EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 9/10/2009

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Men News

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  ADRIATIC LEAGUE   


Partizan outplays Metalac Valjevo in friendly game - by Zoran Popovic
Serbian Champion BC Partizan Igokea Beograd won against Vujic Metalac Valjevo in pre season friendly match 81:65 (29:11, 23:21, 14:17, 14:16). From the beginning of the match BC Partizan Igokea Beograd players showed strong and aggressive defence, made huge advantage after the first quarter and routinely finished the game. BC Partizan Igokea Beograd played without Dusan Kecman, Strahinja Milosevic, Aleksandar Maric, Zarko Rakocevic and Slavko Vranes. The best role on the match showed Vukasin Aleksic (182-G-85, agency: Beo Basket) and Branislav Djekic (205-F/C-91, agency: Beo Basket), both of them scored per 14 points.

BC Partizan Igokea Beograd: Lucic, Sinovec 6, Jaramaz, Lesic 9, Balaban 4, Rasic 8, Mitrovicc 8, Djekic 14, Aleksic 14, Besovic, Bozic, Veseli 11
Metalac: Markovic 7, Tripkovic, Tomasevic, Stefanovic 16, Radenkovic 6, Beljic, Kasabasic 2, LJubojevic 11, Marojevic 4, Bjegovic 8, Bircevic 4, Grbovic 7


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  AUSTRALIA   


Anstey goes under the knife - by Eurobasket News
Tigers captain Chris Anstey (213-C-75) looks likely to be sidelined for the first half of the 2009/10 NBL season due to a degenerative hip condition which requires surgery.

Ansteys hip condition flared up during the pre-season tournament in Darwin and on his return to Melbourne, he received specialist advice that it would be best for him to undertake surgery and remove bone spurs from the hip.

Anstey will have surgery within the next week and will be sidelined for an expected three-month period. He is hoping to be back playing early in the New Year. The surgery and subsequent time off is thought to be the best course of action to enable Anstey to be back on the court playing pain free later this season and in the future.

Tigers Head Coach Al Westover said that it is a significant loss with a player of Anstey's caliber being injured.

Losing Chris is a huge blow, he is a very difficult player to replace, there are not many Chris Ansteys walking around.

We wish Chris all the best with his surgery and hope he can make a speedy recovery and re-join the squad later in the season. In the meantime we will re-group and get ready for a tough season ahead.

In better news on the injury front for the Tigers, new recruit Mark Worthington and young gun Tommy Greer are aiming to be available for the Tigers' first game at The Cage on Wednesday the 30th of September, with both working hard on their rehabilitation from injury.

Tigers memberships and tickets are available for Tigers home games by contacting the Tigers office on 9326 6800 or visiting www.tigers.com.au.

Courtesy of the Melbourne Tigers


Perth Wildcats add Luke Schenscher - by Eurobasket News
The Perth Wildcats new signing, former Boomer and ex-NBA centre Luke Schenscher (216-C-82, agency: Priority Sports, college: Georgia Tech), will arrive in Perth on Wednesday having now been approved by the NBL and ready to join the team with the season less then a month away.

Schenscher will join a near full strength Wildcats squad at Perry Lakes this week for training.

It has been a positive 24 hours for the Wildcats with Damian Martins wrist injury being cleared, meaning he will be available for the start of the season which starts on the 24th of this month.

Luke Schenscher starred in the NBL for the 36ers last season, finishing the season as the runner-up MVP for Adelaide and narrowly missing out on a spot in the NBL All-NBL First Team. His impressive stats from the 2008/09 NBL season include 17.2 points at 56 per cent from the field, 10.8 rebounds, 1.5 assists and 1.4 blocks per game in his NBL debut last season with Adelaide. Schenscher also had a brief career in the NBA with the Chicago Bulls in 2006 and the Portland Trailblazers in 2007.

Also joining the Wildcats this season is Andy Stewart, who will become an assistant coach for 09/10 season.

Stewart has an extremely successful coaching career at State Basketball League (SBL) level, coaching the local Lakeside Lightning SBL team to five grand final appearances and winning three championships, including this years title.

He was named SBL Coach of the Year for the second time this season, also previously winning the award in 2007. Stewart will join head coach Rob Beveridge and assistant coach Mark Radford this season as the Wildcats strive to win a record fifth NBL championship title.

Courtesy of The Perth Wildcats


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  BAHRAIN   


Ozell Wells as Head Coach of the Al Ittihad - by Eurobasket
Various media outlets in Bahrain, including Gulf Times; have announced the hiring of Ozell Wells as Head Coach of the Al Ittihad Basket Club in Bahrain's Premier League.
Coach Wells comes with a long pedigree of experience in the international basketball world as well as ties to the NBA.
With the hiring of coach Wells, the Ittihad Club has made a commitment to improve their level of competition in a league that is strenghtening year after year..
Coming most recently from coaching positions in Europe, coach Wells has been successful in leading teams from France, Syria, Saudi Arabia and elsewhere.


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  BALTIC LEAGUE   


Liepajas Lauvas join BBL Elite Division - by Eurobasket News
Liepajas Lauvas filled in the last available spot in BBL Elite Division. The Latvian team played at the Challenge Cup last season. They were stopped by Sakalai at the quarterfinal stage of the tournament.
The BBL season will tip off on September 25th with the BBL Cup games in Kaunas. Lietuvos Rytas will take on Kalev/Cramo, while Zalgiris will face Ventspils.


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  BELARUS   


Georgia nip Belarus, enter Division A - by Eurobasket News
Georgia - Belarus 86:84

Georgia fulfilled their ambitions and reached Division A of the European Championship. They overcame Belarus in a two-game playoff series. Georgia enjoyed a 14-point buffer after the opening clash in Belarus. But the team had to withhold a furious rescue attempts from Belarus in Tbilisi to seal the winning outcome.
Viktor Sanikidze (203-F-86) and Tyrone Ellis (193-G-77, college: S.Nazarene) gave the hosts an 8:3 lead early in the game. Georgia maintained the advantage throughout the opening frame and entered the second stanza up by 8 points 27:19. Alexander Kudrautsau (190-G-80) and Mikalai Aliakseyeu (212-C-78, agency: High Post Agency, college: Buffalo) dropped three long bombs early in the second quarter as the gap grew thinner. However Viktor Sanikidze and Pachulia knocked down a bunch of free throws to keep the hosts in charge. Georgia ensured a 52:46 advantage at halftime. Georgia kept the visitors at distance throughout the third frame. Alexander Kudrautsau, Mikalai Aliakseyeu and Yegor Meshcharakou (205-F-76, agency: Octagon, college: George Washington) sparked the intrigue late in the stanza cutting the deficit to just 3 points. Yegor Meshcharakou tipped off the fourth frame with a three-pointer as Belarus drew things level. Alexander Kudrautsau followed with a jumper to pull the visitors ahead. Pachulia and Viktor Sanikidze restored the lead for the hosts before Alexander Kudrautsau tied things up again with 46 seconds remaining. Pachulia and Tsintsadze nailed two free throws late in regulation to seal the victory for Georgia.
Viktor Sanikidze tallied 18 points and 10 boards for Georgia. Tyrone Ellis nailed 17 points for the winners. Alexander Kudrautsau responded with game-high 28 points for Belarus. Pavel Ulyanko (204-F/C-79) had 14 points in the losing effort.

Georgia: Viktor Sanikidze 18+10 boards, Tyrone Ellis 17, Kote Tugushi (192-G-84) 13
Belarus: Alexander Kudrautsau 28, Pavel Ulyanko 14


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  BELIZE   


Date set for National Basketball Teams Tribunal!!! - by David Magana
The COCABA games played in Cancun, Mexico almost a month ago and memories are still vivid as the national basketball team, Belizean Heritage, beat all the Central American teams and came short of the gold on the last seconds of a tight game with Mexico. The team came home to a heros welcome as silver medalists. But that trophy may mean nothing if FIBA has its way. By August thirty-first, the Belize Basketball Federation submitted its position to the International Court of Sports in Switzerland in regards to FIBAs challenge of the heritage of the players. Today FIBA met its deadline and responded to Belizes submissions. But a hearing in Switzerland will determine whether the Belize team will keep the silver and go on to the second round to qualify for the 2012 Olympics. That tribunal is set for September fourteenth and Belize will be represented by attorney, Godfrey Smith. According to President of the B.B.F., Paul Thompson, a ruling is expected approximately one week after the hearing.
Courtesy of
Channel 5

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  BRAZIL   


Young brazilian Cicero Gonzaga is back in Brazil - by Paulo Freire
The CETAF team from Espiro Santo State, is one of the last teams in Brazil to make moves for the next season.
Coach Luiz Felipe have security 3 players from last season: center Manuil, point guard Alexandre Pinheiro and shooting guard Felipinho, they have lost two importanted players on the rotation the cuban player Amiel and the powerforward Lucas Costa both move back to rival Saldanha da Gama where they played in 2007-08 season.
The new peace on the cacke for CETAF is the young Small forward Cicero Gonzaga, who played in U.S. college and then had a great season on the Australian basketball before coming back to Brazil for his first professional season. Cicero Gonzaga (200-F/C-86, college: NE Oklahoma A&M CC) starts playing on the young teams of Minas Tenis Club before move to college, he was a strong prospect back in the days and now will have a great opportunity to show everything he developted over those years at CETAF.






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  BULGARIA   


Lithuania grabs the only ticket left to the Qualifying Round - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania-Bulgaria 84:69

Lithuania and Bulgaria struggled for the only victory in Group D and the only ticket left to the Qualifying Round. Ramunas Butautas' squad pulled away late in the final quarter to claim their first 84:69 victory in Poland.
That was really hot in the court of Wroclaw. Ivanov gave Bulgaria the first lead and then the teams were tied at 12:12. Jomantas scored for 25:18 and K. Ivanov reduce for 25:22 after 10 minutes. Earl Rowland (188-G-83, college: St.Mary's, CA) tied it at 33:33 and D. Ivanov gave his team 37:36 advantage. Lukauskis with a three sent the teams to the lockers. In the third period Lithuanian team enjoyed 17-16 to take 1-point lead. Videnov scored for 56:55, while Delinikaitis closed the third period at 57:56. Simas Jasaitis (202-F/G-82) opened the last stanza for 59:56 and Videnov toed the game at 59:59. Delinikaitis brought the Baltic side 61:59 and Javtokas scored for 62:59 and another points for 64:59. K. Ivanov managed to reduce to 64:61, whilst Kleiza and Ksistof Lavrinovic (210-C-79) brought Lithuania 71:64. The latter also went to the free throw line later in the game and was perfect 3/3 for 74:64 with a bit more than three minutes in the court. Rowlnad meanwhile scored one from the same line and K. Ivanov added for 74:67. The Baltic side finished the game with 10-2 to win the initial game in Group D.
Ksistof Lavrinovic poured in 16 points and had 6 rebounds for the winners. Marijonas Petravicius (208-F/C-79, college: S.Carolina) nailed 13, whislt Simas Jasaitis added 11. Earl Rowland produced 18 points in defeat and Todor Stoykov (198-G/F-77, agency: Interperformances) notched 16.

Lithuania: Ksistof Lavrinovic 16+6 rebs, Marijonas Petravicius 13, Simas Jasaitis 11
Bulgaria: Earl Rowland 18, Todor Stoykov 16

Hristo Zahariev in Varese - by Eurobasket News
Hristo Zahariev (197-G/F-90) joined Cimberio Varese for one-month try-outs. The 19-year-old shooting guard spent the previous season in GMAC Bologna junior team. The Bulgarian player was previously seen in Spartak MVR and Panathinaikos Athens. In 2007 he moved to Levski Sophia and averaged 3.2 points and 1.8 boards per game. Hristo Zahariev played for Bulgarian U20 National at the European championship this summer. He tallied 13.9 points, 5.3 boards, 3.0 assists and 2.3 steals per game in Skopje.


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  COLOMBIA   


Federation Cup, day 7 results. - by Victor Garcia
Piratas defeated Cangrejeros in Bogota, the game had two very diferent halves, the first half belongs to Piratas who outscored Cangrejeros to achieve a 25 pts lead in the half, juts Francisco Centeno keep Cangrejeros alive with his points.
In the second half Piratas intensity dissapear and Cangrejeros over Stewart Palacios and Francisco Centeno shoulders came back to life, but the effort were not enough because a three point shot of Gregory Vargas with 1 minute left in the clock, give to Piratas a 7 points lead to win the game.

Piratas Saludcoop 94 - Gregory Vargas 21 pts, Eduardo Torres 17 pts, Nakiea Miller 14 pts + 15 rebs.
Cangrejeros Iderbol 84 - Francisco Centeno 33 pts + 5 rebounds, Stewart Palacios 17 pts.

Patriotas defeated Islanders at home to cut a 4 losses straight.
Patriotas 85
Islanders Sopesa 82.

Arrieros with a strong start defeated Bucaros in Medellin,
Arrieros Idea 82
Bucaros Freskaleche 66

Federation Cup, day 8 results. - by Victor Garcia
Piratas fall at home versus Cangrejeros in a game with same history than the former one, but a different end, Piratas leaded at the half by 21 pts, but in the second one the Cangrejeros did not loss the confidence and came short to defeat Piratas at the end of the game, it was the first on the road victory for James Oilar's team.
Piratas Saludcoop 81
Cangrejeros Iderbol 83

Patriotas took revenge of the previous defeat and took the victory over Islanders , Patriotas is wondering its options to replace Alex Smith who still haven't reach a good level.
Patriotas 85
Islanders Sopesa 82

Arrieros had its second straigh win, again defeating the powerfull Bucaros, Miguel Marriaga played with Bucaros, but was not enough.
Arrieros Idea 89
Bucaros Freskaleche 84

Standings
Copa Federacion Standings
 1. Piratas 6-2 
 2. Cangrejeros 4-2 
 3. Arrieros 4-4 
 4. Islanders 3-3 
 5. Bucaros 3-3 
 6. Cucuta Norte 2-4 
 7. Alcaldia 2-6 


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  CROATIA   


Cibona opens pre-season with a win - by Eurobasket News
Cibona - Triumph 86-74

BC Cibona has started with a win in its first friendly game after the first phase of preparations for the upcoming season. In its first of 10 games, they are set to play within this month, Cibona had a fairly easy job against Russian outfit Triumph. They celebrated 86-74 victory. The game was marked by successful debuts of several of Cibonas new signings. Jamont Gordon (193-G/F-87, college: Mississippi St.) scored 19 points for Cibona, while another newcomer, Bojan Bogdanovic (202-G/F-89) also had reasons for smiles. Bogdanovic scored 18 points and was visibly satisfied with his debut, which could be seen after the game. This summer reinforcement, Antonio Graves (190-G-85, college: Pittsburgh) finished the contest with 5 points, as he faced with foul trouble. Cibona took control from the beginning of the game and managed to secure victory. Head Coach, Velimir Perasovic (agency: Interperformances ), stated that he is satisfied where his team is after 20 days of preparations. Still he maintained there is always room for improvement and that he will look to improve teams form by the time the season begins.
Cibona is set to host Slovenian outfit Union Olimpija in the next coming days. This match however, will be played behind closed doors. Cibona will be looking to defend the national title they won last season. They are also hoping to challenge for the title in Adriatic League, where they played in the finals last season, but lost to BC Partizan Belgrade.

Cibona: Jamont Gordon 19, Bojan Bogdanovic 18, Luksa Andric (210-C/F-85) 15

Croatia outplays FYR Macedonia thanks to 21-2 run in the last quarter - by Eurobasket News
EuroBasket, Day 3: FYR MACEDONIA - CROATIA 71-81

Croatia was too strong for Israel finishing the Preliminary Round with 2-1. On the other side, FYR Macedonia is third ranked team in Group A thanks to victory against Israel yesterday and also advanced to the next stage. There Croatia, FYR Macedonia and Greece will meet 3 best teams from Preliminary Group B. Nikola Vujcic (211-C-78) led Croatia today scoring 12 points for 19 minutes. Marko Banic (204-F-84) was behind him with 11, while Zoran Planinic (199-G-82) added 9 points and 7 assists. In the loosing squad, Darko Sokolov (190-G-86), Vrbica Stefanov (188-G-73) and Jeremiah Massey (202-F-82, college: Kansas St.) netted 12 points each. Massey had 10 rebounds beside that, while Stefanov handed out 5 assists.
FYR Macedonia was better team in the first quarter. Except of 0-2 for Croatia at the very beginning, FYR Macedonia grabbed the lead and did not let it until the end of the period, 26-20. Nothing has changed after that as Jeremiah Massey led 8-0 run for his team so the score already was 34-20 for FYR Macedonia. Later it was 41-24 and it seemed that Massey and his teammates are on the right track to victory, but Croatians did not have the same thoughts. They came little but closer until the half time (48-34) and after 15-minute break made impressive 0-10 run, led by Nikola Vujcic and Ukic and Rozic. Still, FYR Macedonia managed to recover and they jumped to 61-56 after 30 minutes. In the last quarter Croatia intensified defense stopping FYR Macedonia on just 10 more points until the end. On the other side they drained 25 (including crucial 2-21 run). It is important to mention that FYR Macedonia scored just 2 points in first seven minutes of the last period.
The championship continues on Friday (Day 1 of Qualification Round).

FYR Macedonia: Jeremiah Massey 12+10 boards, Vrbica Stefanov 12+5 as, Darko Sokolov 12
Croatia: Nikola Vujcic 12, Marko Banic 11, Zoran Planinic 9+7 as

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  CZECH REPUBLIC   


Tomas Satoransky joins Cajasol Sevilla! - by David Dousa
Starting from season 2009 2010 Tomas Satoransky (196-G/F-91, agency: PPGroup) will be wearing Cajasol Sevilla jersey in the most prestigious European national competition the ACB. The agreement between USK Prague and Cajasol opened up the gate to the realm of European basketball for the 17 years old pointguard. Aside from obligatory monetary compensation contains the agreement a platform for cooperation between the clubs on a know-how sharing, internship and coaches clinic basis. This is a very important part of the agreement, that would help the lingering Czech basketball as a whole.
Tomas, historically the youngest player of the Czech senior national team, will join the prestigious league of the ruling World champions and fight for his spot in the ACB squad from the very first month.
Tomas will practice under guidance of the Coach of the Year 2007 Joan Plaza, who is a former coach of Real Madrid, the winner of ACB and ULEB Cup and his assistant Zan Tabak.


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  D-LEAGUE   


Bob MacKinnon named Head Coach of the Idaho Stampede - by Eurobasket News
The Idaho Stampede announced the hiring of Bob MacKinnon as the seventh head coach in the team's twelve-year history today.

'We are elated to have a coach of Bob's caliber lead our franchise,' said Stampede President, Steve Brandes. 'His 27 years of coaching experience at the professional and college level led us to believe he was the best candidate. As our head coach, he will have a positive impact both on the floor, and in the community.'

MacKinnon will join the Stampede after serving as the head coach for the Colorado 14ers during the 2008-09 season. During his one year tenure with the 14ers, MacKinnon led the team to a 34-16 (.680) record and defeated the Utah Flash to win the 2009 NBA Development League Championship.

'My family and I are so excited to join the Stampede and the Treasure Valley community,' said MacKinnon. 'This is a great opportunity to be a part of one of the best organizations in the D-League. I am committed to continuing the success of the Idaho Stampede and look forward to being an integral member of the community.'

A native of Buffalo, NY and the son of longtime NBA coach and General Manager Bob MacKinnon, Sr., MacKinnon played college basketball at King's college in Wilkes-Barre, PA, before embarking on his coaching career. He earned a Master's Degree in Education from Niagara University in 1997.

MacKinnon's coaching career started at his alma mater as an assistant before moving on to assistant coaching positions at Mercyhurst College, George Washington University and Niagara. He took over as head coach at the United States Merchant Marine Academy in 1997 and won a pair of Skyline Conference Championships, posting a 38-16 record in two seasons. He was also named the 1999 Skyline Conference Coach of the Year. From there he served as an assistant coach with Matt Doherty at Notre Dame for one season before transferring to UNC. During his first season with UNC, the Tar Heels had an 18-game winning streak and were ranked number one in the country.

In 2003, MacKinnon joined the staff of the Marshall University men's basketball team as the senior assistant for four seasons. From there, he earned a position with the Los Angeles Lakers as a scout as well as the associate director of the L.A. Lakers summer camps from 2005-08.

MacKinnon will reside in Boise with his wife, Suzanne, and their four sons Bobby Jr., Matthew, Brendan, and Ryan.

Courtesy of The Idaho Stampede


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  EUROLEAGUE   


Day 3: Hellas - Israel 106-80 - by Chris Mammides
Group A: Day 3: Hellas - Israel 106-80
The third victory in three games its now a fact. The Hellenic NT added its third win and remains unbeaten in this first round of the European championship. After the first 12 minutes the Hellenic NT took the initiatives and total control of the game and had no problem against Svi Serfs Israeli NT. The deficit was between 13-18 points and Coach Jonas Kazlauskas with coach Sferopoulos tried many different schemes and tactics to be used in the second round of this tournament. It is really worth mentioning the fact that the Lithuanian Head Coach used Big Sofo for quite some time at the center position and gave clear orders to his guards to play with him a lot in the paint as there was not the slightest opponent to be able to defend against his tremendous physical power. Other than that, Vassilis Spanoulis (193-G-82) performed really very well (as always) and with exceptional organizational skills lead his team to another victory. Moreover, the defensive mechanism of the Hellenic NT worked perfectly against the stars of the Israeli NT. Printezis also played very well in the power forward position with good D and good passing game. Another amazing point is the fact that the Hellenic NT had nearly perfect percentage from the charity line. The third quarter was the best quarter for the Hellenic NT in the offense, (the Hellenic NT scored 30 points in the third quarter) especially from the parameter as the Greek guards won nearly all the fights against their opponents. The score in the third quarter was 63-79 for the Hellenic NT.
The fourth quarter starts with the Israelis being more offensive and performed a 7-0 (7 unanswered points) 70-79. After the 31st minute the Hellenes answered back and increase the deficit to 22 points (77-99) 3.34 before the end of the game. The final score was 106-80


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  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS   


Eurobasket 2009. Day 3 - by Eurobasket News
Group A
FYR Macedonia - Croatia 71-81
Croatia was too strong for Israel finishing the Preliminary Round with 2-1. On the other side, FYR Macedonia is third ranked team in Group A thanks to victory against Israel yesterday and also advanced to the next stage. There Croatia, FYR Macedonia and Greece will meet 3 best teams from Preliminary Group B. Nikola Vujcic (211-C-78) led Croatia today scoring 12 points for 19 minutes. Marko Banic was behind him with 11, while Zoran Planinic added 9 points and 7 assists. In the loosing squad, Darko Sokolov, Vrbica Stefanov and Jeremiah Massey netted 12 points each. Massey had 10 rebounds beside that, while Stefanov handed out 5 assists.

Israel - Greece 80-106
Greece earned the third straight win at the 2009 EuroBasket. They held off Israel to win preliminary Group A. Israel lost the third game in a row and return home winless. It was do-or-die battle for Israel but Greece did not give a single chance to their opponents. Vassilis Spanoulis (193-G-82, agency: Beo Basket) scored 18 points and dished out 5 assists to pace Greece. Antonis Fotsis and Sofoklis Schortsanitis added 16 points each in the win. Lior Eliyahu nailed 21 points, grabbed 8 boards and issued 4 assists for Israel. Raviv Limonad had 15 points in the losing effort.

Group B
Russia - France 64-69
France finished the Preliminary Round on Eurobasket 2009 in Poland undefeated. After victories against Germany and Latvia, Tony Parker and his teammates outplayed the defending European champion advancing to Qualifying Round as top-ranked team of Group B (3-0). Russians also booked a spot for the next stage thanks to victory against Latvia, what is their only one so far. Boris Diaw (203-F/C-82) this time led France to win collecting 19 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists. Ronny Turiaf had 19 points and 14 rebounds, while Parker added one point less than him. Russia got 13 points from Kelly McCarty. Nikita Kurbanov scored 12 and Vitaly Fridzon 11 points.

Germany - Latvia 62-68
Germany lost their last game at the preliminary round of 2009 EuroBasket to Latvia but still managed to stay in the title race. The win by six points turned insufficient to Latvia as they had to pack things now. Jan-Hendrick Jagla (213-F-81, agency: Priority Sports, college: Penn St.) scored decisive five points in the dying seconds to carry Germany into the next round of action. Kristaps Janicenoks paced Latvia with 14 points. Kaspars Kambala produced 11 points in the winning case. Demond Greene led Germany with 16 points. Jan-Hendrick Jagla accounted for 13 points and 7 boards in a sweet loss for his team.

Group C
Spain - Slovenia 90-84 OT
Spain celebrated 90-84 overtime win against Slovenia finishing the Preliminary Round in Poland with 2-1 record. The same numbers has Slovenia and both teams qualified for the next stage. Juan Carlos Navarro was the leading scorer in victory with 21 points. Rudy Fernandez (197-G-85) followed him with 19 points and 5 rebounds, while big guy Felipe Reyes added 17 points and 8 boards. Pau Gasol this time helped with 13 points and 9 rebounds. In Team Slovenia, Goran Dragic netted 19 points. Jaka Lakovic had 15 and Bostjan Nachbar added one point less. At this moment the game between Serbia and Great Britain did not even start, but depend of that result it will be known will Spain or Slovenia end as No.1 of Group C.

United Kingdom - Serbia 59-77
Serbia advanced to the Qualifying Round of Eurobasket 2009 finishing the group with 2-1 record. In the last game of the day the team outscored Great Britain 77:59. Nenad Krstic and Milenko Tepic (198-G-87, agency: Beo Basket) top-scored for the winners with 17 points each. Teodosic nailed 11 as Serbia took the second place in the group. Nate Reinking ended up with 21 points in defeat, whilst Mensah-Bonsu posted 16.

Group D
Poland - Turkey 69-87
It was a game between two undefeated teams after two days in Preliminary Group D. Turkey managed to beat the host of EuroBasket 87-69 and to finish this stage with perfect 3-0. Poland fell to 1-2, but even before this game it was already clear that these two countries booked a spot for the Qualifying Round. There, Turkey and Poland will take on three best teams from Preliminary Group C. Omer Asik (211-C-86) paced Turkey to victory today collecting 22 points and 8 rebounds. Ersan Ilyasova also had very important role collecting 18 points and 8 rebounds, while Hedo Turkoglu was third scorer of the team with 13 points. The NBA star also pulled down 8 rebounds beside that. In Poland, Marcin Gortat shined with 21 points and 7 rebounds. Maciej Lampe added 14 pts and 7 boards.

Lithuania - Bulgaria 84-69
Lithuania and Bulgaria struggled for the only victory in Group D and the only ticket left to the Qualifying Round. Ramunas Butautas' squad pulled away late in the final quarter to claim their first 84:69 victory in Poland. Ksistof Lavrinovic (210-C-79) poured in 16 points and had 6 rebounds for the winners. Petravicius nailed 13, whislt Jasaitis added 11. Rowland produced 18 points in defeat and Stoykov notched 16.


Div. B Day: 2 (Play-Offs) - by Eurobasket News
Montenegro - Sweden 88-71
Montenegro won the second game of the Play-offs of Division B over Sweden. The team proved it one more time that they deserve a place in Division A more than the opponents. Nikola Pekovic (210-C-86, agency: Beo Basket) paced all the winners with 17 points for Division A birth. Drobnjiak and Dasic followed him with 14 points each. Ringstrom finished the night with 17 points in the losing effort, while Levin notched 13.

Georgia - Belarus 86-84
Georgia fulfilled their ambitions and reached Division A of the European Championship. They overcame Belarus in a two-game playoff series. Georgia enjoyed a 14-point buffer after the opening clash in Belarus. But the team had to withhold a furious rescue attempts from Belarus in Tbilisi to seal the winning outcome. Viktor Sanikidze (203-F-86) tallied 18 points and 10 boards for Georgia. Tyrone Ellis nailed 17 points for the winners. Alexander Kudrautsau responded with game-high 28 points for Belarus. Pavel Ulyanko had 14 points in the losing effort.


Stats Leaders
Eurobasket 2009 Stats Leaders
Points Per Game
1 Eliyahu, ISR 21.3
2 Parker, FRA 19.7
3 Lampe, POL 17.7
4 Jasaitis, LTU 17.5
5 Rowland, BUL 17.5
Rebounds Per Game
1 Biedrins, LAT 11.7
2 Gortat, POL 11.3
3 Turiaf, FRA 11.0
4 P.Gasol, ESP 9.0
5 Evtimov, BUL 8.7
Assists Per Game
1 Logan, POL 5.3
2 Planinic, CRO 5.0
3 Diaw, FRA 4.7
4 Tunceri, TUR 4.3
5 Teodosic, SRB 4.3
Steals Per Game
1 McCarty, RUS 2.7
2 Dragic, SLO 2.7
3 Parker, FRA 2.7
4 Logan, POL 2.3
5 Evtimov, BUL 2.0
Blocks Per Game
1 Gortat, POL 2.3
2 Mozgov, RUS 2.3
3 Lampe, POL 2.0
4 Turiaf, FRA 1.7
5 Kasun, CRO 1.5


Standings Div.A (Men)
Standings
Group E Bydgoszcz
1. Greece2-0
2. France2-0
3. Germany1-1
4. Croatia1-1
5. FYR Macedon.0-2
6. Russia0-2
Group F Lodz
1. Turkey2-0
2. Spain1-1
3. Poland1-1
4. Slovenia1-1
5. Serbia1-1
6. Lithuania0-2
Group Places 13-16
1. Bulgaria0-0
2. U.Kingdom0-0
3. Israel0-0
4. Latvia0-0


*****************************************************
  FRANCE   


Luc-Arthur Vebobe signs 2-year deal with Olympique Antibes - by Eurobasket News
Olympique Antibes announced signing of Luc-Arthur Vebobe (203-F-80, college: Hawaii) on two-season deal. The 29-year old forward returns to his home town from another Pro B team, ALM Evreux Basket. Actually he joined Evreux in January this year and for very short tome became one the the leading players. He appeared 17 times in Pro B averaging 12.4 ppg, 8.4 rpg, 1.4 apg and 1.5 spg. He ended the contest as fourth best rebounder.
Before Evreux, Luc-Arthur Vebobe played one year for Spanish CAI Zaragoza. For 30 LEB Gold games he colelcetd 7.2 ppg and 6.3 rpg. His team reached Playoff Semifinals. From 2003 to 2005 Vebobe was a member of Paris Basket Racing. His second season with Paris was very good as he averaged 11.2 ppg and 8 rpg in Pro A. At the end of it he was named 'Eurobasket.com All-French ProA Most Improved Player of the Year -05'. In FIBA Europe League, Vebobe had 9.5 ppg and 8 rpg for 15 games. In the past he also was a member of Chalon.
As it is mentioned above, Luc-Arthur Vebobe already played for Antibes senior team in the past (season 2001/02, when he moved from University of Hawaii). He grew up with Antibes youth selections.

France beats Russia 69-64, ends Preliminary Round with perfect 3-0 - by Eurobasket News
EuroBasket, Day 3: RUSSIA - FRANCE 64-69

France finished the Preliminary Round on Eurobasket 2009 in Poland undefeated. After victories against Germany and Latvia, Tony Parker (183-G-80) and his teammates outplayed the defending European champion advancing to Qualifying Round as top-ranked team of Group B (3-0). Russians also booked a spot for the next stage thanks to victory against Latvia, what is their only one so far. Boris Diaw (203-F/C-82) this time led France to win collecting 19 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists. Ronny Turiaf (208-C/F-83, agency: Priority Sports, college: Gonzaga) had 19 points and 14 rebounds, while Parker added one point less than him. Russia got 13 points from Kelly McCarty (201-F-75, agency: Avi Zilberman, college: S.Mississippi). Nikita Kurbanov (202-F-86) scored 12 and Vitaly Fridzon (195-G-85) 11 points.
First quarter was pretty leveled and both teams exchanged lead few times. Still, Russia finished this period with 17-15 and later in the second quarter jumped to 28-21. France responded quickly with 0-6 run. After 20 minutes of play Russia still was one point up, 35-34. Beginning of the second half belong to Russians, who grabbed 47-40 lead after tripe by Anton Ponkrashov (200-G-86). Boris Diaw and Tony Parker lifted their team to 0-8 run and it finally was plus one for France, what they kept until the end of third period. Game is decided in the last 3 minutes. First, Ronny Turiaf scored 2 FTs for France and dunked the ball after that for 64-69. Until the end Anton Ponkrashov missed twice for Russia and Mozgov committed a turnover. France also was scoreless meaning that Turiaf's basket with almost 2 minutes to go set the final score today.
The championship continue on Friday.

Russia: Kelly McCarty 13, Nikita Kurbanov 12, Vitaly Fridzon 11
France: Boris Diaw 19+7 boards+7 as, Ronny Turiaf 19+14 boards, Tony Parker 18

Standings - N1
NM1 Standings
 1. St Quentin 1-0 
 2. Blois 1-0 
 3. Angers EOSL 1-0 
 4. Denain 1-0 
 5. Angers BC 49 1-0 
 6. Boulogne 1-0 
 7. Challans 1-0 
 8. Le Puy 1-0 
 9. Chalons 0-0 
 10. St Chamond 0-1 
 11. Get Vosges 0-1 
 12. Denek 0-1 
 13. Longwy 0-1 
 14. Lievin 0-1 
 15. CFBB 0-1 
 16. Reims 0-1 
 17. Cognac 0-1 


Cholet Basket sign Michael Efevberha - by Eurobasket
Cholet Basket agreed terms with 25-year old American guard Michael Efevberha (196-G-84, college: Cal.St. Northridge). Efevberha played most recently at Wellington Saints (New Zealand). Efevberha has also Nigerian citizenship and this summer he player for Nigerian National Team at the African Championships in Libya. It was exceptionally impressive event as he was 5th best scorer (17.4ppg), and was ranked 4th in the list of leaders in steals (2.0spg). He was also selected to Africabasket.com All-African Championships 3rd Team.

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


Croatia outplays FYR Macedonia thanks to 21-2 run in the last quarter - by Eurobasket News
EuroBasket, Day 3: FYR MACEDONIA - CROATIA 71-81

Croatia was too strong for Israel finishing the Preliminary Round with 2-1. On the other side, FYR Macedonia is third ranked team in Group A thanks to victory against Israel yesterday and also advanced to the next stage. There Croatia, FYR Macedonia and Greece will meet 3 best teams from Preliminary Group B. Nikola Vujcic (211-C-78) led Croatia today scoring 12 points for 19 minutes. Marko Banic (204-F-84) was behind him with 11, while Zoran Planinic (199-G-82) added 9 points and 7 assists. In the loosing squad, Darko Sokolov (190-G-86), Vrbica Stefanov (188-G-73) and Jeremiah Massey (202-F-82, college: Kansas St.) netted 12 points each. Massey had 10 rebounds beside that, while Stefanov handed out 5 assists.
FYR Macedonia was better team in the first quarter. Except of 0-2 for Croatia at the very beginning, FYR Macedonia grabbed the lead and did not let it until the end of the period, 26-20. Nothing has changed after that as Jeremiah Massey led 8-0 run for his team so the score already was 34-20 for FYR Macedonia. Later it was 41-24 and it seemed that Massey and his teammates are on the right track to victory, but Croatians did not have the same thoughts. They came little but closer until the half time (48-34) and after 15-minute break made impressive 0-10 run, led by Nikola Vujcic and Ukic and Rozic. Still, FYR Macedonia managed to recover and they jumped to 61-56 after 30 minutes. In the last quarter Croatia intensified defense stopping FYR Macedonia on just 10 more points until the end. On the other side they drained 25 (including crucial 2-21 run). It is important to mention that FYR Macedonia scored just 2 points in first seven minutes of the last period.
The championship continues on Friday (Day 1 of Qualification Round).

FYR Macedonia: Jeremiah Massey 12+10 boards, Vrbica Stefanov 12+5 as, Darko Sokolov 12
Croatia: Nikola Vujcic 12, Marko Banic 11, Zoran Planinic 9+7 as

*****************************************************
  GAMBIA   


Sambou starts fresh at St Augustine - by Rolando Delabarrera
Amadou Sambou has transferred from Southeastern CC to St Augustine University for the 2009/2010 season. Sambou has decided to stay closer to family ( Raleigh ) and is focusing on academics and playing time. St Augustine plays in the competitive CIAA D2 and will benefit from Sambou's size and they will provide him a solid situation to finish off his college career. Barring injury, it should be a good fit for both of them. Amadou Sambou (206-C)

*****************************************************
  GEORGIA   


Georgia nip Belarus, enter Division A - by Eurobasket News
Georgia - Belarus 86:84

Georgia fulfilled their ambitions and reached Division A of the European Championship. They overcame Belarus in a two-game playoff series. Georgia enjoyed a 14-point buffer after the opening clash in Belarus. But the team had to withhold a furious rescue attempts from Belarus in Tbilisi to seal the winning outcome.
Viktor Sanikidze (203-F-86) and Tyrone Ellis (193-G-77, college: S.Nazarene) gave the hosts an 8:3 lead early in the game. Georgia maintained the advantage throughout the opening frame and entered the second stanza up by 8 points 27:19. Alexander Kudrautsau (190-G-80) and Mikalai Aliakseyeu (212-C-78, agency: High Post Agency, college: Buffalo) dropped three long bombs early in the second quarter as the gap grew thinner. However Viktor Sanikidze and Pachulia knocked down a bunch of free throws to keep the hosts in charge. Georgia ensured a 52:46 advantage at halftime. Georgia kept the visitors at distance throughout the third frame. Alexander Kudrautsau, Mikalai Aliakseyeu and Yegor Meshcharakou (205-F-76, agency: Octagon, college: George Washington) sparked the intrigue late in the stanza cutting the deficit to just 3 points. Yegor Meshcharakou tipped off the fourth frame with a three-pointer as Belarus drew things level. Alexander Kudrautsau followed with a jumper to pull the visitors ahead. Pachulia and Viktor Sanikidze restored the lead for the hosts before Alexander Kudrautsau tied things up again with 46 seconds remaining. Pachulia and Tsintsadze nailed two free throws late in regulation to seal the victory for Georgia.
Viktor Sanikidze tallied 18 points and 10 boards for Georgia. Tyrone Ellis nailed 17 points for the winners. Alexander Kudrautsau responded with game-high 28 points for Belarus. Pavel Ulyanko (204-F/C-79) had 14 points in the losing effort.

Georgia: Viktor Sanikidze 18+10 boards, Tyrone Ellis 17, Kote Tugushi (192-G-84) 13
Belarus: Alexander Kudrautsau 28, Pavel Ulyanko 14


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


Malick Moore Returns Back To BBL To The Paderborn Baskets - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
After a season visit to the PRO A, Malik Moore (192-G-77, agency: Prossin Sports Management, college: Amer.Internat.) heads back to an old stomping ground and signs with the Paderborn Baskets. Last season, Moore who is a 32 year old 192cm guard came during the season and helped MBC return to the BBL by playing 15 games and averaging10.4ppg, 2.7rpg, 3.3apg, 1.3spg, FGP: 42.1%, 3PT: 30.4%, FT: 77.5%. Moore seems to have every quality that is needed for a combo guard. He is a great highlight film. Has great spead, quickness and is a very good shooter. A true scorer. Extremely athletic, can score at will and is very strong. Has very good range and a good ball handler. He seemed not to be in the plans of coach Bjorn Harmsen for the 2009-2010 BBL season with MBC and became a prime target for Paderborn after remembering the 2007-2008 season where he was a vital role player for coach Doug Spradley playing 27 games and averaging 9.9ppg, 3.1rpg, 3.1apg, 2FGP: 44.9%, 3PT: 29.4%, FT: 79.3%. New Paderborn coach Olaf Stolz is very happy that the team will get back an old face. 'We are happy that we were able to get back such an experienced player.He will be important for the young players and serve with relief', stressed coach Olaf Stolz .

Moore was born in Philiadelphia and went to Temple University in his freshman year, but hardly played averaging 1.3ppg 0.9rpg 0.2apg. He then decided to go to NCAA2 school American International from 1999-2002. His best season was his senior year as he averaged 22.8 pts, 4.8 assists, 5.1 rbs, 2.76 steals. He then turned professional and headed to China playing for the Shougang Beijing Ducks averaging 18.5 PPG 3.6 RPG 3.6 APG 1.8 SPG 48.9 2PT FG 34.2 3PT FG 67.8 FT. In 2005-2006, he headed back to the States to the Roanoke Dazzle (D-League) playing 47 games and averaging 3.9ppg, 1.6rpg, 1.5apg. In 2006-2007, he played in the CBA for the Great Falls Explorers playing 47 games and averaging 15.4ppg, 4.5rpg, Assists-3 (5.6apg), 1.3spg, FGP: 45.5%, 3PT: 30.6%, FT: 84.8% which were good enough stats to give him ajob in the BBL with the Paderborn Baskets the first time around.

Source: www.paderborn-baskets.de

Peter Fehse Returns Back To MBC - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber
After being drafted by the NBA team Seatle Supersonics, winning the FIBA Europe Cup in 2004 with MBC, countless severe injuries, being degraded to the Spot Up Medien Baskets Braunschweig of the PRO B last season and rumors of retirement, most may not have thought that Peter Fehse (210-C/F-83) would ever return to the BBL, but he had the last laugh showing all doubters that he still has something left in his tank as MBC signed him to a contract. He will not only support the BBL team as a player finding his form on the court again, but also be active in the youth department. Fehse has not had much luck the last years to stay free from inuries and last year was a horror story for the 26 year old 210 cm center. After being inured for most of the 2008-2009 season, he reurned in the last game against Rhondorf playing three minutes but injuring his hamstring so badly that it looked like he could never play basketball again. However Fehse never gave up, began rehabilitating his injury and got rewarded in June by getting a call from the doctor saying that his foot had healed so well saying that there could be a chance of him playing again. Soon Fehse got a call from MBC manager Martin Geissler saying the club was interested in a possible cooperation. It is always refreshing even when a player has gone through severe difficulties, is not forgotten by an ex team where the player once had much success. 'I am very thankful that I am getting this chance. Bjorn is a great coach that I very much respect', stressed Peter Fehse (210-C/F-83). Both know each other since 2000 where they got to know each other in Hawaii. 'Peter is a good player from the region. We really want to help him find his way back', said MBC coach Bjorn Harmsen. MBC seems to be one big happy family. 'I am happy to have Peter back, a guy that helped us celebrate one of our biggest success in our club history and that he will help us again in the BBL. I am happy that he is home again', explained MBC manager Martin Geissler .

Fehse is from Halle and played for SV Halle from 2000-2002. In 2002-2003, he had a rough season going from Italy to Germany, but hardly playing. He played at Benetton Treviso, but was sent to the Frankfurt Skyliners playing one ULEB Cup, but had to undergo a surgery on his foot in March 2003 which ended the season. He also had a licence to play at Eintracht Frankfurt (2.Bundesliga South) playing 8 games and averaging 8.4 ppg, 4.0 rpg, 1.0 spg. In 2003-2004, he had his first service of duty with MBC playing 4 FIBA Europe Cup games and averaging 3.3ppg, 3.0rpg, 1.3apg, 1.0bpg and playing 11 BBL games averaging 3.1ppg, 2.1rpg. In 2004-2005, he played for BS Energy Braunschweig playing 6 games and averaging 4.7ppg, 1.8rpg and he also had a double licence to play for SG Braunschweig (2.Bundesliga, starting five) playing 14 games and averaging 11.9ppg, 7.1rpg, 1.4apg, 1.4spg, 2.6bpg, 2FGP: 67%, 3FGP: 36.4%, FT: 77.1%. He then signed a three year contract with Braunschweig playing 21 games in 2005-2006 and averaging 5.5ppg, 2.9rpg, 2FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 16.7%. In 2006-2007, he played 21 games and averaged 5.5ppg, 2.9rpg, 2FGP: 50.0%, 3PT: 16.7%. In 2007-2008, he was sidelined for three months.

www.mitteldeutscherbc.de

Davis Martens to enroll at Siena College - by Moritz Korff
Head Coach Fran McCaffery announced today that Davis Martens (204-F/C-89) has accepted an athletic scholarship to play basketball at Siena. Martens, a 6-9 forward from Cologne, Germany, will have freshman eligibility this season.

The NCAA has ruled that Martens will have to sit out the first 12 games of the 2009-10 season because he competed as an amateur with professionals while playing overseas.

McCaffery indicated that Martens will add depth to Siena's frontcourt. The College announced earlier today that senior Cory Magee has been declared a medical exception and will join the staff as a student assistant coach.

Courtesy of http://sienasaints.cstv.com/sports/m-baskbl/spec-rel/090809aad.html

Germany scrape past Latvia into Qualifying Round in Poland - by Eurobasket News
Latvia - Germany 68:62
Germany lost their last game at the preliminary round of 2009 EuroBasket to Latvia but still managed to stay in the title race. The win by six points turned insufficient to Latvia as they had to pack things now. Jan-Hendrick Jagla (213-F-81, agency: Priority Sports, college: Penn St.) scored decisive five points in the dying seconds to carry Germany into the next round of action.
Hamann and Jan-Hendrick Jagla gave a brisk start to Germany with four points in a row. But a 6:0 run from Latvia put them in charge. Kristaps Janicenoks (196-F-83) and Kaspars Kambala (206-C-78, college: UNLV) capped the first frame to ensure a 14:13 lead for the Baltic team. Kaspars Kambala and Blums nailed quick 5 points as Latvia enjoyed a 19:13 advantage at the start of the second stanza. Back-to-back triples from Harris and Demond Greene (185-G-79, agency: Court Side) erased the deficit. But Kaspars Kambala, Helmanis and Valters persisted to return the lead to Latvia. Helmanis connected from beyond the arc to open up a double-digit advantage with just over a minute left in the half. Schaffartzik and Benzing responded with immediate four points before Blums sent the teams into the locker rooms with Latvia up by 8. Femerling, Jan-Hendrick Jagla and Demond Greene organized a 6:0 rally from the German team at the beginning of the second half. Armands Skele (192-G-83) stopped the bleeding for Latvia and soon Kestutis Kemzura team cleared off to a 9-point distance. They stayed in charge to finish the third quarter ahead by 9 points 51:42. Hamann and Demond Greene narrowed the distance early in the fourth frame but once again Latvia found the way to respond as Kaspars Kambala and Andris Biedrins (213-C-86) restored a 9-point distance. Kaspars Kambala followed with two free throws to give Latvia an 11-point cushion. Jan-Hendrick Jagla hit two free throws and then Demond Greene came up with consecutive triples as Germany reignited the intrigue in this one. Kristaps Janicenoks came up with important four points and then Armands Skele added two more as Latvia rolled to a 10-point advantage with 33 seconds remaining. Femerling scored just one free throw, while Kristaps Janicenoks went perfect from the stripe to secure an 11-point lead for Latvia. However Jan-Hendrick Jagla fired from beyond the arc to keep Germany in the qualification zone. Kalve got fouled but missed both of his free throws to give the chance for the German team. They used it 100% as Jan-Hendrick Jagla hit two of his free throw attempts to send Germany into the Qualifying Round.
Kristaps Janicenoks paced Latvia with 14 points. Kaspars Kambala produced 11 points in the winning case. Demond Greene led Germany with 16 points. Jan-Hendrick Jagla accounted for 13 points and 7 boards in a sweet loss for his team.

Latvia: Kristaps Janicenoks 14, Kaspars Kambala 11, Armands Skele 10, Andris Biedrins 10
Germany: Demond Greene 16, Jan-Hendrick Jagla 13


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


Greece finish EuroBasket preliminary round undefeated - by Eurobasket News
Greece - Israel 106:80
Greece earned the third straight win at the 2009 EuroBasket. They held off Israel to win preliminary Group A. Israel lost the third game in a row and return home winless.
It was do-or-die battle for Israel but Greece did not give a single chance to their opponents. Kozikaro, Green and Halperin made it look hopeful for Israel at the start of the game. They gave the team a 7:3 lead but the Hellenes quickly denied the deficit. Kaimakoglou and Calathes drained back-to-back three-pointers as Greece grabbed a 17:15 lead. Vassilis Spanoulis (193-G-82, agency: Beo Basket) capped the opening frame with four points in a row as Greece enjoyed a 31:25 advantage. Vassilis Spanoulis and Sofoklis Schortsanitis (206-C-85) ensured a 35:27 lead for Greece early in the second stanza. Green and Mekel narrowed the distance to just 3 points late in the half. However Greece responded with a 13:2 rally to make it 56:42 at halftime. Sofoklis Schortsanitis and Vassilis Spanoulis extended the margin at 18 points at the start of the second half. Greece maintained the lead before Lior Eliyahu (205-F-85, agency: ZAG Advocates) and Raviv Limonad (192-G-84, agency: Arik Krayn Services) narrowed the deficit at 14 points with ten minutes to go 65:79. Naimy and Raviv Limonad tipped off the fourth frame with five points in a row as Israeli team got as close as 9 points. But Koufos and Antonis Fotsis (210-F-81) teamed up for five timely points to give some breathing space for the Hellenes. Antonis Fotsis followed with another long bomb to silence Israel. Vassilis Spanoulis converted a three-point play to open up a 20-point advantage for Greece midway through the fourth stanza. Greece cruised to a 100-point mark and celebrated a comfortable win at the end.
Vassilis Spanoulis scored 18 points and dished out 5 assists to pace Greece. Antonis Fotsis and Sofoklis Schortsanitis added 16 points each in the win. Lior Eliyahu nailed 21 points, grabbed 8 boards and issued 4 assists for Israel. Raviv Limonad had 15 points in the losing effort.

Greece: Vassilis Spanoulis 18, Antonis Fotsis 16, Sofoklis Schortsanitis 16
Israel: Lior Eliyahu 21, Raviv Limonad 15


Day 3: Hellas - Israel 106-80 - by Chris Mammides
Group A: Day 3: Hellas - Israel 106-80
The third victory in three games its now a fact. The Hellenic NT added its third win and remains unbeaten in this first round of the European championship. After the first 12 minutes the Hellenic NT took the initiatives and total control of the game and had no problem against Svi Serfs Israeli NT. The deficit was between 13-18 points and Coach Jonas Kazlauskas with coach Sferopoulos tried many different schemes and tactics to be used in the second round of this tournament. It is really worth mentioning the fact that the Lithuanian Head Coach used Big Sofo for quite some time at the center position and gave clear orders to his guards to play with him a lot in the paint as there was not the slightest opponent to be able to defend against his tremendous physical power. Other than that, Vassilis Spanoulis (193-G-82) performed really very well (as always) and with exceptional organizational skills lead his team to another victory. Moreover, the defensive mechanism of the Hellenic NT worked perfectly against the stars of the Israeli NT. Printezis also played very well in the power forward position with good D and good passing game. Another amazing point is the fact that the Hellenic NT had nearly perfect percentage from the charity line. The third quarter was the best quarter for the Hellenic NT in the offense, (the Hellenic NT scored 30 points in the third quarter) especially from the parameter as the Greek guards won nearly all the fights against their opponents. The score in the third quarter was 63-79 for the Hellenic NT.
The fourth quarter starts with the Israelis being more offensive and performed a 7-0 (7 unanswered points) 70-79. After the 31st minute the Hellenes answered back and increase the deficit to 22 points (77-99) 3.34 before the end of the game. The final score was 106-80


*****************************************************
  GUATEMALA   


Standings
LPB Standings
 1. D-Team 7-1 
 2. Elite Sport 6-2 
 3. Le Mans 4-4 
 4. Compusys 3-5 
 5. Preparatoria 0-8 


Elite Sport defeats La Mans - by Gianni Pascucci
Alejandro Carrillo (192-F-88) hit two free throws just before the buzzer to give the win to his team, Lanco-Elite Sport over Le Mans at the end of one of the most spectacular and balanced games of the first edition of Liga Profesional de Baloncesto de Guatemala. The game ended 105-102, and the two teams played head to head all game long. Oscar Salguero (196-F-87) ended the game as the top scorer, with 24 points, and the same points were scored by Adrian Lemcke (191-F-77) at the losing side. Carrillo adde 23 in Elite Sport and Pablo Cano (178-G-88) 16, Alejandro Pastorio (183-G-77) confirmed his quality with 16 point for Le Mans. The LPB also announced it will held his first All Star Game on September 15 in Guatemala City.

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


Slam's Graham signs contract to play in Germany - by Eurobasket News
The Bellingham Slam have announced that guard Ira Graham (6'2''-G, agency: Duran International, college: W.Washington) has signed a contract to play in Germany this winter. Graham becomes the first Slam player from last season's squad to sign an overseas contract for the 2009-10 season.

Graham will be playing for the Saar-Pfalz Braves, a team in Germany's second division. Graham arrived in Germany last week and has already played in one exhibition game with his new team, scoring 14 points in a 81-63 loss to first-division team TBB Trier.

A former Western Washington standout, Graham enjoyed a fine rookie campaign with the Slam. In 22 games, he averaged 18.5 points per game on 52.9 percent shooting and was Bellingham's assist leader with 120, a 5.5 per game average. Graham scored a season-high 40 points against the Edmonton Energy on May 16, and was one of four Slam players to be named to the 2009 International Basketball League all-star team.

As a Viking, Graham led Western Washington with a 19.1 points per game scoring average during his senior season and helped the school capture its first ever outright Great Northwest Athletic Conference title last spring. Graham was named the GNAC's player of the year and appeared in the Division II All-Star Game alongside Slam teammate and ex-Saint Martin's star Jake Linton.

Graham's efforts resulted in an invitation to participate in a tryout for the NBA's Washington Wizards, which he took part in last month.

Courtesy of Bellingham Slam


Former Slam WWU Standout Signs To Play In Germany - by John Gary
courtesy oursportscentral.com former Bellingham Slam and Western Washington university standout ira graham has signed a contract to play for the Saar- Pfalz Bravesa team in Germanys second division. Graham arrived in Germany last week according to a press release from the Slam on tuesday September 8 and has aleady played in one exhibition game scoring 14 points in a 81-63 loss to first division team Tbb Trier. in his rookie campaign with the Slam last spring, Graham averaged 18.5 points and led the team with 5.5 assits per game in 22 games.

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


Greece finish EuroBasket preliminary round undefeated - by Eurobasket News
Greece - Israel 106:80
Greece earned the third straight win at the 2009 EuroBasket. They held off Israel to win preliminary Group A. Israel lost the third game in a row and return home winless.
It was do-or-die battle for Israel but Greece did not give a single chance to their opponents. Kozikaro, Green and Halperin made it look hopeful for Israel at the start of the game. They gave the team a 7:3 lead but the Hellenes quickly denied the deficit. Kaimakoglou and Calathes drained back-to-back three-pointers as Greece grabbed a 17:15 lead. Vassilis Spanoulis (193-G-82, agency: Beo Basket) capped the opening frame with four points in a row as Greece enjoyed a 31:25 advantage. Vassilis Spanoulis and Sofoklis Schortsanitis (206-C-85) ensured a 35:27 lead for Greece early in the second stanza. Green and Mekel narrowed the distance to just 3 points late in the half. However Greece responded with a 13:2 rally to make it 56:42 at halftime. Sofoklis Schortsanitis and Vassilis Spanoulis extended the margin at 18 points at the start of the second half. Greece maintained the lead before Lior Eliyahu (205-F-85, agency: ZAG Advocates) and Raviv Limonad (192-G-84, agency: Arik Krayn Services) narrowed the deficit at 14 points with ten minutes to go 65:79. Naimy and Raviv Limonad tipped off the fourth frame with five points in a row as Israeli team got as close as 9 points. But Koufos and Antonis Fotsis (210-F-81) teamed up for five timely points to give some breathing space for the Hellenes. Antonis Fotsis followed with another long bomb to silence Israel. Vassilis Spanoulis converted a three-point play to open up a 20-point advantage for Greece midway through the fourth stanza. Greece cruised to a 100-point mark and celebrated a comfortable win at the end.
Vassilis Spanoulis scored 18 points and dished out 5 assists to pace Greece. Antonis Fotsis and Sofoklis Schortsanitis added 16 points each in the win. Lior Eliyahu nailed 21 points, grabbed 8 boards and issued 4 assists for Israel. Raviv Limonad had 15 points in the losing effort.

Greece: Vassilis Spanoulis 18, Antonis Fotsis 16, Sofoklis Schortsanitis 16
Israel: Lior Eliyahu 21, Raviv Limonad 15


Hapoel Afula ink Bamba Fall - by Eurobasket News
Hapoel Afula landed Bamba Fall (216-C-86). The Senegalese 216cm centre just graduated from Southern Methodist University. He averaged 8.9 points, 7.3 boards and 2.2 blocks per game in the senior season in college. The player was named to the C-USA All-Defensive Team in 2009. Bamba Fall is the member of the Senegalese National Team. Fall participated at the 2007 Afrobasket in Angola.


*****************************************************
  ITALY   


Luca Vitali leaves Milano and joins Roma - by Antonello Varallo
Lottomatica Virtus Roma announced the agreement for 2+2 seasons with Italian National Team player Luca Vitali (201-G-86). The guard born in Bologna was one of the most important italian prospect after his very good seasons with Sutor Montegranaro, but during last season played with Milano he was not up to expectations (7.6ppg, 1.8rpg, 2.2apg, 1.8spg, FGP: 39.8%, 3PT: 32.9%, FT: 87.2% in 38 Serie A games, with a season high of 17 points scored twice, while he scored his european season high -32 points- against Panionios). Recently, he has been one of the main disappointment of Italian Qualifications to European Championships 2009, with only 5.3ppg, 2.0apg, 1.0spg in 3 games.


Italian teams in pre-season action - by Eurobasket News
Italian teams continued their preparations for the upcoming season with a series of friendly games.
Benetton Treviso shot down Carife 94:88. The Treviso outfit grabbed a 10-point lead after ten minutes of action 31:21. They maintained the lead well enough to enjoy an 11-point advantage at halftime. Carife however rebounded in the third frame and started to claw their way back into this one. They cut the margin to just 4 points with ten minutes to go. Carife drew things level at 88 late in the game but Benetton capped the game with six points in a row to escape with a hard-fought win. Donatas Motiejunas (213-C-90, agency: Interperformances) fired 21 points to pace Benetton. Judson Wallace (205-F/C-82, agency: Elfus-Siegel Management (ESM), college: Princeton) and Gary Neal (193-G-84, college: Towson) added 20 points each in the victory. Anthony Grundy (189-G-79, agency: Strategic Sports, college: N.Carolina St.) answered with 28 points for Carife. Yohann Sangare (193-G-83, agency: Priority Sports) had 18 points in the loss.
Air Avellino lost to Efes Pilsen 80:85 in overtime. The Turkish team led by two points at halftime but Air Avellino forced overtime tying things up at 74 at the end of regulation. But the Turkish side prevailed at the end. Preston Shumpert (198-G-79, college: Syracuse) fired 22 points to pace the charge. DeMarcus Nelson (193-G-85, agency: ZAG Advocates, college: Duke) answered with 15 points in his debut for Air Avellino.


Hristo Zahariev in Varese - by Eurobasket News
Hristo Zahariev (197-G/F-90) joined Cimberio Varese for one-month try-outs. The 19-year-old shooting guard spent the previous season in GMAC Bologna junior team. The Bulgarian player was previously seen in Spartak MVR and Panathinaikos Athens. In 2007 he moved to Levski Sophia and averaged 3.2 points and 1.8 boards per game. Hristo Zahariev played for Bulgarian U20 National at the European championship this summer. He tallied 13.9 points, 5.3 boards, 3.0 assists and 2.3 steals per game in Skopje.


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  KAZAKHSTAN   


Tobol comes back from Magnitogorsk - by Eurobasket News
Tobol comes back from Magnitogorsk after participating in the International tournament with the Russian teams. Tobol showed great attention and left good feedback finishing second.
Metallurg Magnitogorsk wins the home tournament named Matveychuk Memorial. In the first game of the tournament the team overcame Irkut 85:79. Artem Kurinnoy (201-F-82) top-scored for the winners with 22 points and 13 rebounds. Rastrigin netted 15 and Amelin posted 11. In another game of the first day Tobol from Kazakhstan outscored the second team of metallurg 89:61.
In Day 2 Metallurg overcame Tobol 85:65 for the second victory. The Russian team opened the game with 25:21, but Tobol replied with 17-16 in the second frame. The second half was too good for the hosts that dominated the court. They produced 23-14 and 21-13 in the third and the last periods respectively for the total success. Maksim Sinelnikov (194-G-85) exploded with 33 points for the winners and Amelin netted 16. Artem Kurinnoy added 14, while Rastrigin scored 8 points.
In the Final of the tournament Metallurg Magnitogorsk faced Tobol again and won 81:64. Amelin top-scored for the winners with 30 points and 4 assists. In the game for the third place Irkut overcame the second team of Metallurg 89:63.
The top team of the tournament was named the following: Alexandr Zhigulin (202-F-94) from Tobol, Maksim Sinelnikov from Metallurg, Sergei Chudinovskih (194-G-81) from Irkut, Stanislav Dubinin (196-F-90) from the second team of Metallurg. The top-scorer of the tournament became Maksim Sinelnikov who nailed 74 points.


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


Liepajas Lauvas join BBL Elite Division - by Eurobasket News
Liepajas Lauvas filled in the last available spot in BBL Elite Division. The Latvian team played at the Challenge Cup last season. They were stopped by Sakalai at the quarterfinal stage of the tournament.
The BBL season will tip off on September 25th with the BBL Cup games in Kaunas. Lietuvos Rytas will take on Kalev/Cramo, while Zalgiris will face Ventspils.


Liepaja and Ventspils play with the abroad teams - by Eurobasket News
Severstal overcame Liepaja 84:75 on September 5th. Both teams began quite similar, and the result of growing steadily. The Russian side was better later in the half to take 42:37 advantage. Severstal managed to keep the lead for good and won the game. Juris Patmalnieks (201-F-85) top-scored for the team with 22 points.
Ukrainian Dnipro beat Latvian Liepaja 73:63 in the friendly game last night. Dnipro opened the game with 19:15 and then had 12-6 in the second quarter due to the better defensive skills. Latvian side responded with 22-20 in the third period to trail 7 points after thirty minutes. Dnipro however sealed the victory with 22-19 in the last quarter. Martynas Andriukaitis (204-F-81) top-scored for the winners with 20 points and 10 rebounds. Kornienko collected 16 points and 11 boards, while Andrei Lebedev (189-G-79) netted 8 points.
Ventspils meanwhile beat Russian Severstal 90:70. The Latvian side won the opening quarter 23-14 and had 44:30 at the halftime. With 11-0 run Venspils reached later 78:48 and it was not that big deal to lead the game to the win. Janis Strelnieks (191-G-89) paced all the winners with 19 points. Arturs Berzins (204-C-88) ended up with 12, while Bertans posted 11. Mikus Sokolovs (194-G-89) notched 9 points, whilst Blaus and Jurevicus had 8 apiece.

Germany scrape past Latvia into Qualifying Round in Poland - by Eurobasket News
Latvia - Germany 68:62
Germany lost their last game at the preliminary round of 2009 EuroBasket to Latvia but still managed to stay in the title race. The win by six points turned insufficient to Latvia as they had to pack things now. Jan-Hendrick Jagla (213-F-81, agency: Priority Sports, college: Penn St.) scored decisive five points in the dying seconds to carry Germany into the next round of action.
Hamann and Jan-Hendrick Jagla gave a brisk start to Germany with four points in a row. But a 6:0 run from Latvia put them in charge. Kristaps Janicenoks (196-F-83) and Kaspars Kambala (206-C-78, college: UNLV) capped the first frame to ensure a 14:13 lead for the Baltic team. Kaspars Kambala and Blums nailed quick 5 points as Latvia enjoyed a 19:13 advantage at the start of the second stanza. Back-to-back triples from Harris and Demond Greene (185-G-79, agency: Court Side) erased the deficit. But Kaspars Kambala, Helmanis and Valters persisted to return the lead to Latvia. Helmanis connected from beyond the arc to open up a double-digit advantage with just over a minute left in the half. Schaffartzik and Benzing responded with immediate four points before Blums sent the teams into the locker rooms with Latvia up by 8. Femerling, Jan-Hendrick Jagla and Demond Greene organized a 6:0 rally from the German team at the beginning of the second half. Armands Skele (192-G-83) stopped the bleeding for Latvia and soon Kestutis Kemzura team cleared off to a 9-point distance. They stayed in charge to finish the third quarter ahead by 9 points 51:42. Hamann and Demond Greene narrowed the distance early in the fourth frame but once again Latvia found the way to respond as Kaspars Kambala and Andris Biedrins (213-C-86) restored a 9-point distance. Kaspars Kambala followed with two free throws to give Latvia an 11-point cushion. Jan-Hendrick Jagla hit two free throws and then Demond Greene came up with consecutive triples as Germany reignited the intrigue in this one. Kristaps Janicenoks came up with important four points and then Armands Skele added two more as Latvia rolled to a 10-point advantage with 33 seconds remaining. Femerling scored just one free throw, while Kristaps Janicenoks went perfect from the stripe to secure an 11-point lead for Latvia. However Jan-Hendrick Jagla fired from beyond the arc to keep Germany in the qualification zone. Kalve got fouled but missed both of his free throws to give the chance for the German team. They used it 100% as Jan-Hendrick Jagla hit two of his free throw attempts to send Germany into the Qualifying Round.
Kristaps Janicenoks paced Latvia with 14 points. Kaspars Kambala produced 11 points in the winning case. Demond Greene led Germany with 16 points. Jan-Hendrick Jagla accounted for 13 points and 7 boards in a sweet loss for his team.

Latvia: Kristaps Janicenoks 14, Kaspars Kambala 11, Armands Skele 10, Andris Biedrins 10
Germany: Demond Greene 16, Jan-Hendrick Jagla 13


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  LITHUANIA   


Lithuania grabs the only ticket left to the Qualifying Round - by Eurobasket News
Lithuania-Bulgaria 84:69

Lithuania and Bulgaria struggled for the only victory in Group D and the only ticket left to the Qualifying Round. Ramunas Butautas' squad pulled away late in the final quarter to claim their first 84:69 victory in Poland.
That was really hot in the court of Wroclaw. Ivanov gave Bulgaria the first lead and then the teams were tied at 12:12. Jomantas scored for 25:18 and K. Ivanov reduce for 25:22 after 10 minutes. Earl Rowland (188-G-83, college: St.Mary's, CA) tied it at 33:33 and D. Ivanov gave his team 37:36 advantage. Lukauskis with a three sent the teams to the lockers. In the third period Lithuanian team enjoyed 17-16 to take 1-point lead. Videnov scored for 56:55, while Delinikaitis closed the third period at 57:56. Simas Jasaitis (202-F/G-82) opened the last stanza for 59:56 and Videnov toed the game at 59:59. Delinikaitis brought the Baltic side 61:59 and Javtokas scored for 62:59 and another points for 64:59. K. Ivanov managed to reduce to 64:61, whilst Kleiza and Ksistof Lavrinovic (210-C-79) brought Lithuania 71:64. The latter also went to the free throw line later in the game and was perfect 3/3 for 74:64 with a bit more than three minutes in the court. Rowlnad meanwhile scored one from the same line and K. Ivanov added for 74:67. The Baltic side finished the game with 10-2 to win the initial game in Group D.
Ksistof Lavrinovic poured in 16 points and had 6 rebounds for the winners. Marijonas Petravicius (208-F/C-79, college: S.Carolina) nailed 13, whislt Simas Jasaitis added 11. Earl Rowland produced 18 points in defeat and Todor Stoykov (198-G/F-77, agency: Interperformances) notched 16.

Lithuania: Ksistof Lavrinovic 16+6 rebs, Marijonas Petravicius 13, Simas Jasaitis 11
Bulgaria: Earl Rowland 18, Todor Stoykov 16

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  MONTENEGRO   


Montenegro registered the spot in Division A - by Eurobasket News
Montenegro-Sweden 88:71

Montenegro won the second game of the Play-offs of Division B over Sweden. The team proved it one more time that they deserve a place in Division A more than the opponents.
Montenegro started with 20:14 after the opening quarter, while Sweden reduced to 3 points after 26-23 in the second frame. The third quarter became the decisive in the game as the hosts produced 24-10 in it. Martin Ringstrom (206-F-81, agency: Rasmussen Services) made it 77:57 midway through the last period. Grant added another three for 77:60, while Kjellbom posted two for 77:62. Drobnjiak however responded from the arc for 80:62 and Cook brought 83:62. Massambra made the same for the Scandinavian team, whilst Golubovic posted one for 84:65. Martin Ringstrom and Vladimir Dasic (208-F-88, agency: Beo Basket) exchanged the baskets later in the quarter for 86:67. The teams did not rush to score in the last minutes and Akesson could bring 86:71. Rakocevic made a dunk for 88:71 making the final score.
Nikola Pekovic (210-C-86, agency: Beo Basket) paced all the winners with 17 points for Division A birth. Drobnjiak and Vladimir Dasic followed him with 14 points each. Martin Ringstrom finished the night with 17 points in the losing effort, while Mats Levin (188-G-77) notched 13.

Montenegro: Nikola Pekovic 17, Drobnjiak 14, Vladimir Dasic 14
Sweden: Martin Ringstrom 17, Mats Levin 13

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  MOZAMBIQUE   


Standings - Men
D1 Standings
 1. Maxaquene 1-0 
 2. Desportivo M. 1-0 
 3. Ferroviario B. 1-0 
 4. Politcnica Q. 1-0 
 5. Desportivo B. 0-1 
 6. Costa do Sol 0-1 
 7. Ferroviario M. 0-1 
 8. Sport Clube 0-1 


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  NBA   


Hornets monitoring Peja Stojakovic's health - by Eurobasket News
When New Orleans Hornets small forward Predrag Stojakovic (6'10''-F-77) reports for training camp later this month, General Manager Jeff Bower and Coach Byron Scott will already know if his previous back problems will be a factor.

Two weeks ago, the franchise sent Mark Cranston, Director of Athlete Performance and Rehabilitation, to evaluate Stojakovic at his offseason home in Greece. Last season, the Hornets was unable to get a precise update on Stojakovic's back condition until he reported for camp.

As part of the franchise's revamped offseason procedures, Cranston was able bring back detailed reports concerning Stojakovic's back strength.

Stojakovic has had back problems since requiring season-ending surgery in 2006 to remove a disc fragment. He missed 20 games last season because of back spasms, but averaged 13.3 points per game. There is a possibility Stojakovic may come off the bench this season to extend his career. He has the team's highest contract at $14.2 million this season and $15.3 million in 2010-11.

'Mark spent a couple of days with him (Stojakovic) and had very good reports,'' Bower said last week. 'We're pleased with what all our players have been doing at this point.''

Courtesy of www.nola.com


Lee, Robinson nearing deals - by Eurobasket News
Stop us if you've heard this before, but there's clearly a market for reporting the inevitable: A source indicated that restricted free agent David Lee (6'9''-F-83, agency: Priority Sports, college: Florida) and the Knicks could have a one-year deal hammered out by the end of the week.

It is likely that the team's other restricted free agent, Nate Robinson (5'9''-G-84, college: Washington), may soon follow.

Donnie Walsh would not confirm anything was imminent, but he did tell us here at the Fix that the situation with both restricteds is 'at the point where we should start talking real numbers.'

Lee's agent, Mark Bartelstein, also gave no indication of an impending deal, but did say, 'We hope something gets done soon.'

Both Walsh and Bartelstein have both already publicly acknowledged a mutual interest in negotiating a one-year deal if a sign-and-trade could not be completed.Bartelstein had some scenarios outlined but none were of interest to the Knicks, who wanted to keep Lee all along.

Robinson has been in limbo all summer and faces the sobering reality that, despite a career-year statistically, he actually was the fall-back option for the Knicks, who spent the offseason looking into every possible alternative to bringing the irrepressible KryptoNate back into the fold.

It's pretty much a given that Walsh would be willing to go well beyond the qualifying offers for either player, though, by rule of the collective bargaining agreement, he doesn't have to. The Knicks could have played hardball and held firm on the QOs for both players ($2.9M for Robinson, $2.7M for Lee) and saved some cash and luxury tax payments.

But the concern about signing either player has never been about the money this season as it was the cap hit against the 2010 payroll. So as a good faith exchange with two players who are the team's most visible and popular among the fan base and around the NBA, Walsh appears willing to give them a fair value one-year payday rather than force them to take their QOs before they expire on Oct. 1.

(For those curious: If the QOs weren't accepted by then, the players would have remained restricted free agents but could be re-signed for less than the QO. It would also mean the players would miss the start of training camp, which almost never happens in the NBA . . . and don't expect it to happen now.)

Even with these one-year deals, the Knicks will still feel the impact in 2010 because of the cap holds for both players, unless Walsh renounces the Bird Rights for either player. The cap holds would be a major factor if the NBA's cap falls to the doomsday prophecized $50M level.

However, RealGM's Christopher Reina had a good perspective on how Walsh can also avoid giving up the Bird Rights and the astronomical cap holds, even with a drop in the cap:

It is true that Lees cap hold will likely be too high to allow the Knicks to offer a maximum contract. However, a cap hold is converted to the actual contract amount once a player is signed. And under one of the NBAs projections of the 2010 salary cap, the Knicks would have enough cap room to sign one max contract and still have $7.3 million of additional space. A starting salary of $7.3 million could well be enough to retain Lee, given the 10.5% yearly raises and six seasons the Knicks can offer as the owners of Lees Bird Rights.

Basically, the Knicks can attempt to sign him early in the free agency period to set their budget and know exactly how much they have to spend.
Courtesy of www.newsday.com

Blazers sign Pendergraph, who will have surgery - by Eurobasket News
The Trail Blazers signed rookie Jeff Pendergraph (6'9''-F-87) a day before the forward is set to have hip surgery.

Terms of the deal Tuesday were not disclosed.

The team says Pendergraph is scheduled for surgery on Wednesday to correct a left hip impingement. A timetable for his return will be determined afterward.

The 6-foot-9 Pendergraph was the 31st overall pick in the NBA draft by Sacramento. The Blazers acquired him in a draft-day trade.

Pendergraph averaged 14.5 points as a senior at Arizona State last season.

Courtesy of www.taragana.com


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  NCAA1   


Samford player Jim Griffin dies at age 23 - by Eurobasket News
Samford basketball player Jim Griffin (6'7''-F) died from an apparent heart condition.

Griffin was found dead Tuesday morning in his residence hall, according to coach Jimmy Tillette. Tillette said the senior from Chicago apparently died from an undetectable heart condition.

The Jefferson County coroner's office has not released a cause of death, but an autopsy was scheduled for Wednesday.

Samford spokesman Philip Poole said Griffin apparently died in his sleep. He had played in a pickup basketball game and lifted weights Monday night.

Tillette said Griffin had not had a previous medical condition. He said Griffin's death was 'a cruel twist of fate' and left the team devastated.

The university has made counselors available to students.

Courtesy of www.whnt.com


Minnesota basketball recruit Mbakwe can practice with team for now - by Eurobasket News
Minnesota athletic director Joel Maturi says a basketball recruit who is scheduled to stand trial for felony battery can practice with the team.

A Miami woman has accused forward Trevor Mbakwe (6'8''-F-89) of punching her in the face in April. Mbakwe's attorney says his client is innocent of the charges.

Mbakwe has not been cleared to play this season.

Mbakwe started his college career at Marquette and attended Miami-Dade Community College last year. Maturi said Tuesday he 'will be able to practice with the team and also attend all team functions.'

But Maturi says he still has not made a decision on whether Mbakwe will be able to play this season. The Gophers open the season on Nov. 13, a month before Mbakwe is scheduled to stand trial.

Courtesy of www.kttc.com


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  NORWAY   


Ivan Djerman returns to Norway - by Eurobasket News
Ivan Djerman (202-F-83, agency: Global Sports Plaza) will play in Gimle in the next season. The 26-year-old Croatian-Austrian forward spent the last two seasons with Mazarron Basket of Spanish EBA. He averaged 16.7 points, 6.1 boards and 1.4 assists per game. In 2008 Ivan Djerman was named EBA MVP. The player was the part of Ulriken Eagles back in 2007. Earlier he played for Lions Dornbirn in Austria and CSKA Sofia in Bulgaria.


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  PANAMA   


Standings - CBS
CBS Standings
 1. Navieros 2-0 
 2. Caimanes 1-0 
 3. Canguros 1-1 
 4. Fieras 1-1 
 5. Magnates 1-2 
 6. Colosos 0-2 


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  PBL   


Manchester Millrats name Heath Teixeira Head Coach - by Eurobasket News
The Manchester Millrats are pleased to announce that Heath Teixeira has been named Head Coach for the upcoming Premier Basketball League season, which starts in January.

Teixiera had been an Assistant Coach during the previous two seasons, serving under Rob Spon (2008-09) and Larry Lessett (2007-8). Before joining the Millrats, he was an Assistant Coach with the Cape Cod Frenzy, and even played in several games with the ABA's Boston Frenzy.

It was Teixeira who took over for Lessett after he was ejected during the Millrats first road game at Vermont in 2007. Beginning the 2nd quarter with the Millrats trailing 41-14 and with several players also ejected, Teixiera engineered an improbable come-from-behind road victory against the Vermont Frost Heaves and now D-League Coach Will Voigt.

Back in 1990 and 1991, as a point guard, Texeira led the Harwich (Cape Cod) Roughriders to back-to-back Massachusetts State championship game appearances in the old Boston Garden, under legendary Cape Coach Glen Rose.

'Coach Teixeira has been with us since the inception and knows what we are trying to do here, and how to do it,' said Millrats GM Ian McCarthy. 'He has grown as a professional and as a person while working as an assistant and we feel he is now ready for the position.'

The Millrats won the Atlantic Division title last season under Rob Spon, with a 16-4 record. They challenged Rochester for a title but ultimately fell shy of the ultimate goal. Teixeira knows he has big shoes to fill, but looks forward to the challenge and the opportunity.

'I'm looking forward to continuing to help train and develop young players, to help foster their career overseas, and to help the Millrats be prepared to execute and win PBL games,' stated Teixeira.

The process of filling the new roster begins on September 27th in Rockville, MD. Heath Teixiera and other Millrats staff plan to be attending the PBL's national tryout combine there to scout for talent. Then on Oct 24th and 25th, the Millrats will be conducting their own - the '2nd Annual NH Exposure Combine' will be held at the SportsZone in Derry, NH and is open to the public. The PBL is also holding a draft in Chicago in October.

Courtesy of The Manchester Millrats


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  POLAND   


Turkey edges Poland for the first place in Preliminary Group D - by Eurobasket News
EuroBasket, Day 3: POLAND - TURKEY 69-87

It was a game between two undefeated teams after two days in Preliminary Group D. Turkey managed to beat the host of EuroBasket 87-69 and to finish this stage with perfect 3-0. Poland fell to 1-2, but even before this game it was already clear that these two countries booked a spot for the Qualifying Round. There, Turkey and Poland will take on three best teams from Preliminary Group C. Omer Asik (211-C-86) paced Turkey to victory today collecting 22 points and 8 rebounds. Ersan Ilyasova (207-F-87) also had very important role collecting 18 points and 8 rebounds, while Hedo Turkoglu (206-F-79) was third scorer of the team with 13 points. The NBA star also pulled down 8 rebounds beside that. In Poland, Marcin Gortat (213-C-84) shined with 21 points and 7 rebounds. Maciej Lampe (210-C-85, agency: Edge Sports) added 14 pts and 7 boards.
Turkey opened the game better creating quick 4-10 lead. Very soon it was 6-14 and 11-21 for Turkey. However, the hosts somehow managed to come on 17-26 after ten minutes, despite big problems at the defensive end. Szewczyk and Logan helped Poland to close the gap on 22-26, but Omer Asik and his teammates immediately responded setting the score to impressive 28-45 (6-19 run). After 20 minutes of play it was plus 19 for Turkey (34-45). During the third quarter Poland touched minus 6 once, but Turkey was strong enough to take back double-digit lead before the last ten minutes (55-66). With 3 minutes to go Turkey had magnificent 61-87 and rest of the way was just the formality.
The championship continues on Friday.

Poland: Marcin Gortat 21+7 boards, Maciej Lampe 14+7 boards
Turkey: Omer Asik 22+8 boards, Ersan Ilyasova 18+8 boards, Hedo Turkoglu 13+8 boards

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  PUERTO RICO   


Efes Pilsen lands big guy Daniel Santiago - by Eurobasket News
According to TBL official web site, the reigning Turkish champion Efes Pilsen landed Puerto Rican big guy Daniel Santiago (216-C-76, agency: Priority Sports, college: N.Mexico) on 1-year deal. The experienced center is coming from Turkey from Regal Barca, where he spent last season. Actually, Santiago ended it in Puerto Rico helping Bayamon to grab the BSN championship title. With Barca he appeared 23 times in Euroleague last season averaging 6.4 ppg and 2.7 rpg. In Spain, Barca managed to take the title from Tau Ceramica and Santiago helped it with 4.9 ppg and 2 rpg for 41 games.
From 2005 to 2008 Daniel Santiago was a member of Unicaja Malaga. With them he managed to grab the trophy in ACB in 2006. Next season Unicaja reached Euroleague Final Four. Before Unicaja, he played two seasons for Milwaukee Bucks in the NBA. In the past, Santiago also was a member of Virtus Roma, Phoenix Suns, Varese and Bayamon. He played for Team Puerto Rico on FIBA Americas Championship, which ended few days ago. They manaed to reach the final, where Brazil was better in thriller. Anyway, Puerto Rico met its main goal - spot for 2010 FIBA World Championship in Turkey. Santiago played 10 games in San Juan averaging 6.1 ppg and 5.3 rpg. His bets game was against Mexico, 15 points and 11 rebounds.

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


Dynamo Moscow keeps its captain Dmitry Domani - by Eurobasket News
Dynamo Moscow signed new contract with experienced Russian player Dmitry Domani (198-G/F-74, college: St.Joseph's). The 34-year old G/SF is a member of Dynamo since 2002, when he moved from CSKA Moscow. Last season he appeared 20 times in Russian A Superleague averaging 3.1 ppg and 1.8 rpg. In EuroCup he had very limited playing time registering less than 1 ppg in 8 games. However, his experience, great past with the club and personal characteristics were enough for Dynamo to extend his stay despite not so productive last year. Last season he was the captain of the team and became the absolute leader in number of appearances in white-and-blue jersey.
Dmitry Domani helped Dynamo to win ULEB Cup in 2006 and to reach Euroleague Quarterfinals next season. In 2007 he was named 'Eurobasket.com Russian A Superleague All-Domestic Players Team'. In 2004, 2007 and 2008 Dynamo reached Semifinals in Russia and last season played in the National Cup Final. With CSKA Moscow, Domani won three championship titile in Russia (from 1997/98 - 1999/2000). With Russian National team he was two Silver medals on World Championships 1994 and 1998. He appeared also many various events with Russia. Two high-important were European Championship 1995 and 2003.
Dmitry Domani is a product of St.Joseph's University, where he graduated 12 years ago.

Metallurg Magnitogorsk wins the home tournament - by Eurobasket News
Metallurg Magnitogorsk wins the home tournament named Matveychuk Memorial. In the first game of the tournament the team overcame Irkut 85:79. Artem Kurinnoy (201-F-82) top-scored for the winners with 22 points and 13 rebounds. Rastrigin netted 15 and Aleksandr Amelin (182-G-88) posted 11. In another game of the first day Tobol from Kazakhstan outscored the second team of metallurg 89:61.
In Day 2 Metallurg overcame Tobol 85:65 for the second victory. The Russian team opened the game with 25:21, but Tobol replied with 17-16 in the second frame. The second half was too good for the hosts that dominated the court. They produced 23-14 and 21-13 in the third and the last periods respectively for the total success. Maksim Sinelnikov (194-G-85) exploded with 33 points for the winners and Aleksandr Amelin netted 16. Artem Kurinnoy added 14, while Rastrigin scored 8 points.
In the Final of the tournament Metallurg Magnitogorsk faced Tobol again and won 81:64. Aleksandr Amelin top-scored for the winners with 30 points and 4 assists. In the game for the third place Irkut overcame the second team of Metallurg 89:63.
The top team of the tournament was named the following: Zhigulin from Tobol, Maksim Sinelnikov from Metallurg, Chudinovskih from Irkut, Stanislav Dubinin (196-F-90) from the second team of Metallurg. The top-scorer of the tournament became Maksim Sinelnikov who nailed 74 points.
Severstal meanwhile played two friendly games with the Latvian teams. The Russian team overcame Liepaja 84:75 on September 5th. Both teams began quite similar, and the result of growing steadily. The Russian side was better later in the half to take 42:37 advantage. Severstal managed to keep the lead for good and won the game. Juris Galsworthy top-scored for the team with 22 points.
Ventspils beat Russian Severstal 90:70. The Latvian side won the opening quarter 23-14 and had 44:30 at the halftime. With 11-0 run Venspils reached later 78:48 and it was not that big deal to lead the game to the win. Janis Strelnieks (191-G-89) paced all the winners with 19 points. Berzins ended up with 12, while Bertans posted 11. Sokolovs notched 9 points, whilst Blaus and Jurevicus had 8 apiece.


France beats Russia 69-64, ends Preliminary Round with perfect 3-0 - by Eurobasket News
EuroBasket, Day 3: RUSSIA - FRANCE 64-69

France finished the Preliminary Round on Eurobasket 2009 in Poland undefeated. After victories against Germany and Latvia, Tony Parker (183-G-80) and his teammates outplayed the defending European champion advancing to Qualifying Round as top-ranked team of Group B (3-0). Russians also booked a spot for the next stage thanks to victory against Latvia, what is their only one so far. Boris Diaw (203-F/C-82) this time led France to win collecting 19 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists. Ronny Turiaf (208-C/F-83, agency: Priority Sports, college: Gonzaga) had 19 points and 14 rebounds, while Parker added one point less than him. Russia got 13 points from Kelly McCarty (201-F-75, agency: Avi Zilberman, college: S.Mississippi). Nikita Kurbanov (202-F-86) scored 12 and Vitaly Fridzon (195-G-85) 11 points.
First quarter was pretty leveled and both teams exchanged lead few times. Still, Russia finished this period with 17-15 and later in the second quarter jumped to 28-21. France responded quickly with 0-6 run. After 20 minutes of play Russia still was one point up, 35-34. Beginning of the second half belong to Russians, who grabbed 47-40 lead after tripe by Anton Ponkrashov (200-G-86). Boris Diaw and Tony Parker lifted their team to 0-8 run and it finally was plus one for France, what they kept until the end of third period. Game is decided in the last 3 minutes. First, Ronny Turiaf scored 2 FTs for France and dunked the ball after that for 64-69. Until the end Anton Ponkrashov missed twice for Russia and Mozgov committed a turnover. France also was scoreless meaning that Turiaf's basket with almost 2 minutes to go set the final score today.
The championship continue on Friday.

Russia: Kelly McCarty 13, Nikita Kurbanov 12, Vitaly Fridzon 11
France: Boris Diaw 19+7 boards+7 as, Ronny Turiaf 19+14 boards, Tony Parker 18

Dynamo Moscow extends contract with captain of Team Russia - Sergey Monya - by Eurobasket News
Dynamo Moscow announced another news in very short time. Actually, this signing came just few hours before the announcement of Dmitry Domani's stay. The captain of Team Russia on EuroBasket 2009 in Poland, Sergey Monya (204-F-83) extended contract with Dynamo for the upcoming season.
The 26-year old Monya played 24 games in Russia last season registering 7.7 ppg and 5.1 rpg. In EuroCup he had 6.8 ppg and 4. rpg for 13 games. Monya joined Dynamo in 2006, after one year with the Portland Trail Blazers. That season (2005/06) he struggled to get minutes in NBA and he decided to return to Russia.
Before Dynamo and Portland, Sergey Monya played 3 years for Russian powerhouse CSKA Moscow. In his last one he averaged 5.9 ppg and 3 rpg for 21 Euroleague games. After that, Portland selected him as 23rd overall pick. Monya is a product of Autodorozhnik Saratov, where he played until 2002.
Sergey Monya won three championship titles and one National Cup with CSKA. He was a member of U18 and U20 Russia and since 2003 he is a standard member of the senior squad. Monya played for Russia on EuroBasket 2003, 2005, 2007 and of course plays on this one also. So far in two games he averages 6.5 ppg, 4.5 rpg and 3.5 apg. Russia was better than Latvia, but yesterday Germans outplayed them.

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  SAINT KITTS   


Ghetto Roots Embarasses Defending Champs Hitters - by Eurobasket
The Black Mamba to much too handle
If their was any doubt as to the best team in the St. Kitts Amateur Basketball Association it was totally erased this past Sunday at Basketball City
The S/L Horsford Horsfords Ghetto Roots proved that they were undoubtedly SKABAs best and most exciting team as they embaraassed the number-one seeded Rams Hitters as the playoffs of the 2009 LIME Premier Division continued.
Horsfords Ghetto Roots had a convincing 93-81 victory which could have been even more of a disaster for Hitters had it not been for some bad and some may say highly questionable referee calls against the Horsfords Ghetto Roots.
Levi Fyfeild (193-G/F-81) who has now been labelled the Black Mamba was an unstoppable force on the court as he ran circles around the Hitters defense which seem clueless as to how to stop the Horsfords Ghetto Roots onslaught
The Defending champs Hitters could neither stop or contain Fyfeild as he scored and exciting 19 points, which included an spectacular dunk that turned brought Basketball City upside to its feet.
By-By was ably assisted by Rymal Bally Browne who was double or triple teamed every time he touched the ball and was still able to scorch Hitters with 15 points, three rebounds and three steals.
This is the second straight victory for Horsfords Ghetto Roots against the defending champions, Hitters.
The Hitters seemed to be no match for Horsfords Ghetto Roots who were without college based center William Natta. Natta is back at Bellevue University in the United States. Despite being without the big and powerful Natta Ghetto Roota still dominated Hitters. Horsfords Ghetto Roots was up by as much as 20 points during the game.
There is no doubt that Hitters is indeed a great team, however, the Horsfords Ghetto Roots are now the greatest.
Horsfords Ghetto Roots have now sealed their spot in the finals of the LIME Premier Division.
Horsfords Ghetto Roots is the only undefeated team in the Premier Division playoffs.
I am very proud of the success thus far of the team said former Horsfords Ghetto Roots Manager Glenroy Blanchette. There is no doubt that the team is an extremely talented one and they represent a proud community rich in sports history. The richness of this sports heritage must be a motivating factor for their success and I am confident that they will bring a national sports championship to newtown this year , the former Manager continued.
Horsfords Ghetto Roots made it to the SKABA finals in 2008 . Horsfords Ghetto Roots Manager Wallis Wilkin made two crucial moves during the off season in the acquisitions of national player Levi Fyfeild and head Coach Dr. Garfeild Alexander . The move has transformed the team from a good team to a great team.
The Horsfords Ghetto Roots 2nd team the Rootsie is also in the mix in the A Division playoffs.
Horsfords Ghetto Roots has two games remaining I the playoffs against Chappurtin and St.Pauls both of whom they have defeated during the regular season.
source: ST.KITTS SPORTS NEWS


*****************************************************
  SEBL   


SEBL Summer League Championship History... - by David Archer
#s#
Josh Smith
Smith
Brian Oliver
Oliver
John Starks
Starks
Patrick Ewing
Ewing
Dale Davis
Davis
#e#6
Cartersville, GA - The SEBL has a long history. In the early days the league was called simply the Summer League (1950's-1980's), then the Wilkins Pro Am Summer League. It was later changed to the Southeastern Exposure Basketball League (SEBL).

Many, many great players have competed in the league, such as Josh Smith (6'9''-F-85) of Atlanta Hawks, Brian Oliver (6'4''-G-68) of Ignis Draghi Novara Italy and John Starks (6'5''-G-65) of Utah Jazz. Other important visitors have included Doc Rivers, Patrick Ewing (7'0''-C-62), Dale Davis (6'11''-C/F-69) of Detroit Pistons and Charles Oakley (6'9''-F-63) of Houston Rockets.

Metro Conferene A-League Championship History...

Year Champions..................................................... (Runner-ups)
2009 Champs: Marietta Outlaw (Thuglife);.............. Runner Ups: Rome ServPro-1
2008 Champs: Atlanta Speedboys;......................... Runner Ups: Rome ServPro-1
2007 Champs: Baseline Warriors;........................... Runner Ups: D.O.T.S.
2006 Champs: BC Lakers;....................................... Runner Ups: Rome Servpro-1
2005 Champs: Rome Gladiators;............................. Runner Ups: Lawrenceville
2004 Champs: Baseline Warriors;........................... Runner Ups: Rome ServPro-1
2003 Champs: Rome ServPro-1;............................. Runner Ups: BC Lakers
2002 Champs: Orange Crush (New South);........... Runner Ups: Rome ServPro-1
2001 Champs: Skyline/Baseline Warriors;.............. Runner Ups: Rome ServPro-1
2000 Champs: Rome ServPro-1;............................. Runner Ups: Baseline-1
1999 Champs: Baseline Warriors;........................... Runner Ups: Marietta Outlaw (Thuglife)
1998 Champs: Marietta Outlaw (Thuglife);.............. Runner Ups: Bartow Co. Bank Bulls
1997 Champs: Rome ServPro-1;............................. Runner Ups: Bartow Co. Bank Bulls
1996 Champs: Marietta Outlaw (Thuglife);.............. Runner Ups: Douglasville
1995 Champs: Bartow Bank/Life Univ. Bulls;.......... Runner Ups: Rome ServPro-1
1994 Champs: Douglasville Swings B&G................ Runner Ups: Marietta Outlaw (Thuglife)
1993 Champs: Rome ServPro-1;............................. Runner Ups: Polk County
1992 Champs: Bartow County Bank Bulls;.............. Runner Ups: Eppinger Knicks
1991 Champs: Polk County;..................................... Runner Ups: Eppinger Knicks
1990 Champs: Rome Wachovia;.............................. Runner Ups: Pine Grove Knicks
1989 Champs: Canes;.............................................. Runner Ups: Colonels

The ServPro-1 organization leads the way with 11 Metro Conference appearances in the Finals. Of those 11, they have claimed four champsionships. Baseline also has four Titles out of five championship appearances. With its latest Title, Marietta Outlaw now owns three SEBL Metro championships out of five trips to the big game. The Bulls, who boasted a great roster back in the 1990's, captured two titles in their four visits to the final day of play.

City Conference B-League Championship History...

Year Champions......................................................... (Runner-ups)
2009 Champs: Summer Hill BD-Baseline-2;................ Runner Ups: DWS-Calhoun
2008 Champs: North Metro Tech;.............................. Runner Ups: Summer Hill BD (Baseline-2)
2007 Champs: Summer Hill BD-Baseline-2;............... Runner Ups: Rome ServPro-2
2006 Champs: Rome ServPro-2;................................ Runner Ups: Knicks-2
2005 Champs: Rome ServPro-2;................................ Runner Ups: Dalton 'The Park'
2004 Champs: Summer Hill BD-Baseline-2 & Rome ServPro-2 were named Co-Champs
2003 Champs: Summer Hill BD-Baseline-2;................ Runner Ups: Rome ServPro-2
2002 Champs: Rome ServPro-2;................................ Runner Ups: Thrall Car
2001 Champs: Rome ServPro-2;................................ Runner Ups: Thrall Car
2000 Champs: Rome ServPro-2;................................ Runner Ups: Dalton 'The Park'
1999 Champs: Summer Hill BD-Baseline-2 (Heat);..... Runner Ups: Dalton 'The Park'
1998 Champs: Franklin Ford;...................................... Runner Ups: Squad Mundane
1997 Champs: Lever Brothers;.................................. Runner Ups; Franklin Ford
1996 Champs: Sportshoe;.......................................... Runner Ups: Franklin Ford

In the City Conference, Rome ServPro-2 was the mainstay for many years, actually making it to eight consecutive Finals appearances, while taking six of those Trophies home with them. The SH-Baseline-2 team has captured five City Conference championships in six appearances. The only other organizations to manage titles, were Sportshoe, Lever Brothers and Franklin Ford. North Metro Technical College won a Title in 2008, as an off-shoot of the SH-Baseline organization.

All Championships have been held at JH Morgan Gym, with exception of 2002-4 while repairs and renovations were being conducted. In 2002 and 2003, the SEBL regular seasons were held at JH Morgan Gym, but due to needed repairs the championship tournaments were held at the 'Top Gym' on that same street, Aubrey Street in Cartersville. In 2004, the entire SEBL season was played at the Old Cass High School Gym in Cartersville because JH Morgan was under renovations. Until 2--4, there was never any air conditioning inside the blistering JH Morgan, which had been given the nickname the 'Hotbox' during summer league games from the late 1950's through the early 1980's. The summer league back then was operated by the late Rev. Mathew Hill. The league was simply called, 'THE SUMMER LEAGUE,' a name that really remains to this day as a mere forethought. After a dormant period the Wilkins Summer League was created by Eddie Lee Wilkins and Dexter Jones in 1989, and then taken over by David Archer in 1990. We are beginning efforts to gather historical information regarding the earlier days, which also served as the 'hub' for summer league basketball for the North Georgia area.
<<>><<>>

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  SENEGAL   


Hapoel Afula ink Bamba Fall - by Eurobasket News
Hapoel Afula landed Bamba Fall (216-C-86). The Senegalese 216cm centre just graduated from Southern Methodist University. He averaged 8.9 points, 7.3 boards and 2.2 blocks per game in the senior season in college. The player was named to the C-USA All-Defensive Team in 2009. Bamba Fall is the member of the Senegalese National Team. Fall participated at the 2007 Afrobasket in Angola.


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  SERBIA   


Serbia advanced to the Qualifying Round of Eurobasket 2009 finishing the group with 2-1 record - by Eurobasket News
Great Britain-Serbia 59:77

Serbia advanced to the Qualifying Round of Eurobasket 2009 finishing the group with 2-1 record. In the last game of the day the team outscored Great Britain 77:59.
Archibald opened the game for Great Britain and Boyd scored for 4:0. Milos Teodosic (195-G-87) tied the game at 7:7 as Serbia continued the run until 11:7. Markovic with a lay-up closed the opening quarter at 21:12. Again Archibald pulled his team back to 22:20, while Velickovic scored for 31:22. Serbia dominated the second period as well to have 39:29 at the halftime when Milos Teodosic made a lay-up. Great Britain scored five consecutive points returning back into the court for 39:34. Perovic nailed for 47:37 and Tripkovic added for 52:39. Nenad Krstic (214-C-83) made a jump shot for 58:44 at the end of thirty minutes. It became clear at that time that Serbia would benefit from the game. Nenad Krstic posted another two for 63:46, whilst Bjelica and Milos Teodosic poured in at 66:49. Pops Mensah-Bonsu (206-F-83, agency: SportsTalent, college: George Washington) was able only to cut it to 10 points with his team, but then Serbia almost breached plus 20. Perovic made the final score at 77:59 for the winners.
Nenad Krstic and Milenko Tepic (198-G-87, agency: Beo Basket) top-scored for the winners with 17 points each. Milos Teodosic nailed 11 as Serbia took the second place in the group. Nate Reinking (188-G-73, college: Kent St.) ended up with 21 points in defeat, whilst Pops Mensah-Bonsu posted 16.

Great Britain: Nate Reinking 21, Pops Mensah-Bonsu 16
Serbia: Nenad Krstic 17, Milenko Tepic 17, Milos Teodosic 11

Partizan outplays Metalac Valjevo in friendly game - by Zoran Popovic
Serbian Champion BC Partizan Igokea Beograd won against Vujic Metalac Valjevo in pre season friendly match 81:65 (29:11, 23:21, 14:17, 14:16). From the beginning of the match BC Partizan Igokea Beograd players showed strong and aggressive defence, made huge advantage after the first quarter and routinely finished the game. BC Partizan Igokea Beograd played without Dusan Kecman, Strahinja Milosevic, Aleksandar Maric, Zarko Rakocevic and Slavko Vranes. The best role on the match showed Vukasin Aleksic (182-G-85, agency: Beo Basket) and Branislav Djekic (205-F/C-91, agency: Beo Basket), both of them scored per 14 points.

BC Partizan Igokea Beograd: Lucic, Sinovec 6, Jaramaz, Lesic 9, Balaban 4, Rasic 8, Mitrovicc 8, Djekic 14, Aleksic 14, Besovic, Bozic, Veseli 11
Metalac: Markovic 7, Tripkovic, Tomasevic, Stefanovic 16, Radenkovic 6, Beljic, Kasabasic 2, LJubojevic 11, Marojevic 4, Bjegovic 8, Bircevic 4, Grbovic 7


Friendly games - by Dragan Jankovski
Romanian champion Asesoft played two more friendly games in Serbia.

In the first match Asesoft was better than Metalac Valjevo 76-74. That was very exciting game, decided in the last seconds. Five minutes until the end Aseesoft had plus 11, but Metalac somehow succeeded to reach minus 1, 72-71. Millan Bjegovic (211-C-81) had a chance at the Metalac's last possession, but he missed. Frankly, it was a tough shot for this big guy. Predrag Markovic (198-G/F-80) scored 22 points for Metalac. Bjegovic followed with 15.

Asesoft registered another win, this time against Mega Vizura 88-80. For the Serbian team Danilo Andjusic (190-G-91, agency: Beo Basket) scored 14 points. Stevan Jelovac (207-F/C-89, agency: BeoExcell), Stefan Balmazovic (200-F-89) and Dusan Cvetkovic (205-F-89) had 13 each.

And here is one transaction for today. Zeljko Bojovic (200-F-81) will continue career in Hungary. After nice season with Bulgarian Cherno More, he signed contract with PVSK Panonpower from Pecs. Last season he had about 10 points per game and 4 rebounds per game for 43 Balkan league and Bulgarian league games.

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  SLOVENIA   


Spain grabs overtime win against Slovenia - by Eurobasket News
EuroBasket, Day 3: SPAIN - SLOVENIA 90-84

Spain celebrated 90-84 overtime win against Slovenia finishing the Preliminary Round in Poland with 2-1 record. The same numbers has Slovenia and both teams qualified for the next stage. Juan Carlos Navarro (192-G-80) was the leading scorer in victory with 21 points. Rudy Fernandez (197-G-85) followed him with 19 points and 5 rebounds, while big guy Felipe Reyes (203-F/C-80) added 17 points and 8 boards. Pau Gasol (214-F/C-80) this time helped with 13 points and 9 rebounds. In Team Slovenia, Goran Dragic (194-G-86, agency: Interperformances) netted 19 points. Jaka Lakovic (186-G-78) had 15 and Bostjan Nachbar (207-G/F-80) added one point less. At this moment the game between Serbia and Great Britain did not even start, but depend of that result it will be known will Spain or Slovenia end as No.1 of Group C.
First quarter was pretty leveled. Actually, Slovenians had 4-point lead few times, but Spain was always there to stop them on their way. After ten minutes of play the score was 18-20 for Slovenia, but soon after that Spain jumped to 29-22. Bostjan Nachbar made a lay-up and free throw with 3 minutes to go in the first half for 32-33 turn. However, Juan Carlos Navarro and Felipe Reyes helped Spain to create 11-2 run for 43-35 at the half time. At the beginning of third quarter Spain jumped to plus 12 and later it was 62-47 for them. Slovenia did not give up and at the middle of the last period came to 64-63. With 1:49 to go Spain had pus 6, but Slovanias came to 77-75 with 7 seconds to go. Rudy Fernandez scored on FT for Spain after that and Goran Dragic made the first for Slovenia with less than two seconds. He missed the second one intentionally and Erazem Lorbek (210-F/C-84, college: Michigan St.) grabbed the ball and scored a jump shot for 78-78 at the end of regular time. In extra five minutes Spain was always ahead so when they reached 89-82 it was clear that Slovenia will not be able to repeat the same from regular time.
The championship continues on Friday.

Spain: Juan Carlos Navarro 21, Rudy Fernandez 19+5 boards, Felipe Reyes 17+8 boards, Pau Gasol 13+9 boards
Slovenia: Goran Dragic 19, Jaka Lakovic 15, Bostjan Nachbar 14

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  SPAIN   


Spain grabs overtime win against Slovenia - by Eurobasket News
EuroBasket, Day 3: SPAIN - SLOVENIA 90-84

Spain celebrated 90-84 overtime win against Slovenia finishing the Preliminary Round in Poland with 2-1 record. The same numbers has Slovenia and both teams qualified for the next stage. Juan Carlos Navarro (192-G-80) was the leading scorer in victory with 21 points. Rudy Fernandez (197-G-85) followed him with 19 points and 5 rebounds, while big guy Felipe Reyes (203-F/C-80) added 17 points and 8 boards. Pau Gasol (214-F/C-80) this time helped with 13 points and 9 rebounds. In Team Slovenia, Goran Dragic (194-G-86, agency: Interperformances) netted 19 points. Jaka Lakovic (186-G-78) had 15 and Bostjan Nachbar (207-G/F-80) added one point less. At this moment the game between Serbia and Great Britain did not even start, but depend of that result it will be known will Spain or Slovenia end as No.1 of Group C.
First quarter was pretty leveled. Actually, Slovenians had 4-point lead few times, but Spain was always there to stop them on their way. After ten minutes of play the score was 18-20 for Slovenia, but soon after that Spain jumped to 29-22. Bostjan Nachbar made a lay-up and free throw with 3 minutes to go in the first half for 32-33 turn. However, Juan Carlos Navarro and Felipe Reyes helped Spain to create 11-2 run for 43-35 at the half time. At the beginning of third quarter Spain jumped to plus 12 and later it was 62-47 for them. Slovenia did not give up and at the middle of the last period came to 64-63. With 1:49 to go Spain had pus 6, but Slovanias came to 77-75 with 7 seconds to go. Rudy Fernandez scored on FT for Spain after that and Goran Dragic made the first for Slovenia with less than two seconds. He missed the second one intentionally and Erazem Lorbek (210-F/C-84, college: Michigan St.) grabbed the ball and scored a jump shot for 78-78 at the end of regular time. In extra five minutes Spain was always ahead so when they reached 89-82 it was clear that Slovenia will not be able to repeat the same from regular time.
The championship continues on Friday.

Spain: Juan Carlos Navarro 21, Rudy Fernandez 19+5 boards, Felipe Reyes 17+8 boards, Pau Gasol 13+9 boards
Slovenia: Goran Dragic 19, Jaka Lakovic 15, Bostjan Nachbar 14

Ourense Grupo Juanes sign Francis Koffi - by Eurobasket
Ourense Grupo Juanes (LEB Gold) agreed terms with 28-year old French forward Francis Koffi (202-F-81, college: Fresno St.). Koffi played most recently at U.B. La Palma (LEB Gold). In 30 games he averaged 13.2ppg and 3.9rpg. Francis was originally born in Abdijan (Ivory Coast), but holds French passport.

Mamadi Diane is transfered to Lobe Huesca - by Sander Scheffers
With the signing of Mamadi Diane (196-G/F-86), the team led by Mamadi Diane (196-G/F-86), has completed the team and can begin the new season 2009/2010 in the League Adecco Plata. This is a player born in 1986, 1.96 meters tall and with a Guinean and American passport.

The final signing of CB Penas Huesca is a wonderful athlete and a player with great jumping ability. During the 2007/2008 season he was the leading scorer in three pointers for his High College in Virginia, with a total of 60 hits and a percentage of 41.4%. This season he averaged 11.8 points and 4.4 rebounds per game.

Educated at the High School of Demarthe, as a senior he averaged 14.1 points, 8.9 rebounds and 3.7 steals. From here went to the University of Virginia where he completed his university period for four seasons.


Alex Loughton arrives in Ourense - by Sander Scheffers
08/09/2009 The Australian pivot Alex Loughton (205-F/C-83, agency: Octagon, college: ODU), today joined the discipline of the Ourense Grupo Juanes, after reaching the city of As Burgas, early afternoon, after a flight of 23 hours. To show his professionalism, the already wanted to train with the afternoon session and to know his new teammates.

Alex Loughton, 26 (05/03/1983), a native of Perth, Australia, has been playing for all national youth teams for his country, he already has experience in the Spanish Leb after passing through the Aguas de Valencia - Gandia Basquet season 05 -06, and arrives at COB after playing the last two seasons in Perth Wildcats League-Australian.

The signing of Loughton, can be considered as one of the most important players for next season.

Chris Owens arrives at CB Santurtzi SK, Adecco Plata, from the Navalcarnero - by Sander Scheffers
09/09/2009 The Canadian power forward Chris Owens (196-F-80, college: Columbia) with a German passport will land this afternoon in Loiu airport to become a part of training your new team, the Santurce CB SK, the Adecco Plata, under the direction of coach Raul Ruiz .

Europa Press

Owens, with a height of 1.99 and 28 years, comes from the fishing village of Navalcarnero of LEB Bronze, and try to help his team, which debuts in the Spanish basketball Adecco Plata.

Educated at Columbia University, completed his junior college for the 2003-2004 season with discrete numbers (2.1 points and 1.4 rebounds). Premiered professionally in Germany in the 2004-2005 season for ETB Wohnbau Baskets Essen Bundesliga 2 Essen where he improved his numbers from the NCAA, allowing him to make the leap to the state league.

The Canadian arrived in Spain from the hand of Rosalie de Flix Munoz in the season 2005-2006 in the LEB-2 but ended up playing in the EBA League at the Hotel Sierra Cazorla. The following season began in the Procolor Celso Miguez de Pontevedra and finished in Blanes Almeria Sports both in the EBA League, and after a season in La Vila Joiosa in the same category, was began in the LEB Bronze with ETB Wohnbau Baskets Essen .

Physically, Chris Owens is characterized by his strength and his great ability to rebound. He can also do damage from the perimeter from three-point line, where last year he had an average of 46 percent accuracy.

Last season in Madrid he had an average of 9.6 points (51% two, 46% three and 77% of free throws), 4.2 rebounds, 0.5 assists, 0.5 recoveries and 9.3.

3 plays from true legend - by Sammy Nanneh
As the title suggests, GB would have achieved the impossible if not for three sloppy plays in the final 2 minutes. this included a lazy pass that was intercepted by Fernandez and converted, and two ugly shot clock violations.
Nevertheless, one can be nothing but proud of a noble performance (in need of a better word to desribe how flabbergasted I am at how close we came). What better way to show the world GB aren't at Eurobasket to make up the numbers than to go on a 17-2 run with two breathtaking plays by Nate Reiking. . The first a magical three followed by an epic 3 point play the old fashioned way, with the ball appearing to reach the stands before dropping into the basket plus the foul.
Words can little describe my excitement in the fourth quarter, contemplating the idea that GB might actually make real basketball legend. In all the time watching basketball nothing comes close to supporting ones home country. With hand in mouth I gaped as GB continued to the impossible. A 17-2 run against an NBA packed roster. Sadly, I was watching the game alone and so had noone to ask to pinch me, so even now I feel i still may not have awoken.
So GB didnt conquer world basketball in what would have been the biggest victory since we took battle to the Spanish Armada in medieval times, but take nothing away from a powerful, skilled and hardworking team. The time has finally come to stop expecting a 'miracle' and the 'biggest upset the world has ever seen'. No longer can one continue to use soft words such as 'brave' and 'hearty', GB has shown they have game.
Maybe it's time they were given a little more respect, and with the awaited return of Luol Deng (201-F-85, agency: Arik Krayn Services, college: Duke), who I am sure would have provided that little cohesion GB lacked in the dying minutes, we will once again conquer the world in a British empire of basketball.
Final score GB 76 - 84 Spain


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  SWEDEN   


Montenegro registered the spot in Division A - by Eurobasket News
Montenegro-Sweden 88:71

Montenegro won the second game of the Play-offs of Division B over Sweden. The team proved it one more time that they deserve a place in Division A more than the opponents.
Montenegro started with 20:14 after the opening quarter, while Sweden reduced to 3 points after 26-23 in the second frame. The third quarter became the decisive in the game as the hosts produced 24-10 in it. Martin Ringstrom (206-F-81, agency: Rasmussen Services) made it 77:57 midway through the last period. Grant added another three for 77:60, while Kjellbom posted two for 77:62. Drobnjiak however responded from the arc for 80:62 and Cook brought 83:62. Massambra made the same for the Scandinavian team, whilst Golubovic posted one for 84:65. Martin Ringstrom and Vladimir Dasic (208-F-88, agency: Beo Basket) exchanged the baskets later in the quarter for 86:67. The teams did not rush to score in the last minutes and Akesson could bring 86:71. Rakocevic made a dunk for 88:71 making the final score.
Nikola Pekovic (210-C-86, agency: Beo Basket) paced all the winners with 17 points for Division A birth. Drobnjiak and Vladimir Dasic followed him with 14 points each. Martin Ringstrom finished the night with 17 points in the losing effort, while Mats Levin (188-G-77) notched 13.

Montenegro: Nikola Pekovic 17, Drobnjiak 14, Vladimir Dasic 14
Sweden: Martin Ringstrom 17, Mats Levin 13

National Team player changing team - by Andreas Eriksson
Many of the swedish National Team Players are still unsigned and without a job but today it was offical that one of the key players of National Team found a new employer. Mikael Lindqvist (193-G-83, agency: Court Side) who spent his career in 08 Stockholm, with the exception of a year in Pro-B France, is leaving Stockholm and will move to Norrkping Dolphins for the 09-10 season. Lindquist will have a chance to play in the baltic league with his new club, which he says was a big factor in his decision.

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  SYRIA   


Latest news of Syrian basket - by Ahmad Madwar
Alwathba club won the Syrian League for young people after the victory of the army in the final outcome of the game 90/83 and they are second time Alwathba Youth team won the Syian league in the last 3 years .....
Osed Kalo former ALwathba and Alwahda star sign in Alkarameh club by contract for two years
President of the Syrian basketball Dr. Hazem Al-Samman submit his resignation, and Mr. Hisham Abu-Ghazaleh, a temporary chairman to replace him

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  TOURNAMENT OF THE AMERICAS   


Standings
Standings
Group X
1. Brazil6-1
2. P.Rico6-1
3. Argentina6-1
4. Canada3-4
5. Dominican R.3-4
6. Uruguay2-5
7. Panama1-6
8. Mexico1-6
Group Places 9-10
1. Venezuela1-3
2. US Virg.Isl0-4


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  TUNISIA   


Standings - D1
D1 Standings
 1. ESS 0-0 
 2. US Monastir 0-0 
 3. EZS 0-0 
 4. SN 0-0 
 5. JSK 0-0 
 6. CSC 0-0 
 7. CA 0-0 
 8. ASH 0-0 
 9. ESR 0-0 
 10. ASM Marsa 0-0 
 11. CAB 0-0 
 12. DSG 0-0 


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


Turkey edges Poland for the first place in Preliminary Group D - by Eurobasket News
EuroBasket, Day 3: POLAND - TURKEY 69-87

It was a game between two undefeated teams after two days in Preliminary Group D. Turkey managed to beat the host of EuroBasket 87-69 and to finish this stage with perfect 3-0. Poland fell to 1-2, but even before this game it was already clear that these two countries booked a spot for the Qualifying Round. There, Turkey and Poland will take on three best teams from Preliminary Group C. Omer Asik (211-C-86) paced Turkey to victory today collecting 22 points and 8 rebounds. Ersan Ilyasova (207-F-87) also had very important role collecting 18 points and 8 rebounds, while Hedo Turkoglu (206-F-79) was third scorer of the team with 13 points. The NBA star also pulled down 8 rebounds beside that. In Poland, Marcin Gortat (213-C-84) shined with 21 points and 7 rebounds. Maciej Lampe (210-C-85, agency: Edge Sports) added 14 pts and 7 boards.
Turkey opened the game better creating quick 4-10 lead. Very soon it was 6-14 and 11-21 for Turkey. However, the hosts somehow managed to come on 17-26 after ten minutes, despite big problems at the defensive end. Szewczyk and Logan helped Poland to close the gap on 22-26, but Omer Asik and his teammates immediately responded setting the score to impressive 28-45 (6-19 run). After 20 minutes of play it was plus 19 for Turkey (34-45). During the third quarter Poland touched minus 6 once, but Turkey was strong enough to take back double-digit lead before the last ten minutes (55-66). With 3 minutes to go Turkey had magnificent 61-87 and rest of the way was just the formality.
The championship continues on Friday.

Poland: Marcin Gortat 21+7 boards, Maciej Lampe 14+7 boards
Turkey: Omer Asik 22+8 boards, Ersan Ilyasova 18+8 boards, Hedo Turkoglu 13+8 boards

Efes Pilsen lands big guy Daniel Santiago - by Eurobasket News
According to TBL official web site, the reigning Turkish champion Efes Pilsen landed Puerto Rican big guy Daniel Santiago (216-C-76, agency: Priority Sports, college: N.Mexico) on 1-year deal. The experienced center is coming from Turkey from Regal Barca, where he spent last season. Actually, Santiago ended it in Puerto Rico helping Bayamon to grab the BSN championship title. With Barca he appeared 23 times in Euroleague last season averaging 6.4 ppg and 2.7 rpg. In Spain, Barca managed to take the title from Tau Ceramica and Santiago helped it with 4.9 ppg and 2 rpg for 41 games.
From 2005 to 2008 Daniel Santiago was a member of Unicaja Malaga. With them he managed to grab the trophy in ACB in 2006. Next season Unicaja reached Euroleague Final Four. Before Unicaja, he played two seasons for Milwaukee Bucks in the NBA. In the past, Santiago also was a member of Virtus Roma, Phoenix Suns, Varese and Bayamon. He played for Team Puerto Rico on FIBA Americas Championship, which ended few days ago. They manaed to reach the final, where Brazil was better in thriller. Anyway, Puerto Rico met its main goal - spot for 2010 FIBA World Championship in Turkey. Santiago played 10 games in San Juan averaging 6.1 ppg and 5.3 rpg. His bets game was against Mexico, 15 points and 11 rebounds.

Erdemir and Karsiyaka celebrate in friendly games - by Eurobasket News
Erdemir and Karsiyaka celebrated in the latest friendly games.
Erdemir was too strong for Aliaga 89-81 thanks to well played first half. After 20 minutes of the game Erdemir created decent 52-43 lead. Aliaga improved after the breather, but Leon Williams (203-F/C-86, agency: Elfus-Siegel Management (ESM), college: Ohio) and his teammates were strong enough to keep the safe distance. Williams was a key player in victory with 22 points and 14 rebounds. PG Hakan Koseoglu (188-G-81, agency: Court Side) followed him with 17 points and 11 assists, while Erdal Bibo (194-G-77, agency: 1x1 Sports) delivered 10 pts. In Aliaga, Mateo Kedzo (207-F/C-84) collected 17 points and 6 rebounds. Aleksej Nesovic (189-G-85) and Chris Johnson (211-C-85, college: LSU) netted 14 points apiece. Johnson also had 14 boards beside that.
Karsiyaka had no troubles to beat Tofas 93-76. Andre Smith (203-F-85, college: N.Dakota St.) shined for the winners with 22 points and 8 rebounds. Ryan Toolson (193-G-85, college: Utah Valley St.) scored 21 and Gokper Gen had 3 points less. Tofas got the most from Melih Sevda (200-F-78), 19 points. Karsiyaka had fantastic last quarter (36-20) and thanks to it registered this comfortable win. Before that, Karsiyaka still was slightly better team.

*****************************************************
  UKRAINE   


Superleague: Sumy and Kremin out - Gryfony in / Friendlies - by Alexander Muzyka
Sep. 4 was the last date for solving financial problems and making necessary payments for taking part in Superleague 2010. There was a headquarters' decision made yesterday. So Kremin (Kremenchuk) and Sumykhimprom (Sumy) are not allowed to Superleague 2010 and Gryfony (Symferopil) will be the 15th team in elite, official site informs. So now the list of the Superleague teams is the following:

BC Donetsk (Donetsk) (Superleague silver)
Budivelnyk (Kyiv) (UBL silver)
Azovmash (Mariupol) (Superleague champion)
Khimik (Yuzhnyi) (Superleague bronze)
Kryvbasbasket (Kryvyi Rih) (UBL champion)
BC Odesa (Odesa) (UBL 4th place)
Politekhnika (Lviv) (UBL bronze)
MBC Mykolaiv (Mykolaiv) (Superleague 5th place)
Dnipro (Dnepropetrovsk) (UBL 6th place)
Dnipro-Azot (Dniprodzerzhynsk) (UBL 7th place)
Ferro-ZNTU (Zaporizhia) (UBL 5th place)
BC Kyiv (Kyiv) (Superleague 4th place)
BC-93 Pulsar (Rivne) (Superleague 6th place)
Gryfony (Symferopil) (UBL 10th place)
Hoverla (Ivano-Frankivsk) (UBL 8th place)

Ukrainian Cup system will be as it was announced a month ago: two groups and play-off stage without 4 eurocups' participants and then 1/4 final stage and Final Four. The winner will play in eurocups next season.

Friendlies:

- Dnipro-Azot lost a game vs Severstal 85:86 due to the three-pointer buzz-shot of Cherepovets players. The best Dniprodzerzhynsk players' stats: Oleksandr Alekseienko 18 + 6 rbs, Stanislav Sokur 15, Igor Krivtsov 13 + 9 rbs, Stanislav Dykyi 11, Aleksei Goliakhov 10, Edmunds Gabrans 7.
- MBC Mykolaiv will play vs Barsy at Sep. 9.
- Gryfony will play vs BC Donetsk farm-team at Sep. 9. By the way Donetsk youngsters have already won over Sevastopol 100:48, 101:64 and are ready to play farm-teams' tournaments in Donetsk (vs Azovmash, Ferro-ZNTU and Dnipro-Azot youngsters) and Mariupol (vs Azovmash, Lokomotiv-Kuban and Moldovian youngsters).


Marsh completed BC Donetsk roster - by Alexander Muzyka
BC Donetsk added American powerforward Ricardo Marsh (203-F-81) from Turkish Antalya (14.4 ppg, 5.2 rpg). 27-years-old player was graduated from ODU and began its trip to Europe by being inked by Buyuk Kolej in 2003. Then there were KB Peja, Toyota Alvark, Turk Telekom, Ironi Ashkelon and ASK Riga in his career. Rumours about Marsh's appearance in Ukraine took place early this summer but Donetsk headquarters told they are not interested in him untill now.

Marsh became 12th player in Donetsk roster. So now we can complete the full team:

Guards
Marque Perry (186-G-81)
Andrius Mazutis (180-G-81)
Dmytro Zabirchenko (191-G-84)
Rostyslav Kryvych (198-F/G-78)
Goran Ikonic (196-G-80)

Forwards
Milutin Aleksic (202-F-82)
Artur Drozdov (198-G-80)
Oleksandr Osnach (202-C-90)
Haywood Owens (204-F-79)
Ricardo Marsh (203-F-81)

Centers
Maksym Ivshyn (207-C-86)
Bruno Sundov (220-C-80)

Head coach Ramunas Butautas


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


Serbia advanced to the Qualifying Round of Eurobasket 2009 finishing the group with 2-1 record - by Eurobasket News
Great Britain-Serbia 59:77

Serbia advanced to the Qualifying Round of Eurobasket 2009 finishing the group with 2-1 record. In the last game of the day the team outscored Great Britain 77:59.
Archibald opened the game for Great Britain and Boyd scored for 4:0. Milos Teodosic (195-G-87) tied the game at 7:7 as Serbia continued the run until 11:7. Markovic with a lay-up closed the opening quarter at 21:12. Again Archibald pulled his team back to 22:20, while Velickovic scored for 31:22. Serbia dominated the second period as well to have 39:29 at the halftime when Milos Teodosic made a lay-up. Great Britain scored five consecutive points returning back into the court for 39:34. Perovic nailed for 47:37 and Tripkovic added for 52:39. Nenad Krstic (214-C-83) made a jump shot for 58:44 at the end of thirty minutes. It became clear at that time that Serbia would benefit from the game. Nenad Krstic posted another two for 63:46, whilst Bjelica and Milos Teodosic poured in at 66:49. Pops Mensah-Bonsu (206-F-83, agency: SportsTalent, college: George Washington) was able only to cut it to 10 points with his team, but then Serbia almost breached plus 20. Perovic made the final score at 77:59 for the winners.
Nenad Krstic and Milenko Tepic (198-G-87, agency: Beo Basket) top-scored for the winners with 17 points each. Milos Teodosic nailed 11 as Serbia took the second place in the group. Nate Reinking (188-G-73, college: Kent St.) ended up with 21 points in defeat, whilst Pops Mensah-Bonsu posted 16.

Great Britain: Nate Reinking 21, Pops Mensah-Bonsu 16
Serbia: Nenad Krstic 17, Milenko Tepic 17, Milos Teodosic 11

3 plays from true legend - by Sammy Nanneh
As the title suggests, GB would have achieved the impossible if not for three sloppy plays in the final 2 minutes. this included a lazy pass that was intercepted by Fernandez and converted, and two ugly shot clock violations.
Nevertheless, one can be nothing but proud of a noble performance (in need of a better word to desribe how flabbergasted I am at how close we came). What better way to show the world GB aren't at Eurobasket to make up the numbers than to go on a 17-2 run with two breathtaking plays by Nate Reiking. . The first a magical three followed by an epic 3 point play the old fashioned way, with the ball appearing to reach the stands before dropping into the basket plus the foul.
Words can little describe my excitement in the fourth quarter, contemplating the idea that GB might actually make real basketball legend. In all the time watching basketball nothing comes close to supporting ones home country. With hand in mouth I gaped as GB continued to the impossible. A 17-2 run against an NBA packed roster. Sadly, I was watching the game alone and so had noone to ask to pinch me, so even now I feel i still may not have awoken.
So GB didnt conquer world basketball in what would have been the biggest victory since we took battle to the Spanish Armada in medieval times, but take nothing away from a powerful, skilled and hardworking team. The time has finally come to stop expecting a 'miracle' and the 'biggest upset the world has ever seen'. No longer can one continue to use soft words such as 'brave' and 'hearty', GB has shown they have game.
Maybe it's time they were given a little more respect, and with the awaited return of Luol Deng (201-F-85, agency: Arik Krayn Services, college: Duke), who I am sure would have provided that little cohesion GB lacked in the dying minutes, we will once again conquer the world in a British empire of basketball.
Final score GB 76 - 84 Spain


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


Standings - LNB
LNB Standings
East
 1. Tiburones 6-0 
 2. Gatos 4-2 
 3. Espartanos 3-3 
 4. Estudiantes 1-3 
 5. Acereros 0-6 
West
 1. Duros 4-2 
 2. Graneros 3-1 
 3. Cent.Apure 3-3 
 4. Lanc.Cojedes 3-3 
 5. Mantarrayas 1-5 




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

Women News

*****************************************************
  ASIAN CHAMPIONSHIPS - Women  


LIB Lebanese women get moral support from men stalwarts - by Maarouf Mawloud
BEIRUT (23rd FIBA Asia Women Championship) - Ten years ago when Lebanon entered the FIBA Asia competitions, it was brushed off by the traditional powers as yet another nation entering the fray.

But that 1999 debut of the Lebanese men at Fukuoka proved to be the start of what in Asian basketball circles has come to be known as the WABA Revolution.

Lebanon themselves forged ahead to enter the semifinals in all the five following FIBA Asia Championships including winning three silver medals and were the catalysts for the basketball movement in other West Asian nations like Iran and Jordan.

Thus in a matter of ten years, Lebanon have moved ahead from being merely hopeful debutants to formidable medal contenders.

Now, Lebanese women will attempt to undertake a similar path when they return to the FIBA Asia Championship for Women their maiden appearance in 2001 at Bangkok none too impressive.

Emulate the men!

The hopeful buzz in Lebanese basketball circles these days is Can our girls emulate what their male counterparts have achieved?

Why not? asks Omar El Turk, a regular point guard with the mens National Team.

Im sure there will be a time when the womens team will be as competitive as the mens team, because of the potential and the hard work theyre putting in day in and day out, adds El Turk, who plies his trade for Lebanese giants Al Riyadi Beirut in the professional club circuit.

But two coaches both of whom were involved with Lebanese womens basketball at some point in time chose to play down the euphoria, choosing words of caution.

I think we are going to try to challenge some teams but surely not China, Japan and Korea, says Rizkallah Zaloum, head coach of the Lebanese womens team at 2006 Doha Asian Games, who also coached the Lebanon U18 mens team last year.

Need for a better vision, time

Coaching icon Fouad Abouchakra, the head coach of reigning Lebanese mens league champions Al Riyadi Beirut, goes on to add They will need time and they need lots of support from our federation, then they will be able to compete well at the Asian level.

To be honest, when it comes to women in Lebanese basketball, we dont have any vision or strategy in order to reach a better level and success, adds Abouchakra who was at the helm of Al Hikmeh Sagesse womens team in 1994-95.

Basketball is the No 1 sport

All three of them unequivocally assert that it is important for Lebanese women to participate in the FIBA Asia Championship for women, simply because basketball is the No 1 sport in Lebanon.

Our womens National team is the Arab champion, says Zaloum.

Lets not forget the Antranik women club is the Arab club champions for the last three consecutive years, he added.

There, Abouchakra takes over adding, this move (participation in the 23rd FIBA Asia Women Championship) will give them the chance to play in a higher and better competition level. Thats the only way to improve.

El Turk is rather simple in his reason, I believe we have tremendous athletes and great talent.

Ive seen many good basketball players here in the womens league. Shada Nasr, Nayla Alameddine, Emma Eskedjian and Sandra Najem are some names that spring to mind as those who can play a crucial role in spearheading Lebanese womens basketball, El Turk says.

And Im sure at the end of the championship, well have many more to take us forward, he added.

Realistic goals

But such enthusiasm is not blinded by unrealistic goals.

Right now, it is more hope than expectations. I hope they make good results just to gain experience for the future, says El Turk.

I hope our team will project a good image about Lebanese basketball. Thats a very important first step, adds Abouchakra.

After all didnt every success story, especially in the world of sport, start with that important first step!
S Mageshwaran
FIBA Asia

LIB Our target is to qualify for Level I: Nasr - by Maarouf Mawloud
BEIRUT (23rd FIBA Asia Women Championship) - Elie Nasr surely has an unenviable task as the Head Coach of the Lebanese womens National Team at Chennai in the 23rd FIBA ASIA Women Championship.

On the one hand is the expectation even if its only hope at this point in time of a nation of basketball crazy population which expects the Lebanese womens team to emulate the exploits of their male counterparts.

And on the other is the relatively inexperienced team after all this is only the second time Lebanon will participate in the FIBA Asia Championship for Women, a 13th place finish coming in their maiden appearance at Bangkok in 2001.

In this exclusive interview to chennai2009.fibaasia.net, Elie Nasr spoke of the prospects, potential and the performance to be expected from the team.

FIBA Asia: Welcome back to the FIBA Asia Championship for Women. How does it feel to come back after eight years?

Nasr: We feel good because we want to put our country again in the Asian basketball map.

We have a good championship for women in Lebanon. The standard of players and games is improving every season.

We have a good generation of women basketball players now.

FIBA Asia: Ten years ago Lebanese men created a revolution when they made their entry into Asian basketball. Do you think this is the first such step for Lebanese women?

Nasr: Of course. We do have the ability to take on top Asian teams. But to achieve that we need to participate in all the FIBA Asia competitions and play more games in Asia.

The results achieved by our mens team are surely a morale-booster for the girls. But we are aware that it has to be complemented by hard work of our own.

And the girls are willing to run the extra mile in order to prove themselves.

FIBA Asia: What is your target at Chennai?

Nasr: Our target is to reach Level I, because thats where the real competition is. But that will come later on.

Our task in Level II wont be easy as there are teams like Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and Philippines who are all very good.

FIBA Asia: Can you talk a little more about womens basketball in Lebanon?

Nasr: Like I said earlier, we have a good championship, which has improved over the years.

We need to work more on our new generations now, in order to build a strong basketball future, although we have a good team now.

FIBA Asia: Can you elaborate on the strengths of your team at this point?

Nasr: Were counting on our fighting spirit, organization, and teamwork.
S Mageshwaran
FIBA Asia

*****************************************************
  BRAZIL - Women  


Brazilian National Team 2009 - by Sahereh
#s#
Palmira Marcal
Marcal
Micaela Jacintho
Jacintho
Franciele Nascimiento
Nascimiento
Karina Jacob
Jacob
Jucimara Dantas
Dantas
#e#6
Adrianinha Pinto
Natalia Burian
Helen Luz
Palmira Marcal 178-G-84 Acucar Cometa/Unimed/Catanduva Brazil
Karen Gustavo
Micaela Jacintho 180-F-79 Colchoes Castor/Fio/Unimed/Ourinhos Brazil
Silvia Gustavo
Fernanda Beling
Franciele Nascimiento 187-F/C-87 C.B. Femenino Caceres Spain
Karina Jacob 187-F/C-85 Unimed/FAM/Goodyear/Americana Brazil
Jucimara Dantas 192-C-78 Colchoes Castor/Fio/Unimed/Ourinhos Brazil
Kelly Silva Santos UTE Ecuador
Nadia Colhado
Erika DeSouza 197-C-82 Atlanta Dream USA

Alessandra Oliveira
Head Coach:
Paulo Bassul Coach


*****************************************************
  CANADA - Women  


Canadian National Team 2009 - by Sahereh
#s#
Natalie Achonwa
Achonwa
Kelsey Adrian
Adrian
Chelsea Aubry
Aubry
Janelle Bekkering
Bekkering
Kaela Chapdelaine
Chapdelaine
#e#6
Natalie Achonwa 188-F-92
Jordan Adams 93
Kelsey Adrian 185-G/F-89 University of California
Chelsea Aubry 186-F-84 Basket Steel Slovakia Kosice Slovakia
Janelle Bekkering 183-G/F-88 Gonzaga University
Kaela Chapdelaine 178-G-85 MBK Ruzomberok Slovakia
Leanne Evans 188-F-86 University of British Columbia Canada
Megan Pinske 175-G-88 University of British Columbia Canada
Kadie Riverin 175-G-86 Universite BC Neuchatel Switzerland
Tamara Tatham 185-F-85 TSV 1880 Wasserburg Germany
Head Coach:
Allison McNeill Coach


*****************************************************
  CHILE - Women  


Chilean National Team 2009 - by Sahereh
Fernanda Serrano G Santiago Chile
Catalina De La Quinta 88 Santiago Chile
Javiera Novion 168-G-87 Santiago Chile
Paula Moya Santiago Chile
Paola Naranjo 182-F/C-78 Elsa del Valle Chile
Carolina Curaz
Javiera Morales Santiago Chile
Romina Valenzuela 178-F-86 Santiago Chile
Ziomara Morrison 193-C-89 Banco di Sicilia Ribera Italy
Tatiana Gomez 190-F/C-81 C.B. Arxil Pontevedra Spain
Daniela Troncoso 87 Elsa del Valle Chile
Claudia Leiva Santiago Chile
Head coach:
Cristian Santander Coach Lanus Argentina



*****************************************************
  CZECH REPUBLIC - Women  


Gambrinus land Tay McWilliams and DeWanna Bonner - by Eurobasket News
The Czech Republic vice-champions Gambrinus filled in two import spots on the roster. They agreed on terms with Tay McWilliams (189-F/C-70, college: St.Edward's) and DeWanna Bonner (193-G-87, college: Auburn).
Tay McWilliams is the experienced centre that is currently spending her eleventh WNBA season. She started her basketball career at the St. Edwards University. She then played in the ABL before joining the Orlando Miracle in the WNBA. Tay McWilliams played in Italy, Russia, South Korea and Turkey. She spent one year in Gambrinus in 2004/05 season. Last season the 39-year-old player started in Galatasaray averaging 12.4 points and 7.9 boards per game in EuroCup. Later she moved to Schio in Italy. There Tay McWilliams delivered 9.1 points, 6.6 boards and 2.1 steals per game in A1 league. McWilliams is currently tallying 9.7 points and 6.5 boards per game for the Detroit Shock.
DeWanna Bonner graduated from the Auburn University this year. She averaged 21.1 points, 8.5 boards and 1.7 steals per game in her senior season. She was named the SEC Player of the Year in 2009. Bonner was drafted by the Phoenix Mercury as the fifth overall pick. The guard averages 11.5 points and 5.9 boards per game for the Mercury this season.


*****************************************************
  EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS - Women  


Div. B Day: 2 (Play-Offs) - by Eurobasket News
Montenegro - Portugal 64-59
Montenegrin National Team ensured the European Championship in Division A birth. They prevailed against Portugal in the second game of the playoff series to book the desired ticket to the top division of European basketball. Portugal fought bravely and gave some scares to the hosts before Montenegro pulled away to the win late in regulation. Jelena Dubljevic (192-C-87) knocked down 17 points to pace Montenegro. Milka Bjelica added 14 points, while Iva Perovanovic had 12 points and 7 boards in the winning effort. Sonia Reis and Paula Muxiri nailed 18 points each for Portugal. Joana Lopes netted 13 points in defeat.

Sweden - Holland 60-60
Sweden could not overcome Netherlands at home court tonight opening the road to Division A for the Dutch team. Leonie Kooij (187-F-86) scored 22 points and grabbed 10 rebounds to ensure a tie game that proved just all right for Netherlands to advance to the Division A of the European basketball. Naomi Halman (191-F/C-86, college: Cal-Irvine) netted 17 points and collected 11 boards for the visitors. Frida Eldebrink had 14 points and 7 boards for Sweden. Elin Eldebrink and Louice Halvarsson chipped in 10 points apiece for the home team.


*****************************************************
  FINLAND - Women  


Marlow and Freeman to Orimattila - by Esko Saarinen
Team S-Hameenmaa (Orimattila) has made contracts with two american players. Last year in the team played Kieraah Marlow will continue in the team and new player is Shanika Freeman, who played last season in Peli-Karhut (Kotka). Last season Marlow, 24 and 178, made ave 22,9 ponts, 9,4 rebounds, 1,6 steels and 1,9 assists per match. Freemans, 26 and 183, numbers in PeKa were 17,4 points, 9,9 rebounds, 2,2 steels and 1,6 assiists per match. Also Johanna Lemmetty from HoNsU (Jyvaskyla) joins the team. She is 19 years old and has played in juniors international matches in Finnish team. Lemmetty, 183, made last season 1,4 points and 1,0 rebounds per match in HoNsU's rooster.

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


Bourges win Rodez tournament - by Eurobasket News
Bourges, Toulouse and Tarbes took part at the international tournament held in Rodez, France. Three teams were accompanied by Turkish Galatasaray. Bourges celebrated two straight wins and claimed the title.
Bourges faced Galatasaray on the opening day and earned a 59:46 victory. Bourges grabbed an 8-point lead after ten minutes of action and stretched it at as many as 20 points heading into the fourth period. The Turkish team never recovered and had to surrender at the end. Styliani Kaltsidou (188-C/F-83) scored 12 points for Bourges. Endene Miyem (188-F-88) contributed 9 points in the winning effort. Tugba Palazoglu (172-G-80) netted 10 points for Galatasaray. Sencebe chipped in 9 in the loss.
Toulouse overcame Tarbes 56:49 in another semifinal. Tarbes were up by one after the opening frame but Toulouse changed the complexion of the game and raced to the win in the second half. Leah Metcalf (173-G-83, college: N.Carolina) fired 22 points for Toulouse. Emmanuelle Hermouet (183-F-79) contributed 11 points in the victory. Fatimatou Sacko (183-F-85) answered with 9 points for Tarbes. Breitreiner netted 8 points in defeat.
Bourges took on Toulouse in the title decider next day. The defending champions got to a slow start trailing by 4 points ten minutes into the clash. But a balanced offensive effort helped Bourges to spur in front as they arrived at halftime up by as many as 12 points. Toulouse could not pick up the slack in the second half and lost the battle 68:78. Endene Miyem nailed 13 points for Bourges. Ilona Burgrova (198-C-84, college: S.Carolina), Styliani Kaltsidou, Jennifer Digbeu (190-F/C-87) and Katarina Manic (181-G-80) netted 10 points each in the victory. Fiekiel answered with 22 points for Toulouse. Nnimijen accounted for 13 points.


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


The Dutch team advanced to Division A - by Eurobasket News
Sweden -Netherlands 60:60

Sweden could not overcome Netherlands at home court tonight opening the road to Division A for the Dutch team. Sweden and Netherlands tied at 60:60 in the second game of the Play-offs of Division B. Leonie Kooij (187-F-86) scored 22 points and grabbed 10 rebounds to ensure a tie game that proved just all right for Netherlands to advance to the Division A of the European basketball. Naomi Halman (191-F/C-86, college: Cal-Irvine) netted 17 points and collected 11 boards for the visitors. Frida Eldebrink had 14 points and 7 boards for Sweden. Elin Eldebrink (174-G-88) and Louice Halvarsson (189-C-89) chipped in 10 points apiece for the home team. Netherlands wins 127-119 in total after two games.
Andersson scored first for the hosts and as it became clear that was the last lead in the opening quarter for the Scandinavian team. Holland pushed the tempo for good and won the frame 25:21. Halman scored for 29:21, while Eldebrink reduced to 29:26. Broring sent the teams to the lockers for
36:27 guests' advantage. Sweden had nothing to lose and played better game in the second half. Trailing 37:47, Sweden cut it to 44:49 when Eldebrink made a jump shot at the end of the third quarter. In the last stanza the hosts kept the opponents scoreless for about 6 minutes and grabbed 52:49 lead. Eldebrink made it 60:58 later in the period, while Hartman scored for the final score on the board.

Sweden: Elin Eldebrink 10, Louice Halvarsson 10
Netherlands: Leonie Kooij 22 points and 10 rebounds, Naomi Halman 17 points and 11 boards

*****************************************************
  LATVIA - Women  


Cesis will play in LMKL - by Eurobasket News
Cesis is close to finalizing their aim to join the Lithuanian Women Basketball League in the upcoming season. The Latvian team got the approval from all the clubs participating in the championship as well as the Lithuanian Basketball Federation to join the league in the 2009/10 season. Some formalities are to be set before the official announcement from Cesis and LMKL.
Cesis is now expected to play in LMKL, newly created SBBL and Latvian championship (LSBL).


Lyndra Littles joins TTT Riga - by Eurobasket News
Lyndra Littles (185-F-87, college: Virginia) signed a one-year contract with TTT Riga. The 22-year-old forward graduated from the University of Virginia. She averaged 19.9 points, 6.4 boards and 1.4 steals per game for the Lady Cavs in the senior season. Lyndra Littles was named to the All-ACC 1st Team as well as CBSSports.com NCAA All-America 3rd Team. Little was then drafted by the Connecticut Sun.


*****************************************************
  LEBANON - Women  


LIB Lebanese women get moral support from men stalwarts - by Maarouf Mawloud
BEIRUT (23rd FIBA Asia Women Championship) - Ten years ago when Lebanon entered the FIBA Asia competitions, it was brushed off by the traditional powers as yet another nation entering the fray.

But that 1999 debut of the Lebanese men at Fukuoka proved to be the start of what in Asian basketball circles has come to be known as the WABA Revolution.

Lebanon themselves forged ahead to enter the semifinals in all the five following FIBA Asia Championships including winning three silver medals and were the catalysts for the basketball movement in other West Asian nations like Iran and Jordan.

Thus in a matter of ten years, Lebanon have moved ahead from being merely hopeful debutants to formidable medal contenders.

Now, Lebanese women will attempt to undertake a similar path when they return to the FIBA Asia Championship for Women their maiden appearance in 2001 at Bangkok none too impressive.

Emulate the men!

The hopeful buzz in Lebanese basketball circles these days is Can our girls emulate what their male counterparts have achieved?

Why not? asks Omar El Turk, a regular point guard with the mens National Team.

Im sure there will be a time when the womens team will be as competitive as the mens team, because of the potential and the hard work theyre putting in day in and day out, adds El Turk, who plies his trade for Lebanese giants Al Riyadi Beirut in the professional club circuit.

But two coaches both of whom were involved with Lebanese womens basketball at some point in time chose to play down the euphoria, choosing words of caution.

I think we are going to try to challenge some teams but surely not China, Japan and Korea, says Rizkallah Zaloum, head coach of the Lebanese womens team at 2006 Doha Asian Games, who also coached the Lebanon U18 mens team last year.

Need for a better vision, time

Coaching icon Fouad Abouchakra, the head coach of reigning Lebanese mens league champions Al Riyadi Beirut, goes on to add They will need time and they need lots of support from our federation, then they will be able to compete well at the Asian level.

To be honest, when it comes to women in Lebanese basketball, we dont have any vision or strategy in order to reach a better level and success, adds Abouchakra who was at the helm of Al Hikmeh Sagesse womens team in 1994-95.

Basketball is the No 1 sport

All three of them unequivocally assert that it is important for Lebanese women to participate in the FIBA Asia Championship for women, simply because basketball is the No 1 sport in Lebanon.

Our womens National team is the Arab champion, says Zaloum.

Lets not forget the Antranik women club is the Arab club champions for the last three consecutive years, he added.

There, Abouchakra takes over adding, this move (participation in the 23rd FIBA Asia Women Championship) will give them the chance to play in a higher and better competition level. Thats the only way to improve.

El Turk is rather simple in his reason, I believe we have tremendous athletes and great talent.

Ive seen many good basketball players here in the womens league. Shada Nasr, Nayla Alameddine, Emma Eskedjian and Sandra Najem are some names that spring to mind as those who can play a crucial role in spearheading Lebanese womens basketball, El Turk says.

And Im sure at the end of the championship, well have many more to take us forward, he added.

Realistic goals

But such enthusiasm is not blinded by unrealistic goals.

Right now, it is more hope than expectations. I hope they make good results just to gain experience for the future, says El Turk.

I hope our team will project a good image about Lebanese basketball. Thats a very important first step, adds Abouchakra.

After all didnt every success story, especially in the world of sport, start with that important first step!
S Mageshwaran
FIBA Asia

LIB Our target is to qualify for Level I: Nasr - by Maarouf Mawloud
BEIRUT (23rd FIBA Asia Women Championship) - Elie Nasr surely has an unenviable task as the Head Coach of the Lebanese womens National Team at Chennai in the 23rd FIBA ASIA Women Championship.

On the one hand is the expectation even if its only hope at this point in time of a nation of basketball crazy population which expects the Lebanese womens team to emulate the exploits of their male counterparts.

And on the other is the relatively inexperienced team after all this is only the second time Lebanon will participate in the FIBA Asia Championship for Women, a 13th place finish coming in their maiden appearance at Bangkok in 2001.

In this exclusive interview to chennai2009.fibaasia.net, Elie Nasr spoke of the prospects, potential and the performance to be expected from the team.

FIBA Asia: Welcome back to the FIBA Asia Championship for Women. How does it feel to come back after eight years?

Nasr: We feel good because we want to put our country again in the Asian basketball map.

We have a good championship for women in Lebanon. The standard of players and games is improving every season.

We have a good generation of women basketball players now.

FIBA Asia: Ten years ago Lebanese men created a revolution when they made their entry into Asian basketball. Do you think this is the first such step for Lebanese women?

Nasr: Of course. We do have the ability to take on top Asian teams. But to achieve that we need to participate in all the FIBA Asia competitions and play more games in Asia.

The results achieved by our mens team are surely a morale-booster for the girls. But we are aware that it has to be complemented by hard work of our own.

And the girls are willing to run the extra mile in order to prove themselves.

FIBA Asia: What is your target at Chennai?

Nasr: Our target is to reach Level I, because thats where the real competition is. But that will come later on.

Our task in Level II wont be easy as there are teams like Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and Philippines who are all very good.

FIBA Asia: Can you talk a little more about womens basketball in Lebanon?

Nasr: Like I said earlier, we have a good championship, which has improved over the years.

We need to work more on our new generations now, in order to build a strong basketball future, although we have a good team now.

FIBA Asia: Can you elaborate on the strengths of your team at this point?

Nasr: Were counting on our fighting spirit, organization, and teamwork.
S Mageshwaran
FIBA Asia

*****************************************************
  MONTENEGRO - Women  


Montenegro heads to Division A - by Eurobasket News
Montenegro - Portugal 64:59

Montenegrin National Team ensured the European Championship in Division A birth. They prevailed against Portugal in the second game of the playoff series to book the desired ticket to the top division of European basketball. Portugal fought bravely and gave some scares to the hosts before Montenegro pulled away to the win late in regulation.
Iva Perovanovic (191-C/F-83) opened the game with three points and Montenegro maintained the lead throughout the opening stanza. They grabbed a 17:13 lead after ten minutes of action. Iva Perovanovic and Baletic quickly boosted the margin at 8 points early in the second frame. But Portugal quickly get closer and stayed within striking distance throughout the rest of the half. But the home team capped the second period with 4 points in a row to take an 8-point lead into the dressing room. Jelena Dubljevic (192-C-87), Milka Bjelica (193-F-81) and Radunovic stretched the advantage to 14 points at the start of the third term. Joana Lopes (185-F-86), Paula Muxiri (184-F/C-81, college: ODU) and Sonia Reis (189-C-84) managed to drag the visitors within 7 at the end of the third stanza. Portugal kept Montenegro scoreless for almost eight minutes in the fourth quarter and tied the score at 55. Milka Bjelica finally accounted for the first Montenegrin point in the fourth term but Joana Lopes put Portugal ahead moments later. But Montenegro escaped the loss as Jelena Dubljevic crowned the regulation with five points in a row to win the game.
Jelena Dubljevic knocked down 17 points to pace Montenegro. Milka Bjelica added 14 points, while Iva Perovanovic had 12 points and 7 boards in the winning effort. Sonia Reis and Paula Muxiri nailed 18 points each for Portugal. Joana Lopes netted 13 points in defeat.

Montenegro: Jelena Dubljevic 17, Milka Bjelica 14, Iva Perovanovic 12
Portugal: Sonia Reis 18, Paula Muxiri 18


*****************************************************
  PORTUGAL - Women  


Montenegro heads to Division A - by Eurobasket News
Montenegro - Portugal 64:59

Montenegrin National Team ensured the European Championship in Division A birth. They prevailed against Portugal in the second game of the playoff series to book the desired ticket to the top division of European basketball. Portugal fought bravely and gave some scares to the hosts before Montenegro pulled away to the win late in regulation.
Iva Perovanovic (191-C/F-83) opened the game with three points and Montenegro maintained the lead throughout the opening stanza. They grabbed a 17:13 lead after ten minutes of action. Iva Perovanovic and Baletic quickly boosted the margin at 8 points early in the second frame. But Portugal quickly get closer and stayed within striking distance throughout the rest of the half. But the home team capped the second period with 4 points in a row to take an 8-point lead into the dressing room. Jelena Dubljevic (192-C-87), Milka Bjelica (193-F-81) and Radunovic stretched the advantage to 14 points at the start of the third term. Joana Lopes (185-F-86), Paula Muxiri (184-F/C-81, college: ODU) and Sonia Reis (189-C-84) managed to drag the visitors within 7 at the end of the third stanza. Portugal kept Montenegro scoreless for almost eight minutes in the fourth quarter and tied the score at 55. Milka Bjelica finally accounted for the first Montenegrin point in the fourth term but Joana Lopes put Portugal ahead moments later. But Montenegro escaped the loss as Jelena Dubljevic crowned the regulation with five points in a row to win the game.
Jelena Dubljevic knocked down 17 points to pace Montenegro. Milka Bjelica added 14 points, while Iva Perovanovic had 12 points and 7 boards in the winning effort. Sonia Reis and Paula Muxiri nailed 18 points each for Portugal. Joana Lopes netted 13 points in defeat.

Montenegro: Jelena Dubljevic 17, Milka Bjelica 14, Iva Perovanovic 12
Portugal: Sonia Reis 18, Paula Muxiri 18


*****************************************************
  PUERTO RICO - Women  


A look inside WSBL over the last two weeks - by Raul Colon
The action remains sizzling as the Women Superior Basketball League (WSBL) moves into its half way point. At the midway point only four teams (Morovis, Mayaguez, Ponce and Carolina) appear solidly ahead of the pack. Bunched in together in the second tire are San Juan, Juncos and Guaynabo. None of the three have distinguished itself so far. Although for San Juan to be part of this group, is an accomplishment all by itself. This being our first year, we certainly have exceeded expectations, said Jose Cruz, team owner of the warriors. We know we can play with the best of them. Now its time to prove we can defeat them on a consistent base, added the boastful owner.

Rounding out the list of top playoff contenders are Aguas Buenas and Cabo Rojo. The Tigresas are in the mist of a major makeover due to ownership problems. For its part, the Turistas have changed coached and added one, very interesting player in the hopes of catching Aguas Buenas for the last playoff spot. Hapless Isabela will not give up their quest for a win.
With this in mind, here is a look at the current field:

1.Morovis (10-1): The Monaeras are leading the league with ease. They are doing on the strength and deep of its roster. PG Pamela Rosado (16.6 points and 5.4 assists per game) is running a swift and diligent offense that is centered on forward Amy Denson. The former Arizona State is averring 21.7 ppg. To go along with her 15 boards a night (second best in the league). If that wasnt enough, Natalia Emmannuelli (14/38-36% from three point range) and Juanita Rivera are having career years. Unfortunately for the team, they will lose Rosado, Emmannuelli and Rivera for a month due to the national teams participation in the 2009 FIBA Americas to be held in Brazil. According to league rules, the team is eligible to add an import player for every three they lose to the Puertorrican selection.

2.Mayaguez (7-3): Contrary to Morovis, the Indians are doing it with good team chemistry. If the concept the sum of all parts is better than its individual units applies for a SWBL team, it has to be on Mayaguez. No Indian ranks in the top then in scoring or assists. In fact, the only Mayaguez player ranked in the top ten of any individual statistical slot is Marlene Zwarich (10th in rebounds with 8pg.). But the play of Millie Martinez, Mari Placido and Aixanell Santos is good enough to lift the team to the upper echelons of the league. Theres a catch here. The Three Amigos (Martinez, Placido and Santos) are also due to depart next week to join the national team. As in the case of Morovis, a new player will be added. The only question is how fast she will assimilate the teams philosophy.

3.Ponce (6-2): the Lions are here mostly because of its explosive offense. The duo of Lauren Ervin (20.7 ppg. and 15.9 rpg.) and Keisha Tardy (17.4 ppg.) are as good, if not better, than any single combo in the league. If management can find another player, then this team will takeoff.

4.Carolina (5-3): The Gigantes seems to had found their way after a relative slow start. Their 72-58 pasting of Mayaguez last Sunday is a clear indication that the corner has been turn. Every time you have a top flight PG, in a league starving for quality at the position, you always have a shoot. Veteran Felecity Willis (17.1 ppg. and 6.3 apg.) has shown she still has it. With Willis running the offense, highly prized import Holly Mahan scoring at will (17.6 ppg. and 14.8 rpg.) and a pressure defense, this can be a scary team down the road.

5.San Juan (5-4): One of the surprising teams of the year. Despite having lost scoring machine Lakiste Barkus for the season. The Warriors have kept the pace. The team added Amanda Decourt, a 5-foot-7 point guard who recently attended the LA Sparks (WNBA) training camp, and Kristal Bonilla (trade from Aguas Buenas) with the hopes of not only keeping pace, but establishing it.

6.Juncos (5-5): The defending champions had struggle all year long. The only bright spots had beenYaimilly Cabrera and Tanaira Tapia. Cabrera, who has run the point with precision all year, is averring 7 assist per night. Tapia is a consistent scorer. Unfortunately, the Valencianas will loss both player to the national squad.

7.Guaynabo (5-6): Three weeks ago, the Conquistadoras were read hot, winning 3 out of 4 and climbing as high as the number four slot in the standings. But the streak ended two weeks ago. Now, Guaynabo has loss 3 out of 3. PG Natalia Melendez play, albeit solid, has not been spectacular Shantrell Moss and Mercedes Colon had uneventful games this week. They need a spark soon if they hope to climb out of the seven slot.

8.Aguas Buenas (4-6): The Tigers are in a free fall. On August 31st, the league took the franchise away from owner Henry Marcano due to failure to meet ist payroll, twice in a month-period. The township, through Luis Berrios, now owns the reeling team. The past two weeks the Tigresas were evolve on a fire sale-type of deals with San Juan and Morovis. They currently held the last playoff spot, but its probably a matter of time before they relinquish that also.

9.Cabo Rojo (2-8): Last week the Turistas changed directions signing Fernando Toro as their new head coach. The big acquisition for the Turistas so far has been Amber Bland. The 5-foot-11 guard/forward exploded for 40 against lowly Isabela on Sunday, the team's second consecutive win. In a sign of how bad the situation at Aguas Buenas is, the once 0-8 Turistas could in fact replace the Tigers for the last playoff spot.

10.Isabela (0-10): Although mathematically alive, its hard to envision the Pollitas getting out of the league basement. This does not mean that ownership has thrown down the towel. Joel Rosario replaced an ineffective Dennis Mercado as the team's head coach in a desperate move to change Isabela's fortunes.

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


Schedule for season 2009/10 - by Dragana Vukovic
Schedule for the season 2009/10 was announced yesterday.

I Round 10.10.2009. and XII Round 9.01.2010.

Partizan - Proleter
Radnicki - Vojvodina
Hemofarm Stada - Radivoj Korac
Crvena zvezda - Loznica
Kovin - Celarevo
Spartak - Vozdovac

II Round 17.10.2009. and XIII Round 16.01.2010.

Proleter - Vozdovac
Celarevo - Spartak
Loznica - Kovin
Radivoj Korac - Crvena zvezda
Vojvodina - Hemofarm Stada
Partizan - Radnicki

III Round 24.10.2009. and XIV Round 23.01.2010.

Radnicki - Proleter
Hemofarm Stada - Partizan
Crvena zvezda - Vojvodina
Kovin - Radivoj Korac
Spartak - Loznica
Vozdovac - Celarevo

IV Round 31.10.2009. and XV Round 30.01.2010.

Proleter - Celarevo
Loznica - Vozdovac
Radivoj - Korac Spartak
Vojvodina - Kovin
Partizan - Crvena zvezda
Radnicki - Hemofarm Stada

V Round 7.11.2009. and XVI Round 6.02.2010.

Hemofarm - Stada Proleter
Crvena zvezda - Radnicki
Kovin - Partizan
Spartak - Vojvodina
Vozdovac - Radivoj Korac
Celarevo - Loznica

VI Round 14.11.2009. and XVII Round 13.02.2010.

Proleter - Loznica
Radivoj Korac - Celarevo
Vojvodina - Vodovac
Partizan - Spartak
Radnicki - Kovin
Hemofarm Stada - Crvena zvezda

VII Round 21.11. 2009. and XVIII Round 20.02. 2010.

Crvena zvezda - Proleter
Kovin - Hemofarm Stada
Spartak - Radnicki
Vodovac - Partizan
Celarevo - Vojvodina
Loznica - Radivoj Korac

VIII Round 28.11. 2009. and XIX Round 27.02. 2010.

Proleter - Radivoj Korac
Vojvodina - Loznica
Partizan - Celarevo
Radnicki - Vodovac
Hemofarm Stada - Spartak
Crvena zvezda - Kovin

IX Round 5.12. 2009. and XX Round 6.03.2010.

Kovin - Proleter
Spartak - Crvena zvezda
Vodovac - Hemofarm Stada
Celarevo - Radnicki
Loznica - Partizan
Radivoj Korac -Vojvodina

X Round 12.12.2009. and XXI Round 13.03.2010.

Proleter - Vojvodina
Partizan - Radivoj Korac
Radnicki - Loznica
Hemofarm Stada - Celarevo
Crvena zvezda - Vozdovac
Kovin - Spartak

XI Round 19.12. 2009. and XXII Round 20.03.2010.

Spartak - Proleter
Vozdovac - Kovin
Celarevo - Crvena zvezda
Loznica - Hemofarm Stada
Radivoj Korac - Radnicki
Vojvodina - Partizan


*****************************************************
  SPAIN - Women  


Kamesha Hairston,new player of Estudiantes Madrid - by Ivan Villar
The beggining of preseason wasn't very good for Madrid's team.Her import player Brooke Wyckoff fell injured seriously in WNBA season last summer.The club has moved quickly and signed Kamesha Hairston (183-F-85, agency: LBM Management, college: Temple) as new player of Estudiantes.She's a shooting guard who played in Livorno from Italia last season.She has played in WNBA with Connecticut Sun.Now she should be the principal reference of team coached by Javier Lombardia.

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


The Dutch team advanced to Division A - by Eurobasket News
Sweden -Netherlands 60:60

Sweden could not overcome Netherlands at home court tonight opening the road to Division A for the Dutch team. Sweden and Netherlands tied at 60:60 in the second game of the Play-offs of Division B. Leonie Kooij (187-F-86) scored 22 points and grabbed 10 rebounds to ensure a tie game that proved just all right for Netherlands to advance to the Division A of the European basketball. Naomi Halman (191-F/C-86, college: Cal-Irvine) netted 17 points and collected 11 boards for the visitors. Frida Eldebrink had 14 points and 7 boards for Sweden. Elin Eldebrink (174-G-88) and Louice Halvarsson (189-C-89) chipped in 10 points apiece for the home team. Netherlands wins 127-119 in total after two games.
Andersson scored first for the hosts and as it became clear that was the last lead in the opening quarter for the Scandinavian team. Holland pushed the tempo for good and won the frame 25:21. Halman scored for 29:21, while Eldebrink reduced to 29:26. Broring sent the teams to the lockers for
36:27 guests' advantage. Sweden had nothing to lose and played better game in the second half. Trailing 37:47, Sweden cut it to 44:49 when Eldebrink made a jump shot at the end of the third quarter. In the last stanza the hosts kept the opponents scoreless for about 6 minutes and grabbed 52:49 lead. Eldebrink made it 60:58 later in the period, while Hartman scored for the final score on the board.

Sweden: Elin Eldebrink 10, Louice Halvarsson 10
Netherlands: Leonie Kooij 22 points and 10 rebounds, Naomi Halman 17 points and 11 boards

*****************************************************
  TOURNAMENT OF THE AMERICAS - Women  


Standings
Standings
Group A
1. Brazil0-0
2. Canada0-0
3. Dominican R.0-0
4. P.Rico0-0
Group B
1. Argentina0-0
2. Chile0-0
3. Cuba0-0
4. Venezuela0-0


*****************************************************
  VENEZUELA - Women  


Venezuelan National Team 2009 - by Sahereh
Maria Villarroel 174-G-78 Sdent Sierre Basket Switzerland
Endrina Bolivar F-90 Guarico Venezuela
Fanny Diaz
Sharol Renault
Josymar Corrales
Roselis Silva G-90 Distrito Capital Venezuela
Dayaneth Dolande
Joseimar Diaz
Jofranny Guerra 88
Maria Requena G-90 Guarico Venezuela
Emmy Blanco
Hilda Guzman

Head Coach:
Eduardo Gil Coach

Assistant Coach:
Alecia Landaeta Coach


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


Last games (2) - Sparks clinch berth in 2009 Playoffs - by Eurobasket News
S.Antonio SS - L.Angeles S. 68-76
The Los Angeles Sparks have clinched a berth in the WNBA playoffs for the 10th time in franchise history and the second consecutive year after beating the San Antonio Silver Stars last night at Staples Center. Lisa Leslie (6'5''-C-72, college: USC) once again was a key player for the winners. She spent 33 minutes on the floor collecting 18 points and 6 rebounds. Noelle Quinn (6'0''-G-85, college: UCLA) also had very important role scoring 15, while Tina Thompson (6'2''-F-75, college: USC) added 2 points less. Candace Parker (6'4''-F/C-86, college: Tennessee) helped with double-double, 12 points and 13 rebounds. In the loosing squad, Shanna Crossley-Zolman (5'10''-G-83, college: Tennessee) top-scored with 16 points. She got just 11 minutes last night. Ann Wauters and Sophia Young (6'1''-F-83, college: Baylor) netted 13 pts each. Sparks 16-16, Silver Stars 14-18.

Indiana F. - New York L. 69-63
The Indiana Fever registered 22nd win of the season. Tamika Catchings (6'1''-F-79, college: Tennessee) shined in victory with 17 points and 10 rebounds. Katie Douglas (6'1''-G/F-79, college: Purdue) also scored 17, while Briann January (5'8''-G-87, college: Arizona St.) added 12 pts. All other players in Indiana Fever had less than 9. Essence Carson (6'0''-G-86, college: Rutgers) shined in defeat with 17 points. Ashley Battle (6'1''-C/F-82, college: Connecticut) was behind her with 12. Their New York Liberty fell to 12-20, without a chance to reach the Playoffs.

Deanna Nolan and Vickie Johnson named Players Of The Week - by Eurobasket News
Deanna Nolan (5'11''-G/F-79, college: Georgia) of the Detroit Shock and Vickie Johnson (5'10''-G/F-72, college: Louisiana Tech) of the San Antonio Silver Stars were named the WNBA Eastern and Western Conference Players of the Week, respectively, for regular season games played Monday, August 31 through Sunday, September 6.

Deanna Nolan wins the fifth Player of the Week award of her career and second in as many weeks after averaging an Eastern Conference-leading 20.7 points on 51.1 percent (23-45) shooting, 4.3 rebounds and 3.3 assists in three games. She helped the Shock to a 3-0 record as Detroit moved into third place in the conference standings.

Against the first-place Indiana Fever, Nolan scored 22 points, collected five rebounds, handed out four assists and recorded four steals. She scored over 20 points in the game for the second time in the week and for the fourth consecutive game. One game earlier, she totaled 21 points against the Western Conference-leading Phoenix Mercury. Nolan wrapped up the week with 19 points, six rebounds and four assists against the Chicago Sky.

Nolan is the fourth player to win consecutive Player of the Week awards this season. She has been selected to both the All-WNBA teams and WNBA All-Star teams four times. A member of three WNBA Championship teams with Detroit, she was named the 2006 WNBA Finals MVP. She's averaging 16.6 points, 4.1 rebounds and 3.5 assists this season.

Johnson wins the first Player of the Week award of her 13-year career in the week in which she was honored by San Antonio on 'Vickie Johnson Night.' She averaged 22.0 points on a league-leading 76.0 percent (19-25) shooting, 3.5 assists, 3.5 rebounds and 1.5 steals in two wins. Johnson helped San Antonio to wins over the two teams, Minnesota and Los Angeles, that sandwich the Silver Stars in the Western Conference standings.

In the win over the Sparks, Johnson tied her career high for points with 27, including 15 in the third quarter. She hit five of six three-pointers to tie another career high. Against the Lynx on 'Vickie Johnson Night,' she scored 17 points, collected six rebounds and handed out four assists. She hit a jumper with 44.9 seconds remaining in the first overtime to tie the game and force a second overtime.

Johnson, who previously announced that she will retire at the end of the 2009 season, is one of four players remaining from the 1997 inaugural WNBA season. She is one of two players (Becky Hammon) to score over 4,000 points and hand out over 1,000 assists in her career. Johnson is a two-time All-Star and the WNBA's all-time leader in games played.

Other candidates for WNBA Players of the Week were Connecticut's Anete Jekabsone-Zogota, Indiana's Tamika Catchings, Phoenix's Cappie Pondexter, Sacramento's Rebekkah Brunson and Seattle's Camille Little.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com


Standings
WNBA Standings
Eastern
 1. Indiana F. 22-10 
 2. Atlanta D. 17-15 
 3. Detroit S. 16-15 
 4. Washingt. M. 15-17 
 5. Connect. S. 15-17 
 6. Chicago S. 15-17 
 7. New York L. 12-20 
Western
 1. Phoenix M. 22-10 
 2. Seattle S. 19-13 
 3. L.Angeles S. 16-16 
 4. S.Antonio SS 14-18 
 5. Minnesota L. 13-18 
 6. Sacram. M. 11-21 


Swin Cash to miss final two games of regular season - by Eurobasket News
The Seattle Storm today announced that forward Cash Swin (6'2''-F-79, college: Connecticut) will miss the last two games of the regular season due to the passing of her grandmother in Pennsylvania.

Cash, in her second season with the Storm, will not be in Seattle for the team's last regular-season home game vs. the Phoenix Mercury on Thursday, Sept. 10. She will also miss the team's final regular-season matchup against the Silver Stars in San Antonio.

She is expected to rejoin the team for Seattle's Western Conference Semifinals series next week, which begins with an away game on either Wednesday, Sept. 16 or Thursday, Sept. 17. The exact date and opponent has yet to be determined, pending the outcome of other WNBA games this week.

In her eighth WNBA season, Cash is averaging 12.2 points and 6.7 rebounds per game. She was named MVP of the 2009 WNBA All-Star game - the first Storm player to win that honor - after scoring 22 points on 10-of-16 shooting, adding six rebounds and four assists. On Aug. 15, Cash reached the 3,000-point career mark vs. the Dream in Atlanta, making her the 29th player in WNBA history to score 3,000 career points.

Single-game tickets for the Seattle Storm's first home playoff game of the Western Conference Semifinals at KeyArena are available to purchase tomorrow, Wednesday, Sept. 9, 2009, starting at 10 a.m. Tickets start at just $16 and can be purchased online at stormbasketball.com or by calling 1-877-WNBA-TIX.

Courtesy of The Seattle Storm