska Aces to win their game against fifth ranked Ginebra Kings 76-74 in Filipino PBA last Saturday. He scored 4 points. Alaska Aces (2-1) is placed fifth.

Former international guard Chad Toppert (201-85, college: N.Mexico) helped CAI Zaragoza to win their game against 16th ranked Asefa Estudian. 75-72 in Spanish ACB last Sunday. He scored 3 points. CAI Zaragoza (11-9) is placed fifth. It was CAI Zaragoza's third consecutive victory in a row.

Darko Rallis (180-G-78) helped Doxa Lefkadas to win their game against fourth ranked Arkadikos 71-65 in Greek A2 last Saturday. Rallis recorded 0 points. AE Doxa Lefkadas (10-9) is placed fifth.

Marco Sanders (202-F-79, college: Point Park) helped Centrum to win their game against seventh ranked Ammerud Bskt 54-80 in Norwegian BLNO last Friday. Sanders scored 0 points. Centrum Tigers Oslo (11-8) is placed fifth. It was Centrum's third consecutive victory in a row. There are only 2 games left until the end of Regular Season.

Adam Sean Mink (196-F-91) helped Pavia to win their game against second ranked Torino 73-66 in Italian Nazionale A last Sunday. Mink scored 0 points. Paul Mitchell Pavia (13-13) is placed fifth in Div.North-West group.

Crvena Zvezda IJT start Belgrade Tournament with win - by Eurobasket News
Crvena Zvezda IJT - ALBA Berlin IJT 92:63

Crvena Zvezda team victoriously opened the Nike International Junior Classification Tournament in Belgrade. The hosts thrashed ALBA Berlin for the first win in Group A. Nikola Jankovic (203-F/C-94) provided 18 points and 9 rebounds to pace the hosts.
Crvena Zvezda erupted for 30 points in the starting quarter to take a 12-point lead. They maintained the advantage throughout the second period. The hosts arrived at halftime up by 16 points 48:32. Crvena Zvezda did not allow the German juniors any closer in the third term. They secured a 68:51 lead with ten minutes remaining. Crvena Zvezda cruised to the win afterwards. Brano Djukanovic (193-G-95) posted 16 points for the winners. Luka Kamber (202-F-94) answered with 19 points for ALBA. Mauricio Marin (188-PG-94) had 16 points in the loss.

Crvena Zvezda IJT: Nikola Jankovic 18, Brano Djukanovic 16, Dusan Ristic 13
ALBA Berlin IJT: Luka Kamber 19, Mauricio Marin 16

Al Nolen joins Giessen 46ers - by Eurobasket News
Giessen 46ers bolstered their backcourt. They signed a deal with Al Nolen (185-G-89, college: Minnesota). The guard started the season in Japan. He played for the Kyoto Hannaryz. Later the guard moved to D-League. He inked a deal with the Los Angeles D-Fenders. His stats read 3.0 points, 3.5 assists and 1.0 rebound per game in D-League. It is the first pro season for Al Nolen. He graduated from the University of Minnesota in 2011. His stats read 8.4 points, 3.6 rebounds, 3.7 assists and 2.4 steals per game in the senior season.

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

GREECE

Giannis Kalambokis, is close to Alba Berlin - by Diamadis Farmakis
Only the official anouncement is left, for Giannis Kalambokis (195-G-78) transfer to German powerhouse, Alba Berlin.

The 33 years old guard and PAOK (his team from the start of the season), agreed terms with the german team, in a deal that everyone wins.

PAOK, who has financial problems and can not afford Kalambokis contract, Alba who will add a very experienced point guard in its roster and ofcourse the player himself, who will have the chance to play in the German Bundesliga with a team that aims to the championship.

Kalambokis will play his last game with PAOK, against Peristeri.

EA7 Armani wins in Athens but not enough for Playoffs, PAO advances - by Eurobasket News
Panathinaikos - Armani MI 58-67

EA7 Emporio Armani Milan celebrated 58-67 victory at OAKA last night, but that was not enough as PAO won 57-78 in Milano more than a month ago. It means that Armani improved to 2-3 in Group G, but with no chance to advance. At the same time, PAO booked a spot for the Playoffs despite they dropped to 3-2. Nicolo Melli (205-F-91) top-scored in victory with 13 points. Antonis Fotsis (210-F-81) and Ioannis Bourousis (212-C-83, agency: FCM) had 12 points each in this meeting and they grabbed 17 rebounds together. In PAO, Dimitris Diamantidis (196-G-80) netted 12 points and Mike Batiste (203-F-77, college: Arizona St.) had 11 points, plus 7 rebounds. Ian Vougioukas (212-C/F-85, college: St.Louis) and David Logan (184-G-82, college: Indianapolis) stopped to 7 pts each. Visitors had 51-65 lead with 4 minutes to go. Nicolo Melli dunked then Romain Sato answered with a layup, but Panathinaikos could do little more than cut the margin of defeat, adding a Batiste layup and Sato free throws. Quarters: 11-16, 21-18, 14-19, 12-14. In the last round of Top 16, Panathinaikos will meet Unics in Kazan. Armani will host Fenerbahce Ulker.

PAO: Dimitris Diamantidis 12, Mike Batiste 11+7 boards, Ian Vougioukas 7, David Logan 7
Armani: Nicolo Melli 13, Antonis Fotsis 12+9 boards, Ioannis Bourousis 12+8 boards

Greeks of Diaspora: Alex Hill is doing marvelous!! - by Chris Mammides
Eurobasket.com is introducing a new awesome player who belongs to the Greeks of Diaspora. This time the article is focused on Alex Hill (196-F-90, college: Cornell), the Canadian forward (of Greek decent) who is having an amazing season since his departure to the University of Toronto, Varsity blues. Especially the last couple of games were amazing, and he was the stepping stone for the last two results of his team, a positive and a negative one.
From the local papers of Toronto, Eurobasket has 'picked' a couple of lines and he is uploading right away:

'Laurentian has been hot as of late winning 7 of their past 8, and were looking to narrow the gap on Ryerson and 3rd place in the OUA East when taking on Toronto. The Laurentian University were notorious for their fast starts this game were not different, though it certainly didn't last as long as usual. Although Laurentian were able to jump out to an early lead, it was short lived and the University of Toronto began to heat up. Hitting shot after shot and getting some big stops on the other end of the floor, Toronto grinded away and were able to take a 24-15 lead into the second frame. The second quarter Laurentian looked to narrow the gap but were met with just as much resistance as the first.
The second half saw Laurentian regain their form some quick ball movement combined with many solid looks and quality execution allowed the Voyageurs to quickly narrow the Toronto 21 point half time lead. Toronto forward Alex Hill (Toronto, ON) put an end to the comeback hitting back to back three pointers, and most impressively was 9 for 13 from the floor including 5 for 8 from long range for a team high 28 points. Torontos patience and team offense were simply too much for Laurentian to handle and resulted in an easy 104-88 win'.

'The University of Toronto mens basketball team dropped an 80-74 decision to the Laurentian University in OUA East quarter-final action on Wednesday night (Feb. 22) in Sudbury; Ont.
The loss puts an end to Toronto's 2011-12 campaign. The Blues finished the regular season in fifth place with a 10-12 record.
University of Toronto put up a valiant effort in the second half, led in large part by third-year forward Alex Hill. The Toronto native tallied a game-high 23 points, knocking down three threes and going 6-for-7 from the line.
Down 63-42 heading into the final frame, Hill opened the fourth quarter with eight consecutive points as U of T went on a 24-10 run to bring the game within four with 1:47 remaining. That would be as close as the Blues would get as the Voyageurs held on for the six-point win'.

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

ICELAND

Stats Leaders (Men)

Points Per Game

Cameron ECHOLS
  Njardvik
  (203-F/C-81)
  Avg: 23.6

1. Echols, Njardvik	23.6
2. Walkup, Fjolnir	23.1
3. Govens, Thor Thorl	23.0
4. Dagostino, Keflavik	22.9
5. Holmes, Njardvik	22.9
6. Shuler, Haukar	22.7
7. Johnson, Valur	22.0
8. Jarvis, IR	21.9
9. Bullock, Grindavik	21.9
10. Hairston, Thor T.	21.7

Rebounds Per Game

Junior HAIRSTON
  Thor T.
  (203-F-84)
  Avg: 15

1. Hairston, Thor T.	15.0
2. Hankins-Cole, Snae.	12.9
3. Echols, Njardvik	11.8
4. Smith, Haukar	11.5
5. Ringgold, Thor Tho.	11.3
6. Walkup, Fjolnir	10.7
7. Tratnik, Valur	10.4
8. Bullock, Grindavik	10.4
9. Shuler, Haukar	10.0
10. Cole, Keflavik	9.9

Assists Per Game

Giordan WATSON
  Grindavik
  (178-G-85)
  Avg: 6.7

1. Watson, Grindavik	6.7
2. Shouse, Stjarnan	6.6
3. Miller, Tindastoll	6.6
4. Hall, Snaefell	5.6
5. Pauline, Haukar	5.4
6. Dagostino, Keflavik	4.8
7. Brown, KR	4.7
8. O'Neil, Fjolnir	4.6
9. Haraldsson, Haukar	4.6
10. Fridriksson, Njar.	4.5

Steals Per Game

Travis HOLMES
  Njardvik
  (193-G-86)
  Avg: 3.1

1. Holmes, Njardvik	3.1
2. Hall, Snaefell	2.9
3. Shuler, Haukar	2.5
4. Cothran, Stjarnan	2.5
5. Allen, Tindastoll	2.5
6. Shouse, Stjarnan	2.5
7. Brown, KR	2.3
8. Parker, Keflavik	2.3
9. Miller, Tindastoll	2.2
10. Pauline, Haukar	2.0

Blocks Per Game

Junior HAIRSTON
  Thor T.
  (203-F-84)
  Avg: 4.6

1. Hairston, Thor T.	4.6
2. Smith, Haukar	3.3
3. Hugee, Valur	2.3
4. Tratnik, Valur	2.2
5. Pettinella, Grinda.	1.4
6. Hampton, Tindastoll	1.3
7. Ferguson, KR	1.3
8. Ragnarsson, Fjolnir	1.1
9. Gudbrandsson, Kefl.	1.1
10. Lindmets, Stjarnan	1.1

Standings - Iceland Express League

Express L. Standings

1. Grindavik		16-1
2. Keflavik		11-5
3. Stjarnan		11-6
4. KR		10-6
5. Thor Thorl		10-6
6. Snaefell		9-8
7. Njardvik		8-9
8. Fjolnir		7-9
9. Tindastoll		7-9
10. IR		6-11
11. Haukar		4-13
12. Valur		0-16

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

INDONESIA

NBL Round 34 of Regular Season - by Eurobasket News
The game in Pandang was quite interesting. Second ranked Aspac (18-3) played at the court of 6th ranked Muba Hangtuah (13-9). Aspac managed to secure a 9-point victory 78-69 on Friday. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Muba Hangtuah. Muba Hangtuah trailed by 13 points after 3 quarters before a 25-21 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 69-78 at the end of the game. Aspac made 22-of-28 free shots (78.6 percent) during the game. 24 personal fouls committed by Muba Hangtuah helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Forward Pringgo Regowo (190-87) scored 27 points and 9 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and the former international center Isman Thoyib (202-84) chipped in 10 points and 14 rebounds during the contest. At the losing side the former international power forward Dian Heryadi (194-80) responded with a double-double by scoring 15 points and 10 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Aspac have a solid three-game winning streak. They keep a position of league leader, which they share with Satria Muda. Muba Hangtuah at the other side keeps the sixth place with nine games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
9th ranked Pacific Caesar (6-15) was outscored at home by fifth ranked Pelita Jaya (15-6) with the biggest margin this round 91-33. International forward Ary Chandra (182-84) notched 22 points and 8 rebounds to lead the effort and Kelly Purwanto supported him with 16 points, 7 rebounds, 6 assists and 6 steals. Even 6 points and 7 rebounds by center Hery Listiyono (191-86) did not help to save the game for Pacific Caesar. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Defending champion moved-up to fourth place. Pacific Caesar lost third consecutive game. They keep the ninth position with 15 games lost. Pelita Jaya will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Pacific Caesar will play on the road against Bima Sakti (#8) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Another interesting game was a derby match between two local teams from Jakarta: Stadium Jakarta (#7) and Comfort Mobile (#10). Stadium Jakarta (11-10) smashed visiting Comfort Mobile (4-18) by 23 points 74-51. Dino Leonardo fired 16 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. Herman Kurniawan produced 11 points for lost side. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Stadium Jakarta maintains seventh position with 11-10 record. Comfort Mobile lost fifth consecutive game. They keep the tenth place with 18 games lost. Stadium Jakarta will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Comfort Mobile will play against NSH GMC Riau (#12) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

Muba Hangtuah - Aspac 69-78

The game in Pandang was quite interesting. Second ranked Aspac (18-3) played at the court of 6th ranked Muba Hangtuah (13-9). Aspac managed to secure a 9-point victory 78-69 on Friday. It ended at the same time the four-game winning streak of Muba Hangtuah. Muba Hangtuah trailed by 13 points after 3 quarters before a 25-21 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 69-78 at the end of the game. Aspac made 22-of-28 free shots (78.6 percent) during the game. 24 personal fouls committed by Muba Hangtuah helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Forward Pringgo Regowo (190-87) scored 27 points and 9 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and the former international center Isman Thoyib (202-84) chipped in 10 points and 14 rebounds during the contest. Four Aspac players scored in double figures. At the losing side the former international power forward Dian Heryadi (194-80) responded with a double-double by scoring 15 points and 10 rebounds and swingman Tri Wilopo (180-86) scored 15 points. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Aspac have a solid three-game winning streak. They keep a position of league leader, which they share with Satria Muda. Muba Hangtuah at the other side keeps the sixth place with nine games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Aspac: P.Regowo 27+9reb+2ast, S.Harun Nurman 16+3reb, O.Wira Sanjaya 12+1ast, I.Thoyib 10+14reb+2ast, R.Shariputra 8, F.Andika Ramadhani 3+3reb
Muba Hangtuah: T.Wilopo 15+3reb+1ast, D.Heryadi 15+10reb+3ast, A.Sapto 9+4reb+4ast, A.Junaidi 8+6reb, I.G Ngurah Teguh 6+3reb+1ast, A.Sigar 6+2reb+2ast

Stadium Jak. - Comfort Mobile 74-51

Another interesting game was a derby match between two local teams from Jakarta: Stadium Jakarta (#7) and Comfort Mobile (#10). Stadium Jakarta (11-10) smashed visiting Comfort Mobile (4-18) by 23 points 74-51. The hosts trailed by 1 point at the halftime before their 43-19 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Stadium Jakarta outrebounded Comfort Mobile 46-26 including a 21-6 advantage in offensive rebounds. Dino Leonardo (188-86) fired 16 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists for the winners. Merio Ferdiansyah (176-85) chipped in 17 points and 5 rebounds. Four Stadium Jakarta players scored in double figures. point guard Herman Kurniawan (171-86) produced 11 points and guard Haritsa Herlusdityo (180-89) added 11 points respectively for lost side. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Stadium Jakarta maintains seventh position with 11-10 record. Comfort Mobile lost fifth consecutive game. They keep the tenth place with 18 games lost. Stadium Jakarta will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Comfort Mobile will play against NSH GMC Riau (#12) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Stadium Jak.: M.Ferdiansyah 17+5reb+3ast, D.Leonardo 16+8reb+4ast, F.Budianto 13+3reb+3ast, D.Iskandar 10+6reb+1ast, R.Ariestedes 9+4reb, E.Hadi 5+3reb+1ast
Comfort Mobile: H.Herlusdityo 11+3reb+2ast, H.Kurniawan 11+4reb+3ast, G.Sitaniapesy 9+1reb+1ast, R.Orlando Uniputty 8+3reb+2ast, S.Afriatna 6, A.Prasetyo 4+6reb+3ast

Pacific Caesar - Pelita Jaya 33-91

9th ranked Pacific Caesar (6-15) was outscored at home by fifth ranked Pelita Jaya (15-6) with the biggest margin this round 91-33. The game without a history. Pelita Jaya led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Pacific Caesar to just 5 points in first quarter and to 12 points in first half. Pelita Jaya held Pacific Caesar to an opponent 20.0 percent shooting from the field compared to 44.6 percent accuracy of the winners. Pelita Jaya forced 25 Pacific Caesar turnovers and outrebounded them 58-26 including a 23-4 advantage in offensive rebounds. Pelita Jaya players were unselfish on offense dishing 29 assists comparing to just 4 passes made by Pacific Caesar's players. International forward Ary Chandra (182-84) notched 22 points and 8 rebounds to lead the effort and the former international point guard Kelly Purwanto (177-83) supported him with 16 points, 7 rebounds, 6 assists and 6 steals. Four Pelita Jaya players scored in double figures. Even 6 points and 7 rebounds by center Hery Listiyono (191-86) did not help to save the game for Pacific Caesar. Forward Gege Nagata (185-88) added 6 points for lost side. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Defending champion moved-up to fourth place. Pacific Caesar lost third consecutive game. They keep the ninth position with 15 games lost. Pelita Jaya will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Pacific Caesar will play on the road against Bima Sakti (#8) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Pelita Jaya: A.Chandra 22+8reb+3ast, I.Gusti Rustawijaya 19+5reb+2ast, K.Purwanto 16+7reb+6ast, P.Indrawan 11+8reb+4ast, D.Wenas 7+1reb+3ast, J.Sucipto 4+5reb+2ast
Pacific Caesar: H.Listiyono 6+7reb, G.Nagata 6+4reb, R.Anggakara 4+4reb+1ast, E.Sasmito 4+4reb+1ast, Bisih 3+1reb, D.Yulyanto 3+1ast

Israelli's double-double lands him Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
29-year old Reza Israelli (182-SF-82) put on an amazing game in the last round for NSH GMC Riau and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 33.
He had a double-double of 16 points and 10 rebounds, while his team lost the game against Satya Wacana (#11, 2-19) 69-76. The game rather meaningless between the teams, which do not have any influence on the top of the standings. NSH GMC Riau moved-up to the 12th position in the Indonesian league. Too late to salvage the team, which is currently ranked at the very bottom. They already lost 19 games and recorded just one victory. It was one of impressive evenings for Israelli as usually he does not deliver so high stats. Reza Israelli averages this season 6.6ppg.

Second best performed player last round was Respati Pamungkas (180-G-91) of Satya Wacana. He is a guard in his first season at Satya Wacana. In the last game Pamungkas recorded impressive 32 points, 3 rebounds and 4 assists. Of course Satya Wacana cruised to a 76-69 relatively comfortable win over slightly lower-ranked NSH GMC Riau (#12, 1-19). The game was between two teams which are definitely not main contenders for the title. But Satya Wacana left the very bottom place moving slightly to 11th position. 19 lost games are too many comparing to just two victories Satya Wacana managed to get this year. Pamungkas is a newcomer at Satya Wacana and quickly became one of team's most reliable players.

Third place about best performers goes to another Satya Wacana's star - forward Eko Wiratama Nasution (195-F-90). Nasution scored 14 points and grabbed eight rebounds. He was another key player of Satya Wacana, helping his team with a 76-69 win against slightly lower-ranked NSH GMC Riau (#12, 1-19). Satya Wacana can only dream about fighting for top spots in the league. They have rather bad season and 2-19 record places them close to the bottom of the standings. Too bad for Nasution he does not play for a better team. But maybe if he did, his season stats would not be that high. Nasution has individually a great season in Indonesia. After 21 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in rebounds with 6.8rpg (8th best).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Ary Sapto (188-F-80) of Muba Hangtuah - 10 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists
5. Andrie Ekayana (182-SG-82) of CLS Knights - 18 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists
6. Ryan Febriyan (194-PF-87) of NSH GMC Riau - 18 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists
7. Rachmad Utomo (180-SF-85) of CLS Knights - 14 points, 3 rebounds and 2 assists
8. Agustinus Sigar (180-G-79) of Muba Hangtuah - 19 points and 2 assists
9. Dimaz Muharri (181-PG-85) of CLS Knights - 6 points, 8 rebounds and 2 assists
10. Dian Heryadi (194-F/C-80) of Muba Hangtuah - 4 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists

The Player of the week is chosen based on efficiency calculation, but also including game result, importance of the game, if played recorded double-double/triple-double, etc.
The efficiency formula is a combination of various formulas used by different basketball organizations/leagues. We got involved many basketball scouts and journalists to assure it's accuracy.
The formula: 1.5*PTS + 3* (REB+AST+ST+BL-TO) - 2*BSAG - 4*PF + 3*PFRV + 4* (2FGPM+3FGPM) + 1.5*FTM - 3* (2FGPA-2FGPM) - 3* (3FGPA-3FGPM) - (FTA-FTM)

Standings - IBL

NBL Standings

1. Satria Muda		18-3
2. Aspac		18-3
3. Garuda		17-4
4. Pelita Jaya		15-6
5. CLS Knights		14-6
6. Muba Hangtuah		13-9
7. Stadium Jak.		11-10
8. Bima Sakti		6-13
9. Pacific Caesar		6-15
10. Comfort Mobile		4-18
11. Satya Wacana		2-19
12. NSH GMC Riau		1-19

Stats Leaders

Points Per Game

Yanuar DWI PRIASMORO
  Bima S.
  (178-SG-89)
  Avg: 15.7

1. Dwi Priasmor., Bim.	15.7
2. Ferdiansyah, Stadi.	14.7
3. Wisnu, Satria Muda	14.0
4. Sapto, Muba H.	13.9
5. Chandra, Pelita J.	13.1
6. Nagata, Pacific	12.9
7. Prawiro, Aspac	12.6
8. Rizky Ardian., Bim.	12.5
9. Ahmad, Satria Muda	12.3
10. Regowo, Aspac	12.3

Rebounds Per Game

Galank GUNAWAN
  Satria M.
  (194-PF-87)
  Avg: 10.8

1. Gunawan, Satria M.	10.8
2. Regowo, Aspac	8.4
3. Sitepu, Satria M.	7.9
4. Thoyib, Aspac	7.7
5. Rizky Ardian., Bim.	7.4
6. Wuwungan, Satya W.	6.9
7. Yanto, NSH G.	6.9
8. Nasution, Satya W.	6.8
9. Situmorang, Satria	6.8
10. Nolland, Garuda	6.8

Assists Per Game

Dirk GERUNGAN
  Aspac
  (182-PG-87)
  Avg: 4.6

1. Gerungan, Aspac	4.6
2. Sartika, Bima Sakti	4.0
3. Purwanto, Pelita J.	3.6
4. Muharri, CLS K.	3.2
5. Widyanto, Pacifi.	3.0
6. Ahmad, Satria Muda	2.6
7. Sura, Garuda	2.5
8. Wilopo, Muba H.	2.5
9. Yusran, Stadium	2.4
10. Uniputty, Comfor.	2.3

Steals Per Game

Kelly PURWANTO
  Pelita J.
  (177-PG-83)
  Avg: 3.2

1. Purwanto, Pelita J.	3.2
2. Poedjakesuma, Peli.	2.6
3. Muharri, CLS K.	2.5
4. Ferdiansyah, Stadi.	2.4
5. Sartika, Bima Sakti	2.2
6. Uniputty, Comfor.	2.2
7. Sura, Garuda	2.1
8. Ramli, Garuda	2.1
9. Sunarya, Muba H.	2.1
10. Wijaya, Garuda	2.1

Blocks Per Game

R RUSLAN
  Stadium .
  (197-C-89)
  Avg: 2.2

1. Ruslan, Stadium	2.2
2. Sitepu, Satria M.	2.2
3. Thoyib, Aspac	2.0
4. Arizki, Aspac	1.6
5. Teguh, Muba H.	1.5
6. Indrawan, Pelita J.	1.3
7. Gunawan, Satya W.	1.3
8. Sitaniapesy, Comfo.	1.3
9. Damanik, NSH G.	1.2
10. Sasmito, Pacific	1.1

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IRELAND

BASKETBALL IRELAND WEEKLY PREVIEW - by Patrick Maher
BASKETBALL IRELAND WEEKLY PREVIEW

Teams seek play-off place

UCC Demons face a difficult and unusual programme in the Nivea for Mens SuperLeague when they play Belfast Star twice in less than 24 hours this weekend.

11890 Killester will be hoping to build on their epic win over Bord Gais Neptune last week when they visit NUIG to play Moycullen.

UL Eagles will be looking to continue their positive end to the season when they visit UCD Marian, while Bord Gais Neptune will be looking for their first win of the season against DCU Saints.

UCC Demons trip north will be a memorable one, as they become the first team in the history of the league to play the same team twice in less than 24 hours.

Demons will be without the injured Carlton Cuff and Shane Duggan but coach Paul Kelleher is hoping his team can produce the type of basketball they are capable of.

'This could be our toughest weekend of the season for a whole number of reasons, said Kelleher. Star are coming into the sort of form that I had expected from them before the season started and coming off two big wins in recent weeks makes them even tougher.

Star have quality right through their side and have great perimeter scoring and we also know of Josh Johnson's credentials after he spent a season with us. This will be an exciting game, but if we are going to get the desired result in both games, we will have to play with patience, poise and use our experience to get over this challenge.'

For the Star coach Danny Fulton it is an opportunity to make it three wins in a row and end the season on a high despite failing to reach the Play-Offs.

We stopped the rot against Killester and followed up last week with a win against Moycullen but we know Demons will be a far tougher proposition, said Fulton.

Bord Gais Neptune will be desperate to return to winning ways against DCU Saints after the disappointment of last weeks one point overtime loss to 11890 Killester.

The defeat to Killester leaves their hopes of claiming the Southern Conference hanging by a thread.

If we produce a similar battling performance against DCU Saints I think we will pose them problems, said Neptune Head Coach Mark Scannell.

It was hard to take the Killester defeat in the manner we did but we cannot do anything about that now and we must stay focused on the job in hand.

For the DCU Saints coach David Donnelly it has been a frustrating last fortnight following defeats to UCC Demons and UL Eagles.

We are not firing and we need to get back to winning ways and playing Neptune on our home court will be the acid test for us, David said.

I am trying to solve the mystery of how our form dipped so suddenly and we need to address it quickly with the play offs around the corner.

11890 Killester will have a full quota to choose from as they make the trip to a Moycullen side, who are looking for their fifth win of the season.

We were relieved to get back to winning ways against Neptune but this is another game that is not a forgone conclusion, said Killester Head Coach Darren ONeill.

UL Eagles had a mixed weekend when losing to UCC Demons but they bounced back to demolish DCU Saints and coach Mark Keenan is hoping for a repeat performance when they travel to Belfield to play UCD Marian.

When we play our best basketball we are formidable opponents for any side in this league and the main focus for us right now is not to look beyond the play offs, Mark said.

UCD Marian showed signs of vast improvement in their recent clash with 11890 Killester despite the 84-81 loss and will be hoping the Play offs will mark a positive end to their campaign.

Nivea for Mens SuperLeague

Moycullen (Galway) v 11890 Killester (Dublin), NUIG Kingfisher, 19:00; UCD Marian (Dublin) v UL Eagles (Limerick), UCD Sports Centre, 19:10; Belfast Star (Belfast) v UCC Demons (Cork), DLS Anderstown, 19:15

Basketball Ireland Mens Division One

Matt OFlaherty Chemist Titans (Galway) v Maree 9Galway), Renmore Community Centre, 19:00; Team Left Bank Kilkenny (Kilkenny) v Neptune (Cork), OLoughlin Gaels GAA Club, 19:00; Team Loftus Recycling Ballina (Mayo) v CHM Ballon (Carlow), Ballina Sports & Leisure Centre,19:30; Team Meadowlands St.Brendans (Kerry) v Blue Demons (Cork), Mercy Mounthawk, 19:30

Sunday February 26th 2012

Nivea for Mens SuperLeague

DCU Saints (Dublin) v Bord Gais Neptune (Cork), DCU Sports Complex, 16:00; Belfast Star (Belfast) v UCC Demons (Cork), UUJ, 15:00

Midweek game result : Nivea For Mens SuperLeague

11890 Killester 84 (37) (J Turner 31, R Clarke 13, P Madsen 11) UCD Marian 81 (42) (K Foley 20, C Meany 17, N Meany 16)

Courtesy : Shane whelan .... www.basketballireland.ie Joshua Johnson (199-F-85, college: Bowie St.)

Standings - EBS Superleague

SuperLeague Standings

North Conference
1. DCU Saints		15-4
2. 11890 Killester		13-6
3. UCD Marian		6-13
4. Belfast Star		3-14
South Conference
1. UCC Demons		12-5
2. B.Gais Neptune		10-7
3. UL Eagles		10-9
4. Moycullen		4-15

Stats Leaders - Men

Points Per Game

Joshua JOHNSON
  Belfast .
  (199-F-85)
  Avg: 25.5

1. Johnson, Belfast	25.5
2. Thompson, B.Gais N.	24.5
3. Atupem, UCC Demons	24.4
4. Turner, 11890 K.	23.0
5. Enos, Moycullen	22.9
6. Taylor, UL Eagles	19.3
7. Cummins, Belfast	18.0
8. Stith, UCD Marian	17.9
9. Noonan, B.Gais N.	15.0
10. Provizors, DCU S.	14.5

Rebounds Per Game

Jermaine TURNER
  11890 K.
  (195-F-74)
  Avg: 19

1. Turner, 11890 K.	19.0
2. Thompson, B.Gais N.	14.4
3. Killeen, UL Eagles	13.0
4. Johnson, Belfast	12.5
5. Provizors, DCU S.	12.3
6. Enos, Moycullen	11.0
7. Atupem, UCC Demons	9.8
8. Stith, UCD Marian	8.5
9. Glover, DCU Saints	8.0
10. O'Brien, 11890 K.	7.9

Assists Per Game

Shane COUGHLAN
  UCC D.
  (188-G-79)
  Avg: 5.3

1. Coughlan, UCC D.	5.3
2. Noonan, B.Gais N.	4.9
3. Taylor, UL Eagles	4.9
4. Clarke, 11890 K.	4.9
5. Kinevane, UL Eagl.	4.8
6. Dowd, Moycullen	4.6
7. Donnelly, DCU S.	4.1
8. Madsen, 11890 K.	4.0
9. Turner, 11890 K.	4.0
10. Cunningham, Moycu.	3.8

Steals Per Game

Jermaine TURNER
  11890 K.
  (195-F-74)
  Avg: 3.8

1. Turner, 11890 K.	3.8
2. Thompson, B.Gais N.	3.2
3. Taylor, UL Eagles	3.1
4. Anderson, DCU S.	2.5
5. Noonan, B.Gais N.	2.2
6. Madsen, 11890 K.	2.1
7. Taylor, B.Gais N.	2.1
8. Donnelly, DCU S.	2.0
9. Murphy, UCC Demons	2.0
10. Johnson, Belfast	2.0

Blocks Per Game

Jermaine TURNER
  11890 K.
  (195-F-74)
  Avg: 3.8

1. Turner, 11890 K.	3.8
2. Killeen, UL Eagles	2.2
3. Thompson, B.Gais N.	2.1
4. Stith, UCD Marian	1.7
5. O'Brien, 11890 K.	1.5
6. Trimmer, DCU S.	1.4
7. Casey, 11890 K.	1.3
8. Provizors, DCU S.	1.2
9. Enos, Moycullen	1.1
10. Johnson, Belfast	0.9

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

ISRAEL

Maccabi Electra heads to Euroleague Playoffs - by Eurobasket News
Maccabi Electra - Zalgiris 70-66

Maccabi Electra had to work very hard to beat Zalgiris 70-66 on Thursday night. Thanks to this victory the Israeli powerhouse jumped to 3-2 in Group H and booked a ticket for the Euroleague Playoffs. Zalgiris remains the only winless team in this pool with 0-5 record. Keith Langford (193-G/F-83, college: Kansas) was the leading scorer in victory with 17 points. Richard Hendrix (203-F/C-86, college: Alabama) had 11 points and 9 rebounds, while Sofoklis Schortsanitis (206-C-85) nailed 10 points. Sonny Weems (198-G/F-86, college: Arkansas) responded with 20 points at the other side. Dainius Salenga (197-F-77) and DeJuan Collins (188-G-76, college: Tuskegee) (5 rebs) had 12 and 11 points respectively. Zalgiris had an amazing start. They made 11-25 lead after just ten minutes of play, but Maccabi immediately woke up after that cutting the margin to minus 4 until the halftime. Zalgiris won the next period with 11-12 for 5-point lead before the last ten minutes, but than Keith Langford and his teammates exploded with 11-2 run as Nokia Arena was rocking. Zalgiris didn't give up and they grabbed back 65-66 lead with 1:42 remaining in the game. Langford made 4-0 series on his own and there was something more than 24 seconds to go. Sony Weems went for an open three, but Smith flew in to block the shot and tried to take it in for a slam. But he missed the dunk, Zalgiris recovered and Weems tried again, but missed from downtown. This time Hendrix corralled the rebound, was fouled and iced the game with a free throw with 7 seconds left. Maccabi will meet Barcelona in the last round of Top 16. Zalgiris will host Bennet Cantu.

Maccabi Electra: Keith Langford 17, Richard Hendrix 11+9 boards, Sofoklis Schortsanitis 10
Zalgiris: Sonny Weems 22, Dainius Salenga 12, DeJuan Collins 11+5 boards

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ITALY

Change at the top of the standings - by Eurobasket News
The fans could enjoy quite many interesting games in the last round. The round ended with change at the leadership position and favorites losing the games.

Nazionale A round 26 caused change at the leadership position. Twelfth defeat of league's leader Bari (13-12) against second ranked Orlandina (16-9) 76-69 was the most important game of the last round. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Bari. Bari trailed by 16 points after 3 quarters before a 23-14 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 69-76 at the end of the game. Guard Gionata Zampolli (189-85) orchestrated the victory by scoring 13 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Forward Andrea Benevelli (202-85) contributed with 14 points for the winners. Center Domenico Morena (210-70) replied with 13 points and 6 rebounds for Bari. Bari's coach Giovanni Putignano rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Newly promoted Orlandina maintains second position with 16-9 record having five points less than leader Trento which they share with defeated Bari. Bari at the other side, also newcomer in the league, dropped to the second place with 12 games lost. They were replaced at the leadership position by Trento. Bari will play next round against strong Chieti trying to make it back to the top of the standings. Orlandina will try to continue on its current victory against first ranked Recanati on the road.
Very important is a road loss of third ranked Perugia (11-13) against sixth ranked Santarcangelo (7-17) on Thursday night. Visiting Perugia was defeated by Santarcangelo in a tough game in Sant'Arcangelo 52-58. Swingman Luca Bedetti (193-89) scored 18 points and 8 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and Eugenio Rivali chipped in 12 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists and 6 steals (was perfect 8-for-8 from the free throw line) during the contest. Forward Thomas De Min (203-86) responded with 12 points and 7 rebounds. Santarcangelo moved-up to fourth place, which they share with Fabriano and Comsum.it SI. Perugia at the other side keeps the third position with 13 games lost. They share it with Latina Basket and Matera. Santarcangelo will play against league's second-placed Trieste on the road in the next round and it may be the game of the week. Perugia will play against the league's second-placed Torino and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Very important is a road loss of second ranked Torino (17-9) against fourth ranked Casalpusterlengo (14-11) on Thursday night. Visiting Torino was crushed by Casalpusterlengo in Casalpusterlengo 85-65. Marco Venuto notched 23 points to lead the effort. Even 14 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists by Marco Portannese did not help to save the game for Torino. Casalpusterlengo maintains fourth position with 14-11 record. Loser Torino keeps the second place with nine games lost. Casalpusterlengo will meet league's leader Trento on the road in the next round and it may be the game of the week. Torino will play against Perugia and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
An interesting game for Recanati (13-11) which played road game in Ferentino against 3rd ranked Ferentino (13-10). Third ranked Recanati managed to get a 7-point victory 82-75. It was a key game for the top position in the league. The best player for the winners was Federico Gilardi who scored 18 points and 6 rebounds (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field). Recanati keeps a position of league leader. Ferentino lost third consecutive game. They keep the third place with ten games lost. Recanati's next round opponent will be league's second-placed Orlandina at home and it will be for sure the game of the week. Ferentino will play against Ruvo in Ruvo di Puglia.
An interesting game for Trento (18-7) which played road game in Siena against 4th ranked Comsum.it SI (7-17). First ranked Trento had an easy win 87-72. Davide Pascolo orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 22 points and 13 rebounds. Trento maintains first position with 18-7 record, which they share with Trieste. Comsum.it SI lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the fourth place with 17 games lost. Trento will face Casalpusterlengo (#4) at home in the next round. Comsum.it SI will play against Treviglio and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

There were no big surprises in other games of round 26: Ruvo was beaten by San Severo on the road 81-74. Fabriano lost to Anagni on its own court 54-68. Latina Basket managed to outperform Matera in a road game 89-79. Napoli managed to beat Chieti at home 68-57. Treviglio defeated Pavia on the opponent's court 65-60. Omegna smashed Firenze in a home game 87-64. Trieste won against Castelletto on the road 72-61.

San Severo - Ruvo 81-74

No shocking result in a game when fourth ranked Mazzeo San Severo (10-14) beat at home 6th ranked Ruvo (3-22) 81-74 on Thursday. The hosts started the game with a very strong first quarter 24-13. But Ruvo won second period 23-17. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Mazzeo San Severo made 18-of-23 free shots (78.3 percent) during the game. They also forced 20 Ruvo turnovers. Ruvo was plagued by 26 personal fouls down the stretch. Swingman Ivan Scarponi (196-86) orchestrated the victory by scoring 18 points and 7 rebounds. Swingman Giovanni Rugolo (196-81) contributed with 22 points for the winners. Four Mazzeo San Severo players scored in double figures. Mazzeo San Severo's coach Antonio Paternoster used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Swingman Christian Villani (200-82) replied with 17 points and guard Davide Bonacini (190-90) added 13 points in the effort for Ruvo. Mazzeo San Severo maintains fourth position with 10-14 record. Ruvo lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the sixth place with 22 games lost. Mazzeo San Severo will face Fabriano (#5) in the next round. Ruvo will play against Ferentino.
Top scorers:
Ruvo: C.Villani 17+2reb, D.Bonacini 13+4reb+1ast, P.de Martino 12+5reb, M.Tagliabue 9+6reb, D.Merletto 8+2reb, T.Laquintana 5+2ast
San Severo: G.Rugolo 22+2reb+1ast, I.Scarponi 18+7reb+1ast, G.Fattori 16+7reb+2ast, R.Marzoli 11+3reb+2ast, F.Lovatti 5+5reb+8ast, F.Amoroso 5+3reb+2ast

Fabriano - Anagni 54-68

We cannot really consider it an upset in the game between close teams when 5th ranked Fabriano (7-17) lost at home to sixth ranked Anagni (8-15) 68-54 on Thursday. The guests trailed by 2 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 10-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 68-54. Anagni forced 22 Fabriano turnovers and outrebounded them 37-26 including 27 on the defensive glass. Naturalized Argentinian center Diego Corral (205-86, agency: Players Group) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 12 points and 15 rebounds. The former international guard Riccardo Santolamazza (195-83) contributed with 7 points, 7 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 steals for the winners. Forward Alessio Iardella (187-88) replied with 15 points and 7 rebounds and power forward Luca Usberti (201-73) added 9 points and 5 rebounds in the effort for Fabriano. Anagni maintains sixth position with 8-15 record. Fabriano lost fourth consecutive game. Newly promoted team dropped to the fourth place with 17 games lost. Anagni will face higher ranked Matera (#5) at home in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Fabriano will play against Mazzeo San Severo and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Fabriano: A.Iardella 15+7reb+1ast, L.Usberti 9+5reb, G.Sgobba 8+2reb+1ast, N.D'Arrigo 7+2reb, C.Fontani 6+1reb+1ast, N.Manuel Stanic 5+5reb+2ast
Anagni: N.Benedusi 13+2reb+2ast, D.Corral 12+15reb+2ast, L.Ciribeni 11+2reb+2ast, J.Pozzi 9+4reb+1ast, V.Circosta 7+2reb+3ast, R.Santolamazza 7+7reb+5ast

Matera - Latina Basket 79-89

We could consider it a predictable result in the game between close teams when fifth ranked Latina Basket (11-13) won against on the road one of their biggest challengers Matera (11-13) 89-79 on Thursday. The guests trailed by 5 points at the halftime before their 48-33 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Matera was plagued by 26 personal fouls down the stretch. Guard Tommaso Milani (190-88) orchestrated the victory by scoring 22 points and 6 rebounds. Naturalized Serbian forward Marko Micevic (198-89) contributed with 14 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. Guard Pierluigi Aprea (191-91) replied with 16 points and power forward Cristiano Grappasonni (204-72) added 15 points (was perfect 7-for-7 from the free throw line) in the effort for Matera. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Latina Basket moved-up to third place, which they share with Perugia and Matera. Latina Basket will face league's leader Napoli at home in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Matera will play against Anagni.
Top scorers:
Matera: P.Aprea 16+3reb+1ast, C.Grappasonni 15+2reb+1ast, R.Martone 10+3reb, A.LaGioia 10, G.Cantagalli 10+6reb, A.Pilotti 7+4reb
Latina Basket: T.Milani 22+6reb, M.Micevic 14+5reb, G.Gazzotti 13+4reb, T.Plateo 10+2reb, R.Romano 9+2reb, R.Serena 6

Ferentino - Recanati 75-82

An interesting game for Recanati (13-11) which played road game in Ferentino against 3rd ranked Ferentino (13-10). Third ranked Recanati managed to get a 7-point victory 82-75. It was a key game for the top position in the league. It looked good early as Ferentino took an 1-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Recanati had a 17-11 second period charge getting the lead and Ferentino was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 75-82. The best player for the winners was naturalized Argentinian guard Federico Gilardi (190-79, agency: Players Group) who scored 18 points and 6 rebounds (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field). Center Paolo Chiarello (204-78) chipped in 20 points. Four Recanati players scored in double figures. Forward Francesco Ihedioha (196-86) produced 25 points and 7 rebounds and guard Fabio Marcante (196-80, agency: Players Group) added 16 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists respectively for the hosts. Recanati keeps a position of league leader. Ferentino lost third consecutive game. They keep the third place with ten games lost. Recanati's next round opponent will be league's second-placed Orlandina at home and it will be for sure the game of the week. Ferentino will play against Ruvo in Ruvo di Puglia.
Top scorers:
Ferentino: F.Ihedioha 25+7reb+1ast, F.Marcante 16+5reb+5ast, M.Carrizo 13+4reb+1ast, F.Guarino 9+5ast, L.Pongetti 4+4reb+2ast, G.Andrea Fratini 3
Recanati: P.Chiarello 20+1reb+2ast, F.Gilardi 18+6reb+1ast, M.Ceron 11+4reb, R.Fossati 10+5reb+2ast, A.Pierini 8+4reb, A.Traini 7+1reb+4ast

Comsum.it SI - Trento 72-87

An interesting game for Trento (18-7) which played road game in Siena against 4th ranked Comsum.it SI (7-17). First ranked Trento had an easy win 87-72. The guests trailed by 5 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 4-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 87-72. Forward Davide Pascolo (200-90) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 22 points and 13 rebounds. Naturalized Argentinian point guard Andres Forray (187-86) contributed with 22 points for the winners. Four Trento players scored in double figures. Forward Stefano Simeoli (200-86) replied with 17 points and 8 rebounds and swingman Andrea Colli (203-88, agency: Players Group) added 16 points and 10 rebounds in the effort for Comsum.it SI. Trento maintains first position with 18-7 record, which they share with Trieste. Comsum.it SI lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the fourth place with 17 games lost. Trento will face Casalpusterlengo (#4) at home in the next round. Comsum.it SI will play against Treviglio and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Comsum.it SI: S.Simeoli 17+8reb+2ast, G.Spizzichini 17+5reb+3ast, A.Colli 16+10reb, N.Mei 7+1reb+1ast, M.Pascolo 7+1reb, C.Bianconi 6+2reb
Trento: A.Forray 22+3reb+2ast, D.Pascolo 22+13reb+1ast, M.Negri 13+2reb, M.Spanghero 11+1reb+1ast, S.Fiorito 8+2reb, L.Conte 5+2reb

Napoli - Chieti 68-57

The game between closely ranked teams ended with second-ranked Chieti's (12-12) road loss to first ranked Napoli (21-4) 57-68 on Thursday. The game without a history. Napoli led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Forward Simone Gatti (202-82) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 19 points and 11 rebounds. Naturalized Argentinian guard Bernardo Musso (192-86) contributed with 19 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Napoli's coach Maurizio Bartocci used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Swingman Antonio Porfido (190-90) replied with 16 points and naturalized San Marino swingman Andrea Raschi (200-79) added 9 points and 6 rebounds in the effort for Chieti. Napoli have an impressive 11-game winning streak. Newly promoted Napoli maintains first position with 21-4 record. Chieti at the other side, also newcomer in the league, dropped to the third place with 12 games lost. Napoli will face Latina Basket (#4) on the road in the next round. Chieti will play against the league's second-placed Bari and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Chieti: A.Porfido 16+2reb, M.Diomede 12+1ast, A.Raschi 9+6reb+2ast, F.Gialloreto 7+4reb+1ast, E.Rossi 5+9reb+1ast, A.Martelli 4+2reb
Napoli: B.Musso 19+8reb+3ast, S.Gatti 19+11reb+2ast, N.Rizzitiello 10+3reb, P.Rotondo 6+3reb, N.Sabbatino 5+1reb+5ast, A.Iannilli 4+3reb+4ast

Orlandina - Bari 76-69

Nazionale A round 26 caused change at the leadership position. Twelfth defeat of league's leader Bari (13-12) against second ranked Orlandina (16-9) 76-69 was the most important game of the last round. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Bari. Bari trailed by 16 points after 3 quarters before a 23-14 run in the last quarter cut the deficit to 69-76 at the end of the game. Guard Gionata Zampolli (189-85) orchestrated the victory by scoring 13 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Forward Andrea Benevelli (202-85) contributed with 14 points for the winners. Center Domenico Morena (210-70) replied with 13 points and 6 rebounds and forward Fabio Mian (195-92) added 15 points in the effort for Bari. Bari's coach Giovanni Putignano rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Newly promoted Orlandina maintains second position with 16-9 record having five points less than leader Trento which they share with defeated Bari. Bari at the other side, also newcomer in the league, dropped to the second place with 12 games lost. They were replaced at the leadership position by Trento. Bari will play next round against strong Chieti trying to make it back to the top of the standings. Orlandina will try to continue on its current victory against first ranked Recanati on the road.
Top scorers:
Bari: F.Mian 15+2reb+2ast, D.Morena 13+6reb+1ast, S.Deguara 12+4reb, A.Ruggiero 9+3reb+2ast, M.Cardillo 5+3reb, S.Gigena 5+2reb+1ast
Orlandina: A.Benevelli 14+3reb+2ast, G.Zampolli 13+5reb+4ast, F.Zanelli 9+2reb+1ast, N.Damiani 9+1reb+1ast, F.Pellegrino 9+7reb+1ast, M.Cardinali 7+2reb+2ast

Pavia - Treviglio 60-65

Everything went according to plan when third ranked Treviglio (15-10) defeated on the road 5th ranked Pavia (13-13) 65-60 on Thursday. The guests trailed by 2 points at the halftime before their 26-16 charge in the third quarter, which allowed them to win the game. Guard Tommaso Marino (190-86, agency: Interperformances) orchestrated the victory by scoring 11 points and 5 assists. Naturalized Argentinian swingman Augustin Fabi (199-91) contributed with 11 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Guard Luca Furlanetto (197-81) replied with 10 points and 8 rebounds and power forward Roberto Cazzaniga (205-78) added 14 points and 5 rebounds (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) in the effort for Pavia. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Treviglio maintains third position with 15-10 record having six points less than leader Trento. Loser Pavia keeps the fifth place with 13 games lost. Treviglio will face Comsum.it SI (#4) in Siena in the next round. Pavia will play at home against the league's leader Omegna.
Top scorers:
Pavia: R.Cazzaniga 14+5reb, R.Pederzini 13+2reb+1ast, F.Maiocco 11+6reb, L.Furlanetto 10+8reb+3ast, I.Cisse 6+8reb+1ast, D.Bozzetto 4+6reb
Treviglio: N.Cazzolato 12+7reb, T.Marino 11+4reb+5ast, A.Fabi 11+6reb+3ast, R.Marulli 11+2reb, J.Borra 10+5reb, M.Planezio 6+9reb+3ast

Omegna - Firenze 87-64

There was no surprise when 5th ranked Firenze (7-18) was outleveled on the road by first ranked Omegna (23-3) 87-64 on Thursday. The game was mostly controlled by Omegna. Firenze was better in fourth quarter 21-16. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They made 21-of-27 free shots (77.8 percent) during the game. Omegna had a 25-11 advantage in offensive rebounds. Guard Tommaso Raspino (196-89, agency: Players Group) orchestrated the victory by scoring 16 points. Guard Pierpaolo Picazio (193-79, agency: Players Group) contributed with 13 points and 5 assists for the winners. Omegna's coach Giampaolo Di Lorenzo felt very confident that he used 10 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Center Andrea Capitanelli (203-86) replied with 10 points, 7 rebounds and 4 blocks and forward Stefano Spizzichini (202-90) added 7 points and 7 rebounds in the effort for Firenze. Omegna have a solid four-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 23-3 record. Firenze lost fourth consecutive game. Newly promoted team dropped to the sixth place with 18 games lost. Omegna will face Pavia (#5) on the road in the next round. Firenze will play against Castelletto and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Firenze: F.Bellina 12+1reb, A.Capitanelli 10+7reb, A.Giampaoli 9+1reb, S.Spizzichini 7+7reb, D.Monaldi 6+1ast, A.Amici 6+3reb+1ast
Omegna: T.Raspino 16+2reb+2ast, P.Picazio 13+1reb+5ast, A.Saccaggi 13+1reb, S.Masciadri 9+6reb+3ast, M.Bertolazzi 9+1reb+4ast, F.Prelazzi 7+6reb+1ast

Castelletto - Trieste 61-72

No shocking result in a game when second ranked Trieste (18-7) beat on the road 6th ranked Castelletto (8-17) 72-61 on Thursday. They outrebounded Castelletto 47-24 including a 19-3 advantage in offensive rebounds. Forward Luca Gandini (205-85) orchestrated the victory by scoring 9 points and 13 rebounds. point guard Michele Ruzzier (181-93) contributed with 15 points for the winners. Trieste's coach Eugenio Dalmasson used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Center Matteo Raminelli (203-83) replied with 15 points, 7 rebounds and 5 blocks and point guard Simone Ferrarese (182-87) added 11 points and 4 assists in the effort for Castelletto. Four Castelletto players scored in double figures. Trieste have an impressive six-game winning streak. They keep a position of league leader, which they share with Trento. Castelletto lost ninth consecutive game. They keep the sixth place with 17 games lost. Trieste will face Santarcangelo (#5) in Sant'Arcangelo in the next round. Castelletto will play on the road against Firenze and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Castelletto: M.Raminelli 15+7reb+1ast, F.Dri 13+1reb+2ast, S.Ferrarese 11+3reb+4ast, M.Terzaghi 10+2reb, L.Marmugi 5+2reb, S.Cotani 5+5reb
Trieste: M.Ruzzier 15+4reb+2ast, D.Mastrangelo 12+3reb, A.Moruzzi 10+3reb, L.Gandini 9+13reb+1ast, I.Ferraro 8+4reb+1ast, M.Carra 7+3reb+2ast

Santarcangelo - Perugia 58-52

Very important is a road loss of third ranked Perugia (11-13) against sixth ranked Santarcangelo (7-17) on Thursday night. Visiting Perugia was defeated by Santarcangelo in a tough game in Sant'Arcangelo 52-58. Perugia was ahead by 3 points at the halftime before a 31-22 second half run of Santarcangelo. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Perugia to just 6 points in third quarter. Swingman Luca Bedetti (193-89) scored 18 points and 8 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and point guard Eugenio Rivali (178-86) chipped in 12 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists and 6 steals (was perfect 8-for-8 from the free throw line) during the contest. Forward Thomas De Min (203-86) responded with 12 points and 7 rebounds and power forward Filippo Baldi Rossi (207-91) scored 2 points and 10 rebounds. Santarcangelo moved-up to fourth place, which they share with Fabriano and Comsum.it SI. Perugia at the other side keeps the third position with 13 games lost. They share it with Latina Basket and Matera. Santarcangelo will play against league's second-placed Trieste on the road in the next round and it may be the game of the week. Perugia will play against the league's second-placed Torino and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Perugia: D.Poltroneri 12+1reb, T.De Min 12+7reb, R.Truccolo 8+3reb+1ast, M.Caroldi 7+2reb+1ast, S.Bonamente 4+3reb, F.Santantonio 3+3reb+1ast
Santarcangelo: L.Bedetti 18+8reb+1ast, E.Rivali 12+6reb+4ast, M.Bonaiuti 10+1reb+1ast, L.Pesaresi 6, A.Ancellotti 4+6reb, N.Italiano 4+6reb

Casalpusterlengo - Torino 85-65

Very important is a road loss of second ranked Torino (17-9) against fourth ranked Casalpusterlengo (14-11) on Thursday night. Visiting Torino was crushed by Casalpusterlengo in Casalpusterlengo 85-65. The game was mostly controlled by Casalpusterlengo. Torino managed to win third quarter 14-13. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Casalpusterlengo forced 20 Torino turnovers and outrebounded them 38-23 including 24 on the defensive glass. They shot the lights out from three sinking 13 long-distance shots on high 54.2 percentage. Guard Marco Venuto (190-85) notched 23 points to lead the effort and guard Federico Loschi (195-90) supported him with 16 points. Even 14 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists by guard Marco Portannese (192-89, agency: Players Group) did not help to save the game for Torino. Maurizio Giadini (200-77) added 7 points and 4 steals for the guests. Casalpusterlengo maintains fourth position with 14-11 record. Loser Torino keeps the second place with nine games lost. Casalpusterlengo will meet league's leader Trento on the road in the next round and it may be the game of the week. Torino will play against Perugia and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Torino: M.Portannese 14+5reb+4ast, F.Conti 9+1reb, C.Masper 7+1reb, M.Giadini 7+4reb+3ast, L.Fontecchio 7+5reb, M.DeFant 6+1reb
Casalpusterlengo: M.Venuto 23+1reb+3ast, F.Loschi 16+2reb+1ast, M.Contento 11+2reb, A.Chiumenti 9+7reb, R.Prandin 8+2reb+3ast, R.Casagrande 7+5reb+2ast

EA7 Armani wins in Athens but not enough for Playoffs, PAO advances - by Eurobasket News
Panathinaikos - Armani MI 58-67

EA7 Emporio Armani Milan celebrated 58-67 victory at OAKA last night, but that was not enough as PAO won 57-78 in Milano more than a month ago. It means that Armani improved to 2-3 in Group G, but with no chance to advance. At the same time, PAO booked a spot for the Playoffs despite they dropped to 3-2. Nicolo Melli (205-F-91) top-scored in victory with 13 points. Antonis Fotsis (210-F-81) and Ioannis Bourousis (212-C-83, agency: FCM) had 12 points each in this meeting and they grabbed 17 rebounds together. In PAO, Dimitris Diamantidis (196-G-80) netted 12 points and Mike Batiste (203-F-77, college: Arizona St.) had 11 points, plus 7 rebounds. Ian Vougioukas (212-C/F-85, college: St.Louis) and David Logan (184-G-82, college: Indianapolis) stopped to 7 pts each. Visitors had 51-65 lead with 4 minutes to go. Nicolo Melli dunked then Romain Sato answered with a layup, but Panathinaikos could do little more than cut the margin of defeat, adding a Batiste layup and Sato free throws. Quarters: 11-16, 21-18, 14-19, 12-14. In the last round of Top 16, Panathinaikos will meet Unics in Kazan. Armani will host Fenerbahce Ulker.

PAO: Dimitris Diamantidis 12, Mike Batiste 11+7 boards, Ian Vougioukas 7, David Logan 7
Armani: Nicolo Melli 13, Antonis Fotsis 12+9 boards, Ioannis Bourousis 12+8 boards

stats leader

Points Per Game

Bernardo MUSSO
  Napoli
  (192-G-86)
  Avg: 19.4

1. Musso, Napoli	19.4
2. Evangelisti, Recan.	17.4
3. Mei, Comsum.it SI	15.3
4. Ferrarese, Castell.	15.1
5. Prandin, Casalp.	14.9
6. Carrizo, Ferentino	14.8
7. Portannese, Torino	14.8
8. Benevelli, Orlandi.	14.7
9. Vitale, Treviglio	14.5
10. Tessitori, Comsum.	14.4

Rebounds Per Game

Emanuele ROSSI
  Chieti
  (208-C-82)
  Avg: 12.6

1. Rossi, Chieti	12.6
2. Iannilli, Napoli	9.6
3. Benevelli, Orlandi.	8.4
4. Borra, Treviglio	8.3
5. Gandini, Trieste	8.3
6. Simeoli, Comsum.i.	8.3
7. Tessitori, Comsum..	8.2
8. Baldi Rossi, Perug.	8.1
9. Raminelli, Castell.	7.6
10. Ferraro, Trieste	7.4

Assists Per Game

Matteo BERTOLAZZI
  Omegna
  (181-G-79)
  Avg: 4.5

1. Bertolazzi, Omegna	4.5
2. Musso, Napoli	4.0
3. Stanic, Fabriano	3.7
4. Guarino, Ferentino	3.3
5. Vico, Matera	3.2
6. Santolamazza, Ana.	3.1
7. Ferrarese, Castell.	3.1
8. Forray, Trento	2.8
9. Parente, Torino	2.8
10. Zanelli, Orlandina	2.8

Steals Per Game

Alessio IARDELLA
  Fabriano
  (187-F-88)
  Avg: 3.3

1. Iardella, Fabriano	3.3
2. Musso, Napoli	3.0
3. Bertolazzi, Omegna	3.0
4. Malamov, Anagni	2.9
5. Maggio, Pavia	2.8
6. Portannese, Torino	2.8
7. Rivali, Santarcang.	2.8
8. Amici, Firenze	2.7
9. Rossi, Chieti	2.7
10. Cazzaniga, Pavia	2.7

Blocks Per Game

Andrea CAPITANELLI
  Firenze
  (203-C-86)
  Avg: 1.7

1. Capitanelli, Firen.	1.7
2. Ancellotti, Santar.	1.7
3. Borra, Treviglio	1.4
4. Candido, San Seve.	1.2
5. Gandini, Trieste	1.0
6. Cazzaniga, Pavia	1.0
7. Tessitori, Comsum..	1.0
8. Raminelli, Castell.	1.0
9. Pascolo, Trento	1.0
10. Benevelli, Orland.	0.9

Standings - B1

Nazionale Standings

Div.North-East
1. Trento		18-7
2. Trieste		18-7
3. Perugia		11-13
4. Comsum.it SI		7-17
5. Santarcangelo		7-17
6. Firenze		7-18
Div.North-West
1. Omegna		23-3
2. Torino		17-9
3. Treviglio		15-10
4. Casalpusterlengo		14-11
5. Pavia		13-13
6. Castelletto		8-17
Div.South-East
1. Recanati		13-11
2. Bari		13-12
3. Chieti		12-12
4. San Severo		10-14
5. Fabriano		7-17
6. Ruvo		3-22
Div.South-West
1. Napoli		21-4
2. Orlandina		16-9
3. Ferentino		13-10
4. Latina Basket		11-13
5. Matera		11-13
6. Anagni		8-15

Regal Barcelona grabs thriller win in Cantu, secures first place in Group H - by Eurobasket News
Bennet Cantu - FCB Regal 62-63

Regal Barcelona grabbed 62-63 thriller win in Cantu last night. It was a Round 5 of the Euroleague Top 16 phase and Barca managed to stay undefeated. They secured first place in Group H and booked a spot for the Playoffs. At the other side, Cantu dropped to 2-3 with no chance to advance. Boniface Ndong (213-C-77) led the Spanish champs with 13 points and 5 rebounds. Juan Carlos Navarro (192-G-80) had 12 and Erazem Lorbek (209-F/C-84, college: Michigan St.) added 10 points, plus 6 rebounds. The hosts got 14 points and 8 boards from Giorgi Shermadini (216-C-89). Doron Perkins (188-PG-83, college: Santa Clara) had 12 points, 7 rebs and 5 assists, and third scorer in defeat was Maarten Leunen (206-F-85, college: Oregon) with 9 points. Barca made 0-9 run during the last period for 58-61 lead with something more than 5 minutes to go. Doron Perkins and Giorgi Shermadini answered with mini 4-0 run for 62-61 Cantu lead with 40 seconds remaining. Juan Carlos Navarro made two free throws with 26 seconds to go for a 62-63 Barcelona lead before Basiles potential game-winning jumper from the right baseline went off the front of the rim and out just before the final buzzer. Quarters: 18-18, 15-17, 17-17, 12-11. Barca waits Maccabi in the last round of Top 16. Cantu will go to Kaunas.

Cantu: Giorgi Shermadini 14+8 boards, Doron Perkins 12+7 boards+5 as, Maarten Leunen 9
Barcelona: Boniface Ndong 13+5 boards, Juan Carlos Navarro 12, Erazem Lorbek 10+6 boards

Donnie McGrath joins Tezenis Verona - by Eurobasket News
Donnie McGrath (193-G-84, college: Providence) is coming back to Italy. The guard has agreed on terms of contract with Tezenis Verona. The US-Irish player started the season in France. He played for Cholet Basket. Donnie McGrath averaged 2.6 points and 1.2 assists per game in EuroCup. In ProA his stats read 2.7 points and 2.0 assists per appearance. Later Donnie McGrath moved to Italy to join Banca Tercas Teramo. The guard produced 4.8 points, 3.0 assists and 1.8 rebounds per appearance in Seria A. Previously Donnie McGrath had stints in Greece, Italy. The guard was the member of Irish National Team in 2006/08 seasons.

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

JAPAN

Stats Leaders - JBL Superleague

Points Per Game

Takuya KAWAMURA
  Tochigi .
  (193-G-86)
  Avg: 20.4

1. Kawamura, Tochigi	20.4
2. Hale, Mitsubis.	17.5
3. Sakuragi, Aishin SH	17.1
4. Kanamaru, Panasoni.	16.5
5. Orimo, Hokkaido L.	15.6
6. McFarlin, Tochigi	15.5
7. Lewis, Hokkaido L.	14.4
8. Takeuchi, Hitac.	13.8
9. Igarashi, Mitsubis.	13.7
10. Ricci, Toyota Alv.	13.2

Rebounds Per Game

J.R. SAKURAGI
  Aishin SH
  (206-F/C-76)
  Avg: 11.9

1. Sakuragi, Aishin SH	11.9
2. McFarlin, Tochigi	10.0
3. Takeuchi, Hitac.	9.8
4. Moss, Toshiba BT	8.7
5. Diouf, Hokkaido L.	8.3
6. Gibbs, Toyota A.	8.0
7. Hale, Mitsubis.	7.4
8. Ricci, Toyota Alva.	7.3
9. Lewis, Hokkaido L.	6.8
10. Allen, Mitsubis.	6.7

Assists Per Game

Takuya KAWAMURA
  Tochigi .
  (193-G-86)
  Avg: 4.1

1. Kawamura, Tochigi	4.1
2. Sakurai, Hokkaido.	4.1
3. Igarashi, Mitsubis.	3.9
4. Sakuragi, Aishin SH	3.5
5. Kashiwagi, Aishin	3.1
6. Takeuchi, Hitac.	2.9
7. Watanabe, Panason.	2.9
8. Kashiwakura, Hitac.	2.9
9. Tabuse, Tochigi	2.7
10. Hirose, Panasoni.	2.5

Steals Per Game

Takuya KAWAMURA
  Tochigi .
  (193-G-86)
  Avg: 1.8

1. Kawamura, Tochigi	1.8
2. Sato, Hitachi SR	1.7
3. Hale, Mitsubis.	1.6
4. Kashiwagi, Aishin	1.6
5. Hirose, Panasoni.	1.5
6. Gibbs, Toyota A.	1.5
7. Igarashi, Mitsubis.	1.4
8. Diouf, Hokkaido L.	1.4
9. Tabuse, Tochigi	1.3
10. Sakuragi, Aishin	1.3

Blocks Per Game

Joji TAKEUCHI
  Hitac.
  (206-F/C-85)
  Avg: 1.5

1. Takeuchi, Hitac.	1.5
2. Richardson, Aishin	1.4
3. Ricci, Toyota Alva.	1.1
4. Diouf, Hokkaido L.	1.0
5. Takeuchi, Toyota	1.0
6. McFarlin, Tochigi	0.8
7. Hale, Mitsubis.	0.8
8. Aono, Panasonic T.	0.8
9. Merritt, Toshi.	0.8
10. Moss, Toshiba BT	0.7

Standings - JBL

JBL Standings

1. Toyota Alvark		23-9
2. Aishin SH		23-9
3. Panasonic T.		20-13
4. Hitachi SR		19-14
5. Tochigi Brex		15-17
6. Hokkaido L.		14-18
7. Mitsubishi DD		11-21
8. Toshiba BT		4-28

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

LATVIA

LBL2 Round 28: Leader VEF Riga junior gets another victory - by Eurobasket News
Leader VEF Riga junior delivered the twentieth first win on Tuesday night. This time they crushed 8th ranked Ventspils Augstskola (11-12) 73-54. VEF Riga junior have a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 21-2 record. Ventspils Augstskola lost third consecutive game. They keep the eighth place with 12 games lost. VEF Riga junior are looking forward to face Gulbene (#15) in the next round which should be an easy win for them. Ventspils Augstskola will play against the league's second-placed Barons kvartals (#2) in Riga and is hoping to prove to their fans that they can break losing series.
Important game to mention about took place in Riga. Fourteenth ranked Valmiera BSS (6-17) saved a 1-point victory on the road edging higher ranked BS Riga (12-10) 73-72 on Monday evening. It was quite big embarassment for the home team. Newly promoted Valmiera BSS maintains fourteenth position with 6-17 record. BS Riga lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the sixth place with ten games lost. They share the position with RSU. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Sixteenth-ranked Ridzene (3-20) made lots of trouble for tenth ranked BS Ogre (8-14) on Wednesday. BS Ogre managed to secure only three-point victory 70-67. However their fans expected much easier game. BS Ogre maintains tenth position with 8-14 record. Ridzene lost tenth consecutive game. They stay dead last with 20 lost games. BS Ogre will meet higher ranked VEF Kadeti (#5) in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Ridzene will play against Zemgale/Juniors (#11) in Jelgava and hope to secure a win.
The game with biggest result difference took place in Riga. Local Barons kvartals (20-2) outscored 12th ranked Livani (7-16) 100-65. Barons kvartals have an impressive eight-game winning streak. They moved-up to second place. Livani at the other side dropped to the eleventh position with 16 games lost. Barons kvartals' next round opponent will be Ventspils Augstskola (#8) on the road where they are favorite. Livani will play against Liepaja-2.

In the last two games of round 28 Saldus defeated Cesis in a road game 77-65. Jelgava/LLU were beaten by Liepaja-2 at home 77-90.

Cesis - Saldus
gschID: 165433

BK VEF - VA
gschID: 165430

Jelgava/LLU - Liepaja-2
gschID: 165431

BS Riga - Valmiera BSS 1. BK VEF 21-2 2. Barons kvartals 20-2 3. Liepaja-2 20-3 4. Saldus 18-4 5. VEF Kadeti 13-8 6. BS Riga 12-10 7. RSU 12-10 8. VA 11-12 9. DSN 10-12 10. Ogres 8-14 11. Jelgava/LLU 7-16 12. Cesis 7-16 13. Livani 7-16 14. Valmiera BSS 6-17 15. Gulbene 5-18 16. Ridzene 3-20

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

  LIGA AMERICAS

Quentin Smith joins Pioneros de Quintana - by Eurobasket News
Pioneros de Quintana strengthen their roster prior to the start of Liga Americas 2012. They landed Quentin Smith (205-C-77, college: Mississippi St.) lately. Quentin Smith started the season in Ecuador. The centre played for UTEQ. Quentin Smith tallied 15.0 points, 6.7 rebounds, 1.0 block and 1.0 steal per game in Liga Sudamericana. Last season the centre tipped off with Huesca in Spain. He averaged 7.3 points and 4.6 rebounds per game in LEB Gold. Later the centre had stints in Dominican Republic and Uruguay. Quentin Smith also played Venezuela, Argentina, Spain, Uruguay, Turkey, Lebanon, Syria, Kosovo and Norway before. Eurobasket.com named Quentin Smith All-Kosovo League Import Player of the Year in 2006.
Pioneros de Quintana open Liga Americas campaign tonight. They host Vivo/Franca of Brazil in Group A.

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

  LITHUANIA

Baltic League. Tarvas enter Challenge Cup Final - by Eurobasket News
Tarvas - Sakalai 102:91

Rakvere Tarvas became the first finalists of Baltic League Challenge Cup. They defeated Sakalai for the second time in a row to seal the birth in the title series. Juris Umbrasko (197-G/F-79) stepped up with 33 points to lead the Estonian team.
Tarvas enjoyed a 7-point buffer after the game in Lithuania. The teams stayed close throughout the starting frame. The scoreboard read 22:22 after ten minutes of action. Sakalai fired 27 points in the second term to pull ahead for a narrow 49:48 halftime lead. Rakvere however exploded with 32 points in the third term to take a comfortable 80:64 lead at the final break. Sakalai fought till the final second but the mission was too difficult to be achieved. Tarvas will play in the Challenge Cup Final. Rinalds Sirsnins (186-PG-85) provided 26 points, while Kaspars Cipruss (210-C-82, agency: Interperformances) added 15 points for the winners. Virginijus Sirvydis (196-G/F-73) answered with 21 points for Sakalai. Evaldas Baniulis (201-F-87, college: S.Carolina) had 19 points in the loss.

Tarvas: Juris Umbrasko 33, Rinalds Sirsnins 26, Kaspars Cipruss 15
Sakalai: Virginijus Sirvydis 21, Evaldas Baniulis 19

NKL Round 7: Nafta Universitetas lose #1 position in their group - by Eurobasket News
Round 7 in NKL Second Stage means a new league leader. The biggest surprise took place in Marijampole where host Matinga-Juod. (21-16) crushed league's leader Nafta Universitetas (23-14) 83-63 on Friday evening. The hosts trailed by 3 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 12-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 83-63. Matinga-Juod. dominated on the defensive end, holding Nafta Universitetas to just 7 points in second quarter. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 24 assists comparing to just 11 passes made by Nafta Universitetas' players. Guard Aurimas Birgelis (190-88) fired 24 points and 9 assists (on 9-of-11 shooting from the field) for the winners. Center Mindaugas Kalvelis (205-80) chipped in 13 points and 11 rebounds. Forward Julius Kazakauskas (197-90) produced 15 points and 8 rebounds for lost side. Nafta Universitetas' coach Dainius Miliunas rotated eleven players seeing no chance for a win. Newly promoted Matinga-Juod. maintains seventh place in with 21-16 record. Nafta Universitetas at the other side dropped to the second position with 14 games lost. They were replaced at the leadership position by Radviliskis. Nafta Universitetas will have a break next week, which should allow them to rest and make it back to the top of the standings. Matinga-Juod. will try to continue on its current victory against second ranked Nafta Universitetas in Klaipeda.
The game had a very big importance for second-ranked Radviliskis as it allowed them to take a leadership position in . Radviliskis defeated 3rd placed Delikatesas at home 73-61. Worth to mention a great performance of forward Audrius Mineikis (201-77) who helped to win the game recording 9 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists. Juozas Ramanauskas contributed with 12 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. Center Tautvydas Slezas (207-90, agency: Interperformances) answered with a double-double by scoring 14 points, 11 rebounds and 5 assists for Delikatesas. As mentioned above they took over a top position. Delikatesas at the other side keeps the third place with 15 games lost. Delikatesas will have a break next week, which should allow them to rest in order to get back on the winning path. Radviliskis will try to continue on its current victory against sixth ranked Zalgiris-Sabonio at Kaunas.
A very close game took place in Kaunas between Zalgiris-Sabonio and LKKA-Atletas. Sixth ranked Zalgiris-Sabonio (21-15) got a very close home victory over 4th placed LKKA-Atletas (22-15). Zalgiris-Sabonio managed to escape with a 2-point win 80-78 on Friday evening. It was a great evening for Tomas Dimsa who led his team to a victory scoring 16 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field). Zalgiris-Sabonio's coach Tomas Masiulis used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. At the losing side Vidmantas Sragauskis responded with 25 points and 9 rebounds. Zalgiris-Sabonio maintains sixth place in with 21-15 record. Loser LKKA-Atletas keeps the fourth position with 15 games lost. Zalgiris-Sabonio will meet at home league's leader Radviliskis in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. LKKA-Atletas will have a break next round.
A very interesting game took place in Siauliai. This derby game ended with only three-point home defeat of 16th ranked ABRO-Universitetas (7-30) to fifteenth ranked Gargzdai-Bremena (10-27) 65-62 in the fight for the fifteenth place. It was an exceptional evening for Egidijus Ramanauskas who led the winners with a double-double by scoring 12 points and 16 rebounds. Gargzdai-Bremena's coach Rytas Vaisvila allowed to play the deep bench players in such tough game. Newly promoted Gargzdai-Bremena maintains fifteenth place in with 10-27 record. ABRO-Universitetas at the other side stay dead last with 30 lost games. Gargzdai-Bremena will have a break next round. ABRO-Universitetas will play again on the road against Gargzdai-Bremena (#15) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Another exciting game was a derby match between two local teams from Vilnius: S.Marciulionio (#12) and Perlas-MRU (#9). Perlas-MRU was defeated at home 79-83 and even the advantage of their own court did not help. Nerijus Varnelis fired 25 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. S.Marciulionio (18-19) moved-up to eleventh place in . S.Marciulionio will have a break next round. Perlas-MRU's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Vilnius to the arena S.Marciulionio.

Other games of round 7 were quite predictable and ended without any surprises. Here they are:
Triobet was defeated by Mazeikiai in a road game 70-52. Zalgiris-Sabonio beat Matinga-Juod. at home 84-80. Statyba destroyed Silute on the opponent's court 83-61. Meresta was outscored by Ezerunas-Karys in a home game 76-99.
The best stats of 7th round was 30 points and 7 assists by Sarunas Vingelis of LKKA-Atletas.

Group A
Mazeikiai - Triobet 70-52

There was no surprise when 8th ranked Triobet (19-18) was defeated on the road by fifth ranked Mazeikiai (22-15) 70-52 on Friday. The game was mostly controlled by Mazeikiai. Triobet was better in second period 23-21. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Triobet to just 5 points in fourth quarter. Mazeikiai forced 23 Triobet turnovers. Forward Janas Jurgo (200-83) fired a double-double by scoring 14 points and 13 rebounds for the winners. American guard Parrish Brown (185-84, college: Maryland, agency: Hightower Law Firm) chipped in 19 points and 4 assists. Forward Vytautas Kruzikas (199-89) produced 13 points and 6 rebounds and forward Martynas Linkevicius (197-85) added 8 points and 7 rebounds respectively for lost side. Triobet's coach Kestutis Narusevicius tested twelve players seeing no chance for a win. Mazeikiai maintains fifth place in with 22-15 record. Loser Triobet dropped to the ninth position with 18 games lost. Mazeikiai will face again Triobet (#9) in Jonava in the next round.
Top scorers:
Triobet: V.Kruzikas 13+6reb, M.Linkevicius 8+7reb+3ast, P.Vaitiekunas 8+5reb, T.Sebeziovas 8+2reb, H.Vorotnikovas 6+3reb+1ast, E.Zukas 3+2reb
Mazeikiai: P.Brown 19+2reb+4ast, C.Brock 15+6reb, J.Jurgo 14+13reb+1ast, M.Stasys 7+2reb+2ast, R.Trakimas 4+2reb, M.Norkus 4+4reb+2ast
gschID: 169265

Zalgiris-Sabonio - LKKA-Atletas 80-78

A very close game took place in Kaunas between Zalgiris-Sabonio and LKKA-Atletas. Sixth ranked Zalgiris-Sabonio (21-15) got a very close home victory over 4th placed LKKA-Atletas (22-15). Zalgiris-Sabonio managed to escape with a 2-point win 80-78 on Friday evening. LKKA-Atletas cut a 17-point first quarter deficit to two at the end of the game. Zalgiris-Sabonio dominated down low during the game scoring 64 of its points in the paint compared to LKKA-Atletas' 44. It was a great evening for swingman Tomas Dimsa (195-94) who led his team to a victory scoring 16 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field). Power forward Simonas Kymantas (204-93) helped adding 16 points and 7 rebounds. Zalgiris-Sabonio's coach Tomas Masiulis used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. At the losing side forward Vidmantas Sragauskis (200-86) responded with 25 points and 9 rebounds and center Tomas Urbonas (218-92) scored 16 points and 7 rebounds (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field). Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Zalgiris-Sabonio maintains sixth place in with 21-15 record. Loser LKKA-Atletas keeps the fourth position with 15 games lost. Zalgiris-Sabonio will meet at home league's leader Radviliskis in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. LKKA-Atletas will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
LKKA-Atletas: V.Sragauskis 25+9reb+2ast, T.Urbonas 16+7reb+1ast, D.Gricius 11+4reb+1ast, M.Sapiega 10+4reb+8ast, S.Vingelis 8+3reb+5ast, A.Sakalauskas 7+2reb
Zalgiris-Sabonio: T.Dimsa 16+5reb+6ast, S.Kymantas 16+7reb+1ast, R.Jakstas 15+4reb+2ast, Z.Skucas 11+4reb+1ast, V.Kariniauskas 8+2reb+6ast, T.Jogela 6+3reb+2ast
gschID: 169262

Radviliskis - Delikatesas 73-61

The game had a very big importance for second-ranked Radviliskis as it allowed them to take a leadership position in . Radviliskis defeated 3rd placed Delikatesas at home 73-61. The game was mostly controlled by Radviliskis. Delikatesas was better in fourth quarter 20-19. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They outrebounded Delikatesas 45-33 including 31 on the defensive glass. Worth to mention a great performance of forward Audrius Mineikis (201-77) who helped to win the game recording 9 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists. Center Juozas Ramanauskas (207-85) contributed with 12 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. Center Tautvydas Slezas (207-90, agency: Interperformances) answered with a double-double by scoring 14 points, 11 rebounds and 5 assists and swingman Vaidotas Jatulevicius (194-88) added 10 points and 6 rebounds in the effort for Delikatesas. Four Delikatesas players scored in double figures. As mentioned above they took over a top position. Delikatesas at the other side keeps the third place with 15 games lost. Delikatesas will have a break next week, which should allow them to rest in order to get back on the winning path. Radviliskis will try to continue on its current victory against sixth ranked Zalgiris-Sabonio at Kaunas.
Top scorers:
Delikatesas: T.Slezas 14+11reb+5ast, Z.Petraitis 10+1reb, V.Jatulevicius 10+6reb+1ast, A.Kvedaravicius 10+2reb+3ast, P.Klemas 9+2reb+2ast, V.Uzkuraitis 6+4reb
Radviliskis: L.Valantinas 12+1reb, J.Ramanauskas 12+9reb+1ast, M.Pukinskas 10+5reb, A.Mineikis 9+11reb+4ast, T.Rakauskas 9+4reb+2ast, R.Grinius 8+6reb+1ast
gschID: 169263

Matinga-Juod. - Nafta Universitetas 83-63

Round 7 in NKL means a new league leader. The biggest surprise took place in Marijampole where host Matinga-Juod. (21-16) crushed league's leader Nafta Universitetas (23-14) 83-63 on Friday evening. The hosts trailed by 3 points after first quarter, but they stormed back to get the 12-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 83-63. Matinga-Juod. dominated on the defensive end, holding Nafta Universitetas to just 7 points in second quarter. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 24 assists comparing to just 11 passes made by Nafta Universitetas' players. Guard Aurimas Birgelis (190-88) fired 24 points and 9 assists (on 9-of-11 shooting from the field) for the winners. Center Mindaugas Kalvelis (205-80) chipped in a double-double by scoring 13 points and 11 rebounds. Four Matinga-Juod. players scored in double figures. Forward Julius Kazakauskas (197-90) produced 15 points and 8 rebounds and center Arturas Gudaitis (208-93) added 14 points, 7 rebounds and 4 blocks respectively for lost side. Nafta Universitetas' coach Dainius Miliunas rotated eleven players seeing no chance for a win. Newly promoted Matinga-Juod. maintains seventh place in with 21-16 record. Nafta Universitetas at the other side dropped to the second position with 14 games lost. They were replaced at the leadership position by Radviliskis. Nafta Universitetas will have a break next week, which should allow them to rest and make it back to the top of the standings. Matinga-Juod. will try to continue on its current victory against second ranked Nafta Universitetas in Klaipeda.
Top scorers:
Nafta Universitetas: J.Kazakauskas 15+8reb+3ast, A.Gudaitis 14+7reb, H.Venskus 9+2reb+3ast, V.Chodosovskis 7+3reb, D.Norkus 7+2reb+1ast, D.Zvinklys 4+4reb
Matinga-Juod.: A.Birgelis 24+1reb+9ast, M.Kalvelis 13+11reb+2ast, A.Cizikas 10+4reb+4ast, P.Gvazdaitis 10+9reb+2ast, A.Zibuda 8+1reb, K.Pupinis 6+2reb+1ast
gschID: 169264

Zalgiris-Sabonio - Matinga-Juod. 84-80

The game between closely ranked teams ended with sixth ranked Zalgiris-Sabonio's (21-15) home victory over 7th ranked Matinga-Juod. (21-16) 84-80 on Tuesday. The hosts trailed by 1 point after first quarter, but they rallied back to get the 5-point lead at the halftime and eventually won the game 84-80. Zalgiris-Sabonio forced 20 Matinga-Juod. turnovers. Forward Rolandas Jakstas (200-92) fired 18 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. Forward Vaidas Kariniauskas (198-93) chipped in 17 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Four Zalgiris-Sabonio players scored in double figures. Guard Aurimas Birgelis (190-88) produced 22 points and guard Paulius Knyza (190-91) added 14 points respectively for lost side. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Zalgiris-Sabonio maintains sixth place in with 21-15 record. Newly promoted Matinga-Juod. keeps the seventh position with 16 games lost. Zalgiris-Sabonio will face league's leader Radviliskis at home in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Matinga-Juod. will play against the league's second-placed Nafta Universitetas (#2) in Klaipeda.
Top scorers:
Matinga-Juod.: A.Birgelis 22+3reb+3ast, P.Knyza 14+2reb+1ast, Z.Kuklierius 10+5ast, M.Kalvelis 8+4reb, K.Pupinis 6+7reb+1ast, P.Gvazdaitis 6+3reb
Zalgiris-Sabonio: R.Jakstas 18+9reb, V.Kariniauskas 17+5reb+4ast, R.Simanavicius 12+2reb+1ast, T.Dimsa 11+1reb+2ast, T.Jogela 8+3reb+1ast, S.Kymantas 6+7reb+1ast
gschID: 169261

Group B
Silute - Statyba 61-83

Very expected game when 14th ranked Silute (14-23) was rolled over at home by tenth ranked Statyba (19-18) 83-61 on Friday. The game without a history. Statyba led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. Forward Remigijus Sugintas (200-87) fired 16 points and 5 rebounds for the winners. Guard Tomas Galeckas (183-94) chipped in 16 points. Guard Ignas Razutis (185-87) produced 15 points (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field) and forward Deividas Petravicius (198-83, college: Northwestern St.) added 13 points and 6 rebounds respectively for lost side. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Statyba moved-up to eighth place in . Loser Silute keeps the fourteenth position with 23 games lost. Statyba will have a break next round. Silute will play again on the road against Statyba (#8) in Vilnius.
Top scorers:
Silute: I.Razutis 15+4reb+3ast, V.Pancerevas 13+2reb+3ast, D.Petravicius 13+6reb+1ast, E.Saulys 8+5reb, A.Kaubrys 6+6reb+2ast, M.Tamasevicius 2
Statyba: R.Sugintas 16+5reb+1ast, T.Galeckas 16+4reb+1ast, O.Varanauskas 10+5reb+4ast, T.Rinkunas 8+6reb, M.Budzinauskas 7+1reb+1ast, L.Kazlauskas 7+2reb+1ast
gschID: 169268

ABRO-Univ. - Gargzdai 62-65

A very interesting game took place in Siauliai. This derby game ended with only three-point home defeat of 16th ranked ABRO-Universitetas (7-30) to fifteenth ranked Gargzdai-Bremena (10-27) 65-62 in the fight for the fifteenth place. The guests were ahead by 6 points but lost the second period ending it with a 6-point deficit before their 18-9 run, which allowed them to win the game. Gargzdai-Bremena outrebounded ABRO-Universitetas 51-28 including a 22-7 advantage in offensive rebounds. It was an exceptional evening for forward Egidijus Ramanauskas (202-88) who led the winners with a double-double by scoring 12 points and 16 rebounds. Swingman Tadas Mazelis (194-92) accounted for 14 points for the winning side. Gargzdai-Bremena's coach Rytas Vaisvila allowed to play the deep bench players in such tough game. Center Agnius Gurklys (205-88) came up with 16 points and 7 rebounds and guard Rokas Giedraitis (195-92) added 14 points respectively for ABRO-Universitetas in the defeat. Four ABRO-Universitetas players scored in double figures. Newly promoted Gargzdai-Bremena maintains fifteenth place in with 10-27 record. ABRO-Universitetas at the other side stay dead last with 30 lost games. Gargzdai-Bremena will have a break next round. ABRO-Universitetas will play again on the road against Gargzdai-Bremena (#15) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
ABRO-Univ.: A.Gurklys 16+7reb, R.Giedraitis 14+4reb+1ast, E.Vaupsas 10+5reb+2ast, N.Mika 10+1reb+1ast, A.Kurauskas 9+4reb+5ast, E.Grikstas 2
Gargzdai: T.Mazelis 14+3reb+1ast, E.Ramanauskas 12+16reb+2ast, D.Matutis 10+1reb, M.Grigaitis 9+3reb+1ast, M.Martinkus 6+2reb+3ast, L.Jonuska 5+9reb
gschID: 169269

Perlas-MRU - S.Marciulionio 79-83

Another exciting game was a derby match between two local teams from Vilnius: S.Marciulionio (#12) and Perlas-MRU (#9). Perlas-MRU was defeated at home 79-83 and even the advantage of their own court did not help. The guests took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Perlas-MRU won third quarter 27-18. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The game was decided in the last minutes when S.Marciulionio won last quarter 22-19. S.Marciulionio outrebounded Perlas-MRU 33-21. It was a great shooting night for S.Marciulionio especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 52.9 percentage. Forward Nerijus Varnelis (200-78) fired 25 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Forward Vaidas Trepocka (200-80, agency: Court Side) chipped in 22 points and 6 rebounds (on 11-of-12 shooting from the field). Power forward Mantas Virbalas (203-88) produced 27 points and 7 rebounds and forward Mantas Kazonas (201-89) added 16 points and 4 assists respectively for lost side. Four Perlas-MRU players scored in double figures. S.Marciulionio (18-19) moved-up to eleventh place in . S.Marciulionio will have a break next round. Perlas-MRU's supporters look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Vilnius to the arena S.Marciulionio.
Top scorers:
Perlas-MRU: M.Virbalas 27+7reb+1ast, M.Kazonas 16+3reb+4ast, K.Brusokas 13+5reb, P.Semaska 10+3reb+2ast, T.Padegimas 8+3reb+3ast, D.Domarkas 5+1ast
S.Marciulionio: N.Varnelis 25+7reb+2ast, V.Trepocka 22+6reb+2ast, R.Bitinas 9+3reb+3ast, T.Lekunas 9+8reb+4ast, J.Elvikis 6+3reb, M.Pociukonis 5+3reb+4ast
gschID: 169266

Meresta - Ezerunas-Karys 76-99

Rather predictable result in Pakruojis where eleventh ranked Ezerunas-Karys (19-18) outscored 13th ranked Meresta (17-20) 99-76 on Friday. Ezerunas-Karys dominated down low during the game scoring 62 of its points in the paint compared to Meresta's 38. Guard Paulius Lescinskas (188-93) fired 29 points and 7 rebounds for the winners. Guard Marius Kugauda (191-76) chipped in 14 points and 6 assists. Ezerunas-Karys' coach Mindaugas Kildisius felt very confident that he used 11 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Forward Darius Griskenas (194-84) produced 15 points and 9 rebounds and guard Simonas Slivka (193-86) added 18 points respectively for lost side. Five Ezerunas-Karys and four Meresta players scored in double figures. Ezerunas-Karys moved-up to tenth place in . Loser Meresta keeps the thirteenth position with 20 games lost. Ezerunas-Karys will have a break next round. Meresta will play again on the road against Ezerunas-Karys (#10) in Moletai.
Top scorers:
Meresta: S.Slivka 18+4reb+1ast, D.Griskenas 15+9reb, A.Maneikis 12+6reb+2ast, B.Bagdonavicius 11+4reb, S.Raziulis 8+2reb+3ast, K.Artamonov 7+1reb+2ast
Ezerunas-Karys: P.Lescinskas 29+7reb, M.Kugauda 14+2reb+6ast, B.Steponenas 11+3reb+2ast, R.Ambrulaitis 11+8reb+1ast, G.Kulbis 10+2reb+2ast, M.Janisius 6+5reb
gschID: 169267

Standings - NKL
NKL Standings

1. Radviliskis 23-13

2. Nafta Universitetas 23-14

3. Delikatesas 22-15

4. LKKA-Atletas 22-15

5. Mazeikiai 22-15

6. Zalgiris-Sabonio 21-15

7. Matinga-Juod. 21-16

8. Statyba 19-18

9. Triobet 19-18

10. Ezerunas-Karys 19-18

11. S.Marciulionio 18-19

12. Perlas-MRU 18-19

13. Meresta 17-20

14. Silute 14-23

15. Gargzdai 10-27

16. ABRO-Univ. 7-30

Stats Leaders - NKL

PPG

RPG

APG

SPG

BPG

Points Per Game
Sarunas VINGELIS
  LKKA-.
  (192-G-89)
  Avg: 21.5
1. Vingelis, LKKA-. 21.5
2. Uzkuraitis, Delika. 19.8
3. Rakauskas, Radvili. 18.4
4. Birgelis, Matinga-. 18.3
5. Jucikas, AB. 17.8
6. Varnelis, S.Marc. 17.6
7. Maneikis, Meresta 17.5
8. Gudaitis, Gargzdai 17.0
9. Sragauskis, LKKA-. 16.9
10. Brown, Mazeikiai 16.7

Rebounds Per Game
Arturas GUDAITIS
  Gargzdai
  (208-C-93)
  Avg: 10.8
1. Gudaitis, Gargzdai 10.8
2. Ambrulaitis, Ezeru. 8.9
3. Mineikis, Radvilis. 8.2
4. Urbonas, LK. 8.2
5. Kalvelis, Matinga-. 7.7
6. Jucikas, AB. 7.4
7. Linkevicius, Triob. 7.4
8. Pikalavicius, Deli. 7.3
9. Kazakauskas, Naft. 7.3
10. Ramanauskas, Radv. 7.2

Assists Per Game
Matas SAPIEGA
  LK.
  (179-PG-90)
  Avg: 8.6
1. Sapiega, LK. 8.6
2. Kurauskas, AB. 5.3
3. Razutis, Silute 5.0
4. Semaska, Perla. 4.9
5. Malasauskas, LKKA. 4.6
6. Vileita, Perla. 4.5
7. Varanauskas, Stat. 4.4
8. Kuklierius, Mating. 4.4
9. Kulbis, Ezerunas. 4.3
10. Vasiliauskas, Tri. 4.3

Steals Per Game
Ignas RAZUTIS
  Silute
  (185-G-87)
  Avg: 2.8
1. Razutis, Silute 2.8
2. Vileita, Perla. 2.5
3. Brown, Mazeikiai 2.4
4. Slivka, Meresta 2.2
5. Jogela, Zalgir. 2.2
6. Uzkuraitis, Delika. 2.0
7. Birgelis, Matinga-. 1.9
8. Paliukenas, S.Marc. 1.9
9. Vasiliauskas, Trio. 1.9
10. Semaska, Perla. 1.8

Blocks Per Game
Tomas URBONAS
  LK.
  (218-C-92)
  Avg: 2.9
1. Urbonas, LK. 2.9
2. Mockevicius, S.Mar. 1.8
3. Gudaitis, Gargzdai 1.7
4. Kaubrys, Silute 1.2
5. Jucikas, AB. 1.1
6. Krestinin, S.Marc. 1.1
7. Kymantas, Zalgir. 1.0
8. Ramanauskas, Sil. 1.0
9. Vaitiekunas, Triob. 1.0
10. Kalvelis, Matinga. 0.9

Maccabi Electra heads to Euroleague Playoffs - by Eurobasket News
Maccabi Electra - Zalgiris 70-66

Maccabi Electra had to work very hard to beat Zalgiris 70-66 on Thursday night. Thanks to this victory the Israeli powerhouse jumped to 3-2 in Group H and booked a ticket for the Euroleague Playoffs. Zalgiris remains the only winless team in this pool with 0-5 record. Keith Langford (193-G/F-83, college: Kansas) was the leading scorer in victory with 17 points. Richard Hendrix (203-F/C-86, college: Alabama) had 11 points and 9 rebounds, while Sofoklis Schortsanitis (206-C-85) nailed 10 points. Sonny Weems (198-G/F-86, college: Arkansas) responded with 20 points at the other side. Dainius Salenga (197-F-77) and DeJuan Collins (188-G-76, college: Tuskegee) (5 rebs) had 12 and 11 points respectively. Zalgiris had an amazing start. They made 11-25 lead after just ten minutes of play, but Maccabi immediately woke up after that cutting the margin to minus 4 until the halftime. Zalgiris won the next period with 11-12 for 5-point lead before the last ten minutes, but than Keith Langford and his teammates exploded with 11-2 run as Nokia Arena was rocking. Zalgiris didn't give up and they grabbed back 65-66 lead with 1:42 remaining in the game. Langford made 4-0 series on his own and there was something more than 24 seconds to go. Sony Weems went for an open three, but Smith flew in to block the shot and tried to take it in for a slam. But he missed the dunk, Zalgiris recovered and Weems tried again, but missed from downtown. This time Hendrix corralled the rebound, was fouled and iced the game with a free throw with 7 seconds left. Maccabi will meet Barcelona in the last round of Top 16. Zalgiris will host Bennet Cantu.

Maccabi Electra: Keith Langford 17, Richard Hendrix 11+9 boards, Sofoklis Schortsanitis 10
Zalgiris: Sonny Weems 22, Dainius Salenga 12, DeJuan Collins 11+5 boards

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  MEXICO

Quentin Smith joins Pioneros de Quintana - by Eurobasket News
Pioneros de Quintana strengthen their roster prior to the start of Liga Americas 2012. They landed Quentin Smith (205-C-77, college: Mississippi St.) lately. Quentin Smith started the season in Ecuador. The centre played for UTEQ. Quentin Smith tallied 15.0 points, 6.7 rebounds, 1.0 block and 1.0 steal per game in Liga Sudamericana. Last season the centre tipped off with Huesca in Spain. He averaged 7.3 points and 4.6 rebounds per game in LEB Gold. Later the centre had stints in Dominican Republic and Uruguay. Quentin Smith also played Venezuela, Argentina, Spain, Uruguay, Turkey, Lebanon, Syria, Kosovo and Norway before. Eurobasket.com named Quentin Smith All-Kosovo League Import Player of the Year in 2006.
Pioneros de Quintana open Liga Americas campaign tonight. They host Vivo/Franca of Brazil in Group A.

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

  MONTENEGRO

Standings - 1A
1A Standings

1. Mornar Bar 14-1

2. Lovcen 11-5

3. Sutjeska 10-6

4. Teodo Tivat 10-6

5. Mogren 9-7

6. KK Podgorica 6-9

7. Ulcinj 5-7

8. Jedinstvo 4-9

9. Danilovgrad 3-12

10. ABS Primorje 3-13

Play in international cups:

1. Buducnost -

Balkan League: Scott decisive in the important win against OKK Beograd - by Darko Pekic
Mornar won the home game against Serbian side OKK Beograd on Thursday and secured a spot in the Balkan league play-offs. Akeem Scott (186-PG-83, agency: Interperformances, college: High Point) was the hero of the night, as he scored two-free throws that tied the game, and after that added a game winning shot for 75:73. The game between two old rivals from ex YUBA league was tied and both teams traded the lead while trying to get a positive result from the game. But there is always a looser and a winner and coach Mihajlo Pavicevic 's guys had more luck and experience in final minutes of the game.

Akeem Scott was outstanding once again with 22 points, 8 rebounds and 5 steals. Ex Red Star Belgrade, Lazar Radosavljevic (204-F-91, agency: Beo Basket) needed only one rebound to reach a double double (16 pts, 9rbs). For the guests from Serbia, Nemanja Bezbradica (205-F/C-93, agency: Beo Basket) scored 18 points, Filip Sepa (198-SG-90, agency: Beo Basket) added 16 while another ex player of Red Star Belgrade, Nenad Misanovic (217-C-84) had a double double (14pts and 12 rbs)

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

  NBA

Thunder top Lakers 100-85, tie Miami for NBA's best record at All-Star break - by Eurobasket News
Oklah.City T. - LA Lakers 100-85
It's not so easy any more for the Los Angeles Lakers to push around the Oklahoma City Thunder. Kevin Durant (6'9'-G/F-88, college: Texas) scored 33 points, Russell Westbrook (6'3'-PG-88, college: UCLA) added 19 and the Thunder beat the Lakers 100-85 Thursday night to head into the All-Star break tied for the league's best record. The Thunder won their 12th straight home game and denied Los Angeles the chance to head into the midseason break with back-to-back statement wins on the road. The Lakers had won at defending NBA champion Dallas a night earlier and were trying to follow it by knocking off the other half of last year's West finals. 'It's a regular game for us,' Durant said, downplaying any significance of a midseason victory. 'Of course, we respect those guys and they're champions and they've won multiple rings but it's another game for us. You're just trying to get better every single day.' Oklahoma City and Miami both have NBA-leading 27-7 records at the break. The Lakers are 20-14 and sitting in fifth place in the West. 'It's cool that we're winning games but we can't be complacent,' Durant said. 'We've been on a good roll lately. We've got to just keep working hard. It's not over yet. We're glad we're going into the break with some wins but I think it's important for us to come out of the break with some energy and some momentum.' Kobe Bryant scored 24 points but went 7 for 24 from the field for Los Angeles. Pau Gasol had 22 points and nine rebounds. The Thunder pulled away in the second half to win their second in a row against the Lakers, who won eight of the teams' previous nine regular-season meetings and knocked Oklahoma City out of the 2010 playoffs in the first round. 'They did a great job. They took advantage of opportunities when they presented themselves, jumped out to a good cushion and we could never get the game back in balance,' Bryant said. The Lakers, once able to use their size advantage against Oklahoma City, struggled to get those same inside baskets against the remade Thunder interior of NBA blocks leader Serge Ibaka and Kendrick Perkins. Center Andrew Bynum started out 2 for 12 before finally hitting three in a row midway through the fourth quarter. His two-handed slam got the Lakers within 81-74 with 7 minutes remaining, only for Oklahoma City to come right back by scoring the next seven points on a three-point play by Westbrook and dunks by Harden and Perkins. Los Angeles didn't get any closer than nine after that. 'Going into this game, we really wanted to keep them out of the paint, keep them away from the basket and rebound the shot,' Thunder coach Scott Brooks said. 'Just give them one shot - one and done, and get out and run.' Harden scored 16 and Ibaka added 11 points and 13 rebounds for Oklahoma City, which limited L.A. to 39 percent shooting while making 47 percent of its own shots. 'We have to work too hard to get points going up against defenses that are set and double-teams all the time,' Bryant said. 'Having a little bit more movement, it'll free Andrew up, free Pau up, free myself up to where I don't have to work against two guys all the time.' Bryant said he didn't have any expectations for where the Lakers would be at the midpoint of their first season under Mike Brown and considered himself 'neutral' about their play so far. He had made waves recently by criticizing management about leaving Gasol to wonder whether he'd be traded, but general manager Mitch Kupchak didn't back down. 'Just trucking along,' Bryant said. 'As you can see, we still have things we have to figure out about how we're going to play and how we're going to execute. 'It's going to take time, especially in this type of season when we don't have any practice time.' The Thunder emerged ahead 46-43 after a closely contested first half, with Westbrook connecting on a 3-pointer from the left wing with 0.8 seconds left and Durant stealing Bynum's inbounds pass along the left baseline before hitting a jumper before the buzzer. Bynum and World Peace, his intended target, walked off the court discussing what went wrong. The Lakers would never lead again. Durant converted a three-point play and Daequan Cook hit a 3-pointer during a burst of eight straight points for Oklahoma City midway through the third quarter, and the lead stretched to 71-58 when Cook followed Harden's slam by hitting a right wing jumper with 1:43 left in the period. 'We didn't close the half off well at all, and then the third quarter they were more playing their game and we were making it a little easy for them by not moving the ball, by the ball getting stuck on one side of the floor and settling for jumpers,' Gasol said. 'They just came out and ran. That's what they do.' *Courtesy of www.washingtonpost.com

Atlanta H. - Orlando M. 83-78
Josh Smith (6'9'-F-85) scored 22 points and pulled down 12 rebounds to help the Atlanta Hawks snap a three-game skid with an 83-78 victory over the Orlando Magic on Thursday night. J.J. Redick (6'4'-G-84, college: Duke) finished with 13 points and Dwight Howard had 12 for the Magic, who had won two straight and six of seven. Hawks leading scorer Joe Johnson missed his second straight game with left knee tendinitis, but Atlanta got 36 points from their reserves, including Jannero Pargo with 15 and Willie Green with 14. The Magic recovered from a 10-point second quarter by scoring 25 in the third to pull within three heading into the final period. Howard's lay-in cut the lead to 69-68 with 4:42 left, but the Magic never got any closer. Green hit a 3-pointer from the left wing with 3:16 remaining and followed with a fast-break runner over Redick to make it 74-68. Pargo scored 12 points in the second quarter, including consecutive possessions that made it 41-28 after he hit a 3-pointer and a 16-footer on assists from Tracy McGrady. The Hawks led 47-30 at halftime, thanks in part to a 21-2 advantage on fast-break points and a 28-18 edge in rebounds. Atlanta missed its first five shots of the first quarter and last six of the second, but hit 58.3 percent of 36 attempts in between. Pargo's 19-footer with 3:21 left in the second ended the first-half scoring, but he bent over in pain after running into Howard's screen late in the third quarter and was never again a factor. Smith missed nine of his last 11 shots after scoring 14 points in the first. Atlanta had lost five of six and eight of 11 overall, but the Hawks took their sixth straight win at Philips Arena over the Magic. After Howard's three-point play with 1:26 remaining made it 74-71, Green scored a wild runner from the left baseline over Howard's outstretched arm to give the Hawks a 76-71 lead. Atlanta guard Jeff Teague finished with 13 points, while Magic forwards Hedo Turkoglu and Ryan Anderson combined for 22 points. *Courtesy of https://abcnews.go.com

Denver N. - San Antonio S. 99-114
DeJuan Blair (6'7'-F-89, college: Pittsburgh) tied a career high with 28 points and grabbed 12 rebounds, helping the San Antonio Spurs beat the Denver Nuggets 114-99 on Thursday night to wrap up a nine-game road swing. Buoyed by a 19-1 run midway through the first quarter, the Spurs jumped out to a big lead and then held on at the end. They've won 12 of their last 13 heading into the All-Star break and lead the Southwest Division by three games over the defending champion Dallas Mavericks. All five starters for the Spurs scored in double figures. Tony Parker (6'0'-PG-82) had 16 points and 12 assists, while Tim Duncan added 18 points. Richard Jefferson hit 5 of 7 3-point attempts and scored 17. The Spurs finished their rodeo road swing with an 8-1 mark. In all, the team spent 17 days away from home and logged 7,941 miles. The nine straight games away tied a franchise record. Corey Brewer scored 23 points for the banged-up and beleaguered Nuggets, who have lost 12 of their last 16 to drop out of the playoff picture. The loudest cheer of the night came when rookie Kenneth Faried slammed home a pass from Andre Miller midway through the third quarter. That cut the Spurs' lead to 24 points. It was simply that kind of night for Denver. Duncan and Parker were back in the lineup after coach Gregg Popovich elected to rest them in a lopsided 137-97 loss in Portland on Tuesday. While most of the Spurs receive a break, Parker will head to the All-Star game as a reserve. He will be making his fourth appearance, joining George Gervin, David Robinson and Duncan as the only San Antonio players be picked at least that many times. Parker is in the midst of another strong season, averaging nearly 20 points and eight assists. Before the game, Nuggets coach George Karl was asked what his team's focus would be against the Spurs. 'Parker,' he said, with little hesitation. But the problem Thursday was perimeter defense as the Spurs hit 13 3-pointers and shot 48 percent from the field. San Antonio led by as many as 28 points in the second half and looked to be headed toward a rout. Duncan even took a seat on the bench, figuring his night was finished. When the Nuggets pulled within 12 points with 6:42 remaining, Popovich quickly summoned Duncan back into the game. From there, the Spurs pulled away again. Blair hit four straight free throws to silence the threat. Blair was dominant down low, hitting 12 of 21 shots. The Nuggets showed their fatigue early on, falling behind 26-7 midway through the opening quarter. The team arrived back in town late Tuesday night after a 103-95 loss to the Los Angeles Clippers. This has been an injury-filled season for the Nuggets. They were without speedy point guard Ty Lawson (left ankle), big man Nene (calf strain) and leading scorer Danilo Gallinari (left ankle). Although they were supposed to have Rudy Fernandez back on the court, he ended up missing his fourth straight game with a strained lower back. Miller finished with 20 points, while Jordan Hamilton had an interesting stat line - no points and nine boards. *Courtesy of www.cbsnews.com

Miami Heat - New York K. 102-88
Jeremy Lin (6'3'-PG-88, college: Harvard) was held to one basket and the Miami Heat made 12 steals in a 102-88 defeat of the New York Knicks, who were playing a road game against a winning team for the first time since Linsanity began. Lin had eight points on 1-of-11 shooting, three assists and eight turnovers as the Knicks lost for the third time in their last five games after a seven-game winning streak that began when Lin took over at point guard. Chris Bosh (6'11'-F-84, college: Georgia Tech) scored 25 points, Dwyane Wade had 22 and LeBron James added 20 for the Heat (27-7), which won its eighth straight game. Miami entered the game tied with Oklahoma City for the best record in the NBA. The Thunder host the Los Angeles Lakers later tonight. Carmelo Anthony led the Knicks (17-18) with 19 points and Amar'e Stoudemire had 13 at AmericanAirlines Arena in Miami. Lin, 23, is the first Harvard University graduate in the NBA since Ed Smith in 1954 and the first Chinese- or Taiwanese- American to play in the league. He was cut by two other clubs before signing with the Knicks on Dec. 27. The Knicks have now won nine of their 12 games since Lin started running the offense on Feb. 4. Six of those wins have come at Madison Square Garden, and none of the three road victories has come against a team with a winning record. Miami led 24-20 after the first quarter, during which Lin had two points, two assists and three turnovers. The Knicks opened the second quarter with a 10-2 run that included a pair of 3-pointers by Steve Novak while Lin was on the bench. The Heat led 51-47 at the half. Lin had two points, two assists and six turnovers at the break, and was 1-for-5 shooting -- including an air ball on a 10-foot floater midway through the second period. Miami had 11 steals in the first half. Miami was ahead 80-66 entering the fourth period. Lin's six points in the third period all came on free throws. *Courtesy of www.bloomberg.com

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Derrick Rose feeling good, denied trade rumors - by Eurobasket News
Derrick Rose (6'3'-G-88, college: Memphis) spoke to reporters for the first time since his five-game absence prior to tipoff of Wednesday's 110-91 win over the Milwaukee Bucks.

It was his second straight game since returning to the lineup, having scored 23 points and handing out six assists in nearly 35 minutes in Monday nights win over the Atlanta Hawks.

I felt good. If anything, I was just trying to test myself, trying to make sure that I still have it, said Rose. I hit a couple of shots, some of them I usually hit, I missed. I just tried to play my game, thats aggressive and it started off pretty good.

He followed that up with 16 points and seven assists in 30 minutes against Milwaukee and said his back is no longer a concern.

Im not worried about it anymore, said Rose. I dont feel any pain anymore.

Rose also admitted that the rehabilitation and steps he has taken to return to the court will be a process he follows for the remainder of the season, continuing to do daily stretching and visiting with his chiropractor.

Ill go see him after shootarounds and days off, said Rose. Just go up there for an hour, so that he can work on me and get back to what Im doing.

Usually making himself available to reporters after games, Rose explained the reason he didnt address the media following his return on Monday.

I was just tired of hearing about my back, he said. I just needed a break. Im sorry about [not speaking] but I needed a break.

He also dismissed the circulated rumors of him privately urging management to pursue trading Carlos Boozer for Los Angeles Lakers power forward Pau Gasol.

I heard it after the game [on Monday] and thats something that I wouldnt say to anyone, said Rose. It was all false and thats something Ill never do. Im good with the teammates that I have. Ive always been saying that. Weve been winning games and were not in the position to look to trade anyone right now.

I talked to [Boozer] a little bit, but I think he already knew that [the rumor] was false, continued Rose. Its something that I wouldnt do to anyone. It was all false.

Courtesy of www.csnchicago.com

Jeremy Lin of N.Y. Knicks files request to trademark Linsanity phrase - by Eurobasket News
Jeremy Lin (6'3'-PG-88, college: Harvard) wants to own the term Linsanity.

Lin, who has rejuvenated the New York Knicks over the past two weeks, moved to take control of the catch phrase thats encapsulated his meteoric rise, filing an application on Feb. 13 with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, according to the agencys website.

The filing came six days after Yenchin Chang, a 35-year-old Alhambra, California, resident with no ties to Lin, became the first to apply for a Linsanity trademark, according to the website.

A second filing was made on Feb. 9 by Andrew W. Slayton of Los Altos, California, and on Feb. 14 there was another filing by Yoonsoo Stephen Kim of Duluth, Georgia.

Were prepared to enforce his intellectual property rights, Pamela M. Deese, a partner in the law firm Arent Fox LLP, said in a telephone interview, confirming that she had filed the application on Lins behalf.

Trademark applications generally take about three months to be examined and published, according to Gary Krugman, a partner at the Washington-based firm of Sughrue Mion. As Lin, 23, is the subject of the phrase Linsanity, he would probably be successful in opposing an application filed earlier than his own, Krugman said.

Nobody can register a mark if it falsely suggests a connection with a person or an institution, Krugman said in a telephone interview. I would guess that Jeremy Lin would be able to oppose on the grounds that Linsanity points uniquely and unmistakably to him.

Courtesy of www.bloomberg.com

Mark Cuban not looking to trade, but will listen - by Eurobasket News
Mark Cuban likes this Mavericks roster a lot. Hes said hes not actively looking to make any changes before the March 15 trade deadline.

However, Cuban and Mavs president of basketball operations Donnie Nelson will still take calls.

Cuban always says the Mavs will be 'opportunistic' in the trade market. But unlike a couple of years ago, when he acknowledged that the Mavs wanted to make a major move weeks before shipping Josh Howard to Washington in a blockbuster deal, the Mavs' front office isn't planning to be aggressive over the next few weeks.

Were not looking to change unless someone makes us an offer we cant refuse, Cuban said. Were not looking to shake anything up. We think weve got a good team that hasnt played its best basketball yet.

(Cubans dismissive take on the rumor that Rodrigue Beaubois is available: Thats what people in New Orleans say because theyve always liked him.)

The Mavs are set up to have significant space under the salary cap this summer for the first time since Cuban bought the franchise and helped build the Mavs into a perennial playoff team. It would take a major upgrade to get Cuban to reverse course financially, in part because of the Mavs potential to be major players in free agency and in part because he considers it important to get in line with the new CBA, which has increasingly harsh luxury-tax penalties.

But the bottom line still isnt Cubans biggest concern.

Priority No. 1 is to win a championship, Cuban said, whose competitive fire burns as hot as ever after last summers championship parade. If theres something that takes up cap room that puts us over the top, Im in.

Courtesy of ESPN

Kevin Martin denies being unhappy with Rockets - by Eurobasket News
On Tuesday, Kevin Martin (6'7'-G/F-83, college: W.Carolina) spoke about his happiness with the Rockets.

Im still in a great situation, he said. Im still on a good team. Im still helping the team win.

On Wednesday, he read an Internet report that it is an open secret he is not happy.

I think its an inappropriate article, Martin said. A writer must be starving for attention. Hes not going to bring a distraction around our team. Im the teams leading scorer, and were in the playoff hunt. I dont understand how I could not be happy about that. Basically, hes just making it up.

Individually and team-wise, were doing pretty well.

Courtesy of www.chron.com (via www.insidehoops.com)

Stats Leaders

PPG

RPG

APG

SPG

BPG

Points Per Game
Kobe BRYANT
  LA Lakers
  (198-G-78)
  Avg: 28.4
1. Bryant, LA Lakers 28.4
2. Durant, Oklah.Ci. 27.9
3. James, Miami Heat 27.4
4. Love, Minnesota T. 25.0
5. Westbrook, Oklah.. 23.5
6. Wade, Miami Heat 22.4
7. Ellis, Golde S. 22.4
8. Aldridge, Portland. 22.3
9. Williams, New J. 22.2
10. Rose, Chicago B. 21.8

Rebounds Per Game
Dwight HOWARD
  Orlando M.
  (211-C-85)
  Avg: 15.3
1. Howard, Orlando M. 15.3
2. Love, Minnesota T. 14.0
3. Bynum, LA Lakers 12.8
4. Varejao, Clevelan. 11.5
5. Griffin, LA Clipp. 11.4
6. Cousins, Sacramen. 11.3
7. Gasol, LA Lakers 10.6
8. Humphries, New J. 10.5
9. Gortat, Phoenix 10.4
10. Gasol, Memphis G. 10.1

Assists Per Game
Steve NASH
  Phoenix Suns
  (190-PG-74)
  Avg: 10.9
1. Nash, Phoenix Suns 10.9
2. Rondo, Boston C. 9.5
3. Calderon, Toron. 8.9
4. Paul, LA Clippers 8.6
5. Rubio, Minnesot. 8.4
6. Williams, New J. 8.2
7. Parker, San A. 8.1
8. Rose, Chicago B. 7.7
9. Lowry, Houston R. 7.6
10. Wall, Washington 7.6

Steals Per Game
Mike CONLEY
  Memphis G.
  (186-PG-87)
  Avg: 2.5
1. Conley, Memphis G. 2.5
2. Rubio, Minnesot. 2.4
3. Paul, LA Clippers 2.3
4. Shumpert, New Y. 2.0
5. Lowry, Houston R. 2.0
6. Allen, Memphis G. 1.9
7. Iguodala, Philadel. 1.9
8. Westbrook, Oklah.. 1.9
9. James, Miami Heat 1.8
10. Kidd, Dallas M. 1.8

Blocks Per Game
Serge IBAKA
  Oklah.Ci.
  (208-C/F-89)
  Avg: 3.2
1. Ibaka, Oklah.Ci. 3.2
2. McGee, Washingt. 2.7
3. Jordan, LA Clippers 2.6
4. Howard, Orlando M. 2.2
5. Gasol, Memphis G. 2.2
6. Smith, Atlanta H. 2.1
7. Bogut, Milwauke. 2.0
8. Bynum, LA Lakers 2.0
9. Dalembert, Houst. 1.9
10. Udoh, Golde S. 1.7

NBA icon Oscar Robertson advises Dwight Howard to keep mouth shut about trade - by Eurobasket News
Oscar Robertson, NBA legend and the man who led the way so players like Dwight Howard (6'11'-C-85) would have the right to become free agents, has a word of advice for Dwight in this ongoing trade saga.

Keep your mouth shut and play basketball, said Robertson, who was a guest on our radio show Wednesday and will be in town during All-Star Weekend to raise awareness for prostate cancer. If he wants to be traded, hes going to be traded. Go and talk to the owners and say, I want to be traded and keep it a secret. In a situation like this, he cant win. Anytime they (Magic) stumble and fall and every time they get beat, theyre going to blame Dwight Howard and its totally unfair because its not all his fault. I dont think management has done a great job in keeping certain players on the team. They had a nucleus of players that got them to the Finals and then, all of the sudden, its gone downhill.
It is not surprising that Robertson would back Howard; hes been fighting for player rights since he was an NBA superstar in the 1960s and 70s. He sued the NBA in a landmark lawsuit in the 1970s and contended that the NBA draft and other rules restricting player movement violated antitrust laws. The suit was settled in 1976 when the league agreed to let players become free agents.

In effect, Robertson sacrificed his own future for the good of the players who came after him. After the lawsuit, he was essentially blackballed from any future NBA coaching or executive positions that almost certainly would have come his way.

They didnt want to be bothered with Oscar Robertson because of that (the lawsuit), said Robertson, who is proud that he and some of his contemporaries blazed the trail so players like LeBron would have the right to make The Decision. We were successful in getting these rights rights for players to be able to move once their contracts were up, the right to have better hotels, better doctors, better everything. It made basketball players like movie stars.

Courtesy of https://blogs.orlandosentinel.com

Warriors' Curry will skip Skills Challenge - by Eurobasket News
Warriors point guard Stephen Curry (6'3'-PG-88, college: Davidson) will not defend his title in the NBA Skills Challenge, part of the All-Star festivities this weekend in Orlando. Instead, hell skip the event because of injury.

Currys agent, Lance Young, confirmed the news to NBA.com.

Curry strained a tendon in his right foot during the first half of the Warriors 106-104 win over the Phoenix Suns on Wednesday. He appeared to initially injure the foot late in the first quarter while trying to convert a layup in transition.

Curry is being listed as day-to-day. The Warriors (13-17) dont play again until Tuesday, when they begin a five-game road trip against the Indiana Pacers.

Curry was hoping to become the third player to win back-to-back Skill Challenge competitions, along with Steve Nash and Dwyane Wade. Involved in this years Challenge are Kyrie Irving, Tony Parker, John Wall, Russell Westbrook and Deron Williams.

Courtesy of www.csnbayarea.com

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

  NBLCANADA

Burks hot streak powers Mill Rats to brink of playoffs - by Eurobasket News
Antonio Burks (6'6'-F-82, college: SF Austin)' hot streak powered the Saint John Mill Rats to the brink of an the NBL Canada playoff berth, 127-115, in front of 1,994 fans at Harbour Station.

Burks nailed 6 of 7 three pointers in the first half and led all scorers at the half with 20 points.

Saint John made a strong statement about their playoff aspirations by leading the game from wire to wire. They outscored the Power in every quarter except for the last.

In first quarter action, the Mill Rats jumped ahead 11-4 with 8 minutes remaining after a few baskets from Stanley Ocitti (6'8'-F/C-80, college: Binghamton) and Darren Duncan. The Power were able to come back and close the quarter trailing behind Saint John 24-22.

Oshawa's Omari Johnson (6'9'-F, college: Oregon St.) opened up the second quarter, tying the game, but it was quickly answered by a three pointer from Antonio Burks. Burks continued to nail down 5 three pointers in the second quarter. Oshawa called a timeout with 4:09 left before half after a big play by Burks stealing the ball and passing off to Kevin Francis who in turn, passed it off to Anthony Anderson (5'11'-G-81, college: Massachusetts) for 2. This gave the Mill Rats a 9 point lead, 49-40.

Mill Rats guards Anthony Anderson and Darren Duncan played together well, setting each other up for a basket, continuing the Mill Rats run, 51-40. After an and 1 play by Anderson, the Power were finally able to get a basket off a free throw, ending the Mill Rats run, 56-41. The Mill Rats closed the half 60-48.

Anderson came alive in the third quarter netting 14 points for the Mill Rats. Stanley Ocitti contributed 8 points and 5 rebounds in the third as well. The Mill Rats closed the quarter leading 93-75.

The Power fought back in the last quarter but weren't able to make a comeback. With 2:44 remaining in the game, Mill Rats PJ Young and Power's Omari Johnson both received technical fouls. Mill Rats Courtland Bluford was able to contribute 7 points for the 7 minutes he played during the last quarter.

Anthony Anderson led the Mill Rats with 25 points, 11 assists and 4 rebounds, almost securing a triple double. Antonio Burks contributed 22 points (18 of these were three pointers), and Stanley Ocitti netted 16.

Oshawa Power was led by Tut Ruach (6'2'-G-85) with 23 points, 11 assists and 5 boards, while Brandon Robinson (6'6'-F-89, college: Clayton St.) and Omari Johnson netted 21 each.

The Mill Rats rise to 16-17 while the Power fall to 14-20.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

NBLC Standings
NBL Canada Standings

1. London L. 26-7

2. Quebec K. 21-12

3. Halifax R. 20-12

4. St.John M.R. 16-18

5. Oshawa P. 14-20

6. Summerside S. 12-22

7. Moncton M. 8-26

Rainmen nip Kebs in key game - by Eurobasket News
Joey Haywood stopped short of calling Thursday nights showdown against the Quebec Kebs a must-win game for the Halifax Rainmen.

But while it might not have been that in a literal sense, there was little doubt it was a victory the Rainmen sorely needed in their quest to bounce the Kebs out of second place and secure home-court advantage in the first round of the National Basketball League of Canada playoffs.

Haywood scored 20 points, including 10 in a big second-quarter uprising, and Halifax eked out a 104-100 win in front of 2,894 edgy fans at the Metro Centre who watched the Rainmen slip into a 12-point hole early and then squander a 16-point advantage in the fourth quarter.

'We didnt fold up,' Haywood said. 'Its all mental. Sometimes teams are gonna have runs but weve gotta keep on playing hard and keep on playing with intensity and we did.'

Halifax (19-12) drew to within one game of the Kebs (21-12) and stayed a few steps ahead of the Saint John Mill Rats, who downed the Oshawa Power 127-115 at Harbour Station. The Rats (16-17) still have a mathematical chance of catching the Rainmen but will have to settle for fourth with one more loss or Halifax win. Saint John is in town tonight.

The Rainmen went into Thursdays game having lost six of eight, including a contest Monday night in Saint John in which they fell behind 18-3.

Tempting fate yet again, they missed their first six field-goal attempts while Quebec scored nine points. Haywood finally got the Rainmen on the board with a jumper from the foul line 3:41 in. But they were down 19-7 before closing out the quarter on a 10-2 run, including a three-point play by Chris Hagan (5'9'-G-89, college: Midwestern St.) with 1.3 seconds remaining that left them trailing only 21-17.

In the second period, Halifax held the Kebs to 6-of-23 shooting and outscored them 32-20 - with Haywood pacing the attack - to head to the locker-room in front 49-41.

They extended that lead in the third, with Tyrone Levett (6'5'-F-80, college: Alabama St.) scoring 12 of his team-high 22 points, and were up 86-71 after Darnell Hugee converted one of two free throws 90 seconds into the fourth.

'I thought we had it there and I thought we were gonna just keep it going, keep rolling, but we let them back in,' Halifax centre Richard Anderson said, then added with a smile: 'We made it exciting for the fans, and hopefully theyll come back tomorrow.'

The faint of heart probably could have done without that level of excitement. The Kebs ripped off a 15-0 run over the next three minutes to pull within one point and Jean-Richard Volcy (6'8'-F-82, college: N.Michigan) 's jumper with 5:30 left put the Kebs on top, 90-89, for the first time since midway through the second.

Haywood responded, though, by sinking a pair of shots from the charity stripe on the next possession to restore Halifaxs lead.

Levett followed with two more free throws, then made a huge block from behind as Kebs forward Taylor King appeared to be going in for an uncontested dunk.

Quebec cut its deficit to a point two more times but Anderson drained two from the line with 39 seconds to go to make it 102-98, then hauled down a key offensive rebound after Taliek Brown missed the second of two free throws with 21 seconds remaining.

Halifax ran another 14 seconds off the clock before the Kebs managed to foul Levett, who sank a free throw to give Halifax its final margin of victory.

'They left a smaller guy on me to box me out . . . so I was able to get inside position and get the rebound,' said Anderson, who finished the night with seven points and seven boards.

Hagan added 14 points and Bryan McCullough (6'6'-F/G-83, agency: KMG Sports Management, college: NC-Asheville) had 10 for the Rainmen.

Volcy topped the Kebs with 30 and MVP candidate Ralphy Holmes (6'4'-G-79, college: CS Fullerton) netted 25.

Courtesy of https://thechronicleherald.ca

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

  NCAA1

Top 25 - Men
TOP25 Standings

1. Kentucky 9-0 (23-1)

2. Syracuse 11-1 (23-1)

3. Missouri 10-2 (23-2)

4. Kansas 11-2 (21-5)

5. Duke 10-1 (21-2)

6. Michigan St. 10-1 (22-3)

7. N.Carolina 9-2 (20-2)

8. Ohio St. 9-4 (21-5)

9. Georgetown 8-4 (20-4)

10. Marquette 9-3 (19-5)

11. Michigan 7-3 (18-6)

12. Florida 9-2 (21-5)

13. Baylor 8-4 (21-4)

14. Murray St. 14-1 (27-1)

15. Florida St. 9-3 (18-8)

16. Wisconsin 6-6 (17-8)

17. Louisville 9-4 (20-7)

18. N.Mexico 6-2 (20-4)

19. Wichita St. 15-2 (25-4)

20. Notre Dame 12-2 (20-7)

21. UNLV 7-3 (23-5)

22. Temple 10-2 (21-5)

23. Indiana 8-5 (21-5)

24. San Diego St. 6-4 (20-6)

25. Virginia 6-4 (18-5)

Stats Leaders - NCAA1

PPG

RPG

APG

SPG

BPG

Points Per Game
Shane GIBSON
  Sacred H.
  (187-G-)
  Avg: 21.8
1. Gibson, Sacred H. 21.8
2. Horton, Cent.Con. 18.6
3. Vinales, Cent.Con. 17.9
4. Ptacek, Cent.Con. 17.7
5. Boyd, LIU Brooklyn 17.4
6. Olasewere, LIU B. 17.4
7. Francis, Bryant 16.9
8. Azotam, Quinnipiac 16.3
9. Jones, Robert M. 16.1
10. Johnson, Quinnipi. 15.9

Rebounds Per Game
Julian BOYD
  LIU Brooklyn
  (200-F-90)
  Avg: 9.7
1. Boyd, LIU Brooklyn 9.7
2. Azotam, Quinnipiac 9.5
3. Horton, Cent.Con. 9.0
4. Cannon, St.Franc. 8.4
5. Olasewere, LIU B. 7.6
6. Goode, Fair Dickin. 7.5
7. Francis, Bryant 7.3
8. Drame, Quinnipiac 7.3
9. Eatherton, St.Fra. 7.1
10. Thompson, Mt.St.M. 7.0

Assists Per Game
Jason BRICKMAN
  LIU B.
  (177-G-91)
  Avg: 7.2
1. Brickman, LIU B. 7.2
2. Dobbs, Bryant 4.6
3. Castellanos, Mt.St. 4.4
4. Jones, Robert M. 4.3
5. Ortiz, Wagner 4.2
6. Gaetano, Sacred H. 4.2
7. Hayes, Fair Dickin. 4.1
8. McMillan, Cent.Con. 4.0
9. Steele, Monmouth 4.0
10. Jones, St.Franc. 3.9

Steals Per Game
Velton JONES
  Robert M.
  (182-G-89)
  Avg: 2
1. Jones, Robert M. 2.0
2. Hayes, Fair Dickin. 2.0
3. Horton, Cent.Con. 2.0
4. Ortiz, Wagner 1.8
5. Gibson, Sacred H. 1.6
6. Jones, St.Franc. 1.4
7. Olasewere, LIU B. 1.4
8. Johnson, Quinnipiac 1.4
9. Ritter, St.Franc. 1.4
10. Waite, Monmouth 1.4

Blocks Per Game
Naofall FOLAHAN
  Wagner
  (210-C-90)
  Avg: 1.8
1. Folahan, Wagner 1.8
2. Thompson, Mt.St.Ma. 1.4
3. Goode, Fair Dickin. 1.4
4. Swidowski, Sacred 1.3
5. Horton, Cent.Con. 1.3
6. Eatherton, St.Fra. 1.2
7. Altit, Bryant 1.2
8. Moody, Wagner 1.1
9. Olasewere, LIU B. 1.0
10. Efese, Cent.Con. 1.0

No. 15 Florida State falls 74-66 to No. 5 Duke - by Eurobasket News
Florida State made the 3-pointers when it mattered most in its upset of Duke last month, hitting 50 percent of its shots from beyond the arc.

But the 15th-ranked Seminoles misfired badly from long range and at the free throw line Thursday night in their second matchup against the fifth-ranked Blue Devils. They made just 4 of 15 3-point attempts and were a chilly 12 of 22 on free throws in a 74-66 loss.

'We fought hard but we had just too many empty possessions,' Florida State coach Leonard Hamilton said.

Michael Snaer (6'5'-G-89) scored 18 points on 8-of-18 shooting, and Bernard James (6'10'-F-85) scored 13 points in the game's final 21 minutes for Florida State (19-8, 10-3 Atlantic Coast Conference). James also tied a career-high with five blocks.

Duke (24-4, 11-2) was simply too good from long range. The Blue Devils made 46.4 percent of their 3-point attempts (13 of 28), with Andre Dawkins (6'4'-G-91) making six and Austin Rivers (6'4'-G-92) connecting on four.

'They obviously are one of the best 3-point shooting teams in the country,' Hamilton said. 'We got beat by a pretty good basketball team tonight.'

Snaer hit a 3-pointer at the buzzer and the Seminoles made 7 of 14 3s in the upset at Cameron Indoor Stadium. And he gave the Seminoles a win over Virginia Tech a week ago with another 3-pointer in the closing seconds. Deividas Dulkys (6'5'-G-88) made eight 3-pointers in Florida State's 90-57 win over No. 7 North Carolina.

But the Seminoles couldn't rekindle any of that magic on Thursday.

'For Florida State fans, it wasn't as good as the game in Durham,' Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski said. 'But I think it was played at an even higher level. Both teams have gotten better.'

Florida State had won 10 of 11 games coming into Thursday, and a win over Duke would have given them a share of first place in the ACC with North Carolina (24-4, 11-2).

'We've got to forget about this game,' Snaer said. 'This was a hard-fought game and we know that we have so much more at stake than to worry about this loss.'

The Seminoles, who have never won an ACC title, beat Duke and North Carolina in January, but they never got a shot at any last-second heroics Thursday although they got within three points twice, the last at 61-58 with 4:17 left on a three-point play by James.

It was just the Seminoles' second home loss this season. They have three games left, beginning at Miami on Sunday, before the ACC tournament next month in Atlanta.

Courtesy of www.miamiherald.com

No. 16 Wisconsin falls 67-66 at Iowa - by Eurobasket News
No. 16 Wisconsin's rare struggles at home in the Big Ten had largely been alleviated by a strong road record.

But that stellar mark away from Madison is in trouble after the Badgers lost 67-66 to unranked Iowa on Thursday night ahead of Sunday's showdown at No. 8 Ohio State.

Matt Gatens (6'5'-G-89) scored a career-high 33 points for Iowa in its second straight win over a ranked opponent.

It was the second straight career-high for Gatens, who had 30 points in Iowa's win over then-No. 18 Indiana on Sunday. Gatens scored the most points by a Badgers opponent since Davidson's Stephen Curry had 33 in the NCAA's regional semifinals in 2008.

Josh Gasser (6'3'-G) and Ryan Evans (6'6'-G/F) each had 14 points for Wisconsin, which never led and got swept by Iowa in the regular season for the first time since 1994-95.

'It hurts now, but we're going to keep moving forward. And Ohio State, if we can go in there and get them, that will erase a lot of things,' Evans said.

Wisconsin (20-8, 9-6) lost for just the third time in 11 games, largely because of Gatens.

The Badgers did get within 65-63 on Jordan Taylor (6'1'-PG-89) 's layup with 4 seconds left. But Gatens made two free throws to cap his brilliant night for the Hawkeyes (15-13, 7-8), who celebrated along with a rowdy bunch of students who stormed the court.

Taylor's meaningless 3-pointer at the buzzer was the closest the Badgers would get in the second half.

'He's playing really well, and we knew it. It's not like we were surprised,' Wisconsin coach Bo Ryan said about Gatens. 'You've got the give the guy credit when he knocks those kinds of shots down. There was a lot of up hands. It wasn't hand down, man down. Those were tough shots.'

With Gatens hitting from long range, Taylor saddled with three fouls and Iowa ahead by 13 points with 17:33 left, it looked nearly hopeless for the Badgers early in the second half.

Wisconsin rallied behind its well-honed resiliency, getting within a possession midway through the second half.

Iowa answered with Gatens, the heart of soul of a program that he's helped appear as promising as it has been since he arrived four years ago.

The Badgers rattled off a 12-2 run, capped when former Iowa commit Ben Brust drilled a 3 in transition to cut Iowa's lead to 51-48 with 12:56 to go. But Gatens followed two jumpers with challenged 3-pointers on consecutive possessions to push Iowa back ahead 61-50 with 9:13 to go.

Aaron White added 12 points for Iowa. The Hawkeyes won despite going the final 7:29 without a field goal and allowing the Badgers to keep pulling within a possession in a final minute that was more frantic than it needed to be.

'Defensively, we obviously did a much better job in the second half,' Ryan said.

Iowa pulled off what at the time appeared to be a stunning New Year's Eve result; beating Wisconsin 72-65 at the Kohl Center for their first victory in Madison since 2000.

It didn't look so stunning after the first 20 minutes of the rematch.

Iowa came out and scored 16 points in less than 5 minutes against the nation's leader in fewest points allowed per game. Gatens hit his first six shots as the Hawkeyes pushed their lead to 35-24.

Melsahn Basabe capped a rousing stretch for Iowa, throwing down a dunk off a through-the-legs pass from Devyn Marble, and White's slam off another turnover helped put Iowa ahead 43-34 at halftime.

The Hawkeyes were just nine points from topping Wisconsin's 51.1 points with a half to go. Not surprisingly, it was by far the most the Badgers had let up in the first half all season.

Rob Wilson chipped in 11 points, Brust had 10 and Taylor finished with just nine points, four assists and four turnovers for Wisconsin, which committed 11 of its 13 turnovers in that first half.

'Guys were a little anxious, trying to make the great play instead of the good play, things like that. Just part of the game, but usually for us it's not 11 in a half,' Ryan said.

Courtesy of www.sfgate.com

No. 14 Murray State beats Tennessee State 80-62 - by Eurobasket News
Isaiah Canaan (6'0'-G-91) scored 16 of his 24 points in the first half, and No. 14 Murray State routed Tennessee State 80-62 on Thursday night, avenging the Racers' lone loss this season.

The Racers (27-1, 14-1 Ohio Valley Conference) blew a 13-point lead in losing 72-68 on Feb. 9. They used a 14-0 run over the final 2:31 of the first half Thursday with four Racers each hitting a 3-pointer to blow open a tight game.

Murray State shot 62.5 percent from the field in the first half and finished by matching its season-high with 12 3-pointers. Donte Poole (6'3'-G-89) added 16 points and Zay Jackson (6'0'-G-92) had 11.

Tennessee State (19-11, 11-5) had a nine-game winning streak snapped and missed its chance to sweep Murray State for the first time since 1993, when the Tigers reached the NCAA tournament.

Robert Covington (6'8'-F-90) led the Tigers with 24 points and 15 rebounds and Kellen Thornton had 17 points.

Murray State, which had already clinched its 23rd regular season OVC title, has gotten used to lots of attention during an unprecedented season even by Racers' standards.

The Tigers will be the OVC's No. 2 seed in the league tournament next week. But they had problems dealing with the nationally televised game with a standing-room only crowd of 10,125. The last time the Tigers had an event this big on campus that didn't involve graduation was back in 1980 when Stevie Wonder played the Gentry Center.

They outrebounded Murray State 36-24 and had a 36-20 edge in the paint.

But they couldn't match Murray State's shooting beyond the arc or inside. The Racers shot 56.5 percent (26 of 46) compared to 46.4 percent (23 of 57) for Tennessee State.

Whether nerves or too much adrenaline, Tennessee State struggled shooting air balls and committing turnovers. Jordan Cyphers had one of their worst turnovers of the game, overthrowing a teammate so badly the ball went well over the sideline media table. They also missed all seven 3-point attempts in the first half and didn't hit from beyond the arc until Covington's 3 with 17:45 left in the second half.

The Tigers stayed close early with two ties and six lead changes. Murray State took the lead for good at 18-17 midway through the first half on Mushatt's layup. Tennessee State got within three points twice, the last on Covington's rebound of Chris Conner's missed 3 for a layup that made it 31-28 with 2:46 left.

That's when the Racers started scoring. Mushatt hit a 3 from the corner, Canaan added a 3. Jackson scored on a layup, then pulled up for a 3 on the next trip down the court. Covington, the Tigers' leading scorer, shot an airball. The Racers got the rebound, and Poole hit the eighth 3 of the half just before the buzzer prompting Mushatt to stand for a couple of seconds looking up at the fans.

Murray State opened the lead with a 12-2 run that ended with Mushatt's 3 that made it 58-38 with 13:21 left.

Even when the Racers had four players with at least three fouls each, Tennessee couldn't get closer than 12 points on a 3 by Kenny Moore with 3:54 remaining. Poole answered with another 3, and Canaan hit Murray State's 12th 3 with 2:42 to go, matching the Racers' season-high set Dec. 30 at Eastern Illinois. After Ed Daniels got a loose ball and went in alone for a dunk with 1:23 left for a 78-60 lead, fans started heading toward the exits.

Courtesy of www.tri-cityherald.com

Wright, Cincinnati beat No. 17 Louisville 60-56 - by Eurobasket News
One foul changed everything for Louisville.

The 17th-ranked Cardinals were more than holding their own against Cincinnati in the second half, with 6-foot-11 center Gorgui Dieng having his way against the Bearcats' front line. He tried to block a shot with 10:54 left, and wound up on the bench with his fourth foul.

He watched the game slip away.

Point guard Cashmere Wright (6'0'-G-90) scored 22 points and matched his career-high with six 3-pointers as the Bearcats rallied for a 60-56 victory on Thursday night that turned on one foul.

'Gorgui picked up his fourth foul, and that changed the whole momentum of the game,' Louisville coach Rick Pitino said. 'If Gorgui stays in there, we have a great chance to win the game.'

The foul negated Louisville's advantage inside and turned it into more of a shooting contest. The Bearcats got the better of it.

Cincinnati (20-8, 10-5 Big East) went 11 of 27 from behind the arc, a place where Louisville (21-7, 9-6) has prospered. The Bearcats' fifth win in six games broke a tie with the Cardinals for sixth place in the conference.

'Coach told us there's no offense, no plays, just play,' said Wright, who made several 3s from well beyond the arc. 'I felt like that was a very comfortable situation for me, not worrying about mistakes, just going out there and playing.'

Sean Kilpatrick (6'4'-G-90) had 12 points, including baskets that started and finished a 14-point run that put the Bearcats ahead to stay midway through the second half. Cincinnati improved to 4-3 against ranked teams this season.

The Cardinals had won seven of their last eight, making 3s at a prodigious rate lately. They lost their touch Thursday, going only 1 of 14 from behind the arc. Leading scorer Kyle Kuric (6'4'-G/F-89) missed all of his 11 shots from the field, including an open 3 that would have tied it with 19 seconds left.

'I thought every shot was great,' said Kuric, who managed only four free throws. 'There wasn't one shot that when it left my hand I thought it was awful. Just one of those nights.'

Dieng had 11 points and 13 rebounds, but couldn't do anything during the decisive minutes because of foul trouble.

'That's the type of effort you want this time of the year, the type of defense you want this time of the year,' Pitino said. 'We just have to keep Gorgui in the game.'

Cincinnati won the rivalry game 63-54 last season, an impressive victory that started its surge toward the first NCAA tournament appearance since 2005. The Bearcats need another late surge to get there again, including a few impressive wins over quality teams to help make their case with the selection committee.

This one represented a good starting point.

'We needed a win against a ranked opponent, and you don't want to lose to Louisville,' said power forward Yancy Gates, who had 10 points and 10 rebounds. 'I think the team kind of fed off of it.'

The student sections behind each basket dressed in black to show support for the team, which was wearing all-black uniforms. Cincinnati's coaches dressed in all-black as well, with head coach Mick Cronin sporting an open-collar black shirt.

Kilpatrick went to the scorer's table and raised his arms before the tipoff, trying to get as much home-court advantage as possible from the crowd of 13,176 only the Bearcats' second sellout of the season.

There were three ties and eight lead changes in the first 10 minutes, with neither team ahead by more than four points. Wright made four 3s in five attempts to keep the back-and-forth pace.

The Bearcats changed things around on Louisville, going 8 of 19 from behind the arc in the first half for a 32-30 lead. That was more 3s than the Bearcats had made in four of their last five games, and it made up for a 33 percent shooting percentage overall from the field.

By contrast, Louisville was only 1 of 4 from behind the arc in the half, more intent on taking the ball inside for dunks and floaters.

Russ Smith had two driving bank shots and two free throws during a 15-4 run that put Louisville ahead 45-39 with 12:16 left, the Cardinals' biggest lead. Dieng had 11 points and 10 rebounds by then, but picked up his fourth foul with 10:54 to go while trying to block a shot.

That coincided with a 14-0 Cincinnati run that began and ended with baskets by Kilpatrick and put the Bearcats ahead 53-45 with 6:36 to go.

Cincinnati's missed free throws gave Louisville a chance to tie, but Kuric was off on his 3 from the top of the arc. Dion Dixon and Gates each made a free throw to make the lead hold up.

Courtesy of www.foxnews.com

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

  PBL

Stats Leaders

PPG

RPG

APG

SPG

BPG

Points Per Game
Desmond HOLLOWAY
  Sauk V.
  (190-G-88)
  Avg: 27.1
1. Holloway, Sauk V. 27.1
2. Collins, Z*Char. 23.3
3. Simpson, Scranton. 21.3
4. Favors, Sauk V. 21.1
5. Valencia, Lake M. 21.1
6. Armstead, Z*Char. 20.5
7. Commons, Scranton. 20.0
8. Goldsberry, Z*Char. 19.8
9. Robinson, Scranton. 19.4
10. Radcliff, Indiana 19.1

Rebounds Per Game
Billy PETTIFORD
  India.
  (201-F-)
  Avg: 12.2
1. Pettiford, India. 12.2
2. Robinson, Scranton. 12.0
3. Hill, Chicago M. 10.6
4. Valencia, Lake M. 10.0
5. Fay, Sauk Valley P. 9.8
6. Harris, Sauk V. 9.0
7. Holloway, Sauk V. 8.4
8. Davis, Rochester R. 8.3
9. Hill, St. Louis P. 7.6
10. Alexander, Lake M. 7.5

Assists Per Game
Vince GOLDSBERRY
  Z*Char.
  (182-PG-89)
  Avg: 10.8
1. Goldsberry, Z*Char. 10.8
2. Favors, Sauk V. 8.2
3. Simpson, Scranton. 7.2
4. Ruffin, Cent.I. 5.3
5. Petty, Cent.Ill. 5.3
6. Smith, Dayton A.S. 5.0
7. Snow, Lake M. 4.3
8. Anderson, Chica. 4.3
9. Crouch, Rocheste. 4.3
10. Council, Rocheste. 4.0

Steals Per Game
Marcel ANDERSON
  Chica.
  (175-PG-86)
  Avg: 2.2
1. Anderson, Chica. 2.2
2. Holloway, Sauk V. 2.0
3. Snow, Lake M. 1.8
4. Smith, Dayton A.S. 1.6
5. Collins, Z*Char. 1.5
6. Bobo, Lake M. 1.4
7. Polk, St. Louis P. 1.4
8. Blackmore, Lake M. 1.4
9. Radcliff, Indiana 1.3
10. Livas, Chicago M. 1.3

Blocks Per Game
Shagari ALLEYNE
  Lake M.
  (221-C-84)
  Avg: 3.1
1. Alleyne, Lake M. 3.1
2. Commons, Scranton. 2.3
3. Slack, Cent.Ill. 1.9
4. Webster, Rocheste. 1.6
5. Robinson, Scranton. 1.1
6. Pettiford, India. 1.0
7. Hill, Chicago M. 0.9
8. Peterson, Cent.I. 0.8
9. Robbins, Scranton. 0.8
10. Davis, Rochester 0.8

Standings
PBL Standings

Central Division

1. Cent.Illinois D. 12-0

2. Sauk Valley P. 6-5

3. Chicago M. 6-5

4. St. Louis P. 2-6

5. Indiana D. 2-9

Eastern Division

1. Rochester R. 11-1

2. Scranton/W-B 5-5

3. Dayton A.S. 4-6

4. Lake Michigan 0-8

SWB Steamers look to make run toward playoff berth - by Eurobasket News
Nearly halfway through their 20-game season, the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Steamers (4-4) are still trying to find the momentum that could lead them on a streak of wins.

For a team that has played only eight games, a team that has added and lost players, momentum hasn't been easy to find.

But beginning with today's game against the Dayton Air Strikers (3-5) at the Lacka-wanna College Student Union at 3:05 p.m., the Steamers will have a chance to go on a roll that could end with the team being in prime position for a playoff run.

The Steamers will play six games through March 4, only one of which will be against the Rochester RazorSharks - the team that has handed the Steamers three of their losses, and which held them to a season-low 88 points in their last meeting.

' (After the last game) we were down,' Steamers co-coach Dennis Mishko said. 'Psychologically, it was a tough loss because we had hoped and thought that we would be the only team that would be able to compete with Rochester.

'But we've come to realize that it's going to be us, Lake Michigan and Dayton for second place and we have to make sure we get that second spot.'

At 10-1, the RazorSharks hold a healthy lead in the Eastern Division over the second-place Steamers. Lake Michigan (0-7) is one of only two winless teams in the Premier Basketball League, which puts the Steamers and Air Strikers in position to battle it out for the second spot in the division.

'We've had a great week of practice,' Mishko said. 'We're out to prove ourselves. This game will go a long way to deciding whether we do make the playoffs, because it's going to be a tough task to beat Dayton out on their home court.'

With less down time between their upcoming games, the Steamers are confident that they can realize their full potential.

'We've practiced until we can't practice anymore,' Mishko said.

'Getting in the swing of things will be great. Let's play some games and let's play them on a regular basis. We're ready to get rolling.'

In the teams' last meeting, the Air Strikers used a 44-point fourth quarter to beat the Steamers, 114-108. Brandon Russ (6'8'-F-87, college: S.Indiana) scored 27 points and Avery Smith (6'3'-G-86, college: Wisc.-Milwaukee) added 20 points, nine assists and seven rebounds to lead the Air Strikers.

'Avery Smith had the game of his life,' Mishko said.

'We didn't defend him the way we should have. We had the lead and we didn't play hard defensively.

'We're going to come out with a lot more intensity. We're going to focus for a whole game this time.'

Courtesy of https://thetimes-tribune.com

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

  PHILIPPINES

Standings - PBA Fiesta Conference
PBA Standings

1. Alaska Aces 2-1

2. B-Meg Llam. 2-1

3. Ginebra Kings 2-1

4. Powerade T. 1-0

5. Talk N Text 1-0

6. Meralco Bolts 1-2

7. Petron Blaze 1-2

8. Rain or Shine 1-3

9. Barako Bull 1-3

10. Shopinas.com C. 0-0

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

  POLAND

LaMarshall Corbett and Siarka Jezioro part ways - by Michal Koza
It is a disappointing end of the season for LaMarshall Corbett (190-G-88, college: Angelo St.) as his knee injury proves to be serious one. Siarka Jezioro Tarnobrzeg agreed with a player to terminate his contract till the end of February. Corbett averaged 16.1 points, 2.5 rebounds and 2.5 assists in 24 games in Poland while shooting 51% from the field and 46% from distance. He was a leading scorer for his team. It was his first season overseas.

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

  ROMANIA

Krstanovic number one in Romania for round 22 - by Eurobasket News
Serbian center Zoran Krstanovic (204-C-82) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for U.Mobitel.CN, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 22.
The 29-year old player was the main contributor (33 points, six rebounds) to his team's victory, helping them to beat Giurgiu (#13, 5-16) 88-77. U.Mobitel.CN maintains the 3rd position in Romanian Div.A. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. U.Mobitel.CN will need more victories to improve their 15-5 record. Krstanovic has many years of experience at U.Mobitel.CN, through which he has constantly improved. Zoran Krstanovic has solid league stats. He is in league's top in points (4th best: 22.1ppg), rebounds (8th best: 8.3rpg) and averages impressive 62.2% FGP.

The second best player in last round's games was 23-year old American Paul Nelson (208-C-88) of Dinamo B.. Nelson had a very good evening with a double-double of 17 points and 10 rebounds. It was enough for Dinamo B. to edge the lower-ranked Perla Harghitei (#14, 3-17) 82-77. The game was between two teams which are definitely not main contenders for the title. But Dinamo B. managed to improve slightly their position in standings taking 11th place. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 7-14 record. Nelson is a newcomer at Dinamo B., but is already one of team's top players.

Third on the list of top players last round was Jamaican guard Garry Gallimore (192-G-84) of CSM Bucuresti (#5). Gallimore showcased his all-around game by recording 29 points, seven rebounds and seven assists in the last round. He was a key player of CSM Bucuresti, leading his team to a 84-77 win against the lower-ranked Pitesti (#10, 11-10). CSM Bucuresti needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 14 victories and 7 lost games. Gallimore has a very solid season. In 21 games in Romania he scored 17.2ppg.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Liviu Dumitru (203-C-79) of Targu Mures - 21 points, 9 rebounds and 2 assists
5. Catalin Burlacu (210-C-77) of Ploiesti - 20 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists
6. Virgil Stanescu (208-C/F-77) of Targu Mures - 27 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Kevin Sims (178-G-88) of Giurgiu - 24 points, 3 rebounds and 3 assists
8. Kyndall Dykes (190-SG-87) of U.Mobitel.CN - 22 points, 8 rebounds and 3 assists
9. Jer'Vaughn Johnson (198-F-88) of Dinamo B. - 12 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists
10. Enrico Tucker (183-PG-86) of Perla Harghitei - 24 points and 5 rebounds

The Player of the week is choosen based on efficiency calculation, but also including game result, importance of the game, if played recorded double-double/triple-double, etc.
The efficiency formula is a combination of various formulas used by different basketball organizations/leagues. We got involved many basketball scouts and journalists to assure it's accuracy.
The formula: 1.5*PTS + 3*(REB+AST+ST+BL-TO) - 2*BSAG - 4*PF + 3*PFRV + 4*(2FGPM+3FGPM) + 1.5*FTM - 3*(2FGPA-2FGPM) - 3*(3FGPA-3FGPM) - (FTA-FTM)

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

  RUSSIA

Heartbreaking thriller: Fenerbahce Ulker beats Unics in OT to stay alive - by Eurobasket News
Fenerbahce Ulker - Unics 94-87 OT

In one of the most exciting games in Top 16 history, Fenerbahce Ulker rallied from a 13-point fourth-quarter deficit to edge Unics 94-87 in overtime in front of almost 12,000 fans at Ulker Sports Arena in Istanbul, Turkey in Group G on Thursday. Unics was better than FB Ulker in the first round 76-71, so Fener needed at least 6-point win to keep their Playoffs hopes alive. The hosts managed to do it and they needed an extra five minutes to improve its record to 2-3 in Group G. Unics slipped to 3-2 and the last round will give us an answer who will advance to the next stage. Unics will advance if they beat PAO next week or if Fener losses to Armani in Milano. In order to advance, Fener needs to beat Armani and PAO to win in Kazan. Bojan Bogdanovic (203-G/F-89) had 20 points and 5 rebounds for Fener last night. Roko-Leni Ukic (196-G-84) scored 18 and Emir Preldzic (205-F-87, agency: Beo Basket) added 13 points. Unics got 33 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists from Lynn Greer (186-PG-79, college: Temple) (valuation 43). Michael Wilkinson (204-F-81, agency: Interperformances, college: Wisconsin) (5 rebs) and Henry Domercant (192-G-80, college: E.Illinois) scored 17 and 13 points respectively. Unics held 73-79 lead with 1:23 remaining in regular time. Emir Preldzic and Bojan Bogdanovic made free throws to bring FB Ulker within 77-79 with 25.5 seconds left in regulation. Wilkinson missed foul shots and Roko-Leni Ukic beat the shot clock with a rainbow jumper that sent the game to overtime, 79-79, setting Ulker Sports Arena on fire. The hosts jumped to 87-83 during the OT and later free throws by Preldzic and Bogdanovic allowed FB Ulker to get a 94-87 lead with 6 seconds left. Unics had the last possession, but they were unable to score. Quarters: 21-26, 21-18, 13-24, 24-11, 15-8 OT. Last round of Top 16 phase for Group G teams is scheduled for February 29.

Fenerbahce Ulker: Bojan Bogdanovic 20+5 boards, Roko-Leni Ukic 18, Emir Preldzic 13
Unics: Lynn Greer 33+6 boards+6 as, Michael Wilkinson 17+5 boards, Henry Domercant 13

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

  SERBIA

Crvena Zvezda IJT start Belgrade Tournament with win - by Eurobasket News
Crvena Zvezda IJT - ALBA Berlin IJT 92:63

Crvena Zvezda team victoriously opened the Nike International Junior Classification Tournament in Belgrade. The hosts thrashed ALBA Berlin for the first win in Group A. Nikola Jankovic (203-F/C-94) provided 18 points and 9 rebounds to pace the hosts.
Crvena Zvezda erupted for 30 points in the starting quarter to take a 12-point lead. They maintained the advantage throughout the second period. The hosts arrived at halftime up by 16 points 48:32. Crvena Zvezda did not allow the German juniors any closer in the third term. They secured a 68:51 lead with ten minutes remaining. Crvena Zvezda cruised to the win afterwards. Brano Djukanovic (193-G-95) posted 16 points for the winners. Luka Kamber (202-F-94) answered with 19 points for ALBA. Mauricio Marin (188-PG-94) had 16 points in the loss.

Crvena Zvezda IJT: Nikola Jankovic 18, Brano Djukanovic 16, Dusan Ristic 13
ALBA Berlin IJT: Luka Kamber 19, Mauricio Marin 16

Mega Vizura IJT edge Union Olimpija IJT in Belgrade - by Eurobasket News
Mega Vizura IJT - Union Olimpija IJT 76:72

Mega Vizura IJT celebrated a tough victory over Union Olimpija counterparts at the start of Euroleague Basketball Nike International Junior Classification Tournament in Belgrade. Dusan Stankovic (94) knocked down 22 points and grabbed 8 rebounds to lead Mega Vizura to the win.
Union Olimpija grabbed a 22:19 lead ten minutes into the game. But Mega Vizura bounced right back as they erased the deficit in the second quarter. The Serbian juniors ensured a 43:35 halftime lead. The Slovenian side got closer in the third term but still faced a five-point deficit with one period to go 52:57. Union Olimpija got within one point 69:70 in the dying seconds but Strahinja Jovanovic and Milos Jankovic hit crucial free throws to seal the win for Mega Vizura. Milos Lukic delivered 15 points, while Milutin Borojevic added 14 points in the win. Jusuf Nurkic (210-C-94) answered with game-high 25 points and 10 rebounds for Union Olimpija. Matic Rebec (179-PG-95) had 19 points, 6 assists and 6 steals in the loss.

Mega Vizura IJT: Dusan Stankovic 22, Milos Lukic 15, Milutin Borojevic 14
Union Olimpija IJT: Jusuf Nurkic 25+10 boards, Matic Rebec 19

Stats Leaders - 1B

PPG

RPG

APG

SPG

BPG

Points Per Game
Dragan BJELICA
  Viva Basket
  (198-G-81)
  Avg: 24
1. Bjelica, Viva Bask. 24.0
2. Dukanac, Mladost 18.9
3. Djurovic, Crnokosa 18.8
4. Riboskic, Beovuk 18.2
5. Dasic, Jagodina 17.1
6. Samailovic, Radnic. 16.7
7. Gagovic, Jagodina 16.4
8. Dondur, Beovuk 72 16.2
9. Skoko, Vojvodina 16.2
10. Boljkovac, Sabac 16.1

Rebounds Per Game
Aleksandar VULETIC
  Viva Basket
  (202-F-86)
  Avg: 12.2
1. Vuletic, Viva Bask. 12.2
2. Sikman, Napredak. 8.6
3. Glisovic, Radnic. 8.2
4. Jankovic, Mladost 7.9
5. Dondur, Beovuk 72 7.9
6. Tmusic, Jagodina 7.8
7. Janjusevic, Konst. 7.7
8. Vukovic, Mladost 7.6
9. Dukanac, Mladost 7.3
10. Grubor, Vojvodina 7.3

Assists Per Game
Dragan BJELICA
  Viva Basket
  (198-G-81)
  Avg: 6.9
1. Bjelica, Viva Bask. 6.9
2. Velickovic, Konst. 5.0
3. Mukanovic, Crnok. 4.9
4. Simic, Radnicki OB 4.4
5. Dumic, Mladost 4.2
6. Boricic, Radnicki. 4.2
7. Tanasijevic, Radni. 4.1
8. Skoko, Vojvodina 3.7
9. Dinic, Spartak 3.6
10. Samailovic, Radni. 3.5

Steals Per Game
Aleksandar VULETIC
  Viva Basket
  (202-F-86)
  Avg: 2.9
1. Vuletic, Viva Bask. 2.9
2. Tanasijevic, Radni. 2.6
3. Kuntic, Spartak 2.4
4. Kovacevic, Mlados. 2.1
5. Rasic, Mladost 2.1
6. Stajic, Viva Basket 2.0
7. Dugosija, Mladost 2.0
8. Stojanovic, Spartak 2.0
9. Djurovic, Spartak 2.0
10. Djoric, Jagodina 2.0

Blocks Per Game
Slobodan LJUBOTINA
  Spartak
  (207-F/C-84)
  Avg: 2.3
1. Ljubotina, Spartak 2.3
2. Huskic, Radnicki OB 2.1
3. Karahodzic, Spartak 1.7
4. Karalic, Radnicki. 1.2
5. Radenkovic, Jedins. 1.1
6. Jankovic, Mladost 0.9
7. Dukanac, Mladost 0.9
8. Mirkovic, Jagodina 0.8
9. Savic, Radnicki St. 0.8
10. Djurovic, Crnokosa 0.8

Standings - A Liga
A Standings

1. Vojvodina 18-3

2. Mega Vizura 15-5

3. BKK Radnicki 15-6

4. Radnicki Basket 12-8

5. Borac 12-8

6. Tamis 12-8

7. Sloga 11-9

8. Smederevo 10-10

9. OKK Beograd 10-10

10. Sloboda Uzice 8-12

11. Metalac 7-13

12. Napredak 5-15

13. Zeleznicar 4-16

14. Proleter Naftagas 2-18

Play in international cups:

1. Crvena Zvezda -

2. Hemofarm -

3. Partizan -

4. Radnicki K. -

Standings - B Liga
B League Standings

1. Konstantin 12-6

2. Mladost Zemun 12-6

3. Jagodina 12-6

4. Mladost Cacak 11-7

5. Spartak 11-7

6. Radnicki OB 10-8

7. Crnokosa 9-9

8. Napredak A. 9-9

9. Sabac 8-10

10. Viva Basket 8-10

11. Beovuk 72 7-11

12. Radnicki Stud. 6-12

13. Vojvodina 6-12

14. Jedinstvo NB 5-13

Stats Leaders - 1A

PPG

RPG

APG

SPG

BPG

Points Per Game
Branko MILISAVLJEVIC
  Mega V.
  (193-G-76)
  Avg: 23.1
1. Milisavljevi., Meg. 23.1
2. Bojovic, Zeleznicar 22.5
3. Popovic, Sloga 21.1
4. Zigeranovic, Borac 20.5
5. Balaban, Smederevo 20.5
6. Bozovic, Sloga 17.1
7. Pekovic, Prolet. 16.5
8. Dimic, Radnicki. 16.4
9. Cupkovic, Napredak 16.1
10. Micic, Mega Vizura 15.9

Rebounds Per Game
Darko BALABAN
  Smederevo
  (211-C-89)
  Avg: 9.3
1. Balaban, Smederevo 9.3
2. Zigeranovic, Borac 8.2
3. Cantekin, Mega V. 7.4
4. Misanovic, OKK B. 7.2
5. Cupkovic, Napredak 7.1
6. Petrovic, BKK R. 7.0
7. Smiljanic, Radnic. 6.9
8. Mijajlovic, Sloga 6.8
9. Majkic, Prolet. 6.4
10. Kuburovic, Slobod. 6.0

Assists Per Game
Marko POPOVIC
  Sloga
  (193-G-84)
  Avg: 6
1. Popovic, Sloga 6.0
2. Dundjerski, Vojvo. 5.3
3. Jovic, Sloga 5.1
4. Milisavljevi., Meg. 5.0
5. Micic, Mega Vizura 5.0
6. Boltic, BKK R. 4.7
7. Stefanovic, Smede. 4.3
8. Rakic, Sloboda Uzi. 4.0
9. Osmokrovic, BKK R. 3.9
10. Drca, OKK Beograd 3.8

Steals Per Game
Negoslav GACIC
  BKK Radnicki
  (193-G-)
  Avg: 3.6
1. Gacic, BKK Radnicki 3.6
2. Micic, Mega Vizura 2.5
3. Jovic, Sloga 2.5
4. Dundjerski, Vojvo. 2.5
5. Boltic, BKK R. 2.5
6. Vulin, Prolet. 2.2
7. Kuzeta, Vojvodina 2.0
8. Bojovic, Zeleznicar 2.0
9. Vasilic, Radnic. 2.0
10. Kuburovic, Slobod. 1.9

Blocks Per Game
Nenad MISANOVIC
  OKK B.
  (217-C-84)
  Avg: 1.6
1. Misanovic, OKK B. 1.6
2. Zigeranovic, Borac 1.2
3. Balaban, Smederevo 1.2
4. Bojic, Mega Vizura 1.1
5. Jevtovic, Sloboda 0.9
6. Majkic, Prolet. 0.8
7. Tubak, Radnicki. 0.8
8. Todorovic, Borac 0.8
9. Bjegovic, Prolet. 0.8
10. Cantekin, Mega V. 0.8

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

  SLOVENIA

Standings - 1A
Telemach Standings

1. Helios 14-2

2. Zlatorog 12-4

3. Elektra 12-5

4. Sentjur 11-6

5. Rogaska 8-8

6. Maribor Messer 8-8

7. Polzela 8-9

8. Geoplin Slovan 7-10

9. LTHcast Mercator 1-15

10. Parklji 1-15

Play in international cups:

1. Krka -

2. Union Olimpija -

Stats Leaders - 1A

PPG

RPG

APG

SPG

BPG

Points Per Game
Travis NELSON
  Sentjur
  (211-C-87)
  Avg: 17.8
1. Nelson, Sentjur 17.8
2. Panic, Zlatorog 17.7
3. Rizvic, Parklji 16.5
4. Prepelic, Helios 15.8
5. Maric, Sentjur 14.5
6. Pajic, Geoplin Slo. 14.3
7. Tomic, Rogaska 13.9
8. Mahkovic, LTHcas. 13.7
9. Hohler, Polzela 13.4
10. Rembert, Sentjur 13.4

Rebounds Per Game
Esmir RIZVIC
  Parklji
  (213-C-82)
  Avg: 9.3
1. Rizvic, Parklji 9.3
2. Miljkovic, Rogaska 8.9
3. Pajic, Geoplin Slo. 7.9
4. Djugum, Geoplin 7.8
5. Nelson, Sentjur 7.4
6. Mucic, Maribor 6.9
7. Nuhanovic, Elektra 6.8
8. Maric, Sentjur 6.5
9. Sviridov, Polzela 6.4
10. Soldo, LTHcast 6.2

Assists Per Game
Luka RUPNIK
  Geoplin .
  (184-PG-93)
  Avg: 5.4
1. Rupnik, Geoplin 5.4
2. Rembert, Sentjur 5.0
3. Vujasinovic, Zlato. 4.7
4. Jovanovic, Maribo. 3.8
5. Hohler, Polzela 3.6
6. Tomic, Rogaska 3.4
7. Zagorc, Elektra 3.3
8. Panic, Zlatorog 3.3
9. Gay, Helios 3.2
10. Fon, Geoplin Slov. 3.1

Steals Per Game
Nejc KOBAL
  Parklji
  (183-PG-91)
  Avg: 2.9
1. Kobal, Parklji 2.9
2. Mezek, LTHcast 2.9
3. Fon, Geoplin Slovan 2.0
4. Vujasinovic, Zlato. 1.9
5. Vasl, Polzela 1.8
6. Gay, Helios 1.7
7. Panic, Zlatorog 1.7
8. Maric, Sentjur 1.6
9. Lelic, Elektra 1.5
10. Rupnik, Geoplin 1.4

Blocks Per Game
Salih NUHANOVIC
  Elektra
  (209-C-82)
  Avg: 1.3
1. Nuhanovic, Elektra 1.3
2. Nelson, Sentjur 1.3
3. Sviridov, Polzela 1.2
4. Sebic, Sentjur 0.9
5. Omic, Zlatorog 0.9
6. Djugum, Geoplin 0.8
7. Hannibal, Polzela 0.8
8. Rizvic, Parklji 0.7
9. Primorac, Sentjur 0.7
10. Cresnar, Helios 0.7

Mega Vizura IJT edge Union Olimpija IJT in Belgrade - by Eurobasket News
Mega Vizura IJT - Union Olimpija IJT 76:72

Mega Vizura IJT celebrated a tough victory over Union Olimpija counterparts at the start of Euroleague Basketball Nike International Junior Classification Tournament in Belgrade. Dusan Stankovic (94) knocked down 22 points and grabbed 8 rebounds to lead Mega Vizura to the win.
Union Olimpija grabbed a 22:19 lead ten minutes into the game. But Mega Vizura bounced right back as they erased the deficit in the second quarter. The Serbian juniors ensured a 43:35 halftime lead. The Slovenian side got closer in the third term but still faced a five-point deficit with one period to go 52:57. Union Olimpija got within one point 69:70 in the dying seconds but Strahinja Jovanovic and Milos Jankovic hit crucial free throws to seal the win for Mega Vizura. Milos Lukic delivered 15 points, while Milutin Borojevic added 14 points in the win. Jusuf Nurkic (210-C-94) answered with game-high 25 points and 10 rebounds for Union Olimpija. Matic Rebec (179-PG-95) had 19 points, 6 assists and 6 steals in the loss.

Mega Vizura IJT: Dusan Stankovic 22, Milos Lukic 15, Milutin Borojevic 14
Union Olimpija IJT: Jusuf Nurkic 25+10 boards, Matic Rebec 19

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

  SOUTH KOREA

Williams, Choi Lead Goyang Past KT - by Jeff Liebsch
The KT Sonic Boom need Charles Rhodes (203-F/C-85, college: Mississippi St.) ankle to recover and fast.

Chris Williams (199-F/G-80, college: Virginia) scored 29 points and Choi Jin-Soo (202-F, college: Maryland) added 24 as the Goyang Orions defeated the KT Sonic Boom 84-72 Friday night in Busan.

The Sonic Boom's injured starting center Rhodes has missed the past three games nursing an ankle injury, losing all three. They have lost the last four of five.

Park Sang-Oh (196-F-81) scored 23 for KT, while Reggie Okosa (208-F/C-80, agency: VVG Sports, college: La Salle) notched 20.

Goyang came out on fire in the first quarter, connecting on 69% of their shots. After Cho Dong-Hyun (188-G-76) hit two free throws to tie the game at 16 on Daniel Sandrin's (200-F-80, college: Seattle Pacific) third foul with 1:33 left, Goyang rattled off six straight points to take a 22-16 lead.

After Chris Williams four straight points gave Goyang a 35-28 lead midway through the second, KT went on an 8-0 run over the next 2:41 to take their first lead of the game.

Williams scored ten consecutive points for Goyang in the third giving them a five point lead, capping off an impressive game which also included six rebounds, eight assists and five steals.

Kim Hyeonmin (200-F-87) could have brought KT back to within six with three minutes to go, but missed three of four free throws, paving the way for Goyang to outscore KT 9-5 down the stretch.

Game Notes: KT coach Jeon Chang-Jin received a technical foul for arguing with the ref at 3:41 of the first and had to be restrained by his team. KT shooting guard Cho Sung-Min (197-F-83) left the game at 9:04 of the third with a leg injury, but returned four minutes later. The Sonic Boom beat Goyang four games to two head-to-head this year. Kim Hyeonmin led all players with 12 rebounds and four dunks. Goyang's Chun Jung-Kyu (188-G-83) had an impressive nine points in the first quarter and finished with 12 points.

KBL Round 55: Anyang KGC is defeated by KCC Egis - by Eurobasket News
The Regular Season in KBL is almost over. Almost everything is clear. There are only 3 rounds left.

The game between second ranked Anyang KGC (35-16) and fourth ranked KCC Egis (27-23) was the most important one in the last round on Thursday night. Anyang KGC was defeated by KCC Egis in Jeonju 98-85. They made 18-of-20 free shots (90.0 percent) during the game. KCC Egis outrebounded Anyang KGC 34-22 including 25 on the defensive glass. It was a great evening for naturalized American guard Tony Akins (180-80, college: Georgia Tech, agency: Court Side) who led his team to a victory scoring 21 points and 6 assists. American power forward Jameel Watkins (211-77, college: Georgetown) helped adding 19 points and 10 rebounds. At the losing side international guard Chan-Hee Park (190-87) responded with 21 points and 4 assists. KCC Egis maintains fourth place with 27-23 record. Anyang KGC at the other side keeps the second position with 16 games lost. KCC Egis are looking forward to face SK Knights (#9) in Seoul in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Anyang KGC will play at home against Mobis Phoebus (#6) in Ulsan and is hoping to win this game.
Very important is a home loss of third ranked Sonic Boom KT (30-21) against eighth ranked Goyang Orions (19-32) on Friday night. Host Sonic Boom KT was defeated by Goyang Orions in Busan 84-72. It was an exceptional evening for American swingman Chris Williams (199-80, college: Virginia) who led the winners and scored 29 points, 6 rebounds, 8 assists and 5 steals. Jin-Soo Choi accounted for 24 points and 5 rebounds. Goyang Orions' coach Il-Seung Choo allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Nigerian-American power forward Reggie Okosa (208-80, college: La Salle, agency: VVG Sports) came up with 20 points and 8 rebounds for Sonic Boom KT in the defeat. Goyang Orions maintains eighth place with 19-32 record. Sonic Boom KT lost third consecutive game. They keep the third position with 21 games lost. Goyang Orions will play against league's leader Dongbu Promy in Wonju in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Sonic Boom KT will play on the road against Mobis Phoebus in Ulsan and hopes to get back on the winning track.
A very close game took place in Changwon between LG Sakers and SK Knights. Seventh ranked LG Sakers (20-32) got a very close home victory over 9th ranked SK Knights (18-33). LG Sakers managed to escape with a 2-point win 73-71 on Friday evening. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of SK Knights. Aaron Haynes fired a double-double by scoring 29 points and 14 rebounds for the winners. Alexander Johnson produced a double-double by scoring 26 points, 12 rebounds and 5 assists for lost side. LG Sakers maintains seventh place with 20-32 record. Loser SK Knights keep the ninth position with 33 games lost. LG Sakers will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. SK Knights will play against KCC Egis (#4) in Jeonju and hope to secure a win.
Sixth ranked ET Land Elephants (26-25) beat at home 10th ranked Samsung Thunders (12-39) by 15 points 88-73, which is the biggest margin this round. Worth to mention a great performance of Tae-Jong Moon who helped to win the game recording 15 points and 5 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. ET Land Elephants moved-up to fifth place. Samsung Thunders at the other side stay dead last with 39 lost games. ET Land Elephants' next round opponent will be league's leader Dongbu Promy in Wonju and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Samsung Thunders will play at home against KCC Egis (#4) in Jeonju.

ET Land - Samsung Th. 88-73

Sixth ranked ET Land Elephants (26-25) beat at home 10th ranked Samsung Thunders (12-39) by 15 points 88-73, which is the biggest margin this round. The game was mostly controlled by ET Land Elephants. Samsung Thunders was better in third quarter 21-18. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. ET Land Elephants forced 20 Samsung Thunders turnovers. Strangely Samsung Thunders outrebounded ET Land Elephants 37-22 including a 17-6 advantage in offensive rebounds. Worth to mention a great performance of international forward Tae-Jong Moon (199-75, college: Richmond, agency: Alti Sport) who helped to win the game recording 15 points and 5 rebounds. Guard Hyun-Min Lee (177-83) contributed with 12 points and 7 assists for the winners. Five ET Land Elephants players scored in double figures. American power forward Ira Clark (203-75, college: Texas) answered with a double-double by scoring 25 points and 12 rebounds and the former international guard Seung-Hyun Kim (178-78) added 10 points and 5 assists in the effort for Samsung Thunders. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. ET Land Elephants moved-up to fifth place. Samsung Thunders at the other side stay dead last with 39 lost games. ET Land Elephants' next round opponent will be league's leader Dongbu Promy in Wonju and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Samsung Thunders will play at home against KCC Egis (#4) in Jeonju.
Top scorers:
ET Land: T.Moon 15+5reb+1ast, H.Lee 12+2reb+7ast, T.Joo 12+7reb+1ast, H.Kang 12+2reb+1ast, N.Ham 11+1reb, H.Lee 11+1reb+2ast
Samsung Th.: I.Clark 25+12reb+2ast, S.Kim 10+2reb+5ast, E.Sandrin 9+6reb+2ast, K.Ngi 9+4reb, W.Lee 9+1reb, K.Lee 6+2reb
gschID: 145866

KCC Egis - Anyang KGC 98-85

The game between second ranked Anyang KGC (35-16) and fourth ranked KCC Egis (27-23) was the most important one in the last round on Thursday night. Anyang KGC was defeated by KCC Egis in Jeonju 98-85. They made 18-of-20 free shots (90.0 percent) during the game. KCC Egis outrebounded Anyang KGC 34-22 including 25 on the defensive glass. It was a great evening for naturalized American guard Tony Akins (180-80, college: Georgia Tech, agency: Court Side) who led his team to a victory scoring 21 points and 6 assists. American power forward Jameel Watkins (211-77, college: Georgetown) helped adding 19 points and 10 rebounds. At the losing side international guard Chan-Hee Park (190-87) responded with 21 points and 4 assists and American center Chris Daniels (211-84) produced a double-double by scoring 14 points and 11 rebounds. Five KCC Egis and four Anyang KGC players scored in double figures. KCC Egis maintains fourth place with 27-23 record. Anyang KGC at the other side keeps the second position with 16 games lost. KCC Egis are looking forward to face SK Knights (#9) in Seoul in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Anyang KGC will play at home against Mobis Phoebus (#6) in Ulsan and is hoping to win this game.
Top scorers:
KCC Egis: T.Akins 21+3reb+6ast, S.Choo 19+1reb+3ast, J.Watkins 19+10reb+1ast, M.Jeong 18+3reb+1ast, S.Ha 16+10reb, T.Kim 3+4reb+1ast
Anyang KGC: C.Park 21+3reb+4ast, I.Kim 18+2reb+1ast, J.Lee 16+2reb+4ast, C.Daniels 14+11reb+3ast, T.Kim 8+1reb+5ast, J.Kim 3
gschID: 145867

LG Sakers - SK Knights 73-71

A very close game took place in Changwon between LG Sakers and SK Knights. Seventh ranked LG Sakers (20-32) got a very close home victory over 9th ranked SK Knights (18-33). LG Sakers managed to escape with a 2-point win 73-71 on Friday evening. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of SK Knights. SK Knights were tied after three quarters but could not keep up in the last quarter eventually losing the game. American forward Aaron Haynes (201-81, college: Boise St.) fired a double-double by scoring 29 points and 14 rebounds for the winners. Guard Hyun-Soo Byun (185-86) chipped in 22 points and 4 assists. American forward Alexander Johnson (208-83, college: Florida St.) produced a double-double by scoring 26 points, 12 rebounds and 5 assists and the former international guard Seung-Jun Lee (187-88) added 17 points and 6 assists respectively for lost side. LG Sakers maintains seventh place with 20-32 record. Loser SK Knights keep the ninth position with 33 games lost. LG Sakers will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. SK Knights will play against KCC Egis (#4) in Jeonju and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
LG Sakers: A.Haynes 29+14reb+3ast, H.Byun 22+4reb+4ast, G.Stevenson 10+6reb+5ast, C.Song 8+6reb, C.Young Jung 2+2reb+5ast, M.Lee 2+1reb
SK Knights: A.Johnson 26+12reb+5ast, S.Lee 17+4reb+6ast, M.Kim 11+5reb+3ast, K.Hoon Byun 7+5reb+2ast, H.Joo 3, J.Son 3
gschID: 145868

Sonic Boom KT - Goyang Orions 72-84

Very important is a home loss of third ranked Sonic Boom KT (30-21) against eighth ranked Goyang Orions (19-32) on Friday night. Host Sonic Boom KT was defeated by Goyang Orions in Busan 84-72. The game without a history. Goyang Orions led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They made 16-of-17 charity shots (94.1 percent) during the game. Strangely Sonic Boom KT outrebounded Goyang Orions 34-22 including a 16-3 advantage in offensive rebounds. It was an exceptional evening for American swingman Chris Williams (199-80, college: Virginia) who led the winners and scored 29 points, 6 rebounds, 8 assists and 5 steals. His fellow American import forward Jin-Soo Choi (202, college: Maryland) accounted for 24 points and 5 rebounds for the winning side. Four Goyang Orions players scored in double figures. Goyang Orions' coach Il-Seung Choo allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Nigerian-American power forward Reggie Okosa (208-80, college: La Salle, agency: VVG Sports) came up with 20 points and 8 rebounds and forward Sang-Oh Park (196-81) added 23 points and 6 rebounds respectively for Sonic Boom KT in the defeat. Goyang Orions maintains eighth place with 19-32 record. Sonic Boom KT lost third consecutive game. They keep the third position with 21 games lost. Goyang Orions will play against league's leader Dongbu Promy in Wonju in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Sonic Boom KT will play on the road against Mobis Phoebus in Ulsan and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Goyang Orions: C.Williams 29+6reb+8ast, J.Choi 24+5reb+2ast, J.Chun 12+3reb+2ast, H.Cho 10+1reb+3ast, M.Kim 5+2reb, D.Sandrin 4+4reb+1ast
Sonic Boom KT: S.Park 23+6reb+1ast, R.Okosa 20+8reb+3ast, H.Kim 13+12reb+1ast, S.Cho 7+1reb+3ast, W.Yaung 5+3reb+5ast, D.Cho 2+2reb+1ast
gschID: 145869

Standings
KBL Standings

1. Dongbu Promy 42-8

2. Anyang KGC 35-16

3. Sonic Boom KT 30-21

4. KCC Egis 27-23

5. ET Land 26-25

6. Mobis Phoebus 25-25

7. LG Sakers 20-32

8. Goyang Orions 19-32

9. SK Knights 18-33

10. Samsung Th. 12-39

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

  SPAIN

Stats Leaders - LEB Gold

PPG

RPG

APG

SPG

BPG

Points Per Game
Troy DEVRIES
  Melilla
  (193-G-82)
  Avg: 19.2
1. DeVries, Melilla 19.2
2. Witt, Knet Clavijo 18.5
3. Quezada, Leon 17.2
4. Feldeine, Breogan 17.0
5. Antelo, Caceres 16.5
6. Bivia, Mallorca 16.4
7. Guillen, Canarias 15.9
8. Moss, Palencia 15.6
9. Narros, Navarra 15.6
10. Donaldson, Canari. 15.4

Rebounds Per Game
Olaseni LAWAL
  Knet Clavijo
  (208-F/C-86)
  Avg: 10.8
1. Lawal, Knet Clavijo 10.8
2. Diouf, Palencia 8.8
3. Donaldson, Canarias 8.5
4. Sikma, La Palma 8.3
5. Mortellaro, Leon 7.9
6. Starosta, Navarra 7.9
7. Williams, Caceres 7.8
8. Fernandez, Granada 7.7
9. Kuzmin, Clinicas. 7.5
10. O'Leary, Palencia 7.5

Assists Per Game
Oscar ALVARADO
  La Palma
  (184-PG-91)
  Avg: 6.1
1. Alvarado, La Palma 6.1
2. Witt, Knet Clavijo 4.8
3. Bivia, Mallorca 4.4
4. Norris, Lleida 4.3
5. Lopez, Burgos 4.3
6. Bernabe, Leon 3.9
7. Sabat, Canarias 3.9
8. Riera, Melilla 3.9
9. DeVries, Melilla 3.6
10. Perez, Menorca 3.5

Steals Per Game
Marcus Vinicius TOLEDO
  Burgos
  (203-F-86)
  Avg: 2.4
1. Toledo, Burgos 2.4
2. Xavier, Palencia 2.3
3. Bernabe, Leon 2.2
4. Norris, Lleida 1.9
5. Franklin, Huesca 1.9
6. Abrines, Clinic. 1.9
7. Alonso, Mallorca 1.8
8. Knutson, Huesca 1.7
9. Rost, Canarias 1.7
10. Sanz, Navarra 1.6

Blocks Per Game
Ognen KUZMIN
  Clinicas.
  (215-C-90)
  Avg: 1.8
1. Kuzmin, Clinicas. 1.8
2. Diouf, Palencia 1.6
3. Green, Mallorca 1.6
4. Lawal, Knet Clavijo 1.6
5. Odiakosa, Melilla 1.3
6. Antelo, Caceres 1.1
7. Coleman, Girona 1.1
8. Samb, Granada 1.1
9. El Hadji Mal., Cli. 1.0
10. Donaldson, Canari. 0.9

Standings - LEB Gold
LEB Gold Standings

1. Canarias 19-5

2. Menorca 16-8

3. La Palma 16-9

4. Navarra 15-9

5. Lleida 15-10

6. Melilla 15-10

7. Burgos 15-10

8. Girona 13-12

9. Leon 12-12

10. Knet Clavijo 12-13

11. Palencia 12-13

12. Caceres 12-13

13. Breogan 11-13

14. Mallorca 10-15

15. CB Tarragona 9-15

16. Huesca 9-16

17. Granada 6-18

18. Clinicas Rincon 4-20

Standings - LEB Silver
LEB Silver Standings

1. Andorra 14-2

2. Ourense 11-5

3. Coruna 10-5

4. Las Rozas 10-6

5. Barca Regal II 10-7

6. Aurteneche M. 9-7

7. Prat Juventud 9-7

8. Lan Mobel ISB 8-9

9. Avila 7-9

10. Oviedo CB 5-10

11. Tenerife 4-12

12. Gandia Basquet 4-12

13. Plasencia 3-13

Regal Barcelona grabs thriller win in Cantu, secures first place in Group H - by Eurobasket News
Bennet Cantu - FCB Regal 62-63

Regal Barcelona grabbed 62-63 thriller win in Cantu last night. It was a Round 5 of the Euroleague Top 16 phase and Barca managed to stay undefeated. They secured first place in Group H and booked a spot for the Playoffs. At the other side, Cantu dropped to 2-3 with no chance to advance. Boniface Ndong (213-C-77) led the Spanish champs with 13 points and 5 rebounds. Juan Carlos Navarro (192-G-80) had 12 and Erazem Lorbek (209-F/C-84, college: Michigan St.) added 10 points, plus 6 rebounds. The hosts got 14 points and 8 boards from Giorgi Shermadini (216-C-89). Doron Perkins (188-PG-83, college: Santa Clara) had 12 points, 7 rebs and 5 assists, and third scorer in defeat was Maarten Leunen (206-F-85, college: Oregon) with 9 points. Barca made 0-9 run during the last period for 58-61 lead with something more than 5 minutes to go. Doron Perkins and Giorgi Shermadini answered with mini 4-0 run for 62-61 Cantu lead with 40 seconds remaining. Juan Carlos Navarro made two free throws with 26 seconds to go for a 62-63 Barcelona lead before Basiles potential game-winning jumper from the right baseline went off the front of the rim and out just before the final buzzer. Quarters: 18-18, 15-17, 17-17, 12-11. Barca waits Maccabi in the last round of Top 16. Cantu will go to Kaunas.

Cantu: Giorgi Shermadini 14+8 boards, Doron Perkins 12+7 boards+5 as, Maarten Leunen 9
Barcelona: Boniface Ndong 13+5 boards, Juan Carlos Navarro 12, Erazem Lorbek 10+6 boards

Stats Leaders-LEB Silver

PPG

RPG

APG

SPG

BPG

Points Per Game
Alfredo OTT
  Lan M.
  (193-G-83)
  Avg: 17.8
1. Ott, Lan M. 17.8
2. Monroe, Tenerife 17.3
3. Atoyebi, Lan M. 17.1
4. Todorovic, Prat J. 16.8
5. Eriksson, Barca R. 15.1
6. Balmon, Las Rozas 15.0
7. Ausina, Aurtenec. 13.9
8. Elias, Tenerife 13.9
9. Salson, Las Rozas 13.7
10. Robles, Plasencia 13.0

Rebounds Per Game
Marko TODOROVIC
  Prat J.
  (203-F-92)
  Avg: 9
1. Todorovic, Prat J. 9.0
2. Balmon, Las Rozas 8.8
3. Elias, Tenerife 8.8
4. Atoyebi, Lan M. 8.5
5. Thompson, Aurtene. 7.9
6. Miller, Gandia B. 7.4
7. Monroe, Tenerife 7.4
8. Mbaye, Barca R. 7.4
9. Ausina, Aurtenec. 7.2
10. Ortega, Oviedo CB 6.9

Assists Per Game
Federico BAVOSI
  Andorra
  (184-PG-81)
  Avg: 5.6
1. Bavosi, Andorra 5.6
2. Ibargutxi, Lan M. 4.2
3. Llorente, Avila 3.8
4. Vilanova, Prat J. 3.8
5. Alvarado, Gandia B. 3.6
6. Perez, Barca R. 3.3
7. Bassas, Prat J. 3.1
8. Guigou, Tenerife 2.9
9. Creus, Barca R. 2.9
10. Ugrinoski, Las R. 2.9

Steals Per Game
Joan FANER
  Plasencia
  (176-PG-90)
  Avg: 3.3
1. Faner, Plasencia 3.3
2. Ott, Lan M. 2.8
3. Guigou, Tenerife 1.9
4. Smith, Coruna 1.8
5. Ros, Plasencia 1.7
6. Barcelo, Aurtenec. 1.6
7. De Miguel, Las R. 1.6
8. Monroe, Tenerife 1.5
9. Lazaro, Coruna 1.5
10. Arcelus, Aurtenec. 1.5

Blocks Per Game
Marko TODOROVIC
  Prat J.
  (203-F-92)
  Avg: 1.8
1. Todorovic, Prat J. 1.8
2. Mbaye, Barca R. 1.8
3. Joseph, Avila 1.5
4. Marti, Prat J. 1.4
5. Thompson, Aurtene. 1.3
6. Miller, Gandia B. 1.1
7. Pantin, Ourense 1.0
8. Diarra, Oviedo CB 1.0
9. Olaizola, Lan M. 1.0
10. Cage, Andorra 0.9

Real Madrid too strong for Unicaja - by Eurobasket News
Real Madrid - Unicaja 86-65

Real Madrid demonstrated its power against Unicaja celebrating 86-65 home win in Round 5 of the Euroleague Top 16. Thanks to this victory Real Madrid joined Bilbao on the second place in Group F with 3-2 record. Unicaja stays the only winless team in this pool. The two Playoff berths from this group will be decided in the final week as the three teams still have options to advance. Nikola Mirotic (207-F/C-91) led the hosts with double-double of 18 points and 10 rebounds. Sergio Llull (190-PG-87) scored 15 and Jaycee Carroll (188-PG-83, agency: Priority Sports) followed with 2 points less. In the loosing squad, Gerald Fitch (191-G-82, agency: SportsTalent, college: Kentucky) delivered 15 points. Augusto Cesar Lima (206-C-91) (7 rebs) and Hrvoje Peric (203-F-85) scored 12 and 11 pts respectively. Unicaja had a great start as they made 14-22 lead in the first ten minutes, but Real Madrid took control on them after that and never looked back. Real tied the score at the HT and took 6-point lead before the last ten minutes, when they smashed Unicaja with impressive 27-12 for the final 86-65 victory. In the last and crucial round of Top 16, Real Madrid will meet Montepaschi in Siena. Unicaja waits Bilbao.

Real Madrid: Nikola Mirotic 18+10 boards, Sergio Llull 15, Jaycee Carroll 12
Unicaja: Gerald Fitch 15, Augusto Cesar Lima 12+7 boards, Hrvoje Peric 11

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

  SWEDEN

Standings - Basketligan
Basketligan Standings

1. Sodertalje 20-10

2. Norrkoping 19-11

3. Sundsvall 19-12

4. LF Basket 18-12

5. Boras 17-14

6. Uppsala 17-14

7. Solna 16-15

8. 08 14-16

9. Jamtland 11-20

10. Eco Orebro 2-29

Stats Leaders - Basketligan

PPG

RPG

APG

SPG

BPG

Points Per Game
Jonte FLOWERS
  Solna
  (196-F/G-85)
  Avg: 21.5
1. Flowers, Solna 21.5
2. Zabas, Jamtland 21.3
3. Sigurdarson, Sunds. 19.8
4. Krayem, Boras 18.4
5. Palm, Boras 18.1
6. Smith, Sodertalje 18.0
7. Mbemba, LF Basket 17.4
8. Gunnarsson, Solna 16.8
9. McKnight, Boras 16.7
10. Klaric, Jamtland 16.3

Rebounds Per Game
Michael PALM
  Boras
  (208-C-79)
  Avg: 10.5
1. Palm, Boras 10.5
2. Baeringsson, Sunds. 10.4
3. Johnson, Uppsala 10.0
4. Toombs, Eco Orebro 9.6
5. Ramsey, LF Basket 9.6
6. Simms, Sodertalje 9.0
7. Lalugba, Jamtland 8.6
8. Watt, Eco Orebro 8.2
9. Stamper, Jamtland 8.1
10. McKnight, Boras 8.0

Assists Per Game
Rudy MBEMBA
  LF Basket
  (184-G-87)
  Avg: 7.1
1. Mbemba, LF Basket 7.1
2. Krayem, Boras 6.3
3. Pleick, Eco Orebro 6.1
4. Ermolinskij, Sunds. 5.8
5. Carter, Uppsala 5.4
6. Chuk, Sodertalje 4.8
7. Beck, Solna 4.5
8. Zabas, Jamtland 4.2
9. Mitchell, Norrkopi. 3.9
10. Eriksson, Uppsala 3.6

Steals Per Game
Jonte FLOWERS
  Solna
  (196-F/G-85)
  Avg: 3.3
1. Flowers, Solna 3.3
2. Smith, Sodertalje 3.0
3. Carter, Uppsala 2.5
4. Mbemba, LF Basket 2.3
5. Ermolinskij, Sunds. 2.0
6. Mitchell, Norrkopi. 2.0
7. Krayem, Boras 1.9
8. Johnson, Sundsvall 1.8
9. Pleick, Eco Orebro 1.7
10. Ramsey, LF Basket 1.7

Blocks Per Game
Keith RAMSEY
  LF Basket
  (205-F-87)
  Avg: 1.7
1. Ramsey, LF Basket 1.7
2. Simms, Sodertalje 1.7
3. Johnson, Uppsala 1.7
4. Gregory, Sundsvall 1.5
5. Toombs, Eco Orebro 1.4
6. Lalugba, Jamtland 1.2
7. Watt, Eco Orebro 1.0
8. Doychinov, Solna 1.0
9. Ayuba, Norrkoping 0.9
10. Palm, Boras 0.8

Basketligan Round 31: Sodertalje Kings keep a leadership position - by Eurobasket News
The teams have now bigger motivation at this stage of Regular Season. Every game can be crucial and decide about teams' position at the end of Regular Season. The round was exceptionally exciting as three games ended with a tiny margin. There was no lack of interesting games this round. The round ended with extra overtimes, favorites losing the games and games ending by tiny margin.

The game had a very big importance for second-ranked Sodertalje Kings as it allowed them to take a leadership position. Sodertalje Kings smashed 10th ranked Eco Orebro at home 106-78. The game was mostly controlled by Sodertalje Kings. Eco Orebro managed to win fourth quarter 24-22. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Sodertalje Kings made 25-of-30 free shots (83.3 percent) during the game. Americans were the main players on the court. It was a great evening for point guard Johnell Smith (185-80, college: New Orleans, agency: Global Sports Plaza) who led his team to a victory scoring 19 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists. Center Kenneth Simms (203-86, college: Cumberland) helped adding 19 points and 11 rebounds. Sodertalje Kings' coach Vedran Bosnic felt very confident that he used 10 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. At the losing side forward Demond Watt (200-89, college: Texas A&M-CC) responded with a double-double by scoring 24 points and 10 rebounds (on 11-of-13 shooting from the field). As mentioned above they are alone now at the top position. Eco Orebro lost fifth consecutive game. They stay dead last with 29 lost games. Eco Orebro will play next round against KFUM Jamtland trying to get back on the winning streak. Sodertalje Kings will try to continue on its current victory against second ranked Norrkoping Dolphins in Norrkoping.
Leading Norrkoping Dolphins (19-11) recorded its eleventh loss at the home court. Hosts were defeated by seventh ranked Uppsala Basket (17-14) 83-75. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Norrkoping Dolphins. It was an exceptional evening for Australian point guard Rhys Carter (190-84) who led the winners and scored 23 points, 8 rebounds and 8 assists (made all of his eight free throws). Stefan Grundberg accounted for 21 points. American guard Andrew Mitchell (181-79, college: Kent St.) came up with 20 points and 5 rebounds for Norrkoping Dolphins in the defeat. Norrkoping Dolphins' coach rotated eleven players in this game, but that didn't help. Uppsala Basket have a solid series of three victories in a row. They moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Boras. Defending champion Norrkoping Dolphins dropped to the second position with 11 games lost. Uppsala Basket will play against higher ranked LF Basket (#4) in Lulea in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Norrkoping Dolphins will play on the road against the league's leader Sodertalje Kings and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

The most impressive stats of the last round was 33 points (!!!) and 11 rebounds by Jonte Flowers of Solna.

Sodertalje - Eco Orebro 106-78

The game had a very big importance for second-ranked Sodertalje Kings as it allowed them to take a leadership position. Sodertalje Kings smashed 10th ranked Eco Orebro at home 106-78. The game was mostly controlled by Sodertalje Kings. Eco Orebro managed to win fourth quarter 24-22. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Sodertalje Kings made 25-of-30 free shots (83.3 percent) during the game. Americans were the main players on the court. It was a great evening for point guard Johnell Smith (185-80, college: New Orleans, agency: Global Sports Plaza) who led his team to a victory scoring 19 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists. Center Kenneth Simms (203-86, college: Cumberland) helped adding 19 points and 11 rebounds. Four Sodertalje Kings players scored in double figures. Sodertalje Kings' coach Vedran Bosnic felt very confident that he used 10 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. At the losing side forward Demond Watt (200-89, college: Texas A&M-CC) responded with a double-double by scoring 24 points and 10 rebounds (on 11-of-13 shooting from the field) and center Bernard Toombs (208-87, college: Troy) scored 15 points and 9 rebounds. As mentioned above they are alone now at the top position. Eco Orebro lost fifth consecutive game. They stay dead last with 29 lost games. Eco Orebro will play next round against KFUM Jamtland trying to get back on the winning streak. Sodertalje Kings will try to continue on its current victory against second ranked Norrkoping Dolphins in Norrkoping.
Top scorers:
Sodertalje: D.Pita 20+2reb, J.Smith 19+7reb+5ast, T.Borg 19+2reb+2ast, K.Simms 19+11reb, M.Joseph 7+5ast, M.Griskenas 7+4reb
Eco Orebro: D.Watt 24+10reb, P.Hampton 15+5reb+1ast, B.Toombs 15+9reb+2ast, T.Oglesby 6+4ast, S.Licartovsky 6+1reb+1ast, S.Ibrahim 5
gschID: 132323

LF Basket - Solna 82-80

Rather expected game in Lulea where 7th ranked Solna Vikings (16-15) were edged by fourth ranked LF Basket (18-12) 82-80 on Tuesday. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Solna Vikings won fourth quarter 22-15. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. LF Basket made 18-of-23 free shots (78.3 percent) during the game. It was a great evening for American forward Keith Ramsey (205-87, college: Missouri, agency: Hart Sports Mngm) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 16 points and 16 rebounds. His fellow American import forward Marcus Relphorde (200-88, college: Colorado) helped adding 19 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists (made all of his eight free throws). At the losing side Icelandic guard Logi Gunnarsson (190-81) responded with 30 points and American swingman Jonte Flowers (196-85, college: Winona St., agency: Warren Sports International) scored 15 points and 7 rebounds. LF Basket maintains fourth place with 18-12 record. Solna Vikings lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the seventh position with 15 games lost. LF Basket will face Uppsala Basket (#6) on the road in the next round.
Top scorers:
LF Basket: M.Relphorde 19+6reb+6ast, K.Ramsey 16+16reb+2ast, M.Pahlmblad 16+2reb+4ast, A.Person 9+2reb+1ast, C.Ryan 7+2reb, S.Ali Hussein 6+4reb
Solna: L.Gunnarsson 30+4reb, J.Flowers 15+7reb+1ast, W.Walker 10+7reb, L.Myrthil 8+7reb+2ast, J.Westerlund 6+3reb+4ast, W.Beck 6+6reb+6ast
gschID: 132324

Norrkoping - Uppsala 75-83

Leading Norrkoping Dolphins (19-11) recorded its eleventh loss at the home court. Hosts were defeated by seventh ranked Uppsala Basket (17-14) 83-75. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Norrkoping Dolphins. The guests were tied after three quarters but managed to speed up in last quarter eventually winning the game. Uppsala Basket made 17-of-20 charity shots (85.0 percent) during the game. It was an exceptional evening for Australian point guard Rhys Carter (190-84) who led the winners and scored 23 points, 8 rebounds and 8 assists (made all of his eight free throws). The former international swingman Stefan Grundberg (197-82, college: Geneva) accounted for 21 points for the winning side. Four Uppsala Basket players scored in double figures. American guard Andrew Mitchell (181-79, college: Kent St.) came up with 20 points and 5 rebounds and American-British forward Oladapo Ayuba (198-86, college: UMKC) added 16 points and 5 rebounds respectively for Norrkoping Dolphins in the defeat. Norrkoping Dolphins' coach rotated eleven players in this game, but that didn't help. Uppsala Basket have a solid series of three victories in a row. They moved-up to fifth place, which they share with Boras. Defending champion Norrkoping Dolphins dropped to the second position with 11 games lost. Uppsala Basket will play against higher ranked LF Basket (#4) in Lulea in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Norrkoping Dolphins will play on the road against the league's leader Sodertalje Kings and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Uppsala: R.Carter 23+8reb+8ast, S.Grundberg 21+4reb+3ast, D.Johnson 12+6reb, M.Nakos 12+1reb+3ast, R.Eriksson 8+2reb+4ast, O.Lindell 4+1reb
Norrkoping: A.Mitchell 20+5reb+2ast, O.Ayuba 16+5reb+1ast, M.Ringstrom 10+7reb+5ast, P.Balocka 7+4reb+1ast, G.Watt 6+6reb+1ast, P.Sakinis 4
gschID: 132325

Sundsvall - Boras 88-86

The game between closely ranked teams ended with fourth ranked Sundsvall Dragons' (19-12) home victory over 5th ranked Boras Basket (17-14) 88-86 on Monday. The hosts trailed by 9 points at the halftime before their 45-34 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Sundsvall Dragons made 19-of-22 free shots (86.4 percent) during the game. They also forced 20 Boras Basket turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. It was a great evening for Icelandic power forward Hlynur Baeringsson (200-82) who led his team to a victory with a double-double by scoring 18 points, 12 rebounds and 4 assists. American forward Dino Gregory (200-89, college: Maryland) helped adding 22 points and 7 rebounds. At the losing side Lebanese-American guard Omar Krayem (185-86, college: Cal.Baptist, agency: Pro Management Agency) responded with 20 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists and the former international center Michael Palm (208-79, college: W.Washington, agency: R.H.Consultancy) scored 25 points and 8 rebounds (made all of his eight free throws). Five Sundsvall Dragons and four Boras Basket players scored in double figures. Sundsvall Dragons have an impressive series of six victories in a row. They moved-up to third place. Boras Basket at the other side keeps the fifth position with 14 games lost. Sundsvall Dragons will have a break next round. Boras Basket will play at home against 08 Stockholm (#8).
Top scorers:
Sundsvall: D.Gregory 22+7reb+2ast, H.Baeringsson 18+12reb+4ast, N.Zivcevic 16+2reb+3ast, J.Sigurdarson 13+2ast, M.Tyndale 10+6reb+7ast, T.Liden 5+1ast
Boras: M.Palm 25+8reb+1ast, O.Krayem 20+9reb+6ast, R.Zamroz 17+1reb+4ast, J.Thomas 15+5reb, H.Carlsson 5+1reb+2ast, M.Goransson 2
gschID: 132326

Solna - Sundsvall 96-98 OT

Top scorers:
Sundsvall: J.Sigurdarson 23+3ast, M.Tyndale 20+6reb+4ast, N.Zivcevic 15+6reb+1ast, H.Baeringsson 11+12reb+4ast, D.Gregory 10+6reb+1ast, J.Pierre 9+3reb+2ast
Solna: J.Flowers 33+11reb+2ast, L.Gunnarsson 20+4reb+1ast, K.Doychinov 16+7reb+1ast, L.Myrthil 8+7reb+3ast, W.Beck 7+4reb+9ast, W.Walker 7+10reb
gschID: 132327

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

  SWITZERLAND

LNA Round 21 of Regular Season - by Eurobasket News
The most shocking disappointment of round 21 was a home defeat of second-best Fribourg (13-6) to third ranked Geneve Lions (14-5) 81-75. It was a key game for the second position in the league. Fribourg was tied after three quarters but could not keep up in the last quarter eventually losing the game. Geneve Lions dominated down low during the game scoring 62 of its points in the paint compared to Fribourg's 28. 25 personal fouls committed by Fribourg helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American forward Sean Barnette (195-F-86, agency: Warren Sports International, college: Wingate) stepped up and scored 24 points and 6 rebounds for the winners and naturalized Senegalese forward Jules Aw (200-86) chipped in 13 points and 12 rebounds (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field). Geneve Lions' coach Nebojsa Lazarevic used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. The best for the losing side was British-New Zealand swingman Brendon Polyblank (197-78, college: Texas St.) with 21 points. Geneve Lions have a solid series of three victories in a row. They moved-up to second place. Fribourg at the other side dropped to the fourth position with six games lost. Geneve Lions are looking forward to face SAV Vacallo (#5) in Chiasso in the next round. Fribourg will have a break next round.
LNA top team - Lugano Tigers (18-1) managed to deliver another win. This time they beat fifth ranked SAV Vacallo (10-8) 90-81. Americans were the main players on the court. Swingman Edwin Draughan (196-82, college: Yale) nailed 17 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists for the winning side and Mohammed Abukar accounted for 27 points (went 8 for 8 at the free throw line). Guard Rickey Gibson (191-84, college: Stillman) came up with 23 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assists for SAV Vacallo in the defeat. Lugano Tigers have an impressive series of sixteen victories in a row. Defending champion maintains first place with 18-1 record. SAV Vacallo at the other side keeps the fifth position with eight games lost. Lugano Tigers will play against Boncourt (#7) on the road in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. SAV Vacallo will play against the league's second-placed Geneve Lions and hopes to get back on the winning track.
The game in Nyon supposed to be also quite interesting. Fourth ranked Monthey (13-5) played at the court of 8th ranked BBC Nyon (2-17). Monthey smashed BBC Nyon 93-43 on Wednesday. Americans were the main players on the court also this time. The best player for the winners was Sean Finn who had a double-double by scoring 15 points and 10 rebounds (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field). At the other side the best for losing team was Nathan Connolly who recorded 11 points. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. The victory was the third consecutive win for Monthey. They moved-up to third place. BBC Nyon lost their thirteenth game in a row. They dropped to the bottom position with 17 games lost. Monthey will meet at home Starwings (#6) in the next round. BBC Nyon will play against SAM Massagno and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

In the last game of round 21 Boncourt lost to Starwings on the opponent's court 73-83.
The most impressive stats of the last round was 26 points, 14 rebounds and 4 assists by Jaraun Burrows of Starwings.

BBC Nyon - Monthey 43-93

The game in Nyon supposed to be also quite interesting. Fourth ranked Monthey (13-5) played at the court of 8th ranked BBC Nyon (2-17). Monthey smashed BBC Nyon 93-43 on Wednesday. The game without a history. Monthey led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They dominated on the defensive end, holding BBC Nyon to just 7 points in first quarter. Monthey dominated down low during the game scoring 50 of its points in the paint compared to BBC Nyon's 26. Monthey forced 19 BBC Nyon turnovers and outrebounded them 41-20 including a 32-13 advantage in defensive rebounds. Americans were the main players on the court also this time. The best player for the winners was center Sean Finn (212-82, college: Dayton) who had a double-double by scoring 15 points and 10 rebounds (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field). Swingman Ian Boylan (197-83, college: CS Northridge) chipped in 15 points and 6 assists (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field). Five Monthey players scored in double figures. At the other side the best for losing team was swingman Nathan Connolly (196-77, college: St.Rose, NY) who recorded 11 points and power forward Kramer Knutson (205-89, college: Portland) added 11 points respectively. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. The victory was the third consecutive win for Monthey. They moved-up to third place. BBC Nyon lost their thirteenth game in a row. They dropped to the bottom position with 17 games lost. Monthey will meet at home Starwings (#6) in the next round. BBC Nyon will play against SAM Massagno and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Monthey: K.Parker 17+1reb+4ast, I.Boylan 15+3reb+6ast, S.Finn 15+10reb+2ast, T.Smith 12+5reb+3ast, M.Mihajlovic 11+4reb+1ast, J.Dubas 6+8reb+1ast
BBC Nyon: K.Knutson 11+3reb, N.Connolly 11+4reb, X.Paredes 6+2reb+1ast, R.Dermody 5+3reb+1ast, L.Vallotton 4+4reb, J.Meylan 3
gschID: 168764

Starwings - Boncourt 83-73

The game between closely ranked teams ended with 7th ranked Boncourt's (5-14) road loss to sixth ranked Starwings (7-12) 73-83 on Sunday. The game was mostly controlled by Starwings. Boncourt managed to win third quarter 22-14. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Boncourt to just 7 points in second quarter. They outrebounded Boncourt 37-20 including a 25-14 advantage in defensive rebounds. Starwings looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. The best player for the winners was Bahamas forward Jaraun Burrows (203-85, college: IPFW, agency: Warren Sports International) who had a double-double by scoring 26 points, 14 rebounds and 4 assists. American guard Brandon Jenkins (190-85, college: Louisville, agency: Interperformances) chipped in 14 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists. Four Starwings players scored in double figures. At the other side the best for losing team was Serbian-Bosnian center Nemanja Calasan (203-85, college: Purdue) who recorded 21 points and 7 rebounds and Ivorian forward Ismael N'Diaye (197-82, college: FIU) added 19 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field) respectively. Starwings maintains sixth place with 7-12 record. Loser Boncourt keeps the seventh position with 14 games lost. Starwings will meet higher ranked Monthey (#3) on the road in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Boncourt will play against the league's leader Lugano Tigers (#1) and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Starwings: J.Burrows 26+14reb+4ast, J.Fuchs 16+2ast, B.Jenkins 14+7reb+4ast, M.Petkovic 10+5reb+6ast, R.Albrecht 7+4reb, N.Matter 5+7reb+2ast
Boncourt: N.Calasan 21+7reb+2ast, J.Sharper 20+2ast, I.N'Diaye 19+5reb+6ast, A.Herrmann 7+1reb+1ast, L.Roberson 6+3reb+2ast, L.Lahey 0
gschID: 168761

Lugano Tigers - SAV Vacallo 90-81

LNA top team - Lugano Tigers (18-1) managed to deliver another win. This time they beat fifth ranked SAV Vacallo (10-8) 90-81. It looked good early as SAV Vacallo took an 1-point lead at the end of first quarter. But then Lugano Tigers had a 28-24 second period charge getting the lead and SAV Vacallo was not able to take back game control losing it eventually 81-90. Americans were the main players on the court. Swingman Edwin Draughan (196-82, college: Yale) nailed 17 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists for the winning side and forward Mohammed Abukar (208-85, college: San Diego St.) accounted for 27 points (went 8 for 8 at the free throw line). Guard Rickey Gibson (191-84, college: Stillman) came up with 23 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assists and power forward Matt Schneiderman (204-81, college: N.Iowa) added 15 points and 6 rebounds respectively for SAV Vacallo in the defeat. Four Lugano Tigers and five SAV Vacallo players scored in double figures. Lugano Tigers have an impressive series of sixteen victories in a row. Defending champion maintains first place with 18-1 record. SAV Vacallo at the other side keeps the fifth position with eight games lost. Lugano Tigers will play against Boncourt (#7) on the road in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. SAV Vacallo will play against the league's second-placed Geneve Lions and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Lugano Tigers: M.Abukar 27+4reb, D.Mladjan 22+2reb+2ast, E.Draughan 17+7reb+7ast, R.Brown 13+3reb+7ast, D.Stockalper 5+7reb+1ast, N.Dacevic 5+7reb+3ast
SAV Vacallo: R.Gibson 23+8reb+7ast, M.Schneiderman 15+6reb+2ast, F.Ramseier 15+4reb+2ast, R.Uzas 13+6reb+4ast, M.Sloan 11+8reb+3ast, P.Badji 4+2reb
gschID: 168762

Fribourg - Geneve Lions 75-81

The most shocking disappointment of round 21 was a home defeat of second-best Fribourg (13-6) to third ranked Geneve Lions (14-5) 81-75. It was a key game for the second position in the league. Fribourg was tied after three quarters but could not keep up in the last quarter eventually losing the game. Geneve Lions dominated down low during the game scoring 62 of its points in the paint compared to Fribourg's 28. 25 personal fouls committed by Fribourg helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American forward Sean Barnette (195-86, college: Wingate, agency: Warren Sports International) stepped up and scored 24 points and 6 rebounds for the winners and naturalized Senegalese forward Jules Aw (200-86) chipped in 13 points and 12 rebounds (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field). Four Geneve Lions players scored in double figures. Geneve Lions' coach Nebojsa Lazarevic used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. The best for the losing side was British-New Zealand swingman Brendon Polyblank (197-78, college: Texas St.) with 21 points and the former international guard Stefan Petkovic (186-92) scored 16 points. Geneve Lions have a solid series of three victories in a row. They moved-up to second place. Fribourg at the other side dropped to the fourth position with six games lost. Geneve Lions are looking forward to face SAV Vacallo (#5) in Chiasso in the next round. Fribourg will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
Geneve Lions: S.Barnette 24+6reb+3ast, T.Brown 21+1reb+2ast, E.Bing 14+4reb+2ast, J.Aw 13+12reb, B.Toure 4+8reb+2ast, J.Jaunin 3+4ast
Fribourg: B.Polyblank 21+4reb+3ast, S.Petkovic 16+4reb+2ast, R.Yates 11+3reb+1ast, D.Esterkamp 9+9reb+4ast, D.Forbes 8+1reb+2ast, K.Thomas 6+1ast
gschID: 168763

Standings - LNA
LNA Standings

1. Lugano Tigers 18-1

2. Geneve Lions 14-5

3. Monthey 13-5

4. Fribourg 13-6

5. SAV Vacallo 10-8

6. Starwings 7-12

7. Boncourt 5-14

8. SAM Massagno 2-16

9. BBC Nyon 2-17

Standings - LNB
LNB Standings

1. Neuchatel 21-0

2. Vevey 16-6

3. Meyrin Geneve 15-5

4. BC AKA 15-6

5. Bern 14-7

6. Nyon U23 12-10

7. Bernex 10-11

8. Villars 9-12

9. Zurich Wildcats 8-12

10. Pully 7-14

11. Swiss Central 6-15

12. Blonay Basket 6-15

13. Acad.Fribourg 4-16

14. DDV Lugano 3-17

Stats Leaders LNA

PPG

RPG

APG

SPG

BPG

Points Per Game
John SHARPER
  Boncourt
  (186-PG-84)
  Avg: 20.6
1. Sharper, Boncourt 20.6
2. Abukar, Lugano T. 20.5
3. Burrows, Starwings 18.6
4. Barnette, Geneve 18.4
5. Mitrovic, SAM M. 18.0
6. Calasan, Boncourt 17.6
7. Smith, Monthey 17.6
8. Yates, Fribourg 17.2
9. Efevberha, Lugano 16.7
10. Uzas, SAV Vacallo 16.3

Rebounds Per Game
Danilo MITROVIC
  SAM M.
  (208-C/F-84)
  Avg: 9.7
1. Mitrovic, SAM M. 9.7
2. Toure, Geneve Lio. 9.7
3. Johnson, Starwings 9.3
4. Burrows, Starwings 8.9
5. Calasan, Boncourt 8.8
6. Bing, Geneve Lions 8.6
7. Knutson, BBC Nyon 7.9
8. Barnette, Geneve 7.9
9. Allen, Boncourt 7.7
10. Esterkamp, Fribo. 7.6

Assists Per Game
Rickey GIBSON
  SAV Vacallo
  (191-G-84)
  Avg: 7
1. Gibson, SAV Vacallo 7.0
2. Brown, Lugano T. 6.3
3. Jenkins, Starwings 5.5
4. Petkovic, Starw. 5.4
5. Draughan, Lugano 5.0
6. Thomas, BBC Nyon 4.0
7. Bobetso, BBC Nyon 3.9
8. Buscaglia, Geneve 3.9
9. Petkovic, Fribourg 3.8
10. Efevberha, Lugan. 3.8

Steals Per Game
Miroslav PETKOVIC
  Starw.
  (183-G-88)
  Avg: 3.2
1. Petkovic, Starw. 3.2
2. Boylan, Monthey 2.8
3. Gibson, SAV Vacallo 2.7
4. Gugino, SAM M. 2.6
5. Efevberha, Lugano 2.4
6. Thomas, BBC Nyon 2.3
7. Mitrovic, SAM M. 2.3
8. Jenkins, Starwings 2.3
9. Jones, SAM M. 2.2
10. Smith, Monthey 2.2

Blocks Per Game
Babacar TOURE
  Geneve Lions
  (205-F/C-85)
  Avg: 2.7
1. Toure, Geneve Lio. 2.7
2. Johnson, Starwings 2.1
3. Knutson, BBC Nyon 1.7
4. Salaam, Monthey 1.4
5. Matter, Starwings 1.3
6. Roberson, Boncourt 1.3
7. Dubas, Monthey 1.1
8. Molteni, SAM M. 1.1
9. Albrecht, Starw. 1.0
10. Burrows, Starwings 0.9

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

  TURKEY

Standings - TB2L
TB2L Standings

1. Selcuk Univ. 20-5

2. Optimum TED 20-5

3. Genc Telekom 19-6

4. Gaziantep 18-7

5. Maliye Milli 17-8

6. Akhisar Bld 16-8

7. Final Genclik 16-9

8. Vestel 15-10

9. Darussafaka 12-13

10. Balikesir 11-14

11. Istanbul B.B. 11-14

12. Gelisim 11-15

13. Pertevniyal 10-15

14. Baskent Genclik 9-16

15. Pamukkale 9-16

16. Tire Gucu 9-16

17. Usak 8-17

18. Istanbulspor 7-18

19. Orman Genc 7-18

20. TED Istanbul 5-20

TB2L Stats Leaders

PPG

RPG

APG

SPG

BPG

Points Per Game
Tyrone NELSON
  Akhisar Bld
  (206-F-85)
  Avg: 22
1. Nelson, Akhisar Bld 22.0
2. Waller, Gaziantep 19.9
3. Gray, Baskent 19.6
4. Jackson, Balikesir 19.3
5. Delic, Genc Telekom 18.4
6. Carter, Tire Gucu 18.2
7. Pilgrim, Pamukkale 18.1
8. Harris, Usak 16.4
9. Senol, Pamukkale 16.2
10. Can, Pertevniyal 15.5

Rebounds Per Game
Charles JACKSON
  Balikesir
  (203-F-87)
  Avg: 11.1
1. Jackson, Balikesir 11.1
2. Nelson, Akhisar Bld 11.1
3. Kolaric, Istanbul. 10.6
4. Pilgrim, Pamukkale 10.2
5. Gray, Baskent 10.0
6. Can, Pertevniyal 9.3
7. Barber, Istanbul. 8.6
8. Ozdemir, Vestel 8.3
9. Pastal, Usak 8.2
10. Okkali, Final Gen. 8.1

Assists Per Game
Erden ERYUZ
  Gaziantep
  (188-G-80)
  Avg: 6
1. Eryuz, Gaziantep 6.0
2. Rizvanoglu, Genc T. 5.7
3. Kan, Istanbulspor 5.6
4. Kavaklioglu, Optim. 5.5
5. Bayraktar, Tire G. 5.0
6. Eris, Istanbul B.B. 5.0
7. Dobie, Selcuk Univ. 4.7
8. Sinanoglu, Final G. 4.7
9. Senol, Pamukkale 4.5
10. Ogut, Genc Telek. 4.3

Steals Per Game
Matthew PILGRIM
  Pamukkale
  (203-F-87)
  Avg: 2.7
1. Pilgrim, Pamukkale 2.7
2. Yavuklu, Basken. 2.5
3. Okkali, Final Genc. 2.0
4. Carter, Vestel 2.0
5. Nelson, Akhisar Bld 2.0
6. Akcay, Balikesir 1.7
7. Ufuk Kacar, Selcuk 1.7
8. Mentese, Gelisim 1.7
9. Yapar, Optimum TED 1.7
10. Jackson, Balikesir 1.6

Blocks Per Game
Marquise GRAY
  Baskent .
  (206-F/C-86)
  Avg: 1.4
1. Gray, Baskent 1.4
2. Washington, Gelisim 1.3
3. Cevik, Selcuk Univ. 1.3
4. Pilgrim, Pamukkale 1.2
5. Brown, TED I. 1.1
6. Kaplan, Gaziantep 1.0
7. Carter, Vestel 1.0
8. Tekin, Pertevniyal 1.0
9. Delic, Genc Telekom 1.0
10. Boswell, Tire Gucu 0.9

Heartbreaking thriller: Fenerbahce Ulker beats Unics in OT to stay alive - by Eurobasket News
Fenerbahce Ulker - Unics 94-87 OT

In one of the most exciting games in Top 16 history, Fenerbahce Ulker rallied from a 13-point fourth-quarter deficit to edge Unics 94-87 in overtime in front of almost 12,000 fans at Ulker Sports Arena in Istanbul, Turkey in Group G on Thursday. Unics was better than FB Ulker in the first round 76-71, so Fener needed at least 6-point win to keep their Playoffs hopes alive. The hosts managed to do it and they needed an extra five minutes to improve its record to 2-3 in Group G. Unics slipped to 3-2 and the last round will give us an answer who will advance to the next stage. Unics will advance if they beat PAO next week or if Fener losses to Armani in Milano. In order to advance, Fener needs to beat Armani and PAO to win in Kazan. Bojan Bogdanovic (203-G/F-89) had 20 points and 5 rebounds for Fener last night. Roko-Leni Ukic (196-G-84) scored 18 and Emir Preldzic (205-F-87, agency: Beo Basket) added 13 points. Unics got 33 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists from Lynn Greer (186-PG-79, college: Temple) (valuation 43). Michael Wilkinson (204-F-81, agency: Interperformances, college: Wisconsin) (5 rebs) and Henry Domercant (192-G-80, college: E.Illinois) scored 17 and 13 points respectively. Unics held 73-79 lead with 1:23 remaining in regular time. Emir Preldzic and Bojan Bogdanovic made free throws to bring FB Ulker within 77-79 with 25.5 seconds left in regulation. Wilkinson missed foul shots and Roko-Leni Ukic beat the shot clock with a rainbow jumper that sent the game to overtime, 79-79, setting Ulker Sports Arena on fire. The hosts jumped to 87-83 during the OT and later free throws by Preldzic and Bogdanovic allowed FB Ulker to get a 94-87 lead with 6 seconds left. Unics had the last possession, but they were unable to score. Quarters: 21-26, 21-18, 13-24, 24-11, 15-8 OT. Last round of Top 16 phase for Group G teams is scheduled for February 29.

Fenerbahce Ulker: Bojan Bogdanovic 20+5 boards, Roko-Leni Ukic 18, Emir Preldzic 13
Unics: Lynn Greer 33+6 boards+6 as, Michael Wilkinson 17+5 boards, Henry Domercant 13

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

  U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS

Duncan set for weekend at home - by David Edole
By Mike Monroe

DENVER For the first time in his career, Tim Duncan (208-C/F-76, college: Wake Forest) didn't have to suffer an early wake-up call and hop a flight the day after the Spurs' final game before All-Star Weekend.
Left off the Western Conference All-Star roster for the first time in his 15 seasons there was no All-Star Game in 1999, the only other NBA season shortened by a lockout Duncan said he is looking forward to what may be his best All-Star Weekend.
I'm going to go home and hang out with my family and kids, he said. Actually, it's going to be the best All-Star Weekend ever. At the end of the day I'm not going to have to do media six times before playing in the game for five minutes.
The Spurs will be represented in the All-Star Game by leading scorer Tony Parker. He and Kawhi Leonard, who will play in the Rising Stars Challenge game on Friday night, were to depart Denver on Thursday.
Ford on track for return: The Nuggets game was the 24th consecutive contest guard T.J. Ford has missed since he tore a muscle in his left hamstring area Jan. 10 at Milwaukee.
The former University of Texas star's long wait to return to the court might be ending soon.
We're hoping we'll get T.J. back after the All-Star break, or maybe one or two games after the break, Spurs coach Gregg Popovich said. We think somewhere in there he'll be ready to go.
Ford has been going one-on-one against rookie Cory Joseph on off days and after shootarounds during the Western portion of the rodeo road trip. He's been working in some two-on-two games, as well.
As eager as he is to return, he understands it is going to take a while to get back to the productive level at which he had been playing before the injury.
I've got to get my legs back under me, he said while lacing up his sneakers for a one-on-one session with Joseph after a morning practice at the Pepsi Center. I've got to work back to doing stop moves and taking contact.
Just getting back into a groove will be important for me, getting back to the rhythms of the season, sleeping, eating, the routine.
Praise for Dawson: Former Sam Houston High School star Eric Dawson hadn't expected to play 31 minutes in the first NBA game of his career, but got high marks from Popovich for his work Tuesday night against the Trail Blazers.
Eric was fine, the Spurs coach said of the 27-year-old who signed to a 10-day contract Monday. He ran the floor really well. He was good on pick-and-roll, and I thought the did the best job on (LaMarcus) Aldridge of anybody. He did a really nice job overall.
Dawson was happy to hear Popovich's assessment of his play.
That's music to my ears, he said. That's a big accomplishment for my first NBA game to have to guard an All-Star. I just focused on it and gave it my 110 percent and left it all on the court.
Was his debut worth the six-year journey he endured after leaving Midwestern State in 2006?
I enjoyed every minute of it, he said. I wasn't expecting to play that many minutes my first NBA game. I just tried to play hard and take advantage of the opportunity I had.

Der-Weer, Hart named to All Star game - by David Edole
Best Buddies Delaware is the organizer and benefactor of the annual BlueGold All-Star Basketball Games, which will be held March 17 at the Bob Carpenter Center on the University of Delaware campus, showcase the top boys and girls senior players as selected by the Delaware Interscholastic Basketball Coaches Association (DIBCA).
'We are excited to once again be partnering with the DIBCA and the BlueGold All-Star Basketball Game Board of Trustees in our third year as the organizing agency and beneficiary of the game,' said Leslie Kosek, Best Buddies Delaware state director. 'This partnership helps us to reach additional people with our Best Buddies mission and raise vital funds to help support our programs throughout Delaware.'
In between games, the Honorable Ted Blunt will be the inaugural inductee into the BlueGold Basketball All-Star Hall of Fame in recognition of his basketball career, contributions to the development of the Delaware community, and long time support as a leader of the BlueGold basketball games.
A player and family banquet is held in Dover on Thursday night prior to the game. In addition to honoring the BlueGold All-Star Players, several individuals will be honored for their support of the BlueGold Basketball Games and Best Buddies. The 2012 honorees are Michele Rollins (Community Leadership Award) and the Driban Family (Best Buddies Hero Award).

https://www.bestbuddiesdelaware.org/site/c.eoJHIWOCIrH/b.7960101/k.230E/BlueGold_AllStar_High_School_Basketball_Games.htm

2012 Blue Boys Basketball Team
Head Coach - Mike Gallagher, Salesianum
Jamal Davis, Brandywine
Deshawn Lowman, Concord
Amadius Der-Weer, Concord
Anthony Bowers, Hodgson
Tyaire Hudson, Hodgson
Paris Ridgeway-Higgs, Hodgson
Paris Holland, Mount Pleasant
Tomir Gibbs, Mount Pleasant
Tim Massado, St. Elizabeth
AJ Tilghman, St. George's
Ray Anderson, St. George's
Donte McGill, St. George's
Sean Locke, St. Marks
Frank McCusker, Salesianum
Khallid Hart, Sanford

2012 Gold Boys Basketball Team
Head coach - John Pierce, Polytech
Ajen English, Appoquinimink
Savon Farlow, Caesar Rodney
Aaron Marvel, Campus Community
Troy Hazzard, Cape Henlopen
Keandre Whaley, Delmar
Zachary Walker, Dover
Davonte Hodge, Lake Forest
Shawn Miller, Laurel
Cesar Vazquez, Milford
Andre Horne, Newark
Justin Braddy, Polytech
Eric Laster, Polytech
Andre Gibbs, Smyrna
Tim Stewart, Smyrna
Troy Deshields, Sussex Tech

Ponce Outscores Caribs in O.T. to Win CHS Invitational Basketball Tournament - by David Edole
BY DAVE DAVIS FEBRUARY 21, 2012
Tournament MVP, Jose Alvarado, poured in a game high 19 points to lead Ponce Vocational High School of Puerto Rico to a 54-50 victory over host, St. Croix Central High Caribs, winning the Caribs 2012 Annual Invitational Basketball Tournament in overtime Sunday, at the Ronald Charles Gymnasium. The Caribs, urged on by a rambunctious hometown crowd, gave it their all but had too many turnovers in the overtime period.

The teams played evenly throughout the first two quarters, and were deadlocked at 26 at halftime. Shomari Francis (94) led the way for the Caribs with 13 first-half points, while Alvarado led a balanced PVHS attack with eight points.

Ponce, led by Alvarados seven points, started the third period on a 5-0 run to take a 31-26 lead. The Caribs responded with a 6-0 run of their own to take a one point lead at 32-31. Ponce would then outscore the Caribs 7-5 to end the third ahead by one point at 38-37.

The game was tied on several occasions in the fourth period with neither team giving an inch. It was 46 all with 1:28 left to play when Alvarado put the visitors ahead, 48-46, on a two-point basket. On the Caribs next trip on offense, Razeem Huggins was fouled with 28 seconds left and went to the charity stripes with a chance to even the score and possibly send the game into overtime. Huggins did not disappoint, sinking both free throws.

The Caribs, however, could not hold on to the ball in the extra stanza, as they had several costly turnovers that likely cost them the game. They managed just two points in overtime while Ponce was a little better scoring six points to take the extra period 6-2 for final score of 54-50.

Alvarado led all scorers with a game-high 19 points, while three teammates Hector Martinez, Luis Rodriguez, and Giovanni Morales provided ample support by scoring nine points apiece. For Central it was Shomari Francis leading the way with his team-high 18 points followed by Nayib Gonzalez, who finished with 13.

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

  UBL

Standings
UBL Standings

Northern Division

1. Arkansas W. 0-0

2. Oklahoma I. 0-0

3. Springfield T. 0-0

4. Tulsa T. 0-0

Southern Division

1. Metro L. 0-0

2. Mississippi T. 0-0

3. Texas W. 0-0

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

  UGANDA

Standings
MTN D1 Standings

1. Makerere 0-0

2. Marines 0-0

3. Miracle 0-0

4. Mogas Falcons 0-0

5. Ndejje Univ. 0-0

6. Power 0-0

7. Rezlife 0-0

8. Stormers 0-0

9. UCU Canons 0-0

10. Vegeterians 0-0

11. Warriors 0-0

Standings Div.2
MTN D2 Standings

1. Bush Court 0-0

2. City Oil 0-0

3. Diamond 0-0

4. Gulu Hawks 0-0

5. JVC 0-0

6. Kings 0-0

7. KIU 0-0

8. Knight Riders 0-0

9. Makindye Shooters 0-0

10. MBC Rocks 0-0

11. Rhinos 0-0

12. St. Michael 0-0

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

  UNITED KINGDOM

Elderkin Looks Forward To Brighter Future - by Jeff King
There's not very many more experienced coaches in British Basketball than Durham Wildcats Head Coach Dave Elderkin , back for another tilt at the top of the game in Britain as he guides his young side through their rookie BBL season.

Elderkin is a very realistic, thoughtful coach whos always looking forward and planning. No surprise then that he could still pick out some good points from Durhams defeat at local rivals Newcastle Eagles last weekend.

That was a very tough loss. What was tough about it was weve made slow starts in the previous few games for whatever reason. Weve worked really, really hard on making a positive strong start tonight, changed the starting five but Im really, really disappointed with the start.

We gave Eagles the confidence to go for every shot and they just about made everything they took. But contrary to that I thought when we started subbing the English kids in I thought we did a much better job of the second quarter and I think that at one stage we pulled it back to thirteen. So I have to look at the positives.

Elderkin has been searching for a winning formula all season and after bringing in point guard DJ Galvan for forward Fred Hinnekamp he was also without the services of star shooting guard Ralph Bucci (193-G-75, college: St.Rose, NY) against The Eagles but he had already decided that he needed to change his starting five.

'I was very critical of them last week against Leicester and I've been very critical of them for a while now. But getting on to these guys just isn't working so I think it was more of a constructive approach trying to give them positives about the way the changes would benefit them and so on.'

'There's nothing wrong with the stuff that we run its just putting the ball in the basket has become a problem for us and this league is really tough to play in because everybody plays hard, everybody's got good athletes and everybody's got good shooters.'

'We have to play 30 games in the BBL plus all the University games so its a tough challenge but were hopefully seeing the end of the season in sight and we'll be able to bounce back from it.'

Not that Elderkin in any way regrets moving Durham in to the BBL no matter how tough it has been. They have been given tremendous off court support in making the transition from EBL.

'It's a big step up. The jump from EBL 2 to EBL 1 is not massive but the massive jump is from the EBL: to the BBL. I don't regret making it at all.'

'We've made a lot of good friends and have a great partnership with Durham County Council which has resulted in the partnership with Durham University growing tremendously this year. Their support has been absolutely fantastic and its giving these English guys a chance to taste it at this level and they're not letting me down at all.'

Whilst Durham have struggled and currently sit at the bottom of the BBL, in comparison with some sides in recent years that have found themselves not only rock bottom but out of the BBL, the Wildcats have been unlucky in a lot of games this season and have impressed many.

'We've beaten Cheshire twice and should have beaten Mersey but our Americans had a dreadful game against them. We've got guys here who've played at big schools and are used to big audiences and they're going in to gym's where there's not a great atmosphere but tonight the atmosphere was fantastic and I thought that would really lift them but it didn't.'

However, Elderkin did excuse 6' 9' American Centre Mario Flaherty (206-C-88, college: Houston Baptist) from criticism. The big man had a great game with 23 points, 13 rebounds, 3 steals and 2 blocked shots. Even then though Elderkin had words of caution for his star performer.

'Mario is an absolute warrior. The problem we've got now with Mario is that he has absolute belief in himself and he has absolute confidence in everything he does and he's just taking on stuff he shouldn't be doing as he's trying to compensate for others. When we got him out of that towards the end of the third quarter and gave him a rest our teamwork actually improved but make no mistake I absolutely love the guy.'

In the end though even Flaherty's efforts could not disguise the fact that Durham are very short of experience at this level and perhaps missed Ralph Bucci for that reason more than any other. Understandably Elderkin was not saying too much on the reasons for Bucci's absence.

'There was some stuff going around and Ralph and I talked it over and he just asked if he could take some time off while he considered the situation and at the moment that's all I'm prepared to say. I have heard he will be coming back to training this week but well wait and see.'

Going forward Elderkin is very optimistic about the future and is adamant that The Wildcats have a future both this season and in the future.

'I want to see this season out and try and pick up a few more wins on the board. We want to continue to develop the programme but we are looking forward to next season and we know what we have to do we have to do a really good recruitment job on the American scene.'

'We are absolutely not a one and done season team, I want to emphasise that right now. As I say the relationship with the University has strengthened. We had concerns with how the University would view working with a professional partner but they absolutely love it.'

'After the live Sky television game last week the Vice-Chancellor sent us a note to say what fantastic branding we had as Durham University was very present. He's absolutely 100% for it and is actually looking at now how other teams in the University might copy this model.'

The Wildcats have also had great buy-in from Durham County Council who are right behind the franchise's bid to establish themselves in British Basketballs top-flight.

'They've done a brilliant job. Their principle involvement has been in helping us develop the community programme, numbers are growing on that on a weekly basis and they've done a fantastic job with the venue. The one thing that was a positive from the TV game was how good the venue looked.'

'The new lights have made a terrific difference. I was looking at it and thought, my god I can even watch the DVDs now and analyse the games. It looked good and Fab (Flournoy) did a great job on the commentary and as he said the atmosphere in there was electric.'

'That's three good crowds in a row we've had now. Obviously we had a big crowd for The Eagles game at the start and then found out what life was really like in the BBL. But we've stuck at promoting the games and we've had three really good home attendances since the turn of the year.'

A positive note to end on and one that shows despite his long time in the game Elderkin is as keen as ever and determined to establish the Durham Wildcats on the big stage. The British basketball public wishes him and his team well.

Top Performing British Players Abroad - by Paul Nilsen
We bring you last week's top performances from British players who are playing abroad and who have had prior experience of national team duties at youth or senior level.

International forward Luol Deng (206-F-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Duke) helped Chicago Bulls to win their game against Sacramento K. 121-115 in the NBA last Tuesday. He recorded 23 points, 7 rebounds and 11 assists (made all of his nine free throws !!!). Chicago Bulls has a very solid 27-8 record this season.

Notes: plays in: USA, played so far 28 games for Chicago Bulls this season (plays for them since 4), last game stats: 23pts 7reb 11ast 1blocks 1steals 3FGP:2-6 2FGP:4-11 FT:9-9 MVP: 28, Dual citizenship: ENG-SUD, Graduated Duke in 2004, played in ESL: Yes, Top2 scorer: 1, in stats leaders:, Stage name: Regular Season, Team plays in group: E Central Div., Total teams in league: 30, Total game days in Regular Season: 120 (so far 52 days played), Chicago Bulls played so far 35 games in NBA this season out of 66 scheduled

Former international forward Pops Mensah-Bonsu (206-F-83, agency: SportsTalent, college: G.Washington) helped Besiktas to win their game against tenth ranked Turk Telekom 79-74 in Turkish TBL last Sunday. Mensah-Bonsu scored 17 points, grabbed 15 rebounds and made 3 blocks. Besiktas Milangaz Istanbul (14-4) is placed first. It was Besiktas' fifth consecutive victory in a row.

Notes: plays in: TUR, played so far 16 games for Besiktas this season (plays for them since 11), last game stats: 17pts 15reb 0ast 3blocks 2steals 3FGP:0-0 2FGP:8-11 FT:1-1 MVP: 28, Graduated G.Washington in 2006, played in ESL: Yes, Top2 scorer: No, in stats leaders:, Stage name: Regular Season, Total teams in league: 16, TBL is Top league in the country, Total Rounds in Regular Season: 30 (this round: 18), Besiktas played so far 18 games in TBL this season out of 30 scheduled

International guard Ben Gordon (188-G-83, college: Connecticut) helped Detroit Pistons to win their game against Boston C. 88-98 in the NBA last Wednesday. Gordon scored 22 points and made 3 passes. Detroit Pistons has 11-24 record this season.

Notes: plays in: USA, played so far 24 games for Detroit Pistons this season (plays for them since 9), last game stats: 22pts 3reb 3ast 0blocks 1steals 3FGP:4-6 2FGP:4-9 FT:2-2 MVP: 16, Dual citizenship: ENG-USA, Graduated Connecticut in 2004, played in ESL: Yes, Top2 scorer: No, in stats leaders:, Stage name: Regular Season, Team plays in group: E Central Div., Total teams in league: 30, Total game days in Regular Season: 120 (so far 53 days played), Detroit Pistons played so far 35 games in NBA this season out of 66 scheduled

Former international forward Dante Cunningham (203-F-87, college: Villanova) who plays in the NBA could not help Memphis Grizzlies (19-15) to beat Utah Jazz He scored 9 points and grabbed 7 rebounds. But Memphis Grizzlies (19-15) was defeated 88-98 on the road by lower ranked Utah Jazz.

Notes:plays in: USA, played so far 34 games for Memphis Grizzlies this season (plays for them since 11), last game stats: 9pts 7reb 0ast 0blocks 1steals 3FGP:0-0 2FGP:3-4 FT:3-3 MVP: 13, Dual citizenship: ENG-USA, Graduated Villanova in 2009, played in ESL: Yes, Top2 scorer: No, in stats leaders:, Stage name: Regular Season, Team plays in group: W Southwest Div., Total teams in league: 30, Total game days in Regular Season: 120 (so far 50 days played), Memphis Grizzlies played so far 34 games in NBA this season out of 66 scheduled

Former international power forward Tafari Toney (203-C/F-86, agency: JEMsports) helped Charleville-Mezieres to win their game against 12th ranked Chartres 64-60 in French NM1 last Saturday. He recorded 18 points and 14 rebounds. Etoile Charleville-Mezieres (17-5) is placed fourth. It was Charleville-Mezieres' third consecutive victory in a row.

Notes: plays in: FRA, played so far 22 games for Charleville-Mezieres this season (plays for them since 11), last game stats: 18pts 14reb 1ast 1blocks 0steals 3FGP:0-0 2FGP:5-10 FT:8-11 MVP: 21, Dual citizenship: USA-ENG, played in ESL: Yes, Top2 scorer: 1, in stats leaders:, Stage name: Regular Season, his team was relegated to NM1, Total teams in league: 18, NM1 is 3rd division in the country, Total Rounds in Regular Season: 34 (this round: 22), Charleville-Mezieres played so far 22 games in NM1 this season out of 34 scheduled

Former international center Andrew Betts (216-C-77, college: Long Beach St.) who plays in Spanish ACB could not help Lagun Aro GBC (10-10) to beat Valencia despite Betts' very good performance on Sunday. He scored 13 points. But Lagun Aro Gipuzkoa BC (#4) was defeated 69-60 on the road by lower ranked (#8) Valencia. It was Lagun Aro GBC's first loss after three consecutive victories.

Notes: plays in: ESP, played so far 20 games for Lagun Aro GBC this season (plays for them since 11), last game stats: 13pts 1reb 0ast 1blocks 0steals 3FGP:0-0 2FGP:5-6 FT:3-5 MVP: 13, Graduated Long Beach St. in 1998, played in ESL: Yes, Top2 scorer: No, in stats leaders:, Stage name: Regular Season, Total teams in league: 18, ACB is Top league in the country, Total Rounds in Regular Season: 34 (this round: 20), Lagun Aro GBC played so far 20 games in ACB this season out of 34 scheduled

International power forward Daniel Clark (210-F/C-88, agency: Interperformances) who plays in Spanish ACB could not help Asefa Estudiantes (6-14) to beat CAI Zaragoza Clark scored 9 points. But Asefa Estudiantes Madrid (#4) was defeated 75-72 on the road by lower ranked (#7) CAI Zaragoza. It was Asefa Estudiantes's fifth consecutive lost game in a row.

Notes: plays in: ESP, played so far 18 games for Asefa Estudiantes this season (plays for them since 9), last game stats: 9pts 3reb 1ast 0blocks 1steals 3FGP:1-2 2FGP:3-3 FT:0-0 MVP: 13, played in ESL: Yes, Top2 scorer: No, in stats leaders:, Stage name: Regular Season, Total teams in league: 18, ACB is Top league in the country, Total Rounds in Regular Season: 34 (this round: 20), Asefa Estudiantes played so far 20 games in ACB this season out of 34 scheduled

Former international power forward Dzaflo Larkai (203-F/C-81, college: Bellarmine) helped Okinawa GK to win their game against closely ranked Yokohama BC 89-73 in Japanese BJ League last Saturday. He recorded 7 points and 5 rebounds. Ryukyu Golden Kings Okinawa (27-7) is placed fourth in Western group.

Notes: plays in: JPN, played so far 19 games for Okinawa GK this season (in all leagues team plays for) (plays for them since 11), last game stats: 7pts 5reb 0ast 0blocks 0steals 3FGP:0-0 2FGP:3-4 FT:1-2 MVP: 7, Graduated Bellarmine in 2008, played in ESL: Yes, Top2 scorer: No, in stats leaders:, Stage name: Regular Season, Team plays in group: Western, Total teams in league: 19, BJ League is 2nd division in the country, Total Rounds in Regular Season: 58 (this round: 37), Okinawa GK played so far 34 games in BJ League this season out of 52 scheduled

International guard Michael Lenzly (189-G-81, college: Wofford) who plays in Czech Republic could not help CEZ Nymburk (6-7) to beat Lokomotiv He cannot count Tuesday's game as one of the best ones. Lenzly scored 2 points. But CEZ Basketball Nymburk (#6) was defeated 65-71 at home by higher ranked (#4) Lokomotiv in group B. There are only 3 games left until the end of Regular Season in VTB United League. So now every game matters.

Notes plays in: CZE, played so far 47 games for CEZ Nymburk this season (in all leagues team plays for) (plays for them since 9), last game stats: 2pts 2reb 0ast 0blocks 0steals 3FGP:0-1 2FGP:0-1 FT:2-4 MVP: 0, Dual citizenship: ENG-USA, Graduated Wofford in 2003, played in ESL: Yes, Top2 scorer: No, in stats leaders:, Stage name: Regular Season, Team plays in group: B, Total teams in league: 18, VTB United League is Top league in the country, Total Rounds in Regular Season: 25 (this round: 21), CEZ Nymburk played so far 13 games in VTB United League this season out of 16 scheduled

International guard Devon Van Oostrum (190-G-93) who plays in Spanish LEB Gold could not help CB Tarragona_2017 (9-15) to beat Breogan He cannot count Friday's game as one of the best ones. Van Oostrum scored 2 points. But C.B. Tarragona 2017 (#6) was defeated 78-87 on the road by much lower ranked (#13) Breogan.

Notes: plays in: ESP, played so far 22 games for CB Tarragona_2017 this season (plays for them since 11), last game stats: 2pts 0reb 1ast 0blocks 1steals 3FGP:0-0 2FGP:1-2 FT:0-0 MVP: -3, Dual citizenship: NED-ENG, played in ESL: Yes, Top2 scorer: No, in stats leaders:, Stage name: Regular Season, Total teams in league: 18, LEB Gold is 2nd division in the country, Total Rounds in Regular Season: 34 (this round: 24), CB Tarragona_2017 played so far 24 games in LEB Gold this season out of 34 scheduled

Former U20international power forward Liam Potter (213-F/C-86, college: Sacred Heart) who plays in Slovakian Extraliga could not help Prievidza (20-9) to beat Komarno He cannot count Wednesday's game as one of the best ones. Potter recorded 2 points. But BC Prievidza (#6) was defeated 92-85 on the road by higher ranked (#3) Komarno. There are

Notes: only 3 games left until the end of Regular Season. So now every game matters.
plays in: SVK, played so far 29 games for Prievidza this season (in all leagues team plays for) (plays for them since 11), last game stats: 2pts 0reb 0ast 0blocks 0steals 3FGP:0-0 2FGP:1-4 FT:0-0 MVP: -3, Graduated Sacred Heart in 2010, played in ESL: Yes, Top2 scorer: No, in stats leaders:, Stage name: Regular Season, Total teams in league: 9, Extraliga is Top league in the country, Total Rounds in Regular Season: 36 (this round: 31), Prievidza played so far 29 games in Extraliga this season out of 32 scheduled

Raiders and Rowe Out For Revenge - by Paul Nilsen
A little over a month since their BBL Cup Final mauling, UCP Marjon Plymouth Raiders will get their first chance of revenge against Newcastle Eagles.

And, it certainly promises to be an intense struggle between the teams in the closing months of the season both in the title race and BBL Trophy Final.

At the Pavilions tonight, there will be a hugely significant game in the BBL Championship as the Raiders look for payback and ensure they make their rivals drop to two losses as revenge dominates the menu according to Anthony Rowe (203-F-85, college: N.Georgia).

He said, The Cup Final is one of those games that hurts you for a long time.

Ill never forget it and I hope it fuels us when we face them again.

Games against Newcastle mean more now because we havent beaten them yet.

It would be good to beat them in both the league and Trophy' added Rowe.

The key for the Raiders being successful is likely to be stopping shooting ace Joe Chapman and their BBL Cup Final tormentor Charles Smith since the duo have both been in spectacular form ever since the turn of the calendar year.

Whatever happens tonight, Raiders must ensure they also secure a success at Guildford Heat on Sunday as a win double or bouncing back from another loss to the Eagles would really make a big statement this weekend.

However, while Heat have struggled all season long, they are a dangerous opponent and there is of course the added dimension of Drew Lasker going up against the club he served so well earlier in his career.

The Eagles also have a Sunday match-up on the road as they prepare to head to Northgate Arena to play a Cheshire Jets - a team no doubt full of confidence and invigorated by their pulsating win last time out when they overturned a 19 point second half deficit in Glasgow to emerge victorious.

Two other teams still chasing down the Eagles in the title race are Worcester Wolves and Jelson Homes DMU Leicester Riders. The former will certainly be expecting to rack up a win this evening at bottom placed Durham Wildcats while the Riders will also be confident of securing a home success against Glasgow Rocks tomorrow night.

Elsewhere, the play-off race continues with Wildcats knowing they need wins desperately to stand any chance of a late run which might lift them into that precious eighth spot and in addition to hosting Riders, they also entertain Mersey Tigers on Sunday another club with eyes on a play-off berth.

There could also be fireworks this weekend if as expected, Justin Dobbins travels with new club Prestige Homes MK Lions to face One Health Sharks Sheffield the team who released him earlier in the week. Both sides are looking over their shoulders a little now after a disappointing run of late and another defeat would be a blow to whoever loses this match-up.

Lions will at least have the opportunity to either make amends or complete a very happy weekend since they will play a home game against Glasgow Rocks on Sunday.

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

  URUGUAY

Hebraica Macabi crushed Lagomar 88-64 - by Hector Lopez
Hebraica Macabi won its 8th game in a row defetaing Lagomar Canelones 88-64 for the LUB 9th round for the second stage. Hebraica has already classified for the playogf with number 1 for the Group 1. For Hebraica Hatila Passos (211-C-86, college: N.Mexico St.) netted 13 points and grabbed 9 rebounds and Matt Freije scored 9 and added 3 rebounds. For Lagomar, which lost its fourth game in a row, David Butler (203-F-82, college: Embry Riddle) scored 15 points with 11 rebounds, Demario Mattox (188-G-87, college: Wingate) added 6 points and 2 rebounds.

Standings - LUB
LUB Standings

Serie 1

1. Hebraica 8-1

2. Welcome 7-2

3. Bohemios 5-4

4. Trouville 3-6

5. Lagomar 2-7

6. Wanderers 2-7

Serie 2

1. Aguada 7-2

2. Malvin 6-2

3. Defensor 5-3

4. Bigua 3-6

5. Anastasia 2-6

6. Plaza 2-6

Stats Leaders - LUB

PPG

RPG

APG

SPG

BPG

Points Per Game
Brandon BROWN
  Trouville
  (201-F-85)
  Avg: 24
1. Brown, Trouville 24.0
2. Keenan, Larre B. 23.9
3. Humphrey, Bigua 23.8
4. Crews, Cader 23.5
5. Herring, Bohemios 22.7
6. McCullough, Un.Atl. 21.2
7. Johnson, Olimpia 21.0
8. Jennings, Cordon 20.9
9. Garcia Moral., Big. 20.7
10. Evans, Cader 20.3

Rebounds Per Game
Ryan HUMPHREY
  Bigua
  (203-C/F-79)
  Avg: 43.8
1. Humphrey, Bigua 43.8
2. Allen, Bohemios 15.4
3. Polk, Montevideo 14.1
4. Wilborn, Un.Atleti. 12.8
5. Shellman, Sayago 12.8
6. Passos, Hebraica 11.7
7. Keenan, Larre B. 10.8
8. Crews, Cader 10.7
9. Douglas, Bohemios 9.5
10. Haller, Montevideo 9.2

Assists Per Game
Gustavo BARRERA
  Hebraica
  (194-G-85)
  Avg: 8.7
1. Barrera, Hebraica 8.7
2. Fitipaldo, Malvin 6.1
3. Gonzalez, Aguada 6.0
4. Vidal, Bigua 5.2
5. Taboada, Larre B. 5.0
6. Muro, Aguada 4.8
7. Silvarrey, Sayago 4.8
8. Jennings, Cordon 4.8
9. Garcia Moral., Big. 4.6
10. de Gouveia, Mont. 4.3

Steals Per Game
Terence SHELLMAN
  Sayago
  (199-F-78)
  Avg: 2.5
1. Shellman, Sayago 2.5
2. Barrera, Hebraica 2.4
3. Clarkson, Larre B. 2.4
4. Garcia Moral., Big. 2.3
5. Aguilera, Trouville 2.3
6. Tornaria, Trouville 2.3
7. Evans, Cader 2.1
8. Silvarrey, Sayago 2.1
9. Brown, Trouville 2.1
10. Vazquez, Olimpia 2.0

Blocks Per Game
Rammel ALLEN
  Bohemios
  (210-C-79)
  Avg: 3.8
1. Allen, Bohemios 3.8
2. Jackson, Olimpia 2.3
3. Wilborn, Un.Atleti. 2.2
4. Humphrey, Bigua 1.9
5. Polk, Montevideo 1.8
6. Clarkson, Larre B. 1.7
7. Herring, Bohemios 1.7
8. Crews, Cader 1.6
9. McCoy, Sayago 1.5
10. Augustus, Hebrai. 1.5

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

  VENEZUELA

Donald Sims gets MVP of the Week award for Venezuelan LPB - by Eurobasket News
American Donald Sims (185-PG-87) had an amazing evening in the last round for Gaiteros and that's him to receive a Latinbasket.com Player of the Week award for round 12.
The 24-year old playmaker had the game-high 33 points adding three rebounds and two assists for Gaiteros in his team's victory, helping them to beat Toros (#10, 1-11) 101-96. Gaiteros maintains the 7th position in Venezuelan LPB. Gaiteros is rather a weak team placed in lower part in the standings. They need more victories to improve their 5-9 record. Sims just recently signed at Gaiteros, being already a very valuable addition to the team. Appalachian State University graduate has very impressive stats this year. Sims is in league's top in points (3rd best: 20.0ppg) and averages solid 2.6spg.

The second most remarkable performance in last round's games was 31-year old former international power forward Hector Romero (202-F/C-80) of Trotamundos. Romero impressed basketball fans with a double-double of 19 points and 10 rebounds. Of course Trotamundos cruised to a 90-82 overtime win over slightly lower-ranked Guaros (#8, 3-7). Trotamundos' 6th position in the standings has not changed. His team lost some distance to top teams. But 6-6 record is not bad and everything may still change. Romero is one of the most experienced players at Trotamundos and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 20.1ppg (#2). He also registered 6.7 boards per game.

The third best performed player last round was another Gaiteros' star - American Torraye Braggs (203-F/C-76). Braggs showcased his all-around game by recording 17 points, fourteen rebounds (!!!) and seven assists in the last round. He was another key player of Gaiteros, helping his team with a 101-96 win against the lower-ranked Toros (#10, 1-11). The chances of Gaiteros not to end season at such low position in the league, however are less than slim as they have already lost 9 games, recording just five victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Braggs could try to bring Gaiteros' a little bit higher in the standings. The season just started for Braggs as he played only first game. But it already looks like he can be another team's leader.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Jesus Urbina (201-F-84) of Toros - 18 points and 14 rebounds
5. Delonte Holland (201-F-82) of Toros - 28 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assists
6. Richard Lugo (209-C-73) of Guaiqueries - 9 points, 12 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Darwin Cristopher (192-F-86) of Panteras - 22 points and 3 rebounds
8. Russell Carter (196-G-85) of Panteras - 15 points and 6 rebounds
9. Jose Juan Bravo (202-C-86) of Gigantes - 13 points and 10 rebounds
10. Dwight Lewis (196-G-87) of Trotamundos - 18 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists

The Player of the week is choosen based on efficiency calculation, but also including game result, importance of the game, if played recorded double-double/triple-double, etc.
The efficiency formula is a combination of various formulas used by different basketball organizations/leagues. We got involved many basketball scouts and journalists to assure it's accuracy.
The formula: 1.5*PTS + 3*(REB+AST+ST+BL-TO) - 2*BSAG - 4*PF + 3*PFRV + 4*(2FGPM+3FGPM) + 1.5*FTM - 3*(2FGPA-2FGPM) - 3*(3FGPA-3FGPM) - (FTA-FTM)

Panteras de Miranda sign C.J. Webster - by Eurobasket Center
Panteras de Miranda signed 26-year old American forward C.J. Webster (206-F-86, college: San Jose St.). In his first game he scored 14 points and grabbed 7 rebounds. Despite his good performance his new team lost to Guaiqueries 77-87. Webster played most recently at KB Bashkimi Prizren (Kosova). He graduated San Jose State University in 2010 and it will be his second season in pro basketball.

By Eurobasket Data Center

LPB Round 12: Gigantes hand first defeat to Cocodrilos - by Eurobasket News
Coincidentally all hosts won their games. There were many interesting games last round. The round ended with defeat of the leader, extra overtimes, favorites losing the games and games ending by tiny margin.

Undefeated Cocodrilos (11-1) recorded its first loss in Puerto Ordaz on Thursday night. Visitors were edged by fifth ranked Gigantes (6-4) 82-79. It ended at the same time the 11-game winning streak of Cocodrilos. The hosts were tied at the half but managed to speed up in last two quarters eventually winning the game. Gigantes held Cocodrilos to an opponent 0.0 percent shooting from the field compared to 0.0 percent accuracy of the winners. The best player for the winners was American power forward Andrew Feeley (206-83, college: UMBC) who scored 18 points. American-Mexican point guard Paul Stoll (178-85) chipped in 16 points and 5 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was American guard Carl Elliott (193-83, college: G.Washington, agency: SportsTalent) who recorded 22 points and 5 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Gigantes moved-up to fourth place. Cocodrilos at the other side still keep top position with one game lost. They share it with Marinos. Gigantes are looking forward to face Bucaneros (#5) in La Guaira in the next round. Cocodrilos will play on the road against the league's second-placed Marinos (#2) in Puerto La Cruz and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

The best stats of 12th round was 33 points (!!!) and 7 steals by Donald Sims of Gaiteros.

Marinos - Bucaneros 93-88
There was no surprise in Puerto La Cruz where 4th ranked Bucaneros (6-6) were defeated by second ranked Marinos (11-1) 93-88 on Thursday. The hosts took control from the first minutes by winning first half. But Bucaneros won third quarter 30-20. However it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Marinos held Bucaneros to an opponent 0.0 percent shooting from the field compared to 0.0 percent accuracy of the winners. The best player for the winners was international forward Axiers Sucre (198-78) who scored 16 points. The former international swingman Oscar Torres (195-76, agency: Interperformances) chipped in 15 points. At the other side the best for losing team was the former international point guard Heissler Guillent (186-86, agency: Paris Global Sports) who recorded 17 points and American forward Calvin Warner (201-80, college: Jacksonville) added 14 points respectively. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches tested many bench players in such tough game. Marinos have an impressive five-game winning streak. They used an opportunity after Cocodrilos lost their game and moved up joining them at the top position. Bucaneros lost third consecutive game. They dropped to the fifth place with six games lost. Marinos will face league's leader Cocodrilos in Caracas in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Bucaneros will play on the road against Gigantes (#4) in Puerto Ordaz and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Marinos: A.Sucre 16+3reb+2ast, L.Rodgers 16+2reb+1ast, O.Torres 15+4reb+1ast, R.Moss 14+2reb, G.Vargas 13+1reb+6ast, J.Vargas 11+2reb+4ast
Bucaneros: H.Guillent 17+3reb+3ast, C.Warner 14+4reb+1ast, L.Julio 12+2reb, S.Henry 10+5reb+2ast, A.Bangura 10+2reb+2ast, A.Barrios 7+3reb
gschID: 168374

Guaiqueries - Panteras 87-77
No shocking result in a game in Porlamar where third ranked Guaiqueries (8-3) defeated 9th ranked Panteras (2-11) 87-77 on Thursday. The game was mostly controlled by Guaiqueries. Panteras was better in third quarter 22-19. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. The game was decided in the last minutes when Guaiqueries won last quarter 27-19. They held Panteras to an opponent 0.0 percent shooting from the field compared to 0.0 percent accuracy of the winners. The best player for the winners was American guard Darius Adams (182-89, college: Indianapolis, agency: Warren Sports International) who scored 20 points and 4 assists. The former international center Richard Lugo (209-73, college: St.Francis, NY) chipped in 9 points and 12 rebounds. Four Guaiqueries players scored in double figures. At the other side the best for losing team was forward Darwin Cristopher (192-86) who recorded 22 points and American guard Russell Carter (196-85, college: Notre Dame) added 15 points and 6 rebounds respectively. Both coaches tested many bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Guaiqueries maintains third position with 8-3 record having four points less than leader Cocodrilos. Panteras lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the ninth place with 11 games lost. Guaiqueries will face again Panteras (#9) in Caracas in the next round where they are favorite.
Top scorers:
Guaiqueries: D.Adams 20+2reb+4ast, R.Warren 13+6reb, M.Marshall 13+2reb+3ast, T.Cobos 10+2reb, H.Salcedo 10+6reb+3ast, C.Silva 9+3reb
Panteras: D.Cristopher 22+3reb+1ast, R.Carter 15+6reb, C.Webster 14+7reb, R.Horton 9+5reb+4ast, M.Flores 5+1reb+3ast, L.Irazabal 5+3reb
gschID: 168375

Trotamundos - Guaros 90-82 OT
Top scorers:
Trotamundos: H.Romero 19+10reb+4ast, M.Gale 18+1reb+3ast, D.Lewis 18+4reb+3ast, R.Glenn 12+5reb+1ast, D.Dadezzio 7+1ast, S.Pruitt 6+4reb
Guaros: S.Parker 24+4reb+3ast, H.Adams 19+3reb, D.Brown 9+7reb+2ast, J.Zapata 8+5reb, D.Ananguren 7+7reb, H.Bayona 7+7reb+3ast
gschID: 168371

Gigantes - Cocodrilos 82-79
Undefeated Cocodrilos (11-1) recorded its first loss in Puerto Ordaz on Thursday night. Visitors were edged by fifth ranked Gigantes (6-4) 82-79. It ended at the same time the 11-game winning streak of Cocodrilos. The hosts were tied at the half but managed to speed up in last two quarters eventually winning the game. Gigantes held Cocodrilos to an opponent 0.0 percent shooting from the field compared to 0.0 percent accuracy of the winners. The best player for the winners was American power forward Andrew Feeley (206-83, college: UMBC) who scored 18 points. American-Mexican point guard Paul Stoll (178-85) chipped in 16 points and 5 rebounds. Four Gigantes players scored in double figures. At the other side the best for losing team was American guard Carl Elliott (193-83, college: G.Washington, agency: SportsTalent) who recorded 22 points and 5 rebounds and international forward Nestor Colmenares (203-87, college: Campbellsville) added 13 points and 7 rebounds respectively. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Gigantes moved-up to fourth place. Cocodrilos at the other side still keep top position with one game lost. They share it with Marinos. Gigantes are looking forward to face Bucaneros (#5) in La Guaira in the next round. Cocodrilos will play on the road against the league's second-placed Marinos (#2) in Puerto La Cruz and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Gigantes: A.Feeley 18+3reb+3ast, P.Stoll 16+5reb+3ast, D.Ramirez 15+3reb+1ast, J.Juan Bravo 13+10reb, J.Diaz 6+2ast, B.Walker 6+2reb
Cocodrilos: C.Elliott 22+5reb+2ast, C.Brown 20, N.Colmenares 13+7reb+2ast, J.Centeno 8+3reb+3ast, J.Herrera 7+6reb, K.Gransberry 7+7reb+2ast
gschID: 168372

Gaiteros - Toros 101-96
Rather expected game in Maracaibo where 10th ranked Toros (1-11) were defeated by seventh ranked Gaiteros (5-9) 101-96 on Thursday. The hosts trailed by 3 points at the halftime before their 55-47 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Gaiteros held Toros to an opponent 0.0 percent shooting from the field compared to 0.0 percent accuracy of the winners. Toros were plagued by 27 personal fouls down the stretch. The best player for the winners was American power forward Torraye Braggs (203-76, college: Xavier) who had a double-double by scoring 17 points, 14 rebounds and 7 assists. The other American import point guard Donald Sims (185-87, college: Appalachian St.) chipped in 33 points (!!!) and 7 steals. Four Gaiteros players scored in double figures. At the other side the best for losing team was American forward Delonte Holland (201-82, college: De Paul) who recorded 28 points and 5 rebounds and the former international forward Jesus Urbina (201-84, college: George Mason) added 18 points and 14 rebounds respectively. Gaiteros have a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain seventh position with 5-9 record. Toros lost eleventh consecutive game. They stay at the bottom place with 11 games lost. Gaiteros will have a break next round. Toros will play on the road against Guaros (#8) in Barquisimeto and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Gaiteros: D.Sims 33+3reb+2ast, T.Braggs 17+14reb+7ast, F.Centeno 15+4reb+1ast, J.Parker 10+2reb+1ast, Y.Umbria 9+1reb+1ast, P.Cubillan 7
Toros: D.Holland 28+5reb+2ast, K.Pena 22+2reb+3ast, J.Urbina 18+14reb, D.Cedeno 9+1ast, F.Lucena 6+1reb, C.Moore 6+5reb

Standings - LPB
LPB Standings

1. Cocodrilos 11-1

2. Marinos 11-1

3. Guaiqueries 9-3

4. Gigantes 6-4

5. Bucaneros 6-6

6. Trotamundos 6-6

7. Gaiteros 5-9

8. Guaros 3-7

9. Panteras 2-12

10. Toros 1-11

Stats Leaders - LPB

PPG

RPG

APG

SPG

BPG

Points Per Game
Delonte HOLLAND
  Toros
  (201-F-82)
  Avg: 22.5
1. Holland, Toros 22.5
2. Sims, Gaiteros 20.9
3. Romero, Trotamun. 20.0
4. Adams, Guaiqueries 19.2
5. Elliott, Cocodrilos 18.3
6. Rodgers, Marinos 17.6
7. Parker, Guaros 17.3
8. Soliver, Toros 15.8
9. Bangura, Bucaneros 15.5
10. Carter, Panteras 15.4

Rebounds Per Game
Kentrell GRANSBERRY
  Cocod.
  (206-C-85)
  Avg: 9.7
1. Gransberry, Cocod. 9.7
2. Urbina, Toros 9.1
3. Warren, Guaiquer. 7.3
4. Lugo, Guaiqueries 7.3
5. Pruitt, Trotamun. 7.2
6. Bayona, Guaros 7.1
7. Romero, Trotamun. 7.0
8. Wilder, Gaiteros 7.0
9. Graterol, Cocodril. 6.9
10. Brown, Guaros 6.7

Assists Per Game
Heissler GUILLENT
  Bucaneros
  (186-PG-86)
  Avg: 4.8
1. Guillent, Bucaneros 4.8
2. Centeno, Cocodrilos 4.5
3. Cubillan, Trotamun. 4.3
4. Stallings, Marinos 4.3
5. Parker, Guaros 3.8
6. Elliott, Cocodrilos 3.7
7. Vargas, Marinos 3.5
8. Adams, Guaiqueries 3.3
9. Griffin, Gigantes 3.0
10. Marshall, Guaique. 3.0

Steals Per Game
Darius ADAMS
  Guaiqueries
  (182-G-89)
  Avg: 3.5
1. Adams, Guaiqueries 3.5
2. Sims, Gaiteros 2.9
3. Cubillan, Trotamun. 2.9
4. Guillent, Bucaneros 2.8
5. Parker, Gaiteros 2.7
6. Horton, Panteras 2.6
7. Cazorla, Gigantes 2.6
8. Elliott, Cocodrilos 2.5
9. Griffin, Gigantes 2.4
10. Meza Rogel, Trota. 2.4

Blocks Per Game
Ryan MOSS
  Marinos
  (200-F/C-74)
  Avg: 2
1. Moss, Marinos 2.0
2. Hardin, Marinos 1.9
3. Lugo, Guaiqueries 1.8
4. Bayona, Guaros 1.7
5. Rogers, Toros 1.5
6. Pruitt, Trotamun. 1.4
7. Feeley, Gigantes 1.3
8. Osorio, Panteras 1.3
9. Graterol, Cocodril. 1.3
10. Clarkson, Panteras 1.3

*****************************************************
Women News
*****************************************************

  ADRIATIC LEAGUE - Women

Standings
Adriatic League Standings

1. Partizan 16-0

2. Celik 12-5

3. Radivoj Korac 10-6

4. Hemofarm 10-6

5. Vozdovac 9-7

6. Athlete Celje 9-8

7. Mladi Krajisnik 7-10

8. Buducnost 6-9

9. Vojvodina 2-15

10. Sloboda 1-16

Stats Leaders

PPG

RPG

APG

SPG

BPG

Points Per Game
Teja OBLAK
  Athlete Celje
  (171-G-90)
  Avg: 19
1. Oblak, Athlete Cel. 19.0
2. Cadjo, Hemofarm 18.3
3. Trebec, Athlete 18.2
4. Dabovic, Partizan 18.1
5. Deura, Mladi K. 17.2
6. Bogoje, Mladi K. 16.0
7. Butulija, Partizan 15.9
8. Jovanovic, Radivo. 15.9
9. Gagic, Sloboda 14.7
10. Stjepanovic, Radi. 14.4

Rebounds Per Game
Natasa POPOVIC
  Buducnost
  (194-C-82)
  Avg: 9.3
1. Popovic, Buducnost 9.3
2. Gajic, Athlete Cel. 8.7
3. Stankovic, Sloboda 8.2
4. Tolikova, Celik 7.9
5. Stjepanovic, Radiv. 7.8
6. Erak, Vojvodina 7.5
7. Ajdukovic, Hemof. 7.4
8. Radovic, Vojvodina 7.4
9. Bogoje, Mladi K. 7.4
10. Svitlica, Sloboda 7.1

Assists Per Game
Zvjezdana GAGIC
  Sloboda
  (169-G-81)
  Avg: 5
1. Gagic, Sloboda 5.0
2. Stankovic, Hemof. 4.9
3. Oblak, Athlete Cel. 4.0
4. Radocaj, Partizan 3.4
5. Butulija, Partizan 3.2
6. Popovic, Vojvodina 2.9
7. Deura, Mladi K. 2.9
8. Zivadinovic, Vojvo. 2.9
9. Jovanovic, Radivo. 2.9
10. Dabovic, Partizan 2.8

Steals Per Game
Milica DABOVIC
  Partizan
  (175-PG-82)
  Avg: 2.8
1. Dabovic, Partizan 2.8
2. Gagic, Sloboda 2.8
3. Vrancic, Vozdovac 2.7
4. Radocaj, Partizan 2.6
5. Bigovic, Buducnost 2.6
6. Ivanovic, Vozdovac 2.5
7. Oblak, Athlete Cel. 2.4
8. Cadjo, Hemofarm 2.0
9. Mandic, Hemofarm 1.9
10. Beronja, Partizan 1.9

Blocks Per Game
Natasa POPOVIC
  Buducnost
  (194-C-82)
  Avg: 2.7
1. Popovic, Buducnost 2.7
2. Stankovic, Sloboda 1.9
3. Tolikova, Celik 1.3
4. Ajdukovic, Hemof. 1.2
5. Bogoje, Mladi K. 1.1
6. Radovic, Vojvodina 0.6
7. Mandic, Hemofarm 0.6
8. Marjanovic, Hemof. 0.5
9. Radunovic, Partizan 0.5
10. Stjepanovic, Radi. 0.5

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

  AUSTRALIA - Women

Brisbane Spartans signs Thomas just out of college - by Eurobasket Center
Brisbane Spartans signed 23-year old American swingman Tatianna Thomas (180-G/F-89, agency: Athlete Management Group). Thomas played most recently at University of Oregon (NCAA) in the U.S. While playing 29 games for Oregon last season her stats were: 2.7ppg and 1.6rpg. She graduated from University of Oregon and it will be her first season in pro basketball.

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

  BALTIC LEAGUE - Women

Spartak refuced to participate in the BWBL Championship - by Eurobasket News
'Spartak' St. Petersburg, Russia, due to financial difficulties refused to participate in the XVIII Baltic Women's Basketball League (BWBL) Championship.

'Berezina-RCOR' Borisov, Belarus, (III place in group B) replaces 'Spartak' in the second stage of the BWBL Championship ('Sirenos' Kaunas and 'Kibirkstis-Tiche-Iki' Vilnius refused to participate).

Final Four tournament will be held on 20-22 of April, 2012.
Courtesy of: https://www.bwbl.lt

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

  BELARUS - Women

Berezina takes Spartak place in Baltic League - by Eurobasket News
Berezina takes Spartak place in Baltic League as the Russian team could not enter the tournament due to the financial problems. Berezina was ready to join another three Belarus teams in the tournament.
Minsk-2006 and Olimpia earlier joined Horizont in the Second Stage of Baltic League. Both teams finished second in their groups.
Berezina handed Tim-Scuf their first loss, 80:79. Tim-Scuf was trailing by 6 points at halftime but managed to get 6-point lead after three quarters before a 22-15 charge of Berezina-RCOR, which allowed them to win the game. It was a great shooting night for Berezina-RCOR especially from behind the arc, where they had solid 57.1 percentage. Worth to mention a great performance of Ala Murauskaya (187-F-85) who helped to win the game recording 25 points, 8 rebounds, 7 assists and 4 steals. Hanna Kalenta (187-C-94) contributed with 21 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Nataliya Gavryliuk answered with 22 points and 8 rebounds and Olga Maznichenko (187-F-91, agency: LBM Management) added 20 points and 9 rebounds in the effort for Tim-Scuf.

Stats Leaders

PPG

RPG

APG

SPG

BPG

Points Per Game
Hanna KALENTA
  Berezina
  (187-C-94)
  Avg: 13.8
1. Kalenta, Berezina 13.8
2. Istseliatsov., Min. 13.2
3. Papova, Olimpia 13.1
4. Shmatova, Olimpia 13.0
5. Shcharbakova, Mins. 11.9
6. Pokoiova, Olimpia 11.8
7. Voishal, Victoria 11.4
8. Nialepka, Sozh Gom. 11.3
9. Sovtsa, Sozh Gomel 11.2
10. Rakovskaia, Sozh 11.2

Rebounds Per Game
Veronika SOVTSA
  Sozh Gomel
  (183-C-83)
  Avg: 14.7
1. Sovtsa, Sozh Gomel 14.7
2. Alyoshkina, Olimpia 9.9
3. Murauskaya, Berez. 8.3
4. Papova, Olimpia 8.0
5. Istseliatsov., Min. 7.8
6. Kalenta, Berezina 7.8
7. Avdeythuk, BrGU 7.6
8. Hasper, Gorizont 7.5
9. Khomenchuk, Goriz. 6.9
10. Haryna, Victoria 6.2

Assists Per Game
Ekaterina KONDRATENKO
  Sozh G.
  (172-G-89)
  Avg: 4
1. Kondratenko, Sozh 4.0
2. Anufryienka, Goriz. 3.1
3. Kashlei, Olimpia 2.9
4. Pantsiukh, Minsk. 2.8
5. Valko, Gorizont 2.3
6. Shoniker, Olimpia 2.3
7. Tsiruleva, BrGU 2.3
8. Yakovits, Minsk. 2.2
9. Nikitina, Gorizont 2.1
10. Holubeva, Victoria 2.1

Steals Per Game
Ala MURAUSKAYA
  Berez.
  (187-F-85)
  Avg: 3.8
1. Murauskaya, Berez. 3.8
2. Rakovskaia, Sozh 2.6
3. Papova, Olimpia 2.6
4. Kashlei, Olimpia 2.3
5. Anufryienka, Goriz. 2.2
6. Avdeythuk, BrGU 2.1
7. Baklaha, Gorizont 2.0
8. Tsiruleva, BrGU 2.0
9. Ilkovich, BrGU 2.0
10. Shoniker, Olimpia 2.0

Blocks Per Game
Aleksandra KHOMENCHUK
  Goriz.
  (200-C-89)
  Avg: 0
1. Khomenchuk, Goriz. 0.0
2. Adamik, BrGU 0.0
3. Khatsko, Gorizont 0.0
4. Turomsha, Berezina 0.0
5. Kavalenka, Sozh G. 0.0
6. Tsarevich, Victoria 0.0
7. Kashlei, Olimpia 0.0
8. Styapanava, Berez. 0.0
9. Kalvinkoskay., Ber. 0.0
10. Shylovich, Berezi. 0.0

Standings - Women
Premier Standings

Group A

1. Minsk-2006 1-0

2. Olimpia 1-0

3. Gorizont 0-1

4. Berezina 0-1

Group B

1. Victoria 1-0

2. BrGU 0-0

3. Sozh Gomel 0-1

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

  BELGIUM - Women

Abi Olajuwon in Royal Castors Braine - by Bert Larsimont
One of the bottom of the Division I rankings teams in Belgium Royal Castors Braine (the Braine Beavers) has announced the signing of WNBA center Abi Olajuwon (193-C-88, college: Oklahoma) last Tuesday. Castors Braine has just reached Division I this season.
Olajuwon started the season with the team of Hapoel Rishon Le-Zion in Israel where she averaged 11.3 points and 7.5 rebounds in 4 games. She also played two games with Lupa Promotion Novi Zagreb in Croatia.
Away, the Beavers surprisingly defeated Division I leader BC Dexia Namur Capitale 60-71 last weekend. They are building a strong team.
One more evidence that Belgian women basketball is willing to grow.
Hakeem The Dream Olajuwon's daughter will replace US player Jesyka Burks-Wiley (185-F-87, college: Boston U.) who has decided to leave Braine, a suburb of Brussels, and return home (for personal reasons).
A press conference to present Abi Olajuwon was held at the Stade Gaston Reiff, home of the Royal Castor Braine, on Friday 2012-02-24. Castors will travel to Sint Katelijne Waver on Sunday afternoon.

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

  BRAZIL - Women

Standings - CNBF
LBF Standings

1. Americana 12-0

2. Ourinhos 10-4

3. Poty/Acucar 9-4

4. Sao Jose 8-4

5. Santo Andre 8-6

6. Maranhao 5-8

7. Blumenau 4-9

8. Basquete Clube 3-10

9. Sao Caetano 0-14

Stats Leaders - Women

PPG

RPG

APG

SPG

BPG

Points Per Game
Iziane CASTRO MARQUES
  Maran.
  (183-G/F-82)
  Avg: 24.2
1. Castro Marqu., Mar. 24.2
2. Dos Santos, Ameri. 17.7
3. Bibiano, Basquete. 17.5
4. de Sousa, Blumenau 16.8
5. Justino, Poty/Acu. 15.3
6. Ribeiro, Sao Jose 15.1
7. Santos, Ourinhos 14.6
8. De Oliviera, Sao J. 14.5
9. Martins, Americana 14.4
10. Silvestre, Santo 14.2

Rebounds Per Game
Alessandra DE OLIVIERA
  Sao J.
  (201-C-73)
  Avg: 11.8
1. De Oliviera, Sao J. 11.8
2. Bibiano, Basquete. 11.5
3. Dos Santos, Ameri. 11.4
4. Ferreira, Sao C. 10.9
5. Rodriguez, Blume. 9.2
6. Irvin, Americana 8.8
7. Gomes, Santo Andre 8.7
8. Da Silva, Poty/Acu. 8.2
9. Nascimento, Basqu. 7.8
10. Castro Marqu., Ma. 7.4

Assists Per Game
Babi GENEROSO
  Ameri.
  (180-G-85)
  Avg: 5.3
1. Generoso, Ameri. 5.3
2. de Souza, Ourinhos 5.1
3. Vasconcelos, Ourin. 4.3
4. De Oliveira, Ourin. 3.7
5. Garvao, Santo And. 3.5
6. De Andrade, Sao J. 3.1
7. Martins, Americana 3.1
8. Souza, Sao Jose 3.1
9. Mares Burian, Poty. 3.0
10. Gattei, Poty/Acu. 3.0

Steals Per Game
Patricia RIBEIRO
  Sao Jose
  (176-G/F-90)
  Avg: 3.2
1. Ribeiro, Sao Jose 3.2
2. de Souza, Ourinhos 3.1
3. Martins, Santo A. 2.9
4. Oliveira, Maranhao 2.7
5. Camargo, Blumenau 2.5
6. Dos Santos, Ameri. 2.2
7. Felipe, Santo Andre 2.1
8. Souza, Sao Jose 2.1
9. Cavallaro, Santo A. 2.0
10. Martins, Americana 1.9

Blocks Per Game
Isis NASCIMENTO
  Basque.
  (202-C-83)
  Avg: 2
1. Nascimento, Basqu. 2.0
2. Garvao, Santo And. 1.6
3. Gomes, Santo Andre 1.4
4. Irvin, Americana 1.2
5. Da Silva Nas., Sao 1.1
6. Ferreira, Sao C. 0.9
7. Dos Santos, Maran. 0.9
8. Castro Marqu., Mar. 0.8
9. Santos, Maranhao 0.8
10. Da Silva, Poty/Ac. 0.8

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

  CANADA - Women

CIS Stats Leaders

PPG

RPG

APG

SPG

BPG

Points Per Game
Justine COLLEY
  St.Mary's
  (175-G-91)
  Avg: 24.4
1. Colley, St.Mary's 24.4
2. Cooke, Cape Breton 23.4
3. Colborne, New B. 20.6
4. Schuetze, TRU 18.6
5. Sunley-P., Ottawa 18.5
6. Simard, UQAM 18.4
7. Macdonald, Ryerson 18.2
8. Clemencon, Windsor 17.6
9. Moore, Queen's 17.2
10. Duinker, Acadia 16.9

Rebounds Per Game
Dalyce EMMERSON
  Saskatch.
  (191-F-)
  Avg: 10.5
1. Emmerson, Saskatc. 10.5
2. Douglas, Guelph 10.3
3. Lennox, Ottawa 9.9
4. Wierks, UFV 9.8
5. Sunley-P., Ottawa 9.5
6. Kerr, York 9.5
7. Edmison, RMC 9.5
8. Tilk, Ryerson 9.3
9. Von Maltzahn, Dalh. 9.2
10. Druery, Lakehead 9.1

Assists Per Game
Joanna ZALESIAK
  Regina
  (174-G-88)
  Avg: 5.9
1. Zalesiak, Regina 5.9
2. Duxbury, TRU 5.6
3. Goodis, Victoria 5.6
4. Kaye, Calgary 5.5
5. Ring, Ottawa 5.0
6. Langlois, Windsor 4.9
7. Bonomo, McMaster 4.8
8. Colley, St.Mary's 4.6
9. Young, UBC 4.6
10. Taal, Lethbridge 4.6

Steals Per Game
Miah-Marie LANGLOIS
  Windsor
  (176-PG-91)
  Avg: 3.5
1. Langlois, Windsor 3.5
2. Taal, Lethbridge 3.3
3. Carkner, TWU 3.2
4. Medri, Toronto 3.1
5. Bush, Carleton 3.0
6. Mazerolle, Laurier 2.8
7. Zalesiak, Regina 2.8
8. Goodis, Victoria 2.8
9. Stratton, Toronto 2.8
10. Sheehan, St.Franc. 2.7

Blocks Per Game
Jasmine DOUGLAS
  Guelph
  (183-F-)
  Avg: 1.9
1. Douglas, Guelph 1.9
2. Duinker, Acadia 1.7
3. Huntley, UBC 1.5
4. Nadeau, Laval 1.5
5. Forsey, Memorial 1.3
6. Rosenkranz, Brock 1.3
7. Emmerson, Saskatc. 1.3
8. Colonna, TRU 1.2
9. Lennox, Ottawa 1.2
10. Sunley-P., Ottawa 1.2

CIS Standings
CIS Standings

AUS

1. Acadia 15-3

2. Cape Breton 14-5

3. St.Mary's 12-7

4. Memorial 10-8

5. St.Francis X. 9-10

6. Dalhousie 7-11

7. New Brunsw. 5-13

8. UPEI 2-17

CanWest Pacific Division

1. UBC 15-3

2. UFV 12-6

3. TRU 9-9

4. TWU 9-9

5. Victoria 8-10

6. UBC Okanagan 2-16

CanWest Prairie Division

1. Regina 20-0

2. Saskatchewan 14-6

3. Calgary 14-6

4. Alberta 13-7

5. Winnipeg 9-11

6. Lethbridge 6-14

7. Manitoba 3-17

8. Brandon 0-20

QSSF

1. McGill 11-4

2. Concordia 8-6

3. Laval 6-8

4. Bishop's 6-9

5. UQAM 5-9

UOA East

1. Ottawa 19-3

2. Carleton 17-5

3. Toronto Univ. 14-8

4. Queen's 12-10

5. Ryerson 11-11

6. York 8-14

7. Laurentian 4-18

8. RMC 0-22

UOA West

1. Windsor 20-2

2. Brock 15-7

3. Laurier 13-9

4. McMaster 11-11

5. Western 11-11

6. Guelph 10-12

7. Lakehead 10-12

8. Waterloo 1-21

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

  CHINA - Women

Asia-Basket.com All-Chinese WCBA Awards 2011-12 - by Eurobasket

Asia-Basket.com All-Chinese WCBA 1st Team

#s#

Anosike

Miao

Bian

Little

Mattera

#e#5

Player of the Year: Anosike Nicky (190-F/C-86) of Beijing
Guard of the Year: Miao LiJie (180-G-81) of Shenyang
Forward of the Year: Little Camille (188-F/G-85) of Shanghai
Center of the Year: Mattera Katie (202-C-82) of Zhejiang
Domestic Player of the Year: Miao LiJie (180-G-81) of Shenyang
Import of the Year: Anosike Nicky (190-F/C-86) of Beijing
Defensive Player of the Year: Mattera Katie (202-C-82) of Zhejiang
Coach of the Year: Xu Li Min of Beijing

1st Team
G: Miao LiJie (180-81) of Shenyang
G/F: Bian Lan (185-86) of Zhejiang
F/G: Little Camille (188-85) of Shanghai
F/C: Anosike Nicky (190-86) of Beijing
C: Mattera Katie (202-82) of Zhejiang

2nd Team
PG: Chen Xiaojia (177-88) of Jiangsu
G/F: Ji YanYan (182-85) of Heilongjiang
F: Zhang Fan (188-84) of Beijing
F: Cash Swin (187-79) of Guangdong
C: Riley Ruth (196-79) of Liaoning

Honorable Mention
Sun Jie (183-F/G-91) of Henan
Black Chante (196-C-85) of Shandong
Chen Nan (197-C-83) of Bayi
Taylor Lindsay (203-C-81) of Yunnan
Junaid Rashidat (193-C-87) of Heilongjiang
Jaeschke Amy (196-C-89) of Jiangsu
Shi Xiufeng (178-PG-87) of Shanghai
Kim Yeong-Ok (170-G-74) of Beijing
Shuang Zhao (188-F-90) of Shenyang

All-Domestic Players Team
G: Miao LiJie (180-81) of Shenyang
G/F: Ji YanYan (182-85) of Heilongjiang
G/F: Bian Lan (185-86) of Zhejiang
F: Zhang Fan (188-84) of Beijing
C: Chen Nan (197-83) of Bayi

All-Imports Team
G: Kim Yeong-Ok (170-74) of Beijing
F/G: Little Camille (188-85) of Shanghai
F: Cash Swin (187-79) of Guangdong
F/C: Anosike Nicky (190-86) of Beijing
C: Mattera Katie (202-82) of Zhejiang

Standings - WCBA
WCBA Standings

1. Shenyang 17-5

2. Beijing 16-6

3. Liaoning 16-6

4. Shanghai 15-7

5. Jiangsu 14-8

6. Guangdong 14-8

7. Heilongjiang 11-11

8. Zhejiang 10-12

9. Yunnan 9-13

10. Bayi 6-16

11. Shandong 3-19

12. Henan 1-21

Stats Leaders

PPG

RPG

APG

SPG

BPG

Points Per Game
Katie MATTERA
  Zhejiang
  (202-C-82)
  Avg: 25.5
1. Mattera, Zhejiang 25.5
2. Miao, Shenyang 25.2
3. Ji, Heilongjiang 24.8
4. Little, Shanghai 24.8
5. Taylor, Yunnan 23.5
6. Ji, Shandong 23.2
7. Shi, Shanghai 19.9
8. Sun, Henan 19.5
9. Bian, Zhejiang 19.0
10. Cash, Guangdong 18.8

Rebounds Per Game
Katie MATTERA
  Zhejiang
  (202-C-82)
  Avg: 14.7
1. Mattera, Zhejiang 14.7
2. Black, Shandong 12.4
3. Junaid, Heilongjia. 12.2
4. Ruili, Liaoning 11.0
5. Cash, Guangdong 10.6
6. Jaeschke, Jiangsu 10.2
7. Little, Shanghai 10.1
8. Taylor, Yunnan 9.5
9. Anosike, Beijing 9.1
10. Chen, Bayi 6.7

Assists Per Game
Lan BIAN
  Zhejiang
  (185-G/F-86)
  Avg: 5.2
1. Bian, Zhejiang 5.2
2. Chen, Jiangsu 5.2
3. Miao, Shenyang 5.0
4. Ji, Heilongjiang 4.2
5. Wang, Shanghai 3.6
6. Cash, Guangdong 3.6
7. Wen, Bayi 3.3
8. Kim, Beijing 3.3
9. Zhang, Heilongjiang 3.1
10. Li, Jiangsu 3.1

Steals Per Game
Zhao SHUANG
  Shenyang
  (188-F-90)
  Avg: 2.7
1. Shuang, Shenyang 2.7
2. Anosike, Beijing 2.4
3. Wang, Shanghai 2.4
4. Little, Shanghai 2.3
5. Bian, Zhejiang 2.2
6. Miao, Shenyang 2.2
7. Liu, Yunnan 2.1
8. Zhang, Beijing 2.1
9. Li, Jiangsu 2.0
10. Zhai, Yunnan 1.9

Blocks Per Game
Lindsay TAYLOR
  Yunnan
  (203-C-81)
  Avg: 2.4
1. Taylor, Yunnan 2.4
2. Black, Shandong 1.9
3. Ruili, Liaoning 1.9
4. Mattera, Zhejiang 1.6
5. Anosike, Beijing 1.5
6. Cash, Guangdong 1.4
7. Wei, Guangdong 1.3
8. Jaeschke, Jiangsu 1.3
9. Junaid, Heilongjia. 1.0
10. Nuo, Jiangsu 1.0

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

  CYPRUS - Women

AEL Limassol is the regular season champ with perfect 12-0 - by Eurobasket News
The regular season in Cypriot top division for women is over. AEL Limasol ended it without loosing a single game (12-0) and they automatically advanced to the Semifinals. AEL was better than Keravnos last weekend, 63-49. Keravnos dropped to 10-2 after this meeting and finished a No.2. Keravnos will meet the last ranked Akademia in the Quarterfinals. Third ranked University of Cyprus (8-4) handed 58-67 home loss to APOP in the last round. The University of Cyprus will play against Achilleas in the Semis. Achilleas defeated Akademia last weekend 47-31. The fourth ranked Olympos (6-6) was free in the last round. They also advanced to Quarterfinals and will take on APOP. First games are scheduled for February 28/29.

Cyprus Cup: AEL is the winner for a 4th concecutive time - by Chris Mammides
AEL afer thrashing Keravnos in the Cup's final 64-41 won the Cyprus Cup for a fourth time in the series and has now 11 cups more than any other team in Cyprus followed by Keravnos's seven cups.
The game was a derby only for 12 minutes as after that the Limassol team speed up and with Kalia Papadopoulou (166-G-80) and the newcomer Monika Gavriloska (190-F/C-76) who was the MVP of the finals with her double-double figures and her total domination over Keravnos's big girls, Biljana Pavicevic (191-F-80) and Michaela Vezenkova (191-F-84, college: NC-Wilmington) over scored the Strovolos team and by the end of the first half the 33-21 was the first 'knock' against Keravnos.
The third period begun with Keravnos trying to succeed something from the game but the ex player of Keravnos Kalia Kalia Papadopoulou who is still today at her 30's is the top local player in teh country, with her great leadership skills and also her great organisational abilities (she ended the game with 10 assists) never let the Strovolos team to do its game so the 10-12 in the specific period and the overall 43-33 at the end of the period actually cut all the dreams of STrovolos girls as in the best game of Keravnos the deficit was only one basket for Keravnos, who saw her newcomer Biljana Pavicevic, the great Serbian hope to ending the game with the poor 3/12 shots and only 25% while the talented Pitsilidou ended the game in an absolute zero as she finished with 0/7 and a total of 1/2 points from the charity line. Furthermore, the other Serbian player of Keravnos with a 3/14 shots was even worst than Biljana Pavicevic as her 21% was even worst then the 25% of her team-mate.

The 4th period came the total collapse for the Strovolos team as AEL continue the offensice crescent and with Kalia Papadopoulou scoring her 7 points and 4 assists in the period and Asimina Koutsounouri (190-C) with Monika Gavriloska dominating in the rebounding area the diference reached its maximum by the end of the quarter as Keravnos scored in ten minutes 8 points while the defense of the Strovolos team was like a swiss cheese as had wholes all over and the 21 points is shpowing this fact.
Top scorers:
AEL: Monika Gavriloska 16 points, 14 rebounds, 2 assists, 3 steals, and 2 block shots, Kalia Papadopoulou 16 points, 10 assists, 4 steals and 3 rebounds, Asimina Koutsounouri 12 points and 4 rebounds, Tiana Raca (177-G-97) 7 points, 5 rebounds and 1 steal in 15 minutes!!
Keravnos: Michaela Vezenkova 18 points, 10 rebounds and 3 block shots

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

  CZECH REPUBLIC - Women

Wisla advance into Euroleague Final Eight - by Eurobasket News
USK Praha - Wisla 60:74

Wisla earned the second straight win over USK Praha to sweep the Euroleague eighth-final series. Ewelina Kobryn (193-C-82) posted 22 points to lead the Polish powerhouse into the Final Eight stage.
Wisla opened the game with six points in a row to set the tone. The Polish team dominated in the first term to take a 24:13 lead at the first break. Ewelina Kobryn stretched the margin to 17 points early in the second frame 33:16. USK Praha never really recovered as they faced a 13-point deficit at halftime 30:43. Wisla maintained the advantage throughout the third period. They entered the final stanza up by 13 points 57:44. USK Praha never got within striking distance in the fourth period as Wisla marched to the victory. Milka Bjelica (193-F-81) had 15 points and 12 rebounds, while Nicole Powell (188-G/F-82, agency: LBM Management, college: Stanford) and Erin Phillips (173-G-85) provided 12 points apiece in the win. Frida Eldebrink (174-G-88, agency: Josep and Nicolas), Katerina Elhotova (180-SG-89) and Viktoria Mircheva (190-C-87, agency: LBM Management) finished with 12 points each in the loss.

USK Praha: Frida Eldebrink 12, Katerina Elhotova 12, Viktoria Mircheva 12
Wisla: Ewelina Kobryn 22, Milka Bjelica 15+12 boards, Nicole Powell 12, Erin Phillips 12

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

  ESTONIA - Women

Nikolai's 28 points and 7 rebounds give her Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News
25-year old guard Mirjam Nikolai (177-G-86) put on an amazing game in the last round for league's best team KK Tallina U. and receives a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 8.
She had the game-high 28 points adding seven rebounds and five assists for KK Tallina U. in her team's victory, helping them to outclass Audentes SG/N. (#4, 1-9) with 31-point margin 87-56. The game was between two of the league's top four teams. It allowed KK Tallina U. to consolidate first place in the Estonian Meistriliiga. KK Tallina U. has a very good season and are considered to have a run for the championship title. They improved their record to 9-1. It's Nikolai's second year at KK Tallina U. and it's hard to imagine this team without her. Nikolai has impressive league stats. She is in league's top in points (3rd best: 16.0ppg), rebounds (8th best: 7.1rpg), assists (3rd best: 3.4apg) and averages solid 56.4% FGP.

Second best performed player last round was Annika Koster (185-F/C-92) of league's second-best Eclex Tallinn. She is a forward in her first season at Eclex Tallinn. In the last game Koster recorded impressive double-double of 13 points and 14 rebounds. Of course she lead Eclex Tallinn to another comfortable win outscoring slightly lower-ranked Audentes SG/N. (#4, 1-9) 83-48. It was definitely game of the week between two contenders to the title. Eclex Tallinn consolidated its place in top 2 of the standings. Her team's 7-2 record is not bad at all. Koster is a newcomer at Eclex Tallinn and quickly became one of team's most reliable players.

Third place about best performers goes to another Eclex Tallinn's star - forward Kerttu Jallai (180-F-90). Jallai scored 19 points and grabbed ten rebounds. She was another key player of Eclex Tallinn, helping her team with a 83-48 easy win against #4 ranked Audentes SG/N.. Eclex Tallinn needs these victories very badly if they think about taking over top position in the standings. Their record at this point is 7 victories and 2 lost games. Jallai has a great season in Estonia. After only 9 games, she made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 18.0ppg (best scorer), rebounds with 9.2rpg (2nd best) and assists with 3.0apg (4th best). She also has 2.1spg, 2.0bpg and FGP: 51.4%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Mirjam Nikolai (177-G-86) of KK Tallina U. - 16 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists
5. Pirgit Puu (170-PG-88) of KK Tallina U. - 22 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists
6. Trine Kasemagi (190-C-95) of KK Tallina U. - 21 points and 10 rebounds
7. Triin Teppo (186-F/C-90) of Tartu Ulikooli - 21 points and 8 rebounds
8. Kadri-Ann Lass (177-F-96) of Audentes SG/N. - 18 points
9. Merilin Metsalu (177-G-87) of Eclex Tallinn - 18 points and 2 rebounds
10. Pirgit Puu (170-PG-88) of KK Tallina U. - 15 points and 6 assists

The Player of the week is choosen based on efficiency calculation, but also including game result, importance of the game, if played recorded double-double/triple-double, etc.
The efficiency formula is a combination of various formulas used by different basketball organizations/leagues. We got involved many basketball scouts and journalists to assure it's accuracy.
The formula: 1.5*PTS + 3*(REB+AST+ST+BL-TO) - 2*BSAG - 4*PF + 3*PFRV + 4*(2FGPM+3FGPM) + 1.5*FTM - 3*(2FGPA-2FGPM) - 3*(3FGPA-3FGPM) - (FTA-FTM)

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

  EUROCUP - Women

Semifinals: First games - by Eurobasket News
Chevakata - Dynamo K. 62-71
Dynamo Kursk did a great job against Chevakata in Game One of the EuroCup Semifinals. Dynamo celebrated 62-71 road victory on Thursday night transferring 9-point lead to the second meeting. Of course, Dynamo will be the host in that one. Anna Petrakova (189-PF-84) was the leading player in victory with 17 points and 7 rebounds. Temeka Johnson (160-PG-82, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: LSU) and Ausra Bimbaite (178-SG-82) followed her with 13 points each. Michelle Snow (196-C-80, agency: LBM Management, college: Tennessee) was another player with very important role as she had double-double of 11 points and 13 rebounds. At the other side, Chevakata got 13 points from Juliya Kiseleva (200-C-85, agency: LBM Management). Jessica Davenport (196-C-85, college: Ohio St.) had 12 points and 5 rebs, while Katerina Keyru (182-G/F-88) stopped to 10 pts. Quarters: 12-21, 16-17, 16-19, 18-14. As mentioned above, the second game will be played in Kursk. The winner of this two-game duel will advance to the Finals.

Kayseri - Botas 77-65
Kayseri and Botas met last night in Game One of the EuroCup Semifinals. The home squad was better and managed to celebrate 77-65 victory. It means that Kayseri will go to Botas next week with plus 12 on its 'account'. Botas will be the host and the winner of this two-game duel will advance to EuroCup Finals. It will meet Dynamo Kursk or Chevakata. LaToya Sanders (191-PF-86, college: N.Carolina) stepped up for Kayseri with 20 points and 9 rebounds. She reached valuation 39! Nakia Sanford (194-C-76, agency: LBM Management, college: Kansas) had 18 points and 11 boards, while Bahar Ozturk (183-G/F-84, college: Connecticut) helped with 13 points and 5 rebs. In Botas, Courtney Paris (193-C-87, college: Oklahoma) exploded with 19 points and 22 rebounds. Monica Wright (180-F-88, agency: LBM Management, college: Virginia) and Quianna Chaney (180-G/F-86, college: LSU) scored 17 and 14 points respectively. Quarters: 22-17, 21-14, 17-19, 17-15. Game Two is scheduled for next Thursday.

Stats Leaders

PPG

RPG

APG

SPG

BPG

Points Per Game
Ify IBEKWE
  Dexia N.
  (187-PF-89)
  Avg: 21.5
1. Ibekwe, Dexia N. 21.5
2. Shields, Maccabi 21.3
3. Guzman, MBK R. 20.2
4. Madden, SISU 20.0
5. Williams, Nantes 19.8
6. Ely, Helios 19.2
7. Boddie, Helios 18.7
8. Zahui, Telge 18.7
9. Moss, Gran Canaria 18.6
10. Petrakova, Dynam. 18.1

Rebounds Per Game
Lyubov ALYOSHKINA
  Olimpia
  (203-C-81)
  Avg: 14
1. Alyoshkina, Olimpia 14.0
2. Paris, Botas 13.4
3. Zahui, Telge 12.2
4. Myasoedova, Dynam. 11.3
5. Sanders, Kayseri 11.0
6. Ndour, Gran Canaria 10.9
7. Grigalauskyt., Lem. 10.5
8. Madden, SISU 10.3
9. Coulibaly, Mondevi. 10.2
10. Ibekwe, Dexia N. 9.7

Assists Per Game
Caroline AUBERT
  Nantes
  (168-PG-80)
  Avg: 7
1. Aubert, Nantes 7.0
2. Kartaltepe Y., Bot. 6.8
3. Guzman, MBK R. 5.7
4. Vandersloot, Besik. 5.3
5. Boddie, Helios 5.2
6. Alexander, Fl.Foxes 4.7
7. Hodges-Lewis, Kay. 4.7
8. Manic, Landes 4.5
9. Troina, Gorizont 3.9
10. Johnson, Dynamo 3.9

Steals Per Game
Ksenia KOLOSOVSKAIA
  Dynam.
  (180-G-82)
  Avg: 3.3
1. Kolosovskaia, Dyna. 3.3
2. Moore, Chevakata 3.3
3. Arseneva, Dynamo 3.0
4. Shields, Maccabi 3.0
5. Carter, Union H. 2.9
6. Houts, Union H. 2.9
7. Hoffman, Besiktas 2.6
8. Vandersloot, Besik. 2.6
9. Bimbaite, Dynamo K. 2.6
10. Pierson, Maccabi 2.5

Blocks Per Game
LaToya SANDERS
  Kayseri
  (191-PF-86)
  Avg: 3.2
1. Sanders, Kayseri 3.2
2. Myasoedova, Dynam. 2.2
3. Khomenchuk, Goriz. 2.1
4. Pierson, Maccabi 2.0
5. Ndour, Gran Canaria 1.7
6. Kiseleva, Chevaka. 1.7
7. Paris, Botas 1.5
8. Meesseman, Young 1.5
9. Alyoshkina, Olimpia 1.5
10. Snow, Dynamo K. 1.4

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

  EUROLEAGUE - Women

Stats Leaders

PPG

RPG

APG

SPG

BPG

Points Per Game
Diana TAURASI
  Galatasa.
  (182-F/G-82)
  Avg: 21
1. Taurasi, Galatasa. 21.0
2. Bonner, Perfumer. 19.3
3. Charles, Galatasa. 18.5
4. McCoughtry, Fener. 18.2
5. Jones, Rivas Ecopo. 17.6
6. Augustus, Spartak 17.2
7. Taylor, Fenerbahce 17.2
8. Macchi, Familia Sc. 16.0
9. Powell, Wisla C. 15.9
10. De Souza, Perfume. 15.9

Rebounds Per Game
Cheryl FORD
  Familia Schio
  (191-F/C-81)
  Avg: 11.7
1. Ford, Familia Schio 11.7
2. Hollingswort., UNI 10.1
3. Bonner, Perfumer. 9.6
4. Brunson, Nadezhda. 9.1
5. Henry, Lotos Gdyn. 9.1
6. De Souza, Perfumer. 8.7
7. Jones, Rivas Ecopo. 8.7
8. Charles, Galatasa. 8.6
9. Wauters, Ros C. 8.4
10. Vaughn, Taranto 8.4

Assists Per Game
Sharnee ZOLL
  CCC P.
  (170-PG-86)
  Avg: 6.6
1. Zoll, CCC P. 6.6
2. Palau, Ros Casares 6.2
3. Ciglar, UNI S. 5.5
4. Penicheiro, USK P. 5.5
5. Bojovic, Good A. 5.0
6. Lawson-Wade, Latt. 4.9
7. McBride, Gospic 4.8
8. Dumerc, Bourges 4.7
9. Fegyverneky, UNIQ. 4.3
10. Dominguez, Ros C. 4.0

Steals Per Game
Sandra LINKEVICIENE
  VICI-.
  (176-G-82)
  Avg: 3.3
1. Linkeviciene, VICI. 3.3
2. Lyttle, Ros Casar. 2.5
3. Alben, Galatasaray 2.3
4. Cruz, Rivas Ecopol. 2.2
5. Linkeviciene, UMMC 2.1
6. Bojovic, Good A. 2.1
7. Skrela, Lattes M. 2.1
8. McCray, Good A. 2.0
9. Prince, Galatasaray 2.0
10. Bonner, Perfumer. 2.0

Blocks Per Game
Agnieszka MAJEWSKA
  CCC P.
  (195-C-82)
  Avg: 2.2
1. Majewska, CCC P. 2.2
2. Veremeenko, Nadez. 2.1
3. Moore, Ros Casares 1.7
4. Kulichova, USK P. 1.4
5. Ndongue, Bourges 1.2
6. Parker, UMMC 1.2
7. Vrsaljko, Gospic 1.1
8. Robinson, Frisco S. 1.1
9. Bonner, Perfumer. 0.9
10. Vieru, Good Angels 0.8

UMMC, Wisla, Schio, Fenerbahce and Ros Casares booked their Euroleague Final Eight places - by Eurobasket News
Good Angels - UMMC 49-75
UMMC paved their way into Euroleague Final Eight. They stunned Good Angels in Kosice to seal the eighth-final series sweep. Deanna Nolan (182-G/F-79, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Georgia) scored 19 points to lead the winners. Good Angels opened the game aggressively. They went on a 7:0 run to set ahead. But UMMC gradually took over. They finished the quarter strongly to claim a 19:16 lead. UMMC went on an 11:3 run early in the second term to boost the margin to 9 points. UMMC rallied to a 43:29 halftime lead. The low-scoring third term did not bring any relief for any side. UMMC however remained in charge leading by 12 points with ten minutes remaining. Good Angels ran out of steam in the final period. They managed just 10 points as UMMC cruised to the win. Sue Bird (175-G-80, college: Connecticut) posted 16 points, while Candace Parker (193-F/C-86, college: Tennessee) and Sandrine Gruda finished with 10 points each in the win. Danielle McCray (180-G/F-87, college: Kansas) and Erin Marie Lawless answered with 15 points each for Good Angels.

Bourges - Rivas Ecopolis 68-60
Bourges Basket avoided early elimination as they defeated visiting Rivas Ecopolis in the second game of best-of-three Euroleague eighth-final series. Nwal-Endene Miyem knocked down 13 points and grabbed 8 rebounds to lead the French to the victory. The series is now tied at 1-1 with the third and decisive game scheduled for February 29th in Spain. Bourges strongly entered the game posting a 16:6 lead midway through the first quarter. The hosts secured a 23:14 lead after ten minutes. The margin grew at 13-point mark midway through the second term 33:20. Aguilar capped the first half with a three-pointer as Rivas Ecopolis got within 9 points 33:42. Essence Carson (183-G-86, college: Rutgers) and Aguilar dragged the Spanish team within one 47:48 in the third term. Aguilar eventually tied things up at 50 after a three-pointer. Rivas Ecopolis pulled in front late in the period to enter the fourth term up two points 54:52. Rivas Ecopolis tipped off the final quarter with four points in a row to take a 58:52 lead. However Bourges Basket bounced back with a 16:2 run that sealed the victory for the hosts in the game. Emmeline Ndongue delivered 13 points, while Celine Dumerc (169-G-82) finished with 12 points and 8 assists for Bourges. Essence Carson answered with 21 points for Rivas Ecopolis. Asjha Jones (188-F-80, college: Connecticut) had 13 points and 8 caroms in the loss.

Nadezhda O. - Spartak V MR 87-75
Nadezhda celebrated a crucial win in Euroleague quarterfinal series versus Spartak Moscow Region. Aleksandr Kovalev team outgunned Spartak in Orenburg tonight to level the quarterfinal best-of-three series at 1-1. The decider is now set to be played in Vidnoe on February 29th. Katie Douglas (185-G/F-79, college: Purdue) came up with 27 points to lead the winners. Nadezhda opened the game with four points in a row. They soon piled up a 23:9 lead. But Spartak capped the opening frame with 8 points in a row to narrow the deficit. The visitors eventually pulled ahead in the second term. They secured a 35:32 lead with under three minutes to go in the first half. Spartak MR established a 41:38 halftime lead. The teams went neck and neck before Nadezhda sparked a 9:2 run to take a 59:52 lead midway through the third term. The hosts secured a 64:55 advantage at the final break. Spartak MR never got closer than five points in the fourth stanza as Nadezhda cruised to the win at the end. Rebekkah Brunson (191-F/C-81, agency: LBM Management, college: Georgetown) finished with 24 points and 10 rebounds for Nadezhda. Ekaterina Ruzanova (178-PG-82) added 14 points for the hosts. Seimone Augustus answered with 28 points for Spartak MR. Becky Hammon (168-G-77, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Colorado St.) provided 14 points in the loss.

Familia Schio - Perfumerias 82-72
Familia Schio needed overtime to eliminate the defending champions of EuroLeague. The Italian side beat Perfumerias 82:72 and advanced to the Final Eight. Familia Schio made 26-of-34 free shots during the game. They also forced 19 Perfumerias Avenida turnovers. Perfumerias Avenida started with 24-22, but the Italian team grabbed the lead at the halftime due to 21-16 in the second frame. The teams exchanged the narrow victories in the second half that gave 68:68 after four quarters. Schio had an opportunity to go in front in regulation but Laura Macchi (187-F-79) made just one of two free-throws. The best player for the winners was Janel McCarville who had a double-double by scoring 21 points and 11 rebounds. Forward Laura Macchi chipped in 24 points and 6 rebounds. American guard DeWanna Bonner (193-G-87, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Auburn) produced a double-double by scoring 22 points and 17 rebounds and Brazilian center Erika De Souza (197-C-82, agency: Josep and Nicolas) added 22 points and 9 rebounds respectively for the guests.

Lattes Montp. - Fenerbahce 72-80
Fenerbahce advanced to Final Eight of EuroLeague after a road win over Lattes Montpellier. The Turkish team took 80:72 victory in France to continue their streak in the tournament. The hosts won the opening period 24-21 and did their best to upset the favorite. Lattes even added 15-14 in the second frame to take 39:35 lead with Ana Lelas (183-G/F-83) s shot. The guests trailed by 4 points at the halftime before their 25-11 charge in the third quarter, which allowed them to win the game. Fenerbahce continued to pour in the points and stretched the advantage to 55:41 when Taylor again struck, taking her points haul to 23. Matovic was the last to score for the winners and Ana Lelas made the final result in the game. Australian forward Penny Taylor scored 27 points and 7 assists to lead the charge for the winners and Ivana Matovic (197-C-83) chipped in 14 points and 4 assists during the contest. Edwige Lawson-Wade (166-PG-79) responded with 10 points and guard Gaelle Skrela scored 9 points and 5 rebounds.

CCC Polkowice - Ros Casares 58-78
Ros Casares booked their Euroleague Final Eight ticket tonight. They shot down CCC in Polkowice to complete the sweep of eighth-final series. Maya Moore (182-F-89, college: Connecticut) stepped up with 20 points to lead the Spaniards. Ros Casares had little doubts in the outcome right from the start. The visitors grabbed the initiative and posted a 22:12 lead after ten minutes. Ros Casares maintained the lead throughout the second term. Moreover they stretched the gap to as many as 23 points at halftime 44:21. CCC could not recover in the second half. They hosts faced a massive 25-point deficit heading into the fourth frame and had to surrender at the end. Ann Wauters (194-C-80, agency: Josep and Nicolas) finished with 17 points and 12 rebounds, while Sancho Lyttle had 15 points and 12 rebounds in the win. Sharnee Zoll (170-PG-86, college: Virginia) notched 15 points for CCC. Iva Perovanovic finished with 10 points in the loss.

USK Praha - Wisla Can-Pak 60-74
Wisla earned the second straight win over USK Praha to sweep the Euroleague eighth-final series. Ewelina Kobryn posted 22 points to lead the Polish powerhouse into the Final Eight stage. Wisla opened the game with six points in a row to set the tone. The Polish team dominated in the first term to take a 24:13 lead at the first break. Ewelina Kobryn stretched the margin to 17 points early in the second frame 33:16. USK Praha never really recovered as they faced a 13-point deficit at halftime 30:43. Wisla maintained the advantage throughout the third period. They entered the final stanza up by 13 points 57:44. USK Praha never got within striking distance in the fourth period as Wisla marched to the victory. Milka Bjelica (193-F-81) had 15 points and 12 rebounds, while Nicole Powell and Erin Phillips (173-G-85) provided 12 points apiece in the win. Frida Eldebrink (174-G-88, agency: Josep and Nicolas), Katerina Elhotova and Viktoria Mircheva finished with 12 points each in the loss.

<<>><<>>

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

  FRANCE - Women

LFB Stats Leaders

PPG

RPG

APG

SPG

BPG

Points Per Game
Mistie MIMS
  Challes
  (191-C-83)
  Avg: 19.7
1. Mims, Challes 19.7
2. Gomis, Villeneuve 17.7
3. Akonga Nsimb., Arr. 17.5
4. Carter, Union H. 17.4
5. Sanni, Villeneuve 16.6
6. Hurst, Aix-en-P. 15.4
7. Williams, Nantes 14.7
8. Joens, Bourges 14.6
9. Stampalija, Union 13.6
10. Lawson-Wade, Lat. 13.6

Rebounds Per Game
Jennifer HUMPHREY
  Landes
  (191-C-84)
  Avg: 11.1
1. Humphrey, Landes 11.1
2. Carter, Union H. 9.6
3. Sanni, Villeneuve 9.0
4. Diawara, Charlevil. 8.9
5. Kraayeveld, Ville. 8.3
6. Aziz, Lyon 8.2
7. Skrba, Lattes M. 7.8
8. Akonga Nsimb., Arr. 7.7
9. Stampalija, Union 7.5
10. Mims, Challes 7.4

Assists Per Game
Kathy WAMBE
  Villeneuve
  (173-G-81)
  Avg: 5
1. Wambe, Villeneuve 5.0
2. Dumerc, Bourges 5.0
3. Aubert, Nantes 5.0
4. Sauret Gille., Lyon 4.8
5. Lawson-Wade, Latt. 4.6
6. Bouderra, Charlevi. 4.6
7. Manic, Landes 4.5
8. Sharp, Mondeville 4.3
9. Konate, Nice 4.2
10. Hurst, Aix-en-P. 3.5

Steals Per Game
Romy BAR
  Challes
  (189-F-87)
  Avg: 2.2
1. Bar, Challes 2.2
2. Kamba, Mondeville 2.2
3. Skrela, Lattes M. 2.1
4. Carter, Union H. 2.1
5. Houts, Union H. 2.0
6. Lawson-Wade, Latt. 1.8
7. Bouderra, Charlevi. 1.6
8. Konate, Nice 1.6
9. Dimitrova, Charlev. 1.6
10. Lima, Aix-en-P. 1.6

Blocks Per Game
Giedre PAUGAITE
  Mondeville
  (192-C-90)
  Avg: 1
1. Paugaite, Mondevil. 1.0
2. Sy-Diop, Lyon 1.0
3. Ndongue, Bourges 1.0
4. Neaves, Tarbes 0.9
5. Bonnan, Nantes 0.9
6. Thomas, Lyon 0.9
7. Cata-Chitiga, Tar. 0.8
8. Kraayeveld, Ville. 0.8
9. Page, Challes 0.7
10. Miyem, Bourges 0.7

Standings - LFB
LFB Standings

1. Bourges 17-4

2. Lattes Montp. 16-4

3. Challes 15-5

4. Mondeville 12-8

5. Landes 11-10

6. Tarbes 10-10

7. Union Hainaut 10-11

8. Nantes 10-11

9. Charleville 9-11

10. Villeneuve 9-11

11. Arras 8-12

12. Aix-en-Provence 6-14

13. Lyon 5-15

14. Nice 4-16

Fenerbahce advanced to Final Eight - by Eurobasket News
Lattes Montpellier - Fenerbahce 72:80

Fenerbahce advanced to Final Eight of EuroLeague after a road win over Lattes Montpellier. The Turkish team took 80:72 victory in France to continue their streak in the tournament.
The hosts won the opening period 24-21 and did their best to upset the favorite. Lattes even added 15-14 in the second frame to take 39:35 lead with Lelas s shot. The guests trailed by 4 points at the halftime before their 25-11 charge in the third quarter, which allowed them to win the game. Fenerbahce continued to pour in the points and stretched the advantage to 55:41 when Penny Taylor (185-F-81) again struck, taking her points haul to 23. Ivana Matovic (197-C-83) was the last to score for the winners and Lelas made the final result in the game.
Penny Taylor scored 27 points and 7 assists to lead the charge for the winners and Ivana Matovic chipped in 14 points and 4 assists during the contest. Edwige Lawson-Wade (166-PG-79) responded with 10 points and guard Gaelle Skrela scored 9 points and 5 rebounds.

Lattes Montpellier: Kristen Mann (188-F-83, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: UCSB) 13, Edwige Lawson-Wade 10
Fenerbahce: Penny Taylor 27, Angel McCoughtry (185-F-86, college: Louisville) 15, Ivana Matovic 14, Zane Tamane (200-C-83, college: W.Illinois) 12

Bourges hold off Rivas Ecopolis, stay alive in Euroleague playoffs - by Eurobasket News
Bourges Basket - Rivas Ecopolis 68:60

Bourges Basket avoided early elimination as they defeated visiting Rivas Ecopolis in the second game of best-of-three Euroleague eighth-final series. Nwal-Endene Miyem (188-PF-88) knocked down 13 points and grabbed 8 rebounds to lead the French to the victory. The series is now tied at 1-1 with the third and decisive game scheduled for February 29th in Spain.
Bourges strongly entered the game posting a 16:6 lead midway through the first quarter. The hosts secured a 23:14 lead after ten minutes. The margin grew at 13-point mark midway through the second term 33:20. Aguilar capped the first half with a three-pointer as Rivas Ecopolis got within 9 points 33:42. Essence Carson (183-G-86, college: Rutgers) and Aguilar dragged the Spanish team within one 47:48 in the third term. Aguilar eventually tied things up at 50 after a three-pointer. Rivas Ecopolis pulled in front late in the period to enter the fourth term up two points 54:52. Rivas Ecopolis tipped off the final quarter with four points in a row to take a 58:52 lead. However Bourges Basket bounced back with a 16:2 run that sealed the victory for the hosts in the game. Emmeline Ndongue (191-C-83) delivered 13 points, while Celine Dumerc (169-G-82) finished with 12 points and 8 assists for Bourges. Essence Carson answered with 21 points for Rivas Ecopolis. Asjha Jones (188-F-80, college: Connecticut) had 13 points and 8 caroms in the loss.

Bourges Basket: Nwal-Endene Miyem 13, Emmeline Ndongue 13, Celine Dumerc 12
Rivas Ecopolis: Essence Carson 21, Asjha Jones 13

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

  HOLLAND - Women

DS1 win from Den Helder - by Greg
STOL-Grasshoppers Katwijk played a home game on Tuesday night against Den Helder. The supporters saw the home team win. After a halftime score of 35-27, the game ended at 74-53 for coach Burhan Alibegovics team.
By Grasshoppers, Julia Dijkman (184-C-89) made a creditable comback after 2 months recovering from an injury, but Corine Manuputty was not able to play due to an injury.
Ex-Grasshoppers, Randell van der Lee, opened the match with a 3-pointer and free throw, but was directly answered by scores from Eline and Karin (9-4 after 4 minutes). STOL-Grasshoppers were finding the basket in this period, and took a lead of 22-11.
Den Helder came back strong in the 2nd period with the help of Laura Kooy, who scored 12 points in this quarter. For Grasshoppers, its Kelli who is scoring (8 points) while Eline is strong in the rebounding.
Den Helder is able to come closer in the 3rd period, but after a 3-pointer by Karin, 2 shots by Kelli, 4 of 4 free throws by Rianne and Julia, a lay-up by Janine, and 2x a 3-pointer by Karin and Sonja, STOL-Grasshoppers widen their lead to 56-32.
In the 4th period, junior Evelien Messemaker makes her debut. By then, the match is already won (70-40), but Den Helder is able to lessen the pain a bit when the game ends at 74-53.

Period stands: 22-11; 13-16; 22-9; 17-17.
Team shots: 11-30 3-threepointers, 14-34 twopointers, 13-22 free throws
Points: Karin Kuijt (175-G-90) 20 (+9 assist), Kelli Valentine (180-F-89, college: Portland St.) 16, Rianne Philippo (180-F-87) 12, Sonja Kuijt (179-F-93) 8, Eline Kraaijenoord (191-C-93) 7, Janine Guijt 7, Julia Dijkman 4.
Rebounds: Eline Kraaijenoord 18, Julia Dijkman 9.

On Saturday, Feb. 25, STOL-Grasshoppers DS1 play another home game at 20:15 against Eurosped Twente.

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

  ICELAND - Women

Standings - Women
Express L. Standings

1. Keflavik 19-4

2. Njardvik 17-6

3. KR 12-10

4. Snaefell 12-10

5. Haukar 12-11

6. Valur 8-15

7. Hamar 6-17

8. Fjolnir 5-18

Express L. Round 23: Snaefell beats Haukar by two after a very close game - by Eurobasket News
The games at this stage are more interesting as they can be crucial for the final standings in Regular Season. Despite we already know who is stronger and who is weaker, there may be still last minute susprises and upsets.

The most exciting game of round 23 in the Express L. took place in Stykkisholmur. This derby game ended with only two-point defeat on the road of 4th placed Haukar (12-11) to fifth ranked Snaefell (12-10) 77-75 on Wednesday evening. The hosts trailed by 3 points at the halftime before their 42-37 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Snaefell made 25-of-29 free shots (86.2 percent) during the game, while Haukar only scored seven points from the stripe. They outrebounded Haukar 40-25 including 29 on the defensive glass. American forward Kieraah Marlow (178-85) orchestrated the victory by scoring 26 points and 8 rebounds. Her fellow American import guard Jordan Murphree (183-87, college: Texas Tech, agency: Merit Sports) contributed with 21 points, 10 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals for the winners. Forward Iris Sverrisdottir (175-90) answered with 24 points and 6 rebounds for Haukar. Snaefell have a solid series of four victories in a row. They moved-up to third place, which they share with KR. Haukar at the other side dropped to the fifth position with 11 games lost. Snaefell is looking forward to face KR (#3) in Reykjavik in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Haukar will play at home against Fjolnir in Reykjavik and is hoping to win this game.
Another exciting game was a derby match between two teams from Reykjavik: Valur (#6) and Fjolnir (#8). Fjolnir was defeated at home 67-79 and even the advantage of their own court did not help. It was a great evening for American forward Lacey Simpson (185-86, college: Illinois) who led her team to a victory scoring 8 points, 19 rebounds, 5 assists and 5 steals. Kristrun Sigurjonsdottir helped adding 21 points and 4 assists. Valur's coach allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. American guard Britney Jones (170-87, college: UAB) responded with 28 points and 7 assists. Newly promoted Valur maintains sixth place with 8-15 record. Fjolnir lost seventh consecutive game. They stay at the bottom position with 18 games lost. Valur will play against league's leader Keflavik at home in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Fjolnir will play against Haukar (#5) in Hafnarfjordur and hopes to get back on the winning track.
An interesting game for Njardvik (17-6) which hosted in Njardvik 3rd placed KR (12-10). Second ranked Njardvik managed to get a 7-point victory 78-71. It was an exceptional evening for Lele Hardy who led the winners with a double-double by scoring 21 points, 23 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 steals. Njardvik's coach Sverrir Sverrisson used an eleven-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Margret Sturludottir came up with 21 points and 5 rebounds (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) for KR in the defeat. Njardvik maintains second place with 17-6 record having just two points less than leader Keflavik. KR lost third consecutive game. They keep the third position with ten games lost. They share it with Snaefell. Njardvik will meet Hamar (#7) on the road in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. KR will play against Snaefell (#4) in Stykkisholmur and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Express L. top team - Keflavik (19-4) managed to deliver another win. This time they beat seventh ranked Hamar (6-17) 73-61. Keflavik have a solid series of three victories in a row. Defending champion maintains first place with 19-4 record. Hamar at the other side keeps the seventh position with 17 games lost. Keflavik's next round opponent will be Valur (#6) in Reykjavik which should be theoretically an easy game. Hamar will play at home against the league's second-placed Njardvik.

Keflavik - Hamar
gschID: 142531

Fjolnir - Valur 67-79

Another exciting game was a derby match between two teams from Reykjavik: Valur (#6) and Fjolnir (#8). Fjolnir was defeated at home 67-79 and even the advantage of their own court did not help. The game was mostly controlled by Valur. Fjolnir was better in second period 21-17. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They made 16-of-18 charity shots (88.9 percent) during the game. It was a great evening for American forward Lacey Simpson (185-86, college: Illinois) who led her team to a victory scoring 8 points, 19 rebounds, 5 assists and 5 steals. The former international forward Kristrun Sigurjonsdottir (178-85) helped adding 21 points and 4 assists. Valur's coach allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. American guard Britney Jones (170-87, college: UAB) responded with 28 points and 7 assists and Australian-Greek power forward Katina Mandylaris (183-85) produced a double-double by scoring 13 points and 15 rebounds. Newly promoted Valur maintains sixth place with 8-15 record. Fjolnir lost seventh consecutive game. They stay at the bottom position with 18 games lost. Valur will play against league's leader Keflavik at home in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Fjolnir will play against Haukar (#5) in Hafnarfjordur and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Valur: M.Lechlitner 22+2reb+3ast, K.Sigurjonsdottir 21+3reb+4ast, U.Asgeirsdottir 11+3reb+1ast, M.Ben Erlingsdottir 9, L.Simpson 8+19reb+5ast, T.Bjarnadottir 4+6reb+3ast
Fjolnir: B.Jones 28+4reb+7ast, K.Mandylaris 13+15reb+3ast, J.Bradley 10+9reb, B.Eiriksdottir 6+1ast, H.Eva Valdimarsdottir 4+4reb+2ast, B.Ragnarsdottir 4+5reb+1ast
gschID: 142528

Snaefell - Haukar 77-75

The most exciting game of round 23 in the Express L. took place in Stykkisholmur. This derby game ended with only two-point defeat on the road of 4th placed Haukar (12-11) to fifth ranked Snaefell (12-10) 77-75 on Wednesday evening. The hosts trailed by 3 points at the halftime before their 42-37 charge in the second half, which allowed them to win the game. Snaefell made 25-of-29 free shots (86.2 percent) during the game, while Haukar only scored seven points from the stripe. They outrebounded Haukar 40-25 including 29 on the defensive glass. American forward Kieraah Marlow (178-85) orchestrated the victory by scoring 26 points and 8 rebounds. Her fellow American import guard Jordan Murphree (183-87, college: Texas Tech, agency: Merit Sports) contributed with a double-double by scoring 21 points, 10 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals for the winners. Forward Iris Sverrisdottir (175-90) answered with 24 points and 6 rebounds and American forward Hope Elam (185-89, college: Indiana) added 16 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists in the effort for Haukar. Snaefell have a solid series of four victories in a row. They moved-up to third place, which they share with KR. Haukar at the other side dropped to the fifth position with 11 games lost. Snaefell is looking forward to face KR (#3) in Reykjavik in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Haukar will play at home against Fjolnir in Reykjavik and is hoping to win this game.
Top scorers:
Snaefell: K.Marlow 26+8reb+3ast, J.Murphree 21+10reb+4ast, A.Jonsdottir 11+2reb+1ast, H.Kjartansdottir 8+11reb+1ast, H.Bjorgvinsdottir 5+3reb+1ast, B.Einarsdottir 4+2reb
Haukar: I.Sverrisdottir 24+6reb+3ast, H.Elam 16+9reb+4ast, J.Rhoads 16+2reb+8ast, M.Halfdanardottir 6+1reb+4ast, G.Osk Amundardottir 6+2reb, M.Sigurdardottir 3+3reb+1ast
gschID: 142529

Njardvik - KR 78-71

An interesting game for Njardvik (17-6) which hosted in Njardvik 3rd placed KR (12-10). Second ranked Njardvik managed to get a 7-point victory 78-71. KR was trailing by 2 points at halftime but managed to get 3-point lead after three quarters before a 22-12 charge of Njardvik, which allowed them to win the game. They made 16-of-20 free shots (80.0 percent) during the game. Njardvik outrebounded KR 47-35 including 34 on the defensive glass. It was an exceptional evening for American Lele Hardy (178-88, college: Clemson, agency: Merit Sports) who led the winners with a double-double by scoring 21 points, 23 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 steals. Her fellow American import guard Shanae Baker-Brice (168-87, college: Towson) accounted for 15 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists for the winning side. Njardvik's coach Sverrir Sverrisson used an eleven-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. The former international forward Margret Sturludottir (178-89, college: Elon) came up with 21 points and 5 rebounds (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) and American guard Erica Prosser (170-89, college: Lehigh) added 14 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists and 7 steals respectively for KR in the defeat. Njardvik maintains second place with 17-6 record having just two points less than leader Keflavik. KR lost third consecutive game. They keep the third position with ten games lost. They share it with Snaefell. Njardvik will meet Hamar (#7) on the road in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. KR will play against Snaefell (#4) in Stykkisholmur and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Njardvik: L.Hardy 21+23reb+5ast, P.Skuladottir 19+3reb, S.Baker-Brice 15+6reb+5ast, S.Saevarsdottir 7+7reb, I.Maria Einarsdottir 6+1reb+2ast, O.Helga Palsdottir 6+7reb+5ast
KR: M.Sturludottir 21+5reb+3ast, H.Halfdanardottir 18+2reb+2ast, E.Prosser 14+7reb+4ast, S.Amundadottir 8+14reb+2ast, A.Aevarsdottir 6+1reb, H.Saevarsdottir 4+1reb
gschID: 142530

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

  IRELAND - Women

BASKETBALL IRELAND WEEKLY PREVIEW - by Patrick Maher

BASKETBALL IRELAND WEEKLY PREVIEW

In the Nivea Womens SuperLeague, the leaders UL travel to the capital to play Meteors with coach James Weldon hoping for another professional performance.

Meteors have had a fine season, winning eight games and we certainly wont be complacent, said Weldon, whose side are looking for their 31st consecutive win.

DCU Mercy coach Mark Ingle was upbeat despite losing to UL and his side will get a chance to bounce back when they travel to play Killester in an interesting Dublin derby.

UL are a very good side but I was relatively happy that my team showed a lot of character, Mark said.

Killester are a good side that will be looking for some revenge after the cup semi final in January.

DCU Mercy will complete their double-header weekend when they entertain Ulster Rockets who pushed Waterford Wildcats close last week.

I was very happy in the manner we battled against Waterford Wildcats and the experience of playing in this league is standing to my players as the season matures, said the Rockets coach Breda Dick.

Liffey Celtics and Oblate Dynamos will have a rare old battle at the Leixlip centre with both sides looking to build on their solitary wins this season.

Singletons Supervalu Brunell fresh from their win over Oblate Dynamos will look forward to the visit of Waterford Wildcats as coach Kieran OLeary hopes for back-to-back wins.

We under-performed against Dynamos but if we get the same looks and our shots drop who knows what may happen against Wildcats, Kieran said.

Saturday February 25th 2012

Nivea Womens SuperLeague

11890 Killester (Dublin) v DCU Mercy (Dublin), IWA, 18:00; Liffey Celtics (Kildare) v Oblate Dynamos (Dublin), Leixlip Amenities Centre, 19:30

Basketball Ireland Womens Division One

Team Tom McCarthys St.Marys (Kerry) v Meteors (Dublin), Castleisland Community Centre, 19:45

Sunday February 26th 2012

Nivea Womens SuperLeague

DCU Mercy (Dublin) v Ulster Rockets (Belfast), DCU Sports Complex, 14:00; Singletons SuperValu Brunell (Cork) v Waterford Wildcats (Waterford), Parochial Hall, 14:45; Meteors (Dublin) v UL (Limerick), Colaiste Eoin/Iosagain, 15:00

Courtesy : Shane whelan .... www.basketballireland.ie

Rachel Clancy (175-G-88, college: Cal Poly - SLO)

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

  ITALY - Women

Familia Schio needed overtime to eliminate the defending champions - by Eurobasket News
Familia Schio - Perfumerias 82:72

Familia Schio needed overtime to eliminate the defending champions of EuroLeague. The Italian side beat Perfumerias 82:72 and advanced to the Final Eight.
Familia Schio made 26-of-34 free shots during the game. They also forced 19 Perfumerias Avenida turnovers. Perfumerias Avenida started with 24-22, but the Italian team grabbed the lead at the halftime due to 21-16 in the second frame. The teams exchanged the narrow victories in the second half that gave 68:68 after four quarters. Schio had an opportunity to go in front in regulation but Laura Macchi (187-F-79) made just one of two free-throws.
The best player for the winners was Janel McCarville (188-C-82, college: Minnesota) who had a double-double by scoring 21 points and 11 rebounds. Laura Macchi chipped in 24 points and 6 rebounds. American guard DeWanna Bonner (193-G-87, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Auburn) produced a double-double by scoring 22 points and 17 rebounds and Brazilian center Erika De Souza (197-C-82, agency: Josep and Nicolas) added 22 points and 9 rebounds respectively for the guests.

Perfumerias: Erika De Souza 22, DeWanna Bonner 22+17rebs, Marta Fernandez (178-F-81) 9
Familia Schio: Laura Macchi 24, Janel McCarville 21+11rebs, Liron Cohen (173-G-82) 17

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

  LITHUANIA - Women

Stats Leaders - LMKL

PPG

RPG

APG

SPG

BPG

Points Per Game
Gintare PETRONYTE
  Kibirk.
  (196-C-89)
  Avg: 18.4
1. Petronyte, Kibirk. 18.4
2. Zemantauskai., Sir. 17.5
3. Panasiuk, Ruta S. 17.3
4. Baliutaviciu., Rut. 15.4
5. Vengryte, Kibirk. 14.9
6. Melnikova, Suduva 14.9
7. Budryte, Utena 14.4
8. Svaryte, LK. 14.4
9. Milieskiene, Lemmi. 14.4
10. Pilypaitis, VICI-. 14.2

Rebounds Per Game
Gintare PETRONYTE
  Kibirk.
  (196-C-89)
  Avg: 13.7
1. Petronyte, Kibirk. 13.7
2. Alminaite, Sirenos 9.6
3. Baliutaviciu., Rut. 9.4
4. Taraseviciut., Sir. 8.9
5. Grigalauskyt., Lem. 8.4
6. Svaryte, LK. 8.0
7. Budryte, Utena 7.8
8. Balciunaite, LKKA-. 7.7
9. Melnikova, Suduva 7.5
10. Galdikaite, Kibir. 6.8

Assists Per Game
Sakellie DANIELS
  Kibirk.
  (170-G-84)
  Avg: 6.2
1. Daniels, Kibirk. 6.2
2. Zygelyte, Utena 6.1
3. Ziuzkova, Ruta S. 5.4
4. Pilypaitis, VICI-. 4.6
5. Kinkeviciene, Sudu. 3.7
6. Okockyte, VI. 3.5
7. Likhtarovich, VICI. 3.4
8. Sharovka, Lemminka. 3.4
9. Petronyte, Kibirk. 2.9
10. Baliutaviciu., Ru. 2.8

Steals Per Game
Sakellie DANIELS
  Kibirk.
  (170-G-84)
  Avg: 3.6
1. Daniels, Kibirk. 3.6
2. Sharovka, Lemminka. 3.5
3. Pilypaitis, VICI-. 3.1
4. Kinkeviciene, Sudu. 3.0
5. Milieskiene, Lemmi. 3.0
6. Ziuzkova, Ruta S. 2.7
7. Balciunaite, LKKA-. 2.4
8. Sauliute, VI. 2.4
9. Marmiene, LK. 2.3
10. Zemantauskai., Si. 2.1

Blocks Per Game
Kristina ALMINAITE
  Sirenos
  (204-C-90)
  Avg: 3.7
1. Alminaite, Sirenos 3.7
2. Petronyte, Kibirk. 3.4
3. Vengryte, Kibirk. 1.2
4. Maltseva, Suduva 1.0
5. Sipaviciute, VICI-. 1.0
6. Putnina, VI. 0.8
7. Melnikova, Suduva 0.8
8. Grigalauskyt., Lem. 0.7
9. Palaimaite, Utena 0.6
10. Galdikaite, Kibir. 0.6

Standings - LMKL
LMKL Standings

1. VICI-Aistes 21-0

2. Lemminkainen 14-7

3. Kibirkstis-Tiche 13-8

4. Sirenos 13-9

5. Utena 8-14

6. LKKA-Aistes 7-15

7. Suduva 5-16

8. Ruta Siauliai 5-17

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

  NCAA1 - Women

No. 10 Tennessee buckles under pressure again - by Eurobasket News
Tennessee started the season with its eyes on a returning to the Final Four. Now the 10th-ranked Lady Volunteers are scrambling to figure out what's going wrong with just one game left in the regular season.

Their latest stumble came with a 72-71 overtime loss to Arkansas on Thursday night, marking their third home loss this season a program record.

'It is frustrating because I know their ability and what they can do,' associate head coach Holly Warlick said. 'We just continue to dig ourselves a hole, and we've got to climb out of it.'

The Lady Volunteers (20-8, 11-4 Southeastern Conference) are running out of opportunities to do that. With the loss, they dropped to second in the SEC, clearing the way for Kentucky to claim the conference title with a win against Mississippi State on Sunday, the final day of the regular season.

Tennessee has lost each game that's come down to the final few possessions, including both overtime games its played, and has struggled on the road this season. The Lady Vols close the season at home on Sunday against Florida.

They're are under pressure to avoid missing out on the Final Four for a fourth straight season while wanting to win a national title to honor coach Pat Summitt, who announced in August that she had been diagnosed with early onset dementia.

After coming from behind against the Lady Razorbacks in the second half, they couldn't make the plays to seal a win. Arkansas got its first win ever in Knoxville, the second SEC team to accomplish that feat this season. South Carolina logged its first win in Knoxville on Feb. 2.

Shekinna Stricklen (6'2'-G/F-90) hit a layup for Tennessee with 48 seconds left to play to cut Arkansas' lead to 70-69, but missed two free throws on the following possession after Keira Peak turned the ball over and then bumped Stricklen while trying to guard her.

Kamiko Williams (5'11'-G) fouled Lyndsay Harris (5'9'-G-90), who sealed the win for Arkansas (21-6, 10-5) by hitting a pair of foul shots with 6 seconds left.

Peak then fouled Ariel Massengale to keep the Lady Vols from attempting a 3-pointer to tie the game. Massengale hit both of her foul shots, and Quistelle Williams (6'0'-F-90) missed a pair of free throws for Arkansas with 3 seconds left, but Stricklen couldn't get a half-court shot off before the buzzer.

'I have to sink the free throws,' Stricklen said. 'We had a bad first half, but we came back in the second half. We fought. We just had to step up, and we didn't make the free throws in the end.'

The Lady Vols held a 62-60 lead with 48 seconds left in regulation, but let C'eira Ricketts run right by them and dish the ball to Sarah Watkins, who hit a layup to tie the game at 62 with 9 seconds left and force overtime.

Harris led Arkansas with 20 points, Watkins had 18, and Ricketts finished with 16.

Stricklen led Tennessee with 17 points, all scored after halftime. Glory Johnson scored all 13 of her points in the second half.

The Lady Vols' defense had some success frustrating the Lady Razorbacks, who committed four shot-clock violations.

But when Arkansas could get a shot off, it often was a good one. The Lady Razorbacks shot 11 of 19 in the first half and finished 50 percent from the floor.

Watkins drained a 3-point shot and followed with a long jumper to give Arkansas a 21-16 lead with 7:29 in the first half, and the Lady Razorbacks entered halftime with a 31-26 lead nearly matching their points total in their 69-38 loss to the Lady Vols on Jan. 8.

Arkansas managed to keep Tennessee off the boards and out of the paint in the first half. The Lady Razorbacks outrebounded the Lady Vols 14-8 and limited them to 9-for-20 shooting before halftime.

Tennessee found some life after halftime from Stricklen and Johnson, who were a combined 0 for 4 with no rebounds in the first half.

Stricklen sank a pair of 3s to pull Tennessee within two points, and Massengale stole the ball from Ricketts and hit a layup to tie it at 44 with 12:08 to go. Johnson came up with key rebounds and found her way to the rim and free-throw line to help the Lady Vols keep a slight edge until just before the end of regulation.

'We dug ourselves a hole in the first half,' Warlick said. 'You can't have two of your best players not scoring and not rebounding.'

Courtesy of www.ajc.com

No. 17 Georgia Tech women top Virginia Tech 76-66 - by Eurobasket News
Sasha Goodlett's (6'5'-C-90) 18 points helped give the 17th-ranked Georgia Tech women a 76-66 victory over Virginia Tech Thursday night.

The win clinched a first-round bye for the Yellow Jackets (20-7, 11-4) in next week's Atlantic Coast Conference tournament and extended their school record for ACC wins in a season to 11.

Goodlett, the Jackets' center and leading scorer, hit 7 of 12 shots. Metra Walthour, who scored 14 points (going 7 for 7 at the foul line) helped Goodlett give Georgia Tech a 40-24 halftime lead. Nineteen of the Jackets' 40 first-half points came from the bench.

Georgia Tech led 46-28 early in the second half for its largest lead. Virginia Tech (7-21, 3-12) rallied behind Aerial Wilson (5'8'-G-91), who led the Hokies with 21 points, and cut the Jackets' lead to 55-48. But Georgia Tech made eight of 10 foul shots in the last two minutes to seal it.

Courtesy of www.foxnews.com

No. 2 Stanford women top Colorado 68-46 - by Eurobasket News
It's not often Tara VanDerveer heads to the home locker room at halftime with Stanford sitting on a slim lead. This time of year, she's fine with a little tournament test.

'At halftime I said, 'This is great for us to play against this,' VanDerveer said. 'They have some very athletic kids.'

No match for the Cardinal's crop.

Nnemkadi Ogwumike (6'2'-F-90) had 23 points and 11 rebounds, sister Chiney Ogwumike (6'3'-F-92) added 18 points and seven rebounds and second-ranked Stanford survived a slow start to roll past Pac-12 newcomer Colorado 68-46 on Thursday night.

Amber Orrange also scored seven points, including a three-point play to highlight a 19-2 run to open the second half that propelled the Cardinal (25-1, 16-0) to their 22nd straight win and 77th in a row at Maples Pavilion - the longest active home-winning streak in the nation. Stanford hasn't lost anywhere since a 68-58 setback at Connecticut on Nov. 21.

'I think it was just kind of our mentality and our aggressiveness,' Nnemkadi Ogwumike said. 'We realized what we needed to do against their pressure. We started attacking the basket and I think we started running the floor.'

Once Stanford started rolling, Colorado couldn't keep up.

Chucky Jeffery (5'10'-G-91) had 13 points and 13 rebounds and Ashley Wilson (5'8'-G) scored nine points for the Buffaloes (16-10, 5-10), who were down only eight at the half. Colorado, which started the season 12-0 for only the third time in school history, has lost three straight and six of the last seven games.

For a change, Stanford's start didn't overwhelm its opponent.

On the Cardinal's second possession of the game, Nnemkadi Ogwumike drove hard to the basket and delivered an elbow to Jen Reese's left eye while protecting the ball. Reese, who was called for a blocking foul, tumbled hard to the floor and stayed there for several minutes, emerging with light tears streaming under her bruised left eye.

The Buffaloes showed they could take a punch.

They hardly let the Cardinal coast the way they do so often at Maples Pavilion, hustling for loose balls and contesting every shot, even if it meant fouling back harder. The Buffaloes built a 12-11 lead, but had three players - Brittany Wilson, Rachel Hargis and Meagan Malcolm-Peck - with three fouls in the first 15 minutes, relegating each to the bench.

'We wanted to make sure we didn't back down,' Colorado coach Linda Lappe said. 'We weren't intimidated.'

Stanford closed an ugly, physical first half ahead 26-18 behind Ogwumike's strong inside presence despite shooting only 31.6 percent and committing 15 turnovers - seven by point guard Toni Kokenis alone. Colorado didn't do much better, shooting 32 percent with 11 turnovers, but the sloppy play kept it close.

If only for a half.

The Cardinal came out sprinting and showing the typical tenacity of Hall of Fame VanDerveer's teams following the break. The Ogwumike sisters each had a pair of high-driving layups and Orrange's three-point play over Julie Seabrook with 16:29 remaining started highlighted the huge spurt that put Stanford ahead 45-20.

Stanford already has clinched the inaugural Pac-12 title, its 12th straight conference crown and 21st overall, but VanDerveer surely knows her teams can't afford any early lapses if the program wants to return to its fifth straight Final Four - much less break the trend of those tearful plane rides home.

VanDerveer can earn her 700th victory at Stanford on Saturday against Utah. She would become the seventh Division I coach to reach the milestone at one school.

Not that anyone on The Farm is ready to rejoice - much.

Stanford also was presented the first Pac-12 regular-season trophy following the game, which the team clinched with a victory at Oregon last week. Chiney, who had a little foul trouble early in the game, was already sporting a fresh-minted championship T-shirt.

'I think we work really hard, and sometimes you have to stop and enjoy what you've done so far,' Chiney said. 'As a team, little things matter to us.'

Courtesy of https://sports.sportsillustrated.cnn.com

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

  POLAND - Women

Ros Casares thump CCC to reach Euroleague Final Eight - by Eurobasket News
CCC Polkowice - Ros Casares 58:78

Ros Casares booked their Euroleague Final Eight ticket tonight. They shot down CCC in Polkowice to complete the sweep of eighth-final series. Maya Moore (182-F-89, college: Connecticut) stepped up with 20 points to lead the Spaniards.
Ros Casares had little doubts in the outcome right from the start. The visitors grabbed the initiative and posted a 22:12 lead after ten minutes. Ros Casares maintained the lead throughout the second term. Moreover they stretched the gap to as many as 23 points at halftime 44:21. CCC could not recover in the second half. They hosts faced a massive 25-point deficit heading into the fourth frame and had to surrender at the end. Ann Wauters (194-C-80, agency: Josep and Nicolas) finished with 17 points and 12 rebounds, while Sancho Lyttle (192-C-83, college: Houston) had 15 points and 12 rebounds in the win. Sharnee Zoll (170-PG-86, college: Virginia) notched 15 points for CCC. Iva Perovanovic (189-C/F-83) finished with 10 points in the loss.

CCC: Sharnee Zoll 15, Iva Perovanovic 10
Ros Casares: Maya Moore 20, Ann Wauters 17+12 boards, Sancho Lyttle 15+12 boards

Wisla advance into Euroleague Final Eight - by Eurobasket News
USK Praha - Wisla 60:74

Wisla earned the second straight win over USK Praha to sweep the Euroleague eighth-final series. Ewelina Kobryn (193-C-82) posted 22 points to lead the Polish powerhouse into the Final Eight stage.
Wisla opened the game with six points in a row to set the tone. The Polish team dominated in the first term to take a 24:13 lead at the first break. Ewelina Kobryn stretched the margin to 17 points early in the second frame 33:16. USK Praha never really recovered as they faced a 13-point deficit at halftime 30:43. Wisla maintained the advantage throughout the third period. They entered the final stanza up by 13 points 57:44. USK Praha never got within striking distance in the fourth period as Wisla marched to the victory. Milka Bjelica (193-F-81) had 15 points and 12 rebounds, while Nicole Powell (188-G/F-82, agency: LBM Management, college: Stanford) and Erin Phillips (173-G-85) provided 12 points apiece in the win. Frida Eldebrink (174-G-88, agency: Josep and Nicolas), Katerina Elhotova (180-SG-89) and Viktoria Mircheva (190-C-87, agency: LBM Management) finished with 12 points each in the loss.

USK Praha: Frida Eldebrink 12, Katerina Elhotova 12, Viktoria Mircheva 12
Wisla: Ewelina Kobryn 22, Milka Bjelica 15+12 boards, Nicole Powell 12, Erin Phillips 12

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

  PORTUGAL - Women

Standings - Women
Liga Feminina Standings

1. Alges 15-1

2. AD Vagos 15-1

3. GDESSA 11-5

4. Boa Viagem 11-5

5. Lombos Quinta 9-7

6. CAB Madeira 8-6

7. AFC-Liberty S. 6-9

8. Montijobanda 6-9

9. Olivais 5-10

10. Barcelos 4-13

11. CDTorres N. 2-14

12. EMA Menres 2-14

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

  ROMANIA - Women

Freeman number one in Romania for round 23 - by Eurobasket News
American power forward Shanika Freeman (183-F/C-83) put on an extraordinary performance in the last round for Satu Mare, receiving a Eurobasket.com Player of the Week award for round 23.
The 28-year old player had a double-double of 17 points and 18 rebounds, while her team outclassed Cluj Napoca (#11, 4-15) with 46-point margin 89-43. Satu Mare maintains the 6th position in Romanian D1. They would have been even better if they hadn't lost a few games earlier this season. Satu Mare will need more victories to improve their 13-6 record. Freeman just recently signed at Satu Mare, being already a very valuable addition to the team. Shanika Freeman averages this season 11.5ppg and 9.7rpg.

The second best player in last round's games was 26-year old American Chrissy Givens (180-F-85) of league's leader Targoviste. Givens had a very good evening with 23 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. Of course she lead Targoviste to another comfortable win outscoring the lower-ranked Sp.Studentesc (#9, 10-9) 100-66. This victory allowed Targoviste to move up to 1st position in the standings. Her team belongs to top of the standings with 19-1 record and is considered one of the main candidates for the league title. Givens is one of the most experienced players at Targoviste and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players. She belongs to the best scorers in the league with 15.9ppg (#9). Her other stats are also decent: 6.1rpg and 3.5apg.

Third on the list of top players last round was Hungarian center Judit Kajdacsi (192-C-79, agency: Laszlo Vinko Group) of Brasov (#10). Kajdacsi scored 20 points and grabbed fifteen rebounds (!!!). She was a key player of Brasov, leading her team to a 81-60 easy win against the lower-ranked Olimpia (#13, 3-17). The chances of Brasov ranking at the top of the league, however are very questionable as they have already lost 12 games, recording just eight victories. With bigger assistance of his teammates, Kajdacsi could help Brasov to bring them higher in the standings. Kajdacsi has a great season in Romania. After 19 games, she made it on the list of the league's leaders in rebounds with 13.1rpg (#1 in league).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Veronica Hicks (175-G-89) of Targu Mures - 29 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists
5. Monique Coker (188-F/C-82) of Targoviste - 26 points and 4 rebounds
6. Khadijah Whittington (186-F-86) of Satu Mare - 16 points, 10 rebounds and 2 assists
7. Nadia Parker (191-C-87) of Alba Iulia - 22 points, 8 rebounds and 3 assists
8. Paula Cristina Ciocan (183-F/G-82) of Targoviste - 9 points, 6 rebounds and 12 assists
9. Adina Stoiedin (186-C/F-91) of Timisoara - 19 points and 9 rebounds
10. Chevon Keith (178-G-86) of Sp.Studentesc - 22 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists

The Player of the week is choosen based on efficiency calculation, but also including game result, importance of the game, if played recorded double-double/triple-double, etc.
The efficiency formula is a combination of various formulas used by different basketball organizations/leagues. We got involved many basketball scouts and journalists to assure it's accuracy.
The formula: 1.5*PTS + 3*(REB+AST+ST+BL-TO) - 2*BSAG - 4*PF + 3*PFRV + 4*(2FGPM+3FGPM) + 1.5*FTM - 3*(2FGPA-2FGPM) - 3*(3FGPA-3FGPM) - (FTA-FTM)

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

  RUSSIA - Women

Dynamo Kursk celebrates 62-71 victory in Volgoda - by Eurobasket News
Chevakata - Dynamo Kursk 62-71

Dynamo Kursk did a great job against Chevakata in Game One of the EuroCup Semifinals. Dynamo celebrated 62-71 road victory on Thursday night transferring 9-point lead to the second meeting. Of course, Dynamo will be the host in that one. Anna Petrakova (189-PF-84) was the leading player in victory with 17 points and 7 rebounds. Temeka Johnson (160-PG-82, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: LSU) and Ausra Bimbaite (178-SG-82) followed her with 13 points each. Michelle Snow (196-C-80, agency: LBM Management, college: Tennessee) was another player with very important role as she had double-double of 11 points and 13 rebounds. At the other side, Chevakata got 13 points from Juliya Kiseleva (200-C-85, agency: LBM Management). Jessica Davenport (196-C-85, college: Ohio St.) had 12 points and 5 rebs, while Katerina Keyru (182-G/F-88) stopped to 10 pts. Quarters: 12-21, 16-17, 16-19, 18-14. As mentioned above, the second game will be played in Kursk. The winner of this two-game duel will advance to the Finals.

Chevakata: Juliya Kiseleva 13, Jessica Davenport 12+5, Katerina Keyru 10
Dynamo Kursk: Anna Petrakova 17+7 boards, Temeka Johnson 13, Ausra Bimbaite 13, Michelle Snow 11+13 boards

Nadezhda beat Spartak MR to force decider - by Eurobasket News
Nadezhda - Spartak MR 87:75

Nadezhda celebrated a crucial win in Euroleague quarterfinal series versus Spartak Moscow Region. Aleksandr Kovalev team outgunned Spartak in Orenburg tonight to level the quarterfinal best-of-three series at 1-1. The decider is now set to be played in Vidnoe on February 29th. Katie Douglas (185-G/F-79, college: Purdue) came up with 27 points to lead the winners.
Nadezhda opened the game with four points in a row. They soon piled up a 23:9 lead. But Spartak capped the opening frame with 8 points in a row to narrow the deficit. The visitors eventually pulled ahead in the second term. They secured a 35:32 lead with under three minutes to go in the first half. Spartak MR established a 41:38 halftime lead. The teams went neck and neck before Nadezhda sparked a 9:2 run to take a 59:52 lead midway through the third term. The hosts secured a 64:55 advantage at the final break. Spartak MR never got closer than five points in the fourth stanza as Nadezhda cruised to the win at the end. Rebekkah Brunson (191-F/C-81, agency: LBM Management, college: Georgetown) finished with 24 points and 10 rebounds for Nadezhda. Ekaterina Ruzanova (178-PG-82) added 14 points for the hosts. Seimone Augustus (187-G-84, college: LSU) answered with 28 points for Spartak MR. Becky Hammon (168-G-77, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Colorado St.) provided 14 points in the loss.

Nadezhda: Katie Douglas 27, Rebekkah Brunson 24+10 boards, Ekaterina Ruzanova 14
Spartak MR: Seimone Augustus 28, Becky Hammon 14

UMMC stun Good Angles in Kosice - by Eurobasket News
Good Angels - UMMC 49:75

UMMC paved their way into Euroleague Final Eight. They stunned Good Angels in Kosice to seal the eighth-final series sweep. Deanna Nolan (182-G/F-79, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Georgia) scored 19 points to lead the winners.
Good Angels opened the game aggressively. They went on a 7:0 run to set ahead. But UMMC gradually took over. They finished the quarter strongly to claim a 19:16 lead. UMMC went on an 11:3 run early in the second term to boost the margin to 9 points. UMMC rallied to a 43:29 halftime lead. The low-scoring third term did not bring any relief for any side. UMMC however remained in charge leading by 12 points with ten minutes remaining. Good Angels ran out of steam in the final period. They managed just 10 points as UMMC cruised to the win. Sue Bird (175-G-80, college: Connecticut) posted 16 points, while Candace Parker (193-F/C-86, college: Tennessee) and Sandrine Gruda (193-C-87) finished with 10 points each in the win. Danielle McCray (180-G/F-87, college: Kansas) and Erin Marie Lawless (188-F-85, agency: LBM Management, college: Purdue) answered with 15 points each for Good Angels.

Good Angels: Danielle McCray 15, Erin Marie Lawless 15
UMMC: Deanna Nolan 19, Sue Bird 16, Candace Parker 10, Sandrine Gruda 10

Spartak refuced to participate in the BWBL Championship - by Eurobasket News
'Spartak' St. Petersburg, Russia, due to financial difficulties refused to participate in the XVIII Baltic Women's Basketball League (BWBL) Championship.

'Berezina-RCOR' Borisov, Belarus, (III place in group B) replaces 'Spartak' in the second stage of the BWBL Championship ('Sirenos' Kaunas and 'Kibirkstis-Tiche-Iki' Vilnius refused to participate).

Final Four tournament will be held on 20-22 of April, 2012.
Courtesy of: https://www.bwbl.lt

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

  SERBIA - Women

Stats Leaders - 1A women

PPG

RPG

APG

SPG

BPG

Points Per Game
Jela VIDACIC
  Proleter
  (190-C-85)
  Avg: 27
1. Vidacic, Proleter 27.0
2. Beljanski, Spartak 22.4
3. Katic, Radnicki KG 20.8
4. Maric, Celarevo 19.6
5. Vasic, Celarevo 18.9
6. Grubor, Jagodina. 17.4
7. Ilic, Student 16.9
8. Prvulovic, Radnick. 16.7
9. Kovacic, Jagodina. 16.6
10. Tomasevic, Crvena 16.1

Rebounds Per Game
Jela VIDACIC
  Proleter
  (190-C-85)
  Avg: 14.8
1. Vidacic, Proleter 14.8
2. Crvendakic, Loznica 11.9
3. Carkic, Proleter 9.8
4. Maric, Celarevo 9.7
5. Velisavljevi., Sab. 9.6
6. Marinkov, Proleter 9.6
7. Ilic, Student 9.5
8. Kovacic, Jagodina. 9.1
9. Emese, Spartak 8.7
10. Karakasevic, Crve. 8.1

Assists Per Game
Tamara PETKOVIC
  Jagodina.
  (170-G-89)
  Avg: 4.5
1. Petkovic, Jagodina. 4.5
2. Vasic, Celarevo 4.1
3. Vidacic, Proleter 3.7
4. Musulin, Stara P. 3.7
5. Vidakovic, Sabac 3.6
6. Ruzic, Jagodina. 3.5
7. Crvendakic, Loznica 3.5
8. Grahovac, Beocin 3.4
9. Beljanski, Spartak 3.3
10. Stanacev, Crvena 3.3

Steals Per Game
Jovana MILOVANOVIC
  Vrbas
  (171-G-83)
  Avg: 3.5
1. Milovanovic, Vrbas 3.5
2. Milosevic, Radnick. 3.4
3. Veselinovic, Spart. 3.2
4. Niksic, Crvena Z. 3.1
5. Emese, Spartak 3.1
6. Katic, Radnicki KG 2.8
7. Beljanski, Spartak 2.8
8. Vidacic, Proleter 2.8
9. Golubovic, Beocin 2.5
10. Cetkovic, Vrbas 2.5

Blocks Per Game
Aleksandra CRVENDAKIC
  Loznica
  (187-C/F-96)
  Avg: 2.6
1. Crvendakic, Loznica 2.6
2. Varda, Beocin 2.4
3. Terzic, Celarevo 1.5
4. Carkic, Proleter 1.4
5. Vidacic, Proleter 1.3
6. Velisavljevi., Sab. 1.2
7. Vukovic, Stara P. 1.1
8. Rajic, Vrbas 1.1
9. Mijatovic, Vrbas 0.9
10. Emese, Spartak 0.8

Standings - Women
A Standings

1. Crvena Zvezda 19-1

2. Jagodina 2001 16-3

3. Vrbas 13-7

4. Sabac 12-8

5. Radnicki KG 10-10

6. Beocin 9-11

7. Celarevo 9-11

8. Stara Pazova 8-12

9. Student 8-12

10. Spartak 7-13

11. Proleter 5-14

12. Loznica 3-17

Play in international cups:

1. Hemofarm 0-0

2. Partizan 0-0

3. Radivoj Korac 0-0

4. Vojvodina 0-0

5. Vozdovac 0-0

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

  SLOVAKIA - Women

UMMC stun Good Angles in Kosice - by Eurobasket News
Good Angels - UMMC 49:75

UMMC paved their way into Euroleague Final Eight. They stunned Good Angels in Kosice to seal the eighth-final series sweep. Deanna Nolan (182-G/F-79, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Georgia) scored 19 points to lead the winners.
Good Angels opened the game aggressively. They went on a 7:0 run to set ahead. But UMMC gradually took over. They finished the quarter strongly to claim a 19:16 lead. UMMC went on an 11:3 run early in the second term to boost the margin to 9 points. UMMC rallied to a 43:29 halftime lead. The low-scoring third term did not bring any relief for any side. UMMC however remained in charge leading by 12 points with ten minutes remaining. Good Angels ran out of steam in the final period. They managed just 10 points as UMMC cruised to the win. Sue Bird (175-G-80, college: Connecticut) posted 16 points, while Candace Parker (193-F/C-86, college: Tennessee) and Sandrine Gruda (193-C-87) finished with 10 points each in the win. Danielle McCray (180-G/F-87, college: Kansas) and Erin Marie Lawless (188-F-85, agency: LBM Management, college: Purdue) answered with 15 points each for Good Angels.

Good Angels: Danielle McCray 15, Erin Marie Lawless 15
UMMC: Deanna Nolan 19, Sue Bird 16, Candace Parker 10, Sandrine Gruda 10

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

  SLOVENIA - Women

Standings - Women
SKL Standings

1. Athlete Celje 16-1

2. Triglav 16-1

3. Grosuplje 12-5

4. AJM Maribor 11-6

5. Ilrija 9-7

6. Jezica 8-8

7. Pomurje 5-11

8. Rogaska 4-12

9. Domzale 2-14

10. Odeja KED 0-18

Play in international cups:

1. Hit K.Gora -

Stats Leaders - Women

PPG

RPG

APG

SPG

BPG

Points Per Game
Kristina BALTIC
  AJM M.
  (187-F/C-90)
  Avg: 18.9
1. Baltic, AJM M. 18.9
2. Trebec, Athlete 18.8
3. Jevtovic, Grosuplje 17.0
4. Rupnik, Jezica 16.9
5. Oblak, Athlete Cel. 16.8
6. Kuzma, Pomurje 16.8
7. Orozovic, Athlete 16.5
8. Vukovic, Domzale 15.6
9. Svetic, Rogaska 14.0
10. Zdolsek, Triglav 13.9

Rebounds Per Game
Kristina BALTIC
  AJM M.
  (187-F/C-90)
  Avg: 12.2
1. Baltic, AJM M. 12.2
2. Gajic, Athlete Cel. 9.5
3. Pirsic, Triglav 8.9
4. Skof, Ilrija 8.4
5. Vukovic, Domzale 8.3
6. Drozg, AJM Maribor 8.3
7. Jevtovic, Grosuplje 8.3
8. Muhovic, Rogaska 7.9
9. Lisec, Grosuplje 7.4
10. Jakovina, Grosupl. 7.3

Assists Per Game
Teja OBLAK
  Athlete Celje
  (171-G-90)
  Avg: 5.1
1. Oblak, Athlete Cel. 5.1
2. Zupancic, Grosuplje 4.7
3. Gabrovsek, Athlet. 4.7
4. Jurse, Rogaska 4.2
5. Duric, Triglav 3.3
6. Rupnik, Jezica 2.8
7. Radulovic, Triglav 2.7
8. Kuzma, Pomurje 2.6
9. Trebec, Athlete 2.6
10. Panic, Grosuplje 2.5

Steals Per Game
Alina GJERKES
  Grosuplje
  (177-F-94)
  Avg: 3.2
1. Gjerkes, Grosuplje 3.2
2. Rupnik, Jezica 3.2
3. Drozg, AJM Maribor 3.0
4. Zupancic, Grosuplje 2.6
5. Jakovina, Grosuplje 2.6
6. Bajrektarevi., Ilr. 2.5
7. Oblak, Athlete Cel. 2.4
8. Gabrovsek, Athlet. 2.3
9. Svetic, Rogaska 2.3
10. Meden, Ilrija 2.2

Blocks Per Game
Sanja OROZOVIC
  Athlete .
  (184-G-90)
  Avg: 1
1. Orozovic, Athlete 1.0
2. Drozg, AJM Maribor 0.8
3. Trebec, Athlete 0.7
4. Lisec, Grosuplje 0.7
5. Sekolonik, Jezica 0.6
6. Rozman, Grosuplje 0.6
7. Lesnjak, Ilrija 0.6
8. Vukovic, Domzale 0.6
9. Pavli, Domzale 0.5
10. Baltic, AJM M. 0.5

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

  SOUTH KOREA - Women

Standings - WKBL
WKBL Standings

1. S-Birds 28-7

2. Winnus 20-15

3. KB Stars 20-16

4. Bichumi 19-16

5. Cool Cats 13-23

6. Woori Hansae 6-29

WKBL Stats Leaders

PPG

RPG

APG

SPG

BPG

Points Per Game
Jung-Eun KIM
  Cool Cats
  (180-F-87)
  Avg: 18.4
1. Kim, Cool Cats 18.4
2. Jung, KB Stars 16.6
3. Kim, S-Birds 15.6
4. Kim, Cool Cats 15.5
5. Lee, S-Birds 15.4
6. Sin, Winnus 15.1
7. Cho, Winnus 14.6
8. Kang, S-Birds 14.5
9. Han, Winnus 14.1
10. Lee, Bichumi 13.5

Rebounds Per Game
Jung Ja SIN
  Winnus
  (185-F/C-80)
  Avg: 12.4
1. Sin, Winnus 12.4
2. Heo, Cool Cats 8.8
3. Kang, S-Birds 8.1
4. Jung, KB Stars 7.6
5. Bae, Woori Hansae 6.8
6. Choi, S-Birds 6.0
7. Lee, Bichumi 5.9
8. Jung, KB Stars 5.9
9. Kim, Bichumi 5.9
10. Kim, S-Birds 5.9

Assists Per Game
Mi Sun LEE
  Bichumi
  (175-G-79)
  Avg: 7
1. Lee, Bichumi 7.0
2. Kim, Cool Cats 6.4
3. Choi, S-Birds 6.1
4. Park, Bichumi 4.3
5. Beon, KB Stars 4.3
6. Sin, Winnus 4.1
7. Lee, Winnus 3.9
8. Kim, S-Birds 3.8
9. Heo, Cool Cats 3.8
10. Park, KB Stars 3.3

Steals Per Game
Mi Sun LEE
  Bichumi
  (175-G-79)
  Avg: 2.4
1. Lee, Bichumi 2.4
2. Han, Winnus 2.2
3. Roberson, Bichumi 1.6
4. Choi, S-Birds 1.5
5. Lee, S-Birds 1.5
6. Beon, KB Stars 1.4
7. Jung, KB Stars 1.2
8. Heo, Cool Cats 1.1
9. Bae, Woori Hansae 1.1
10. Park, Bichumi 1.0

Blocks Per Game
Sun-Hwa JUNG
  KB Stars
  (184-C/F-85)
  Avg: 1.5
1. Jung, KB Stars 1.5
2. Sin, Winnus 1.4
3. Kim, S-Birds 1.1
4. Gang, Cool Cats 1.1
5. Kang, S-Birds 1.1
6. Bae, Woori Hansae 0.9
7. Kim, Cool Cats 0.8
8. Yang, Woori Hansae 0.7
9. Heo, Cool Cats 0.6
10. Roberson, Bichumi 0.6

WKBL Round 35: KB Stars beat Cool Cats by three after a very close game - by Eurobasket News
The games at this stage are more interesting as they can be crucial for the final standings in Regular Season. Despite we already know who is stronger and who is weaker, there may be still last minute susprises and upsets.

Fifth-ranked Cool Cats (13-23) used its home court advantage to challenge fourth ranked KB Stars (20-16) in Bucheon on Friday. The visitors from Seoul managed to secure only three-point victory 69-66. However their fans expected easier game. Cool Cats were trailing by 1 point at halftime but managed to get 8-point lead after three quarters before a 21-10 charge of KB Stars, which allowed them to win the game. They made 19-of-25 free shots (76.0 percent) during the game. 24 personal fouls committed by Cool Cats helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The former international power forward Sun-Hwa Jung (184-85) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 17 points and 10 rebounds. The former international center Sun-Min Jung (185-74) contributed with 15 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists for the winners. International guard Ji-Yoon Kim (170-76) answered with 25 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists for Cool Cats. KB Stars have a solid series of three victories in a row. They moved-up to third place. Cool Cats at the other side keep the fifth position with 23 games lost. KB Stars are looking forward to face bottom-ranked Woori Hansae (#6) in Chuncheon in the next round. Cool Cats will play at home against Bichumi in Yongin and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
An interesting game for S-Birds (28-7) which hosted in Anshan second-ranked Winnus (20-15). First ranked S-Birds had an easy win 89-68. It was a great evening for international forward Youn-Hoa Lee (178-83) who led her team to a victory scoring 24 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. Young-Suk Kang helped adding 18 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists. S-Birds' coach felt very confident using 10 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. International power forward Jung Ja Sin (185-80) responded with 16 points and 9 rebounds. Defending champion maintains first place with 28-7 record. Winnus lost fifth consecutive game. They keep the second position with 15 games lost. S-Birds will again play against league's second-placed Winnus in Guri in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Winnus will have a break next round.
The game in Chuncheon was also quite interesting. Fourth ranked Bichumi (19-16) played at the court of 6th ranked Woori Hansae (6-29). Bichumi defeated Woori Hansae 59-43 on Wednesday. It was an exceptional evening for Kwe-Ryong Kim who led the winners with a double-double by scoring 10 points, 11 rebounds and 8 assists. Hye-Jin Park came up with 14 points and 5 rebounds for Woori Hansae in the defeat. Bichumi have a solid series of four victories in a row. They maintain fourth place with 19-16 record. Woori Hansae lost third consecutive game. They stay dead last with 29 lost games. Bichumi will meet Cool Cats (#5) in the next round. Woori Hansae will play again against Bichumi in Yongin and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

Woori Hansae - Bichumi 43-59

The game in Chuncheon was also quite interesting. Fourth ranked Bichumi (19-16) played at the court of 6th ranked Woori Hansae (6-29). Bichumi defeated Woori Hansae 59-43 on Wednesday. The game was mostly controlled by Bichumi. Woori Hansae managed to win second period 14-13. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. They dominated on the defensive end, holding Woori Hansae to just 7 points in fourth quarter. Bichumi held Woori Hansae to an opponent 23.5 percent shooting from the field compared to 39.3 percent accuracy of the winners. They outrebounded Woori Hansae 47-24 including a 34-19 advantage in defensive rebounds. Bichumi looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists comparing to just 8 passes made by Woori Hansae's players. It was an exceptional evening for the former international center Kwe-Ryong Kim (192-79) who led the winners with a double-double by scoring 10 points, 11 rebounds and 8 assists. The former international guard Tae-Eun Park (170-87) accounted for 19 points and 6 rebounds for the winning side. The former international guard Hye-Jin Park (178-90) came up with 14 points and 5 rebounds and the former international forward Hye-Yoon Bae (182-89) added 10 points respectively for Woori Hansae in the defeat. Bichumi have a solid series of four victories in a row. They maintain fourth place with 19-16 record. Woori Hansae lost third consecutive game. They stay dead last with 29 lost games. Bichumi will meet Cool Cats (#5) in the next round. Woori Hansae will play again against Bichumi in Yongin and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Woori Hansae: H.Park 14+5reb, H.Bae 10+2reb+3ast, Y.Lim 4+2reb, A.Go 4+2reb+2ast, S.Ji 4+5reb+1ast, J.Lee 4+1reb
Bichumi: T.Park 19+6reb+2ast, S.Lee 11+6reb+1ast, K.Kim 10+11reb+8ast, G.Jeon 7+5reb, J.Park 6+10reb+9ast, K.Roberson 4+5reb+1ast
gschID: 146898

S-Birds - Winnus 89-68

An interesting game for S-Birds (28-7) which hosted in Anshan second-ranked Winnus (20-15). First ranked S-Birds had an easy win 89-68. The game without a history. S-Birds led from the first minutes and controlled entire game increasing their lead in each quarter. They made 19-of-24 charity shots (79.2 percent) during the game. S-Birds players were unselfish on offense dishing 21 assists. It was a great evening for international forward Youn-Hoa Lee (178-83) who led her team to a victory scoring 24 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. The former international center Young-Suk Kang (187-81) helped adding 18 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists. Five S-Birds players scored in double figures. S-Birds' coach felt very confident using 10 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. International power forward Jung Ja Sin (185-80) responded with 16 points and 9 rebounds and the former international guard Kyung-Eun Lee (176-87) scored 16 points. Defending champion maintains first place with 28-7 record. Winnus lost fifth consecutive game. They keep the second position with 15 games lost. S-Birds will again play against league's second-placed Winnus in Guri in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Winnus will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
Winnus: J.Ja Sin 16+9reb+1ast, K.Lee 16+2reb+3ast, C.Han 10+4reb+1ast, B.Kim 9+2reb+1ast, E.Joo Cho 8+5reb+5ast, J.Won 6+3reb
S-Birds: Y.Lee 24+6reb+5ast, D.Kim 20+4reb+4ast, Y.Kang 18+8reb+4ast, Y.Choi 11+4reb+6ast, Y.Kim 10+5reb+1ast, G.Kim 4+3reb+1ast
gschID: 146899

Cool Cats - KB Stars 66-69

Fifth-ranked Cool Cats (13-23) used its home court advantage to challenge fourth ranked KB Stars (20-16) in Bucheon on Friday. The visitors from Seoul managed to secure only three-point victory 69-66. However their fans expected easier game. Cool Cats were trailing by 1 point at halftime but managed to get 8-point lead after three quarters before a 21-10 charge of KB Stars, which allowed them to win the game. They made 19-of-25 free shots (76.0 percent) during the game. 24 personal fouls committed by Cool Cats helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The former international power forward Sun-Hwa Jung (184-85) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 17 points and 10 rebounds. The former international center Sun-Min Jung (185-74) contributed with 15 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists for the winners. Four KB Stars players scored in double figures. International guard Ji-Yoon Kim (170-76) answered with 25 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists and the former international forward Jung-Eun Kim (180-87) added 19 points and 6 rebounds in the effort for Cool Cats. KB Stars have a solid series of three victories in a row. They moved-up to third place. Cool Cats at the other side keep the fifth position with 23 games lost. KB Stars are looking forward to face bottom-ranked Woori Hansae (#6) in Chuncheon in the next round. Cool Cats will play at home against Bichumi in Yongin and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Cool Cats: J.Kim 25+7reb+6ast, J.Kim 19+6reb, J.Gang 16+6reb+1ast, Y.Heo 4+5reb+4ast, J.Yang 1, R.Lee 1+2reb
KB Stars: S.Jung 17+10reb+2ast, A.Kang 16+2reb+3ast, S.Jung 15+9reb+5ast, S.Park 14+6reb+1ast, Y.Jin 4+3reb, S.Yang 3+1reb
gschID: 146900

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

  SPAIN - Women

Standings - LFB
LFB Standings

1. Ros Casares 20-0

2. Perfumerias 18-3

3. Girona 16-7

4. Mann Filter 14-7

5. Rivas Ecopolis 14-7

6. Cadi la Seu 12-9

7. Gran Canaria 10-10

8. Mariana 10-11

9. Burgos 9-13

10. Real C.Vigo 6-15

11. Cajarural 6-15

12. Hondar.-Irun 5-16

13. Navarra 5-17

14. Ibiza 3-18

Stats Leaders - LFB

PPG

RPG

APG

SPG

BPG

Points Per Game
D'andra MOSS
  Gran Canaria
  (178-SG-88)
  Avg: 20.2
1. Moss, Gran Canaria 20.2
2. Traore, Mariana 18.4
3. Ferrari, Mariana 17.1
4. Mosby, Cajarural 17.0
5. Bonner, Perfumer. 16.7
6. Ross, Cadi la Seu 15.9
7. Vega, Girona 15.3
8. Jones, Rivas Ecopo. 15.0
9. De Souza, Perfumer. 14.7
10. Yacoubou-D., Ros 14.6

Rebounds Per Game
Angelica ROBINSON
  Girona
  (196-F-87)
  Avg: 11.5
1. Robinson, Girona 11.5
2. Morrison, Burgos 10.2
3. Ble, Gran Canaria 10.2
4. Szczechowiak, Ibi. 10.0
5. De Souza, Perfumer. 9.0
6. Hajdune Csas., Mar. 9.0
7. Lyttle, Ros Casar. 8.8
8. Swords, Mariana 8.4
9. Mosby, Cajarural 8.2
10. Traore, Mariana 7.9

Assists Per Game
Lorena INFANTES
  Burgos
  (171-PG-81)
  Avg: 5.4
1. Infantes, Burgos 5.4
2. Ocete, Mariana 5.3
3. Palau, Ros Casares 4.9
4. Dominguez, Ros C. 4.2
5. Morales, Ibiza 3.9
6. Jordana, Girona 3.7
7. Ferrari, Mariana 3.7
8. Moore, Ros Casares 3.6
9. Honti, Ros Casares 3.2
10. Ouvina, Mann Filt. 3.1

Steals Per Game
Adrianne ROSS
  Cadi la Seu
  (173-G-84)
  Avg: 2.9
1. Ross, Cadi la Seu 2.9
2. Scanlon, Ibiza 2.5
3. Ouvina, Mann Filter 2.2
4. Lyttle, Ros Casar. 2.1
5. Ygueravide, Hondar. 2.0
6. Cruz, Rivas Ecopol. 2.0
7. Murphy, Ros C. 2.0
8. Parham, Cajarural 1.8
9. Morales, Ibiza 1.7
10. Garcia, Cajarural 1.6

Blocks Per Game
Jacinta MONROE
  Mann F.
  (193-F/C-88)
  Avg: 1.8
1. Monroe, Mann F. 1.8
2. Spears, Mariana 1.4
3. Denti, Ibiza 1.0
4. De Ciman, Cadi l. 1.0
5. Swords, Mariana 0.9
6. Robinson, Girona 0.9
7. Moore, Ros Casares 0.9
8. De Souza, Perfumer. 0.9
9. Pirsic, Ibiza 0.8
10. Bonner, Perfumer. 0.8

Ros Casares thump CCC to reach Euroleague Final Eight - by Eurobasket News
CCC Polkowice - Ros Casares 58:78

Ros Casares booked their Euroleague Final Eight ticket tonight. They shot down CCC in Polkowice to complete the sweep of eighth-final series. Maya Moore (182-F-89, college: Connecticut) stepped up with 20 points to lead the Spaniards.
Ros Casares had little doubts in the outcome right from the start. The visitors grabbed the initiative and posted a 22:12 lead after ten minutes. Ros Casares maintained the lead throughout the second term. Moreover they stretched the gap to as many as 23 points at halftime 44:21. CCC could not recover in the second half. They hosts faced a massive 25-point deficit heading into the fourth frame and had to surrender at the end. Ann Wauters (194-C-80, agency: Josep and Nicolas) finished with 17 points and 12 rebounds, while Sancho Lyttle (192-C-83, college: Houston) had 15 points and 12 rebounds in the win. Sharnee Zoll (170-PG-86, college: Virginia) notched 15 points for CCC. Iva Perovanovic (189-C/F-83) finished with 10 points in the loss.

CCC: Sharnee Zoll 15, Iva Perovanovic 10
Ros Casares: Maya Moore 20, Ann Wauters 17+12 boards, Sancho Lyttle 15+12 boards

Familia Schio needed overtime to eliminate the defending champions - by Eurobasket News
Familia Schio - Perfumerias 82:72

Familia Schio needed overtime to eliminate the defending champions of EuroLeague. The Italian side beat Perfumerias 82:72 and advanced to the Final Eight.
Familia Schio made 26-of-34 free shots during the game. They also forced 19 Perfumerias Avenida turnovers. Perfumerias Avenida started with 24-22, but the Italian team grabbed the lead at the halftime due to 21-16 in the second frame. The teams exchanged the narrow victories in the second half that gave 68:68 after four quarters. Schio had an opportunity to go in front in regulation but Laura Macchi (187-F-79) made just one of two free-throws.
The best player for the winners was Janel McCarville (188-C-82, college: Minnesota) who had a double-double by scoring 21 points and 11 rebounds. Laura Macchi chipped in 24 points and 6 rebounds. American guard DeWanna Bonner (193-G-87, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Auburn) produced a double-double by scoring 22 points and 17 rebounds and Brazilian center Erika De Souza (197-C-82, agency: Josep and Nicolas) added 22 points and 9 rebounds respectively for the guests.

Perfumerias: Erika De Souza 22, DeWanna Bonner 22+17rebs, Marta Fernandez (178-F-81) 9
Familia Schio: Laura Macchi 24, Janel McCarville 21+11rebs, Liron Cohen (173-G-82) 17

Bourges hold off Rivas Ecopolis, stay alive in Euroleague playoffs - by Eurobasket News
Bourges Basket - Rivas Ecopolis 68:60

Bourges Basket avoided early elimination as they defeated visiting Rivas Ecopolis in the second game of best-of-three Euroleague eighth-final series. Nwal-Endene Miyem (188-PF-88) knocked down 13 points and grabbed 8 rebounds to lead the French to the victory. The series is now tied at 1-1 with the third and decisive game scheduled for February 29th in Spain.
Bourges strongly entered the game posting a 16:6 lead midway through the first quarter. The hosts secured a 23:14 lead after ten minutes. The margin grew at 13-point mark midway through the second term 33:20. Aguilar capped the first half with a three-pointer as Rivas Ecopolis got within 9 points 33:42. Essence Carson (183-G-86, college: Rutgers) and Aguilar dragged the Spanish team within one 47:48 in the third term. Aguilar eventually tied things up at 50 after a three-pointer. Rivas Ecopolis pulled in front late in the period to enter the fourth term up two points 54:52. Rivas Ecopolis tipped off the final quarter with four points in a row to take a 58:52 lead. However Bourges Basket bounced back with a 16:2 run that sealed the victory for the hosts in the game. Emmeline Ndongue (191-C-83) delivered 13 points, while Celine Dumerc (169-G-82) finished with 12 points and 8 assists for Bourges. Essence Carson answered with 21 points for Rivas Ecopolis. Asjha Jones (188-F-80, college: Connecticut) had 13 points and 8 caroms in the loss.

Bourges Basket: Nwal-Endene Miyem 13, Emmeline Ndongue 13, Celine Dumerc 12
Rivas Ecopolis: Essence Carson 21, Asjha Jones 13

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

  SWITZERLAND - Women

Standings - LNF
LNA Stage Two Standings

Places 1-6

1. Basel 0-0

2. Fribourg 0-0

3. Helios 0-0

4. Hope-GBA 0-0

5. Nyon 0-0

6. Riva Basket 0-0

Places 7-9

1. Highflyers 0-0

2. Ovronnaz-Mart. 0-0

3. Pully 0-0

Stage One Standings

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

  TURKEY - Women

Fenerbahce advanced to Final Eight - by Eurobasket News
Lattes Montpellier - Fenerbahce 72:80

Fenerbahce advanced to Final Eight of EuroLeague after a road win over Lattes Montpellier. The Turkish team took 80:72 victory in France to continue their streak in the tournament.
The hosts won the opening period 24-21 and did their best to upset the favorite. Lattes even added 15-14 in the second frame to take 39:35 lead with Lelas s shot. The guests trailed by 4 points at the halftime before their 25-11 charge in the third quarter, which allowed them to win the game. Fenerbahce continued to pour in the points and stretched the advantage to 55:41 when Penny Taylor (185-F-81) again struck, taking her points haul to 23. Ivana Matovic (197-C-83) was the last to score for the winners and Lelas made the final result in the game.
Penny Taylor scored 27 points and 7 assists to lead the charge for the winners and Ivana Matovic chipped in 14 points and 4 assists during the contest. Edwige Lawson-Wade (166-PG-79) responded with 10 points and guard Gaelle Skrela scored 9 points and 5 rebounds.

Lattes Montpellier: Kristen Mann (188-F-83, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: UCSB) 13, Edwige Lawson-Wade 10
Fenerbahce: Penny Taylor 27, Angel McCoughtry (185-F-86, college: Louisville) 15, Ivana Matovic 14, Zane Tamane (200-C-83, college: W.Illinois) 12

Kayseri takes 12-point lead in Game One against Botas - by Eurobasket News
Kayseri - Botas 77-65

Kayseri and Botas met last night in Game One of the EuroCup Semifinals. The home squad was better and managed to celebrate 77-65 victory. It means that Kayseri will go to Botas next week with plus 12 on its 'account'. Botas will be the host and the winner of this two-game duel will advance to EuroCup Finals. It will meet Dynamo Kursk or Chevakata. LaToya Sanders (191-PF-86, college: N.Carolina) stepped up for Kayseri with 20 points and 9 rebounds. She reached valuation 39! Nakia Sanford (194-C-76, agency: LBM Management, college: Kansas) had 18 points and 11 boards, while Bahar Ozturk (183-G/F-84, college: Connecticut) helped with 13 points and 5 rebs. In Botas, Courtney Paris (193-C-87, college: Oklahoma) exploded with 19 points and 22 rebounds. Monica Wright (180-F-88, agency: LBM Management, college: Virginia) and Quianna Chaney (180-G/F-86, college: LSU) scored 17 and 14 points respectively. Quarters: 22-17, 21-14, 17-19, 17-15. Game Two is scheduled for next Thursday.

Kayseri: LaToya Sanders 20+9 boards, Nakia Sanford 18+11 boards, Bahar Ozturk 13+5 boards
Botas: Courtney Paris 19+22 boards, Monica Wright 17, Quianna Chaney 14

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

  U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS - Women

Day's double-double - by David Edole
SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. --- Portland senior Natalie Day (182-G/F-90) matched a career high with 28 points and grabbed 12 rebounds as the Pilots defeated the San Francisco Dons 77-63 in crucial West Coast Conference womens basketball game played at War Memorial Gym on Thursday night. Its the sixth double-double of the year for Day, who has also scored in double figures every game this season.

The win is Portlands (11-18, 4-11 WCC) third during the last four games, and it assures that the Pilots can finish no lower than seventh place in the conference standings. That means the Pilots avoid playing on the opening day of the WCC Tournament, which begins on Wednesday at the Orleans Arena in Las Vegas, Nev.

San Francisco, which was coming off a seven-point win at BYU, drops to 5-23 overall and to 3-12 in the WCC.

The Dons were in control early against the Pilots, building a 29-16 lead with 8:25 left in the first half. From there, the Pilots would score seven unanswered to spark an 11-2 run to pull Portland within four. Day had a three-pointer and a jumper during the run, which was capped by a lay-up from senior ReZina TecleMariam.

USF pushed the lead back to six twice, but the Pilots scored the final six points of the half to enter the locker room tied at 37-37. Freshmen Jasmine Wooton and Cassandra Thompson accounted for all six of those points, and Thompson converted the game-tying lay-up just before the break.

The second half belonged to the Pilots and Day, who scored 12 points after the break. Her three-point play three minutes into the stanza gave Portland its first lead since five minutes into the first half. TecleMariam and sophomore Alexis Byrd each followed with a three-pointer, TecleMariam hit a lay-up and Day converted yet another three-point play to give UP a double-digit lead with 11 minutes left.

The Portland lead would soon swell to 18 points as the Pilots rattled off a 29-11 run covering 12 minutes to put the game out of reach.

Its the second time to score 28 points for Day, who also torched Pepperdine for the same amount back in January of 2010. She was 11 of 17 from the field, four of seven on threes and she hit both her free throws. Her 12 rebounds helped the Pilots to a dominant 50-33 advantage on the glass.

TecleMariam and Thompson each added 11 points, while thompson also had eight rebounds.

Mel Khlock led three Dons in double figures with 17 points.

The Pilots shot 38 percent on the night, hit 10 three-pointers and went 17-for-18 at the free throw line. The Pilots also posted a 23-12 advantage in points off of turnovers, and their 21 offensive rebounds helped them to a 22-10 edge in second chance points.

The Dons shot 41 percent, connected on nine threes and missed all three of their free throw attempts.

The Pilots next return home for their regular season finale against San Diego on Saturday. Tip-off is set for 2 p.m. at the Chiles Center, and Portland will honor its three seniors (Day, TecleMariam and NaKeisha Brown) with a pre-game ceremony.

Lady Caribs Win Own Tournament with 46-43 Defeat of Lady Hawks - by David Edole
BY DAVE DAVIS FEBRUARY 21, 2012
The Central High Lady Caribs celebrated the twentieth anniversary of their schools Invitational Basketball Tournament with a hard fought, 46-43, victory over archrival, Charlotte Amalie Lady Chicken Hawks, at the Ronald Charles Gymnasium on Sunday. The see-saw battle went down to the wire, with several lead changes in the waning moments of the game. Led by eight fourth quarter points from J'Lene Martinez<, the Caribs were able to prevail in front of their huge contingent of vociferous fans.

The Lady Hawks, led by seven points from Merrisa Murphy, got off to a fast start and were able to outscore the home team 16-7 to lead after one quarter. An eight point second quarter by Centrals Martinez got the Lady Caribs back into the game, as they were able to hold the Lady Hawks to five points while scoring 10 to trail by four at intermission at 21-17.

Kadesha Barry had the hot hand for the Lady Caribs in the third quarter, scoring six of her squads 13 points, and leading her team to a 13-11 period that saw them trailing by just two, at 32-30, going into the fourth and final quarter. Eddidiong Utibe also scored six points in the period to keep the Lady Hawks ahead.

The fourth period was like a slugfest between two prize fighters with neither giving an inch. The lead would switch hands almost on every alternating possession. The Lady Hawks opened a five point lead at one point, but the Lady Caribs took the lead with a huge three-pointer from Martinez and stormed right back to tie. They went on to outscore the Hawks 16-11 in the fourth to win the tournament by a final score of 46-43.

Both teams played well enough to win, but hitting just five out of 14 free throw attempts down the stretch proved a bit too much for the Lady Hawks to overcome.

Martinez led all scorers with a game high 22 points, and was well supported by teammate Barry, who netted 15 points for the champs. The Lady Hawks were led by Murphy and Utibe, who both finished with 11 points apiece.

Carey dropped in 18 points.. - by David Edole
Less than four weeks ago, the Southern Miss Lady Eagles looked down and out after losing their eighth straight game.

But thats all in the past. Thursday night, USM won for the fifth time in its last six games, defeating Marshall 63-55 at Reed Green Coliseum.

Its easy when youre 0-6 to say, this is it, said Lady Eagles coach Joy Lee-McNelis. But we continued to challenge the kids every day to compete.

We broke everything down, did a lot of 3-on-3 drills on offense, a lot of 3-on-3 rebounding drills, a lot of take-charge drills and a lot of what we call gut-check drills so they would work hard every day.

Whatever the Lady Eagle coaching staff did, its working.

Southern Miss (11-16 overall, 5-9 in Conference USA) dominated the Thundering Herd (15-12, 6-8), building as much as an 18-point lead in the second half.

The key was a shift in offensive philosophy after halftime.

Coach told us to stop shooting so many outside shots, said junior forward Sedreka Plummer. She told us to start driving to the rim and getting easy shots.

The Lady Eagles listened, and the result was an outstanding second half. USM was 12 of 24 from the field in the second half, mostly on layups.

And the Lady Eagles dominated on the glass, getting 49 rebounds to 36 for Marshall. The result was a huge 19-3 edge in second-chance points, and they also outscored the Herd 32-20 in the paint.

We were in a rush offensively the first half, said Lee-McNelis. I told them to stay poised, make them guard us, reverse the ball and well get any shot we want.

Plummer was the chief beneficiary of that strategy, scoring a career-high 20 points and grabbing 9 rebounds.

It didnt hurt, either, that junior guard Tanecka Carey (175-G-91) opened things up by hitting 4 of 7 shots from 3-point range, finishing with 18 points.

It was Careys back-to-back treys that put the Lady Eagles up 49-31 with 9:21 to play, a margin that ultimately proved too large for Marshall to overcome.

Coach keeps stressing to me that Im a shooter and I need to shoot the ball, said Carey, the former junior college All-America from Jones County Junior College.

Ive started working in practice on putting up more shots, and now I have more confidence in my shot.

Carey and Plummer combined to put USM ahead for good midway through the first half, after Marshall took a 15-13 lead, helped by a pair of 3-pointers by Shay Weaver, who was one of three players with 12 points for the Herd.

Carey swished a 16-foot jumper and Plummer got a layup, as USM outscored Marshall 16-8 over the final eight minutes of the first half.

We extended our defense, Lee-McNelis said.

We wanted to force them to set up their offense with 16 seconds or less on the shot clock, and when we got opportunities with our trapping zone, we were able to force them into turnovers and poor shots.

Marshall ended up using 14 players in the game, to just seven for Southern Miss. But those seven outworked and thoroughly outplayed the Herd for most of the night, and thats how you turn a season around.

We didnt give up, said Carey. Our coaches didnt give up on us and we didnt give up on each other. We worked harder and harder, and everybody got their confidence up.

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  USBA - Women

WUSBA to honor Lt. General Hazel W. Johnson; season most valuable player award named in her honor - by USBA Media

Atlanta, Ga. (February 24, 2012)......The Women's United States Basketball Association (WUSBA), to pay respect to one of Americas greatest heros. The league will name the WUSBA most valuable player award in honor of the late Lt. General Hazel W. Johnson. 'We believe her commitment to service to our great nation will be a prime example to our young basketball players and the other young women and girls around the country, how far you can go if you keep your nose to the grindstone and continue to work hard as hard as you can', said league president Duane Allen Jenkins.

Hazel Johnson was the first African American woman to become a general in the U.S. Army. She was appointed the Chief of the Army Nurse Corps in 1979. Johnson held a doctorate in education administration from Catholic University (1978) and had honorary degrees from Morgan State University, Villanova University, and the University of Maryland.

General Johnson first became interested in nursing while growing up on a farm in Westchester, Pennsylvania. Her career began when we she received her nursing degree from the Harlem Hospital in New York City in 1950. She then attended Villanova University where she received her bachelors and soon afterwards joined the Army Nurse Corps in 1955.

The General served in Japan at a U.S. Army Evacuation Hospital. She served at Walter Reed Army Medical Center in 1960 where she was a staff and operating room nurse. Between 1963 and 1967, she was an operating room instructor and supervisor while on a tour of three different hospitals. Johnson reached the rank of major in 1967.
From 1969 to 1973, she helped develop new sterilizing methods for the Armys Field Hospital Systems as a staff member of the Army Medical Research and Development Command. In 1974, General Johnson was promoted to Colonel and appointed the director of the Walter Reed Army Institute of Nursing, an extension of the University of Marylands nursing school.

In 1978, General Johnson was sent to South Korea where she was the chief of the department of nursing at the largest U.S. Army hospital in that country. In May 1979, she returned to Washington D.C. where she was appointed General. A military ceremony was held in her honor at the Pentagon, where U.S. Army Surgeon General Julius Richmond pinned on her the brigadier general star. Johnson was also sworn in as the sixteenth Chief of the Army Nurse Corps.

Lt. General Hazel Johnson retired from the U.S. Army in 1984. In her post-Army career she has served as an advisor to a number of surgeons general. In 1997 Johnson was appointed adjunct professor of nursing at Georgetown University. She has also served in a similar capacity at the University of Maryland.
General Hazel Johnson passed away on August 5, 2011 in Washington, D.C.

(This article was copied from the Generals biography. The WUSBA did not create this biography. All credits of the article are to go to its creator).

February 29 is last day WUSBA will issue refunds on 2011 and 2010 travel expenses for basketball applicants - by USBA Media

Atlanta, Ga., (February 24, 2012) ----The deadline for submitted a request for reimbursement has come and gone. The coaches and the players who purchased airline, train or bus travel expenditures from the 2011 summer and fall basketball seasons will receive a full refund from the Women's United States Basketball Association (WUSBA) after the league processes the ticket information from the travel source. The league will extend all requests to expire on February 29, 2012. Players may exchange refund for travel to a WUSBA team city to play in the 2012 basketball season.

'We have also decided to refund the players who purchased a ticket from the 2010 basketball season as well,' said Duane Allen Jenkins, the leagues President and CEO. 'We announce reimbursement last year and we receive 61 requests. This was alarming because we only had 48 players signed to play, so we were skeptical about the intentions of some of the request. We found a great many request were from people who didnt agree to play. Any player who can prove they purchased a ticket last year will receive 100% reimbursement.

'We tried to open the season last year and the year before, however, we had some challenges we could not overcome, such as the air conditioning issue this summer and the conflict in scheduling this fall. It has been one thing or another that has caused us to delay our opening until April 2012. ' Basketball is a winter and spring sport, the colleges and high schools we will to rent from, agree, they have space for us in the spring. In 2010 we couldnt play because we didn't have enough players and coaches, I didnt allow enough time to properly prepare to have a successful season.'

'Now we have everything all set to go and that is our plan,' said Jenkins, the WUSBA sole owner and chief executive office. 'Every coach will be retained for the spring basketball season.'

The executive staff of the WUSBA reviewed the measure and voted to cancel the season during a series of marathon calls in mid August. 'That was probably the hardest part of the discussion we had: What do we do about the kids who wanted to play in the league?' Jenkins said, 'And I think the answer to that is, it was always a possibility that we would postpone our opening, but we needed to be fair to ourselves and our teams and target the spring.' Every venue gave us preliminary approval to rent the gymnasiums; we have an exact number of contracted gyms.

The league will verify the submitted request and issue payments to all basketball players. Some players and players left jobs to play in the league, while others are left with canceled airline tickets.

'We feel completely responsible for what took place and we will get these kids their money as soon as the verification process envelopes,' said Jenkins. '

The league has not lost any money since its inception, he said, and funding the league was not a factor in moving the season to the spring of 2012.' Over the previous year, though, corporate sponsorships have been stalled due to the delay in opening the season for both leagues. We finished this quest into basketball and we do not owe anyone a red nickel, we are proud of that fact, we owe no one any money and we did not receive any money from any individual or business during this time. Jenkins said, after extensive discussions with the leagues investors and sponsors, they all agree with our decision. The WUSBA has reported it has retained all sponsors and advertiser for the new season. I have been doing business with most of these companies since the mid 1980s and they are very familiar with me, said Jenkins.

'I am extremely excited about the new season,' Jenkins said. 'We cant wait; the league will start next spring.'

'We had a number of great young coaches coming in, and with all these obstacles that have happened, we believe our business model of women's basketball will be successful,' Jenkins said.

Jenkins said 'We have received confirmation from most of the arenas we had rental agreements with and we should have a complete list of signed gymnasiums by the end of November. We now have sixteen teams with confirmed arenas; however whichever arenas we have signed by the end of this month is the teams we will start with.

The league will begin to issue further information pertaining to player acquisition and coach assignments in December 2011.

Any player who bought an airline, train or bus ticket, this year or last year should to send a copy of their request to www.wusbateamrefund.com. After verification of purchase a full refund will be sent to each player.

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  WNBA - Women

Sparks sign PG Sharnee Zoll - by Eurobasket News
The Los Angeles Sparks have signed point guard Sharnee Zoll (5'7'-PG-86, college: Virginia) to a free agent contract, Vice President and General Manager Penny Toler announced Thursday. Per team policy, terms of the agreement were not disclosed.

The 5'7' Zoll graduated from the University of Virginia in 2008 as the Atlantic Coast Conference's all-time assist leader (785) and has played extensively in Europe over the past four seasons, the last two with CCC Polkowice in Poland. Currently leading the Polish League in assists (6.0 per game) for a second straight year, Zoll has also helped Polkowice reach the knockout stage of the 2011-12 EuroLeague. Among her teammates is Sparks center Jantel Lavender.

'I'm really excited about 'Zollie',' said Sparks Head Coach Carol Ross, who previously worked with Zoll while an assistant on USA Basketball's gold-medal winning team at the FIBA Under-19 World Championships. 'She brings a lot of spirit and energy to the court, is a great teammate and loves to get up-and-down the floor. I feel very fortunate that she's hopping aboard the LA Sparks' train.'

Zoll was a three-time All-ACC performer at Virginia, where she broke Dawn Staley's school and ACC record for career assists. The Marlboro, N.J., native scored 1,169 points in her four-year Cavalier career, and as a senior was a finalist for the Nancy Lieberman Award, given to the nation's top point guard. Starting all but one of her 132 career games at UVa, Zoll was a three-time team captain.

'This is a dream come true. Most little girls dream of coming to LA to become an actress, but I've always dreamed of becoming a Spark,' Zoll said. 'Ever since the league formed, the Sparks have been a marquee franchise, and I want to help this team return to a championship level. I'm going to get the ball where it needs to go; we have a lot of great scorers it can go to.'

The Sparks will tip-off the 2012 season Friday, May 18 at the Seattle Storm before the same two teams do battle at STAPLES Center on Sunday, May 20 at 5:30 p.m.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

Sources: Storm will sign 37-year-old Tina Thompson - by Eurobasket News
Multiple sources have confirmed the Storm will sign eight-time All-Star Tina Thompson (6'2'-F-75, agency: Merit Sports, college: USC) next week, a departure from the WNBA team's desire to get younger.

Thompson, 37, was the No. 1 overall pick in the WNBA's inaugural draft in 1997. The 6-foot-2 forward won four championships with the defunct Houston Comets and has played her past three seasons with the Los Angeles Sparks.

The Storm would not confirm or deny whether she would sign. Thompson, who is in Orlando representing the WNBA at the NBA All-Star Game, could not be reached for comment, but moves made by the Sparks on Thursday point to her leaving L.A.

Los Angeles traded reserves Natasha Lacy and LaToya Pringle to Washington in exchange for Nicky Anosike, an All-Star center. The Sparks also have the No. 1 pick in April's draft and are expected to select Stanford forward Nnemkadi Ogwumike.

Couple Ogwumike and Anosike with returning young stars Candace Parker, Jantel Lavender and Ebony Hoffman, and there appears to be little room or salary-cap space for Thompson on the L.A. roster.

Thompson, the league's all-time scoring leader (6,751), signed with Los Angeles when Houston folded. The native of Southern California led USC to a Pac-10 championship in 1994 and said she wanted to finish her career playing before friends and family.

Thompson averaged a career-low 9.9 points in 33 starts last season, and many speculated she'd retire.

Thompson, who hasn't missed a game due to injury since 2006, could add inside depth off the bench, although she never has been a reserve during her 15-year career.

Storm coach and general manager Brian Agler has said he wants to get younger. Yet he re-signed Katie Smith, 37, a move he defended by saying veterans help win championships.

Agler has signed several other aging superstars since being hired in 2008. Yolanda Griffith, Sheryl Swoopes, Shannon Johnson and Smith are among veteran Olympic-caliber players Agler signed. Smith will return this season.

Agler already made a splash this offseason by signing international star center Ann Wauters and trading the popular Ashley Robinson for emerging post Victoria Dunlap.

Seattle opens its season against Los Angeles on May 18 at KeyArena.

Courtesy of https://seattletimes.nwsource.com

Mystics trade Nicky Anosike to Los Angeles for two role players - by Eurobasket News
After signing one free agent center and trading for another this offseason, the Washington Mystics made another move Thursday to balance out its roster. General Manager and Coach Trudi Lacey announced the team has acquired guard Natasha Lacy (5'10'-G-85, agency: Merit Sports, college: UTEP) and forward LaToya Sanders (6'3'-PF-86, college: N.Carolina) from the Los Angeles Sparks in exchange for center Anosike Nicky (6'3'-F/C-86, college: Tennessee).

Pringle, a 6-3 forward, was the 13th overall pick in the 2008 WNBA draft by the Phoenix Mercury out of North Carolina. She averaged 3.9 points and 2.4 rebounds per game last season while playing for the Sparks.

Lacy averaged five points, 2.2 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game last season. Originally a second-round pick by the Detroit Shock in 2008, the 5-10 guard is currently playing alongside new Mystics forward Ashley Walker (6'1'-F/C-87, agency: Merit Sports, college: California) for Ceyhan BLD in Turkey.

We are happy to have acquired two versatile and experienced players, Lacey said in a team-issued statement. Both players can defend multiple positions and run the floor while adding much needed depth to our roster.

The Mystics gave up a 2012 first-round draft pick to acquire Anosike from the Minnesota Lynx before last season, but the move did not work out as planned. Though the 6-3 Anosike averaged seven points and 7.2 rebounds per game last season, she proved to be an inconsistent complement to all-star forward Crystal Langhorne (6'2'-F/C-86, college: Maryland) as Washington stumbled to a 6-28 record.

By the end of the season, Anosike had been replaced in the starting lineup by veteran DeMya Walker.

Courtesy of www.washingtonpost.com