Eurobasket Daily News Report: 6/4/2023 4:04:01 AM

EUROBASKET NEWS REPORT - 6/4/2023 4:04:01 AM

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Men News

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3X3

United States go perfect, Yua Emura catches fire for Japan on Day 4 of the FIBA 3x3 World Cup 2023 - by Eurobasket News

United States (men) take care of business to go undefeated in pool play while Yua Emura (160-G-2002) makes history for Japan on Day 4 of the Vienna FIBA 3x3 World Cup 2023 on June 2.

THE TEAMS
The United States men's team did not have it easy in their final two games of Group B, facing a physical Slovenia and hometown side Austria. It was all business for the Americans though as they showcased just how versatile they can be. With Slovenia's Jure Lien causing problems in the paint in the opener, they fought back with fire. Dylan Travis (190-G-1993, college: FSC) and Kareem Maddox (202-F/C-1989, college: Princeton) played through contact and got to the rack as well. Maddox finished the game at the free throw line, a stuffy 14 - 21 win. The American side wasn't done, shutting out the roaring Rathausplatz on the side of their home side Austria. Jimmer-Mania returned in style as his fiery shooting performance took him to 13 points in the game and a 16 - 21 victory for his side. The 4-0 display granted USA the top spot while Austria and Latvia took the play-in positions. In Group D on the men's side, Netherlands and Japan went perfect on the night in style, allowing the Dutch side to clinch the top spot while Japan went ballistic to rally back from a woeful Day 1 showing to clinch a play-in spot along with Switzerland.

On the women's side, it was Japan that won over fans, especially the 20-year-old Yua Emura who caught fire in game 1 to lead her side to a 21 - 11 win against Poland. Their last game was against a desperate and flashy Egypt side who needed the win to stay in the running. A much closer game this time round, Emura and Shizuka Takada (168-PG-1996) took on the offensive responsibility as they did just enough to pick up an impressive 18 - 21 victory. They will make their way to the play-in with Germany while the Australian side assumes the top spot. China (women) continued on their hot streak, seemingly unshakable since the start of the Women's Series. Wan JiYuan (185-C-2002) was rolling and taking over the paint in the first game against Romania, scoring 9 points in a dominant 21 - 7 win. It was the Lili Wang (170-SG-1992) show in their final group game. Taking on an on-fire Italy side, Wang was all over the court, scoring 10 points, grabbing 6 rebounds and dropping some dimes as they won 18 - 21 to seal the top spot while Israel and Italy made the play-ins.

THE PLAYERS
It was another Worthy night for Netherlands as Worthy de Jong (194-G-1988) ran the show in both their wins against Switzerland and Hungary, combining for a total of 20 points. It's not just about the number, it is arguably the most entertaining and smooth 20 points you'll ever see being scored. When Worthy takes to the court, keep your eyes glued. Japan clutched up big, needing to go perfect on the day to make it to the play-ins. When the moment called for it, Thomas Early Kennedy answered. Scoring a combined 21 points over both games against Hungary and Mongolia, his performance in the closer was scorching hot. Kennedy rattled off 5 twos, 4 of them to start the game off. You cannot leave the Japanese sensation open, not for a second. The player of the night however, is none other than Yua Emura. Her first game against Poland was historic, scoring an insane 18 points to lead her team to the win. When you look up automatic in the dictionary, you'll see Emura lighting it up in Vienna.

PLAY-IN
Men's side
Lithuania vs Austria in QF vs Serbia
Latvia vs Belgium in QF vs Netherlands
Brazil vs Japan in QF vs Poland
Switzerland vs France in QF vs United States

Women's side
United States vs Japan in QF vs Austria
Germany vs Czech Republic in QF vs China
France vs Italy in QF vs Canada
Israel vs Spain in QF vs Australia

Day 5
The group stages are over, it is now time for the play-ins. No room for error, every game, every moment matters. It's the home stretch, all or nothing, tune in tomorrow.
Courtesy of: fiba.basketball

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ABA LEAGUE

Stefan Moody agrees terms with Igokea - by Eurobasket News

Defending champion BC Igokea Mtel Aleksandrovac (Division I) is close to ink 29-year old American 179cm point guard Stefan Moody (college: Ole Miss) for upcoming season who played last time at Trotamundos de Carabobo in Venezuela. In four SPB games just recently he averaged 8.3ppg, 2.0rpg, 3.8apg and 2.0spg last season. The last season he played at Chorale de Roanne in French Betclic ELITE ProA where in 34 games he had 10.8ppg, 2.5rpg, 7.2apg and 1.8spg.
Moody is a very experienced player. He has quite traveled the world as his pro career brought him to five different countries on three different continents (Europe, Latin America and of course North America). Moody has played previously professionally in Belarus (BC Minsk), Greece (Rethymno, Ionikos and Larissa BC), Hungary (Debreceni Egyetem), Turkey (Trabzonspor) and The Basketball Tournament (Armored Athlete).
His team won Venezuelan LPB Cup in 2019.
He graduated from University of Mississippi in 2016 and it will be his eighth season in pro basketball. Moody played also for Kilgore College for one year.

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ARGENTINA

Stats Leaders - LigaA

Stats Leaders

PPG

RPG

APG

SPG

BPG

Thomas COOPER

La Union
(196-G-1992)
Avg: 17.5

17.5

16.6

16.3

16.1

15.9

La Liga Round 5 of Semi-Finals. Boca shock Instituto, reach Finals - by Eurobasket News

Instituto - Boca 72-75

The international point guard Franco Balbi (188-1989) stepped up and scored 15 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 steals for the winners and the former international Marcos Mata (202-1986) chipped in 8 points and 15 rebounds. Four Boca players scored in double figures. The former international guard Luciano Gonzalez (194-1990) responded with 32 points and the former international power forward Tayavek Gallizzi (206-1993) scored 11 points and 6 rebounds. Instituto's coach Lucas Victoriano rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help.
Top scorers:
Instituto: L.Gonzalez 32+3ast, T.Gallizzi 11+6reb+1ast, M.Chiarini 9+6reb+2ast, L.Vildoza 7+5reb+3ast, N.Romano 5+5reb+3ast, N.Copello 5+2reb+1ast
Boca: D.Tucker 16+1reb+2ast, F.Balbi 15+5reb+5ast, L.Schattmann 14+1reb+3ast, J.Traylor 12+7reb+1ast, R.Barber 10+5reb+1ast, M.Mata 8+15reb+1ast

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ARMENIA

Khrebtov's double-double lands him Hoops Agents Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News

29-year old swingman Pavel Khrebtov (199-G/F-1993) had an amazing evening in the last round for league's best team Urartu and receives a Hoops Agents Player of the Week award for round 1.
He had a double-double of 39 points and 16 rebounds, while his team crushed, the league's bottom-ranked team FIMA (#6, 0-1) with 24-point margin 117-93. It allowed Urartu to take over top position in the Armenian league. But it's just the very beginning of the season and Urartu won both games without losing any. It's too early to say anything as the standings can be changed completely after next round. In the team's last game Khrebtov had a remarkable 84.6% from 2-point range. He just recently signed at Urartu and just after two games he already turned to be a very valuable addition to the team. Khrebtov has impressive league stats. He is in league's top in points (2nd best: 29.5ppg), rebounds (3rd best: 12.5rpg), assists (6th best: 5.0apg) and averages solid 77.8% FGP.

Second best performed player last round was Xavier Womack (198-SF) of league's second-best Artik. He is American in his first season at Artik. In the last game Womack recorded impressive double-double of 31 points and 12 rebounds. Bad luck as Artik was edged by Urartu (2-0) 97-94. The season is still at the very beginning and this lost game may not be such crucial, of course if they start win the games. Let's wait for the next round. Womack is one of the most experienced players at Artik and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players. He belongs to the best scorers in the league with 30.0ppg (#1). He also registered 14.5 boards per game.

Third place about best performers goes to Yura Melikyan (2005) of BKMA (#3). Melikyan scored 15 points and grabbed thirty rebounds (!!!). He was a key player of BKMA, leading his team to a 79-70 win against Dvin (#5, 0-1). BKMA needs these victories very badly if they think about getting closer to top teams. Their record at this point is 1 victory and 1 lost game. Melikyan has a great season in Armenia. After only 2 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in rebounds with 21.0rpg (#1 in league).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Daniil Gevorgyan (186-G-1999) of Urartu - 28 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists
5. Elijah Johnson) of Dvin - 27 points, 11 rebounds and 3 assists
6. Kenny Smith) of FIMA - 27 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists
7. Albert Tatevosyan (196-SF-1993) of Urartu - 31 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists
8. Davit Khachatryan (210-F-2000) of Artik - 18 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists
9. Georgii Podkolzin (201-C-1999) of Urartu - 22 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists
10. Kirill Verezey) of FIMA - 16 points and 8 rebounds

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

The Player of the Week awards are presented by Hoops Agents. Hoops Agents is the most complete website about the agencies and players they represent. With more than twenty years of experience, Hoops Agents is already recognized as the most reliable destination for the players who wish to continue their career in professional basketball and are searching for a reputable and connected representation. Hoops Agents is also most complete source of transactions news.

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AUSTRALIA

State Leagues Latest Results and Stats - by Eurobasket News

Here is the last round review presented by Job Market.

An interesting game for Hawks (11-3) which played road game in Joondalup against 3rd placed Wanneroo (9-5). First ranked Hawks managed to get a 8-point victory 110-102. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Wanneroo. Hawks made 16-of-19 free shots (84.2 percent) during the game. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. It was a good game for guard Mitchell Clarke (186-1999) who led his team to a victory with 30 points. Center Andrew Ferguson (213-1998, college: CS Monterey) contributed with 22 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Naturalized South Sudanese swingman Mathiang Muo (196-1987, college: Charleston So.) answered with 23 points and 5 rebounds for Wanneroo. Hawks maintains first place with 11-3 record, which they share with Frankston B. and Norths B. Wanneroo at the other side dropped to the fourth position with five games lost. They share it with Keysborough C. and Melbourne Uni. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Another interesting game for Senators (6-5) which hosted in Perth against 4th placed Redbacks (8-4). Eighth ranked Senators won 93-85. It ended at the same time the five-game winning streak of Redbacks. Forward Caleb Davis (206-1995, college: SVSU) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 22 points and 13 rebounds for the winners and George Pearl chipped in 20 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists. The best for the losing side was American guard Bryton Hobbs (183-1991, college: Northeastern St.) with 26 points and 4 steals. Redbacks' coach rotated twelve players in this game, but that didn't help. Senators moved-up to sixth place, which they share with Northside W. and NGC Seahawks. Redbacks at the other side keep the fourth position with four games lost. They share it with S.Adelaide P.. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Big V top team - Thunder (12-1) managed to deliver another win on Friday. This time they beat sixteenth ranked Rockets (1-9) in Rockhampton 108-97. Majok Deng nailed 31 points and 7 rebounds for the winning side. Damian Prgomet came up with 34 points (!!!), 9 rebounds and 4 assists for Rockets in the defeat. Thunder have an impressive series of eleven victories in a row. They maintain first place with 12-1 record. Loser Rockets keep the sixteenth position with nine games lost. Thunder will meet Mackay Meteors (#5) on the road in the next round. Rockets will have a break next round.

There were no big surprises in other games of round 21: SW Metro P. was smashed by Brisbane C. on the road 123-75. Northside W. lost to Gold Coast R. on its own court 77-90. Frankston B. outscored Hobart C. in Seaford 99-75. NW Tasmania managed to beat Ringwood H. at home 83-78. Kilsyth C. was crushed by Mt Gambier on the opponent's court 102-80. East Perth E. was beaten by Lakeside L. in a home game 79-87. Willetton T. won against Kalamunda ES on the road 94-85. Winless Mandurah M. was outscored by Rockingham F. on its own court 75-103.

Group NBL1 North

Brisbane C. - SW Metro P. 123-75

There was a surprise result when thirteenth ranked Brisbane Capitals (4-8) crushed at home higher ranked South West Metro Pirates (6-6) 123-75 on Friday. Brisbane Capitals forced 23 South West Metro Pirates turnovers and outrebounded them 44-26 including 16 on the offensive glass. Brisbane Capitals shot the lights out from three sinking 18 long-distance shots on high 56.3 percentage. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 32 assists comparing to just 17 passes made by South West Metro Pirates' players. American forward Trevor Lakes (203-1999, college: S.Indiana) nailed a double-double by scoring 23 points and 10 rebounds for the winning side and point guard Lachlan Dent (184-2000) accounted for 18 points and 12 assists. Five Brisbane Capitals players scored in double figures. Guard Brendan Teys (188-1990) came up with 17 points and American Jeremy McLaughlin (203-1995, college: Catawba) added 16 points and 5 rebounds respectively for South West Metro Pirates in the defeat. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Brisbane Capitals have a solid series of three victories in a row. They moved-up to eleventh place, which they share with Melbourne T. and Cockburn C. Loser South West Metro Pirates dropped to the eighth position with six games lost. They share it with Geelong S.. Brisbane Capitals will meet higher ranked Phoenix (#9) in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. South West Metro Pirates will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
SW Metro P.: B.Teys 17+3reb+2ast, J.McLaughlin 16+5reb, C.Cedar 15+3reb+2ast, G.Cameron 8+2reb+2ast, K.Woodfall 8+2reb+5ast, Z.Carter 5+3reb+2ast
Brisbane C.: T.Lakes 23+10reb+3ast, M.Malok 20+5reb, L.Dent 18+1reb+12ast, T.Soong 14+6reb+3ast, J.Moors 13+5reb+2ast, M.Dhieu 9+1reb

Northside W. - Gold Coast R. 77-90

Very expected game when 6th ranked Northside Wizards (6-5) lost to second ranked Rollers (11-2) in Taigum 77-90 on Friday. Rollers looked well-organized offensively handing out 28 assists comparing to just 15 passes made by Northside Wizards' players. Point guard Preston Le Gassick (182-2003, college: Chowan) nailed 20 points, 5 rebounds and 7 assists for the winning side and power forward Cameron Thew (208-1999) accounted for 18 points and 12 rebounds. The former international guard Kyle Zunic (188-1999, college: Winthrop) came up with 21 points, 7 rebounds and 8 assists and guard Cameron Healy (190-1998, college: SUU) added 22 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists respectively for Northside Wizards in the defeat. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Rollers have an impressive series of ten victories in a row. They maintain second place with 11-2 record having just one victory less than leader Perry Lakes H. Loser Northside Wizards keep the sixth position with five games lost. They share it with Warwick S. and NGC Seahawks. Rollers will meet Rip City (#12) in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Northside Wizards will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
Northside W.: C.Healy 22+7reb+4ast, K.Zunic 21+7reb+8ast, A.White III 15+4reb+2ast, R.Jed 12+7reb, D.Lual 7+15reb+1ast, S.Nate 0
Gold Coast R.: K.Elijah 21+5reb, P.Le Gassick 20+5reb+7ast, T.Cameron 18+12reb+1ast, J.Cadee 11+7reb+13ast, T.Blanchfield 8+14reb+4ast, T.Diop 7+1reb

Rockhampton R. - Logan T. 97-108

Big V top team - Thunder (12-1) managed to deliver another win on Friday. This time they beat sixteenth ranked Rockets (1-9) in Rockhampton 108-97. Thunder looked well-organized offensively handing out 33 assists. South Sudanese forward Majok Deng (205-1993, college: ULM) nailed 31 points and 7 rebounds for the winning side and naturalized Danish guard Rasmus Bach (193-1995, college: Fort Lewis) accounted for 23 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists. Power forward Damian Prgomet (208-1996, college: SW Baptist) came up with 34 points (!!!), 9 rebounds and 4 assists and naturalized South Sudanese forward Chier Maker (203-1995, college: Idaho St.) added 18 points and 12 rebounds respectively for Rockets in the defeat. Four Thunder and five Rockets players scored in double figures. Thunder have an impressive series of eleven victories in a row. They maintain first place with 12-1 record. Loser Rockets keep the sixteenth position with nine games lost. Thunder will meet Mackay Meteors (#5) on the road in the next round. Rockets will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
Rockhampton R.: D.Prgomet 34+9reb+4ast, M.Bernard 19+2reb+11ast, C.Maker 18+12reb+3ast, R.Hayden 11+1reb+3ast, S.Biernacki 10+6reb+5ast, A.McWilliam 5+5reb+1ast
Logan T.: M.Deng 31+7reb+3ast, R.Bach 23+10reb+5ast, M.Boston 15+2reb+3ast, S.Bruce 14+4reb+13ast, P.Elijah 12+3reb+1ast, T.Howard 9+11reb+4ast

Group NBL1 South

Hobart C. - Frankston B. 75-99

Very predictable result when first ranked Frankston Blues (11-3) rolled over 12th ranked Chargers (7-7) in Hobart 99-75 on Friday. Frankston Blues made 21-of-27 free shots (77.8 percent) during the game. The former international swingman Brad Newley (198-1985) nailed 22 points and 6 rebounds for the winning side and point guard Lucas Barker (183-1993, college: Indianapolis) accounted for 14 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists. Five Frankston Blues players scored in double figures. American guard Devin Watson (185-1995, college: SDSU) came up with 28 points and the former international swingman Sam McDaniel (198-1995, college: ULM) added 8 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists respectively for Chargers in the defeat. Chargers' coach gave up on the game allowing to play twelve players seeing no chance for a win. The victory was the third consecutive win for Frankston Blues. They maintain first place with 11-3 record, which they share with Perry Lakes H. and Norths B. Chargers lost their third game in a row. They dropped to the ninth position with seven games lost. They share it with Illawarra H. 2. Frankston Blues will meet NW Tasmania Thunder (#13) in the next round which should be another easy win for them. Chargers will play against Ringwood Hawks (#17) and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Hobart C.: D.Watson 28+1reb+1ast, R.Jacob 13+4reb+1ast, S.McDaniel 8+7reb+7ast, M.Karena 8+3reb, Z.White 7+3reb+1ast, B.Callum 5+3reb
Frankston B.: J.Evans 24+1reb, B.Newley 22+6reb+2ast, L.Barker 16+2reb+2ast, L.Barker 14+6reb+6ast, I.Hadziomerovic 11+5reb+4ast, D.Trist 10+5reb+1ast

NW Tasmania - Ringwood H. 83-78

Not a big story in a game when 17th ranked Ringwood Hawks (4-10) lost to eleventh ranked NW Tasmania Thunder (6-8) in Ulverstone 78-83 on Friday. However just five-point win is not that big difference and the fans of host team counted on more convincing victory. NW Tasmania Thunder forced 25 Ringwood Hawks turnovers and had a 18-6 advantage in offensive rebounds. American players dominated the game. Swingman Sekou Sylla (196, college: Towson) nailed a double-double by scoring 18 points and 16 rebounds for the winning side and guard Vionte Daniels (188-1997, college: WSU) accounted for 25 points and 4 steals. Forward Kyle Daggett (198-1999, college: Shepherd) came up with 15 points and 6 rebounds and guard Jonathan Lawton (188-1996, college: FSC, agency: IceBasket) added 18 points and 4 assists respectively for Ringwood Hawks in the defeat. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Ringwood Hawks' coach tried various players' combinations and tested in total eleven players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game. NW Tasmania Thunder moved-up to ninth place, which they share with Sydney C. and Lakeside L. Ringwood Hawks lost their third game in a row. They dropped to the seventh position with ten games lost. They share it with Camberwell. NW Tasmania Thunder will meet at home league's leader Frankston Blues in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Ringwood Hawks will play against Chargers (#9) in Hobart and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Ringwood H.: J.Lawton 18+1reb+4ast, S.Harrison 15+4reb+1ast, K.Daggett 15+6reb+3ast, A.Sturt 10+10reb+1ast, M.Fennell 8+4reb+1ast, S.Clarke 7+2reb
NW Tasmania: V.Daniels 25+4reb+3ast, V.Jois 20+8reb+4ast, S.Sylla 18+16reb+1ast, T.Armstrong 15+3reb+1ast, B.Woolley 3+1ast, J.Chilcott 2+3reb+4ast

Mt Gambier - Kilsyth C. 102-80

Everything went according to plan when eighth ranked Mount Gambier Pioneers (7-5) outplayed 15th ranked Kilsyth Cobras (5-8) in Mt Gambier 102-80 on Friday. Mount Gambier Pioneers dominated down low during the game scoring 58 of its points in the paint compared to Kilsyth Cobras' 38. American forward Jacob Lampkin (206-1996, college: Alaska-Anch.) nailed a double-double by scoring 17 points and 14 rebounds for the winning side and naturalized French swingman Julian Pesava (193-1995, college: WBU) accounted for 20 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Guard Adrian Tomada (-1995) came up with 23 points and guard Jamie Ahale (196-1999, college: UIC) added 17 points and 6 rebounds respectively for Kilsyth Cobras in the defeat. Five Mount Gambier Pioneers and four Kilsyth Cobras players scored in double figures. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Mount Gambier Pioneers moved-up to fifth place, which they share with 4 other teams. Loser Kilsyth Cobras dropped to the eleventh position with eight games lost. They share it with Bendigo B. and SD Spartans. Mount Gambier Pioneers will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Kilsyth Cobras will play against Waverley Falcons (#8) in Mount Waverley and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Kilsyth C.: A.Tomada 23+4reb+3ast, J.Ahale 17+6reb, M.Dielemans 15+2reb+3ast, F.Nicholas 12, C.Galbreath 5+5reb+2ast, P.Emery 3+1reb+2ast
Mt Gambier: J.Pesava 20+5reb+4ast, J.Lampkin 17+14reb+1ast, A.Shelley 16+1reb+4ast, M.Dylan 15+3reb+5ast, L.Harper-Baker 14+8reb+2ast, D.Wit Kane 11+3reb+1ast

Group NBL1 West

East Perth E. - Lakeside L. 79-87

There was no surprise when 13th ranked Eagles (2-12) lost to tenth ranked Lightning (6-8) in Morley 79-87 on Friday. Lightning outrebounded Eagles 47-36 including a 21-7 advantage in offensive rebounds. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 24 assists. Forward Hayden Brown (196-1998, college: S.Carolina) nailed 23 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists for the winning side and guard Rowan Mackenzie (190-1999, college: LCU) accounted for 16 points, 7 rebounds, 10 assists and 4 steals. Lightning's coach Mike Malat used an eleven-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. American guard Taylor Young (190-1990, college: WPU) came up with 21 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists and the other American import power forward Lee Roberts (203-1987, college: Findlay, OH) added 15 points and 14 rebounds respectively for Eagles in the defeat. Lightning moved-up to ninth place, which they share with Sydney C. and NW Tasmania. Loser Eagles keep the thirteenth position with 12 games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
East Perth E.: T.Young 21+5reb+5ast, L.Roberts 15+14reb+1ast, F.Nicolas 11+3reb+3ast, J.King 9+4reb+5ast, S.Noah 8+3reb, A.Jarrad 6+6reb
Lakeside L.: H.Brown 23+7reb+4ast, R.Mackenzie 16+7reb+10ast, L.Benjamin 11+3reb+1ast, D.Jackson 9+4reb+1ast, D.Green 8+5reb, K.Armour 7+6ast

Joondalup W. - Perry Lakes H. 102-110

An interesting game for Hawks (11-3) which played road game in Joondalup against 3rd placed Wanneroo (9-5). First ranked Hawks managed to get a 8-point victory 110-102. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Wanneroo. Hawks made 16-of-19 free shots (84.2 percent) during the game. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. It was a good game for guard Mitchell Clarke (186-1999) who led his team to a victory with 30 points. Center Andrew Ferguson (213-1998, college: CS Monterey) contributed with 22 points and 6 rebounds for the winners. Naturalized South Sudanese swingman Mathiang Muo (196-1987, college: Charleston So.) answered with 23 points and 5 rebounds and American swingman Bryan Michaels (190-1996, college: Concordia, OR) added 17 points, 5 rebounds and 7 assists in the effort for Wanneroo. Four Hawks and five Wanneroo players scored in double figures. Hawks maintains first place with 11-3 record, which they share with Frankston B. and Norths B. Wanneroo at the other side dropped to the fourth position with five games lost. They share it with Keysborough C. and Melbourne Uni. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Joondalup W.: Q.Dove 24+4reb, M.Muo 23+5reb+3ast, B.Michaels 17+5reb+7ast, C.Turnage 11+5reb+7ast, I.Dimakopoulos 10+3reb+3ast, J.Wellsteed 8+3reb+2ast
Perry Lakes H.: M.Clarke 30+1reb+2ast, A.Ferguson 22+6reb+2ast, J.Isenbarger 15+1ast, M.Leary 12+2reb+2ast, B.Purser 10+4reb+4ast, D.Alexander 9+8reb+1ast

Kalamunda ES - Willetton T. 85-94

No shocking result in a game when second ranked Tigers (10-3) beat 7th ranked Suns (7-5) in Kalamunda 94-85 on Friday. Tigers shot 24 for 33 from the free-throw line, while Suns only scored five points from the stripe. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 25 assists. Forward Travis Fee (192-1992) nailed 18 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists for the winning side and center Gorjok Gak (211-1996, college: CBU) accounted for 21 points and 6 rebounds. Four Tigers players scored in double figures. New Zealand guard Joe Cook-Green (185-1997, college: TxWes) came up with 31 points and American swingman Albert Almanza (198, college: SHSU) added 31 points respectively for Suns in the defeat. Suns' coach tested ten players, but that didn't help to avoid defeat in this game. The victory was the fourth consecutive win for Tigers. They maintain second place with 10-3 record having just one point less than leader Perry Lakes H., which they share with Rockingham F. and Eltham W. Loser Suns dropped to the fifth position with five games lost. They share it with 4 other teams. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Kalamunda ES: A.Almanza 31+4reb+1ast, J.Cook-Green 31+3reb+3ast, C.Lowe 8+3reb+1ast, B.Dinardo 8+2ast, R.Maxwell 4+3reb, L.Dyson 3+2reb+2ast
Willetton T.: G.Gak 21+6reb, F.Travis 18+9reb+4ast, D.Scott 15+2reb+4ast, D.Hoskins Jr. 11+5reb+5ast, M.Worthington 9+1reb+6ast, G.Thomas 7+2reb+3ast

Mandurah M. - Rockingham F. 75-103

Very expected game when bottom-ranked Magic (0-12) was smashed by third ranked Flames (10-3) in Mandurah 103-75 on Friday. Flames had a 40-28 advantage in offensive rebounds. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 27 assists. Naturalized American guard Marshall Nelson (184-1994, college: WBU) nailed 19 points and 6 assists for the winning side and forward Justin Beard (196-1996) accounted for 17 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists. American forward Ray Turner (206-1990, college: Texas A&M) came up with a double-double by scoring 17 points and 10 rebounds and the other American import DeQuan Abrom (188-1996, college: Belm.Abbey) added 20 points respectively for Magic in the defeat. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Flames moved-up to second place, which they share with Willetton T. and Eltham W. Magic lost their twelfth game in a row. They still close the standings with 12 games lost. They share the position with Southern T.. Flames will meet at home Slammers (#12) in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Magic will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
Mandurah M.: D.Abrom 20+4reb+3ast, R.Turner 17+10reb+3ast, C.Bobbitt 14+4reb+6ast, I.Abergut 10+2reb, C.Kyle 7+9reb+1ast, C.Jayden 3+1reb
Rockingham F.: M.Nelson 19+3reb+6ast, J.Beard 17+6reb+4ast, T.Jervis 14+10reb+2ast, C.Beard 11+8reb+4ast, J.Combs 10+4reb, D.Walker 9+7reb+5ast

Warwick S. - Perth R. 93-85

Another interesting game for Senators (6-5) which hosted in Perth against 4th placed Redbacks (8-4). Eighth ranked Senators won 93-85. It ended at the same time the five-game winning streak of Redbacks. Forward Caleb Davis (206-1995, college: SVSU) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 22 points and 13 rebounds for the winners and George Pearl chipped in 20 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists. The best for the losing side was American guard Bryton Hobbs (183-1991, college: Northeastern St.) with 26 points and 4 steals and swingman Tevin Jackson (202-1994, college: McNeese St.) produced a double-double by scoring 16 points and 11 rebounds. Five Senators and four Redbacks players scored in double figures. Redbacks' coach rotated twelve players in this game, but that didn't help. Senators moved-up to sixth place, which they share with Northside W. and NGC Seahawks. Redbacks at the other side keep the fourth position with four games lost. They share it with S.Adelaide P.. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Perth R.: B.Hobbs 26+2reb+3ast, T.Jackson 16+11reb+3ast, L.Timms 13+2reb, S.Vaiangina 11+1reb+2ast, B.Voelkel 7+11reb+6ast, E.Kyden 5+2reb
Warwick S.: C.Davis 22+13reb+2ast, P.George 20+9reb+4ast, M.Connor 18+7reb+3ast, H.Ford 15+6reb+2ast, C.Ellis 12+3reb+3ast, J.Thwaites 3+1reb+3ast

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AUSTRIA

Oberwart adds Lamar to their roster, ex Swiss Central - by Stefan Heinrich

Unger Steel Gunners Oberwart (BSL) added to their roster 24-year old American swingman Tre'vion Lamar (196cm-95kg-1999, college: Catawba) for new 2023-24 season. Lamar played last season at Swiss Central in Swiss SBL league. In 30 games he recorded very impressive stats: 15.9ppg, 5.1rpg, 5.2apg and 1.6spg.
He graduated from Catawba College in 2022 and it is his second season as a professional player. Lamar played also for University of Texas Permian Basin for one year.

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AZERBAIJAN

Eurobasket.com All-Azerbaijan League Awards 2023 - by Igor Obradovic

Finals MVP: USA

A.J. Patty (204-F-1995) of Sabah
Player of the Year: USA

Andrew Corum (201-F/C-1997) of Xirdalan
Guard of the Year: USA

Collin Turner (185-G-1995) of Gence
Forward of the Year: USA

A.J. Patty (204-F-1995) of Sabah
Center of the Year: USA

Andrew Corum (201-F/C-1997) of Xirdalan
Domestic Player of the Year:

Ender Poladkhanli (198-F/C-1998) of Serhedci
Import Player of the Year: USA

Andrew Corum (201-F/C-1997) of Xirdalan
Coach of the Year: Elshan Yusubov of Sabah

Eurobasket.com All-Azerbaijan League First Team 2023

Turner

Kondrakov

King

Patty

Corum

First Team
USA

Collin Turner (185-G-1995) of Gence
Ukraine

Yuri Kondrakov (191-G-1996) of Neftci
USA

Londell King (203-F-1997) of NTD
USA

A.J. Patty (204-F-1995) of Sabah
USA

Andrew Corum (201-F/C-1997) of Xirdalan

Eurobasket.com All-Azerbaijan League Second Team 2023

Miller

Small

McDowell

Campbell

Diggins

Second Team
USA

Brandon Miller (178-PG-1998) of Serhedci
USA

Jared Small (201-G-1997) of Gence
USA

Damon McDowell (193-G/F) of Xirdalan
USA

Quinton Campbell (198-F-1993) of NTD
USA

Michael Diggins (205-F/C-1998) of Serhedci

Eurobasket.com All-Azerbaijan League Third Team 2023

Cruickshank

Robinson III

Brower

Tyson

Cooper

Third Team
USA

Russhard Cruickshank (183-PG-1997) of Zirve
USA

Larry Robinson III (181-PG-1999) of Olimpic Sheki
USA

Jayson Brower (195-F-1996) of Olimpic Sheki
USA

Zo Tyson (206-F-1995) of Zirve
USA

Davante Cooper (208-F/C-1994) of Olimpic Sheki

Eurobasket.com All-Azerbaijan League Honorable Mention 2023

Rohlehr

Osakue

Robinson

Madrid-Andrews

Pullum

Adams

Honorable Mention
Canada

Christian Rohlehr (209-C-1997) of Sabah
USA

Udun Osakue (198-F-1992) of Sabah
USA

Bryson Robinson (194-G-1998) of NTD
USA

Jordan Madrid-Andrews (203-F-1994) of Gence
USA

Devin Pullum (188-G-1999) of Xirdalan
USA

Andre Adams (206-C-1996) of Xirdalan
Georgia

Davit Lomidze (196-SG-1997) of Neftci
USA

Maxwell Starwood (203-C-1997) of Serhedci
USA

Jarrett Henderson (198-F-1996) of Zirve

Zaur Pashayev (187-G-1983) of Zirve
Iran

Mohsen Moradxani (214-C-1990) of Neftci

Eurobasket.com Azerbaijan League All-Imports Team 2023

Turner

King

Patty

Corum

Diggins

All-Imports Team
USA

Collin Turner (185-G-1995) of Gence
USA

Londell King (203-F-1997) of NTD
USA

A.J. Patty (204-F-1995) of Sabah
USA

Andrew Corum (201-F/C-1997) of Xirdalan
USA

Michael Diggins (205-F/C-1998) of Serhedci

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BAHRAIN

Manama outclass Muharraq - by Eurobasket News

Travin Thibodeaux (203-F-1996, college: New Orleans) starred with 21 points to go with six rebounds and three assists as defending champions Manama outclassed arch-rivals Muharraq, 93-85, last night in the first game at the Khalifa Sports City Arena to take a 1-0 lead in the best-of-five 2022-23 Zain Basketball League final series. Fellow American pro Sir'Dominic Pointer (198-G/F-1992, college: St.John's) backed his compatriot up with 16 points, 10 rebounds and nine assists as Manama, who had entered the fourth and final quarter leading, 69-62, ran away with the game in the final 10 minutes. Having increased their lead to nine points at 81-72 with five minutes left till the final buzzer, Manama looked comfortably placed. But, just seconds later, Muharraq's American pro Dewayne Jackson (203-F-1990, college: Morgan St.) sank a perfect three-point jump shot to leave the scoreboard reading 81-75 in Manama's favour. About 40 seconds later, Jackson scored another three-point jump shot to reduce Manama's lead to just three points, at 81-78, and the Muharraq supporters, who had created a rippling wave of white and red in half the 3,600-seat arena and had been somewhat subdued as their rivals increased their lead, suddenly found their voices. But, less than a quarter of a minute later, it was the Manama supporters, creating a blue-shirted tsunami in the other half of the hall, who cheered even louder as Thibodeaux scored a two-point hook shot to push the score to 83-78. After a scoreless 30 seconds, a personal foul on Manama's Mohammed Ameer resulted in the player being handed two free throws and he netted both with ease to push his team's lead to seven points, at 85-78, with three-and-a-half minutes until the end of the game. A minute later, a two-point dunk by Thibodeaux had increased Manama's lead back to nine points, at 87-78. With slightly more than two minutes left, Muharraq needed one of their players to produce something special and Shabazz Muhammad (198-SF-1992, college: UCLA), their other American pro, obliged with a two-point driving layup. The scoreboard now read 87-80 in favour of Manama. But any hopes Muharraq might have had of reducing the deficit further were quickly dashed as a Thibodeaux two-point layup pushed his team's lead back up to nine points again, at 89-80. There were still roughly two minutes left, though, and Jackson briefly lifted the Muharraq supporters' spirits with a perfect three-point jump shot which reduced Manama's lead to six points, 89-83. Half-a-minute later, Pointer scored a two-point layup and, with about 90 seconds left, Manama were leading by eight points, at 91-83, and a number of Muharraq supporters decided they'd seen enough and began filing out of the hall. With about 40 seconds left in the game, Muharraq's Ali Shukralla scored a two-point lay-up to make it 91-85 but it was too little, too late and, by the time Thibodeaux netted his final points of the night with a two-point layup, there were only 18 seconds to go till the final buzzer and the Muharraq players started shaking hands with their opponents to signal the end of the game. Earlier, supporters of both teams had started entering the arena as early as 3.30pm with the result that, by 4pm, three hours before the scheduled start of the game, more than half the hall was already full and reverberating with the cheers and drumbeats of both teams. And Manama appeared to take up from exactly where they'd left off in their thrilling win over the same opponents last Monday in the final of the 2022-23 Khalifa Bin Salman Cup, racing to a 28-18 lead by the end of the first quarter and leading 48-43 at half time before eventually closing out a dominant win. The two teams will now play the second game of the final series on Monday with Muharraq needing to win to restore parity in the best-of-five contest. A second consecutive loss would leave them needing to win all three remaining games in order to secure the trophy. Meanwhile, Manama, who are seeking to nab the coveted league-and-cup double, will be hoping to prevail in the next two games to win the championship.
Courtesy of: gdnonline.com

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BARBADOS

The Co-Operators General Insurance BABA Premier League action returns - by Eurobasket News

Premier League action returns this Saturday at the Barbados Community College. The League paused in April when Station Hill overcame Burger Kings Bulls 71-64. DIJON HUNTE stepped up with 22 points and DARREN HUNTE delivered 17. AKEEM MARSH replied with 22 points in the losing effort.
Pinelands meanwhile keep the top with a 9-0 record.

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BELIZE

BEBL Round 1 of Semi-Finals. Wins for Tiger Sharks and Hurricanes - by Eurobasket News

Running Rebels - Tiger Sharks 73-77

Tiger Sharks forced 24 Running Rebels turnovers and had a 23-9 advantage in offensive rebounds. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Tiger Sharks made 7 blocks. Point guard Francis Arana (180-1997) fired 20 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. The former international guard Jihad Wright (193-1993, college: UNCP) chipped in 18 points and 5 rebounds. American guard Bryan Hudson (190, college: MWSU) produced 23 points and guard Akeem Trapp (-1997) added 13 points respectively for lost side.
Top scorers:
Tiger Sharks: F.Arana 20+8reb+3ast, J.Wright 18+5reb+2ast, J.Clifton 10+6reb+1ast, K.Pollard 8+4reb, K.John 6+5reb, K.Steward 6+11reb
Running Rebels: B.Hudson 23+2reb+1ast, T.Hall 14+2reb+2ast, A.Trapp 13+2reb+3ast, B.White 5+11reb, K.Burgess 5+7reb+1ast, E.Olivera 5+4reb

Hurricanes - Dream Ballers 85-67

Worth to mention a great performance of American point guard Tyrie Orosco (196, college: Cent.Penn) who helped to win the game recording 19 points and 9 rebounds. His fellow American import point guard Kris Frazier (201, college: Peru St.) contributed with 17 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. The former international guard Edgar Mitchell (-1993) answered with 12 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists and American center Dominic Woodson (211-1995, college: Tennessee) added 11 points and 10 rebounds in the effort for Dream Ballers. Four Hurricanes and five Dream Ballers players scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Hurricanes: T.Orosco 19+9reb+2ast, V.Evans 18+4reb+2ast, K.Frazier 17+8reb, G.Lopez 10+3ast, J.Harris 9+6reb, S.Kirk 7+3reb+1ast
Dream Ballers: H.Delvon 16+4reb, E.Mitchell 12+9reb+5ast, D.Campbell 11+2reb+1ast, D.Woodson 11+10reb+1ast, D.Conorque 10+8reb+3ast, C.Jahiem 3+1reb+1ast

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BNXT LEAGUE

Round 2 of Quarter-Finals. Limburg and Charleroi advance into semis - by Eurobasket News

Antwerp - Charleroi 67-77

Puerto Rican-Panamanian point guard Jhivvan Jackson (183-1998, college: UTSA) orchestrated the victory by scoring 19 points and 7 rebounds. Dutch center Nathan Kuta (203-2000) contributed with 9 points and 9 rebounds for the winners. American Desonta Bradford (191-1996, college: ETSU) replied with a double-double by scoring 11 points, 7 rebounds and 11 assists and Seppe DEspallier (197-1999) added 14 points and 5 rebounds in the effort for Antwerp Giants. Four Antwerp Giants players scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games.
Top scorers:
Charleroi: J.Jackson 19+7reb+3ast, M.Samardzic 11+2reb+2ast, R.Lisboa 10+1reb+2ast, K.Nathan 9+9reb+3ast, N.Fogang Tchendjou 9+1ast, Y.Schoepen 7+4reb
Antwerp: S.D'Espallier 14+5reb+2ast, D.Ridder Thijs 13+4reb, D.Bradford 11+7reb+11ast, B.Anderson 10+2reb, R.Upshaw Jr. 8+5reb, J.Mwema 7

Groningen - Limburg 97-88

Groningen made 21-of-26 free shots (80.8 percent) during the game. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 25 assists. American forward Clay Mounce (201-1998, college: Furman) orchestrated the victory by scoring 26 points and 6 assists. Swedish forward Viktor Gaddefors (201-1992, agency: 011 Sports) contributed with 24 points and 4 assists for the winners. Groningen's coach used a ten-player rotation and allowed the starting five to rest. Jonas Delalieux (202-1992) replied with 28 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists (was perfect 7-for-7 from the free throw line) and American guard Alex Stein (191-1997, college: S.Indiana) added 19 points in the effort for Limburg United. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Groningen: C.Mounce 26+4reb+6ast, V.Gaddefors 24+1reb+4ast, S.Hollanders 11+6reb, W.Brandwijk 10+7reb+1ast, P.Olisemeka 9+3reb+1ast, S.Branch 9+4reb+2ast
Limburg: J.Delalieux 28+8reb+5ast, A.Stein 19+4reb+3ast, M.Cale 12+2reb+3ast, M.De Zeeuw 10+1reb, C.Hammonds 8+4reb+2ast, D.Yannick 6+1ast

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BOSNIA

Stefan Moody agrees terms with Igokea - by Eurobasket News

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BRAZIL

Stats Leaders - BNL

Stats Leaders

PPG

RPG

APG

SPG

BPG

Dexter MCCLANAHAN

Fort.
(193-F/G-1997)
Avg: 21.4

21.4

17.6

17.3

17.3

17.0

Caxias do Sul adds Junior to their roster - by Paulo Freire

Caxias do Sul BasqueteTriches U20 team (LDB U20) added to their roster 22-year old center Ginaldo Junior (211cm-2001). Junior played this summer at Liga Sorocabana de Basquete in the CBB. In 8 games just recently he had 3.9ppg and 3.4rpg. LDB U20 will be definitely a better match and he can see more playing time.
He has played previously professionally in Brazil (Paulistano, Tahitian Noni/Jundiai, Blumenau, Sao Jose and Cearense) and USA (MACK Prep Elite).

Caxias do Sul signs Vinicius Chagas - by Paulo Freire

Caxias do Sul BasqueteTriches U20 team (LDB U20) signed 22-year old small forward Vinicius Chagas (202cm-2001). Chagas played this summer at Basquete Blumenau/APAB in the CBB. In 10 games just recently he had 5.7ppg and 4.8rpg. LDB U20 will be definitely a better match and he can see more playing time.
He has played previously for three other teams: Paulistano, Palmeiras and Cearense.
His team won Brazilian CBC League Group B Regular Season in 2022.

Leonardo Cravero is a newcomer at Caxias do Sul - by Paulo Freire

Caxias do Sul BasqueteTriches U20 team (LDB U20) strengthened their roster with addition of 21-year old small forward Leonardo Cravero (200cm-87kg-2002). Cravero played this summer at Basquete Blumenau/APAB in the CBB. In 10 games just recently he recorded 9.9ppg, 8.6rpg, 2.0apg and 1.4spg. LDB U20 will be definitely a better match and he can see more playing time.
He has played previously for two other teams: Franca and Cearense.
His team was regular season runner-up in Brazilian LDB U20 League Group A in 2021.

NBB Round 3 of Finals. Franca nip Sao Paulo to take 2-1 lead - by Eurobasket News

Sao Paulo - Sesi Franca 92-94

Vivo/Franca made 21-of-21 free shots (100 percent !!!) during the game. It was a great evening for American guard David Jackson (190-1982, college: Penn St.) who led his team to a victory scoring 25 points and 6 rebounds. The former international point guard Georginho de Paula (197-1996) helped adding 15 points and 8 rebounds. The best for the losing side was center Ralfi Ansaloni (211-1987) with 20 points and 8 rebounds (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) and American guard Malcolm Miller (201-1991, college: Southern) scored 15 points and 5 assists. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Sao Paulo: R.Ansaloni 20+8reb+1ast, M.Miller 15+4reb+5ast, M.Vieira 14+7reb+1ast, E.Corazza 11+2reb+6ast, C.Bennett 9+1reb+4ast, H.Coelho 7+1ast
Sesi Franca: D.Jackson 25+6reb+2ast, L.Mariano 16+4reb+3ast, G.de Paula 15+8reb+1ast, S.Scala 11+1reb+6ast, S.Reynan 9+2reb+1ast, S.Marcio 8+5reb

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CHILE

Stats Leaders - DIMAYOR

Stats Leaders

PPG

RPG

APG

SPG

BPG

Stephen MAXWELL

Ancud
(201-F-1993)
Avg: 25.5

25.5

23.1

21.7

21.3

21.3

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COLOMBIA

Stats Leaders

Stats Leaders

PPG

RPG

APG

SPG

BPG

Jordan GLOVER

Sabios
(198-F-1996)
Avg: 19.0

19.0

18.1

18.0

17.6

16.9

Diaz's 19 points and 8 rebounds give him Hoops Agents Player of the Week award - by Eurobasket News

20-year old guard Mateo Diaz (186-G-2002) put on an amazing game in the last round for Motilones and receives a Hoops Agents Player of the Week award for round 12.
He had the game-high 19 points adding eight rebounds and six assists for Motilones in his team's victory, helping them to outclass, the league's bottom-ranked team Corsarios (#5, 0-13) with 38-point margin 90-52. Motilones maintains the 4th position in their group in Colombian league. Too late to salvage the team, which is currently ranked such low. They already lost 10 games and recorded just three victories. In the team's last game Diaz had a remarkable 62.5% from 2-point range. He just recently signed at Motilones, being already a very valuable addition to the team. Mateo Diaz averages this season 15.8ppg and 4.2apg.

Second best performed player last round was Soren De Luque (196-PF-1998) of top-ranked Titanes. He is international forward in his first season at Titanes. In the last game De Luque recorded impressive 23 points and 4 rebounds. Of course Titanes cruised to a 81-71 relatively comfortable win over slightly lower-ranked Piratas (#3, 9-4). It was definitely game of the week between two contenders to the top position in Group A. Titanes consolidated its place in the very top position of the standings. His team lost just three games this season, while they won 12 matches. De Luque is one of the most experienced players at Titanes and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players.

Third place about best performers goes to center Guillermo Saavedra (200-C-1986) of Corsarios (#5). Saavedra scored 17 points and grabbed seventeen rebounds (!!!). Despite Saavedra's great performance Corsarios lost 69-84 to slightly higher-ranked Motilones (#4, 3-10). But his team cannot count on just a single player as he also needs help of the other teammates. Corsarios can only dream about fighting for top spots in Group A. Saavedra has individually a great season in Colombia. After 12 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in rebounds with 9.1rpg (#1 in league).

Other top performing players last week:
4. Leyder Moreno (195-F-2000) of Motilones - 19 points, 3 rebounds and 4 assists
5. CJ Rodriguez (188-PG-1994) of Motilones - 20 points and 4 assists
6. Jose Defelippo (186-SG-1997) of Titanes - 12 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists
7. Jalen Dupree (205-F/C-1998) of Piratas - 26 points and 6 rebounds
8. Jeremy Smith (180-PG-1997) of Piratas - 13 points and 4 rebounds
9. Desmond Holloway (194-SF-1990) of Piratas - 14 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists
10. Ernesto Oglivie (203-PF-1989) of Titanes - 16 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists

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

Liga Wplay Round 12: Titanes defeat Piratas in the game between Top 4 teams - by Eurobasket News

Coincidentally all hosts won their games. Here is the last round review presented by Job Market.

An interesting game for Titanes (12-3) which hosted in Barranquilla 3rd ranked Piratas (9-4). First ranked Titanes had an easy win 88-67. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Piratas. Titanes made 16-of-19 free shots (84.2 percent) during the game. Titanes had a 32-21 advantage in offensive rebounds. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists comparing to just 10 passes made by Piratas' players. It was a good game for the former international Soren De Luque (196-1998) who led his team to a victory with 15 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists. Argentinian Jose Defelippo (186-1997) contributed with 12 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists for the winners. American power forward Jalen Dupree (205-1998, college: Tennessee St.) replied with 26 points and 6 rebounds for Piratas. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Titanes have a solid four-game winning streak. Defending champion maintains first position with 12-3 record. Piratas at the other side keep the third place with four games lost.
An interesting game for Titanes (12-3) which hosted in Barranquilla 3rd ranked Piratas (9-4). First ranked Titanes managed to get a 10-point victory 81-71. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Piratas. Worth to mention a great performance of the former international Soren De Luque (196-1998) who helped to win the game recording 23 points and Ernesto Oglivie who added 13 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists during the contest. Titanes' coach Tomas Diaz allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. The best for the losing side was American Desmond Holloway (194-1990, college: Coastal, agency: Interperformances) with 14 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists. Titanes have a solid four-game winning streak. Defending champion maintains first position with 12-3 record. Piratas at the other side keep the third place with four games lost.
Bottom-ranked Corsarios is still unable to win any game. This time they lost on the road their 13th consecutive match to fourth ranked Motilones (3-10) 90-52 on Thursday evening. The winners were led by Mateo Diaz who scored that evening 19 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists. Even a double-double of 10 points and 12 rebounds by Guillermo Saavedra did not help to save the game for Corsarios. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Motilones maintains fourth position with 3-10 record. Loser Corsarios still closes the standings with 13 games lost.

In the last game of round 12 winless Corsarios were beaten by Motilones on the road 84-69.

Titanes - Piratas 88-67

An interesting game for Titanes (12-3) which hosted in Barranquilla 3rd ranked Piratas (9-4). First ranked Titanes had an easy win 88-67. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Piratas. Titanes made 16-of-19 free shots (84.2 percent) during the game. Titanes had a 32-21 advantage in offensive rebounds. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists comparing to just 10 passes made by Piratas' players. It was a good game for the former international Soren De Luque (196-1998) who led his team to a victory with 15 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists. Argentinian Jose Defelippo (186-1997) contributed with 12 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists for the winners. Four Titanes players scored in double figures. American power forward Jalen Dupree (205-1998, college: Tennessee St.) replied with 26 points and 6 rebounds and his fellow American import Desmond Holloway (194-1990, college: Coastal, agency: Interperformances) added 11 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists in the effort for Piratas. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Titanes have a solid four-game winning streak. Defending champion maintains first position with 12-3 record. Piratas at the other side keep the third place with four games lost.
Top scorers:
Titanes: J.Ayarza 22+2reb, E.Oglivie 16+5reb+3ast, D.Luque Soren 15+8reb+4ast, J.Defelippo 12+8reb+5ast, A.Carmona 11+4reb, A.Jaime 8+3reb+9ast
Piratas: J.Dupree 26+6reb+1ast, J.Smith 13+4reb+1ast, D.Holloway 11+5reb+6ast, X.Carreras 5+3reb+1ast, S.David 5+1reb, S.Santiago 4+8reb

Motilones - Corsarios 90-52

Bottom-ranked Corsarios is still unable to win any game. This time they lost on the road their 13th consecutive match to fourth ranked Motilones (3-10) 90-52 on Thursday evening. Motilones dominated down low during the game scoring 52 of its points in the paint compared to Corsarios' 32. The winners were led by Argentinian-Italian guard Mateo Diaz (186-2002) who scored that evening 19 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists and American-Panamanian point guard CJ Rodriguez (188-1994, college: S.Nazarene) supported him with 17 points. Five Motilones players scored in double figures. Even a double-double of 10 points and 12 rebounds by Argentinian center Guillermo Saavedra (200-1986) did not help to save the game for Corsarios. The former international guard Yesid Mosquera-Perea (198-1996, college: Life) added 9 points and 7 rebounds. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Motilones maintains fourth position with 3-10 record. Loser Corsarios still closes the standings with 13 games lost.
Top scorers:
Motilones: D.Mateo 19+8reb+6ast, C.Rodriguez 17+1reb+2ast, T.Leonard 15+4reb+1ast, M.Colina 10+2reb+1ast, L.Moreno 10+1reb+2ast, M.Juan 7+1reb+2ast
Corsarios: G.Saavedra 10+12reb+1ast, Y.Mosquera-Perea 9+7reb+1ast, M.Carlos 7+1reb, T.Yeison 7+4reb+2ast, S.Vizcaino 6+3reb+3ast, A.Beiker 6+3reb

Motilones - Corsarios 84-69

The game between closely ranked teams ended with fourth ranked Motilones' (3-10) home victory over bottom-ranked Corsarios (0-13) in Cucuta 84-69 on Friday. Motilones looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists comparing to just 8 passes made by Corsarios' players. The winners were led by Argentinian-Italian guard Mateo Diaz (186-2002) who scored that evening 15 points, 6 rebounds and 8 assists and international forward Leyder Moreno (195-2000) supported him with 19 points and 4 assists. Motilones' coach Juan Manuel Cordoba used an eleven-player rotation and allowed the starting five to rest. Even a double-double of 17 points and 17 rebounds by Argentinian center Guillermo Saavedra (200-1986) did not help to save the game for Corsarios. Carlos Morales (192) added 19 points and 4 assists. Four Corsarios players scored in double figures. Motilones maintains fourth position with 3-10 record. Loser Corsarios still closes the standings with 13 games lost.
Top scorers:
Motilones: C.Rodriguez 20+1reb+4ast, L.Moreno 19+3reb+4ast, D.Mateo 15+6reb+8ast, T.Leonard 7+11reb, M.Colina 7+2reb+1ast, M.Juan 6+4reb+2ast
Corsarios: M.Carlos 19+2reb+4ast, G.Saavedra 17+17reb, Y.Mosquera-Perea 12+6reb+1ast, A.Beiker 10+14reb, S.Vizcaino 9+1reb+1ast, P.Keiner 2+1reb+1ast

Titanes - Piratas 81-71

An interesting game for Titanes (12-3) which hosted in Barranquilla 3rd ranked Piratas (9-4). First ranked Titanes managed to get a 10-point victory 81-71. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Piratas. Titanes dominated down low during the game scoring 54 of its points in the paint compared to Piratas' 26. Worth to mention a great performance of the former international Soren De Luque (196-1998) who helped to win the game recording 23 points and Panamanian Ernesto Oglivie (203-1989) who added 13 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists during the contest. Titanes' coach Tomas Diaz allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. The best for the losing side was American Desmond Holloway (194-1990, college: Coastal, agency: Interperformances) with 14 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists and Dominican-Argentinian forward Xavier Carreras (198-1994) scored 16 points and 5 rebounds. Four Titanes and five Piratas players scored in double figures. Titanes have a solid four-game winning streak. Defending champion maintains first position with 12-3 record. Piratas at the other side keep the third place with four games lost.
Top scorers:
Titanes: D.Luque Soren 23+4reb, E.Oglivie 13+6reb+6ast, J.Ayarza 12+7reb+2ast, J.Lozano 11+4reb, T.Alejandro 6+2reb+1ast, J.Defelippo 6+5reb+3ast
Piratas: X.Carreras 16+5reb+3ast, S.David 15+3reb+4ast, D.Holloway 14+8reb+5ast, P.Rodrigo 12+5reb+1ast, J.Dupree 11+4reb+1ast, A.Yorbis 3+1reb

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FRANCE

Stats Leaders - ProA

Stats Leaders

PPG

RPG

APG

SPG

BPG

Ronald MARCH

Roanne
(196-G/F-1993)
Avg: 21.4

21.4

21.1

20.4

20.0

18.2

Stats Leaders - N1

Stats Leaders

PPG

RPG

APG

SPG

BPG

Joe BURTON

Orchies
(203-C/F-1990)
Avg: 21.2

21.2

21.0

19.7

16.1

16.1

Ludovic Negrobar joins Orleans - by Eurobasket News

Entente Orleans 45 (ProB) agreed terms with 31-year old power forward Ludovic Negrobar (208cm-1991) for new 2023-24 season. Negrobar has played for the last two years at Sharks Antibes. In 27 ProB games he had 8.5ppg, 4.9rpg, 1.3apg and 1.1spg last season.
He has played previously for six other teams: Limoges CSP Elite, Sceaux, Nantes, Union Rennes, Gries/Oberhoffen and Limoges CSP 2nd team.
Negrobar played in the final of French ProB Play-Offs in 2022.

(via @Be_BasketFr)

NM1 Round 2 of Semi-Finals. Caen and Andrezieux force deciders - by Eurobasket News

Loon-Plage - Caen 69-76

Caen outrebounded Loon-Plage 38-27 including a 28-16 advantage in defensive rebounds. Kenyan-American forward Joel Awich (201-1993, college: Cal Poly) notched a double-double by scoring 11 points, 12 rebounds and 4 assists to lead the effort and American center Tyere Marshall (206-1997, college: Rider, agency: SLN) supported him with 15 points and 7 rebounds. Four Caen players scored in double figures. Caen's coach allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Even 16 points and 6 rebounds by guard Christopher Dauby (193-1999) did not help to save the game for Loon-Plage. Seraphin Saumont (200-1994) added 7 points and 9 rebounds for the hosts.
Top scorers:
Loon-Plage: D.Christopher 16+6reb+2ast, R.Antoine 13+1reb+2ast, D.Ibrahim 10+2reb, R.Anderson Jr. 8+4reb, T.Housieaux 8+2reb, S.Saumont 7+9reb+3ast
Caen: T.Marshall 15+7reb+2ast, B.Yanik 13+3reb+3ast, P.N'Jiba 12+3reb+1ast, J.Awich 11+12reb+4ast, C.Ona-Embo 9+1reb+3ast, M.Bernaoui 7+2reb

Poitiers - Andrezieux 79-85

Andrezieux made 22-of-25 free shots (88.0 percent) during the game. Bahamas forward Jaraun Burrows (203-1985, college: PFW) scored 14 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists to lead the charge for the winners and point guard Louis Weber (186-1998) chipped in 14 points and 4 assists during the contest. American Courtney Stockard (196-1995, college: St.Bonaventure) responded with 19 points and 4 assists and forward Alexis Dargenton (203-1994, college: Utah St.) scored 16 points and 6 rebounds. Five Andrezieux and four Poitiers players scored in double figures. Poitiers' coach rotated eleven players in this game, but that didn't help.
Top scorers:
Poitiers: C.Stockard 19+2reb+4ast, A.Dargenton 16+6reb, J.Jeanne 12+5reb+2ast, A.Mensah 10+4reb+4ast, M.Chambre 9+2reb+1ast, K.Omoerah 5+5reb+5ast
Andrezieux: L.Weber 14+3reb+4ast, J.Burrows 14+7reb+5ast, T.Bouteille 13+3reb+1ast, M.Diarra 12+2reb, H.Dumortier 11+1reb+1ast, R.Malonga 10+3reb+4ast

Nancy welcomes back Cingala-Mata - by Eurobasket News

Newly promoted Sluc Nancy Basket Pro (Betclic ELITE ProA) landed 30-year old 205cm small forward Bruno Cingala-Mata, agency: Octagon Europe for new season. It is actually his comeback to Sluc Nancy as he has played here before. Cingala-Mata played most recently at ADA Blois Basket 41 in French Betclic ELITE ProA. In 19 games he averaged 5.8ppg and 4.3rpg last season. He also played for JSF Nanterre that season where in 7 Betclic ELITE ProA games he had 7.1ppg and 3.4rpg.
Cingala-Mata was a member of French U18 National Team in 2011.
He has played previously professionally also in Denmark (Copenhagen) and France (Cholet Basket, Tours, ALM Evreux, Provence Basket and Entente Orleans 45).
Among many awards his team made it to the French ProB Leaders Cup Final Four in 2015. Cingala-Mata was voted to Eurobasket.com All-French NM1 Honorable Mention back in 2019. (via @Be_BasketFr)

Betclic ELITE ProA Round 3 of Semi-Finals. Monaco are the first finalists - by Eurobasket News

ASVEL - Levallois 86-59

ASVEL Lyon-Villeurbanne Basket dominated down low during the game scoring 58 of its points in the paint compared to Metropolitans' 34 and made 16-of-21 free shots (76.2 percent) during the game. ASVEL Lyon-Villeurbanne Basket forced 20 Metropolitans turnovers. The best player for the winners was Bulgarian-American point guard Dee Bost (188-1989, college: MSU) who scored 21 points. Belgian-Nigerian guard Retin Obasohan (189-1993, college: Alabama) chipped in 18 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. ASVEL Lyon-Villeurbanne Basket's coach Terence Parker felt very confident that he used 11 players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. At the other side the best for losing team was American power forward TaShawn Thomas (203-1993, college: Oklahoma, agency: Pensack Sports) who recorded 16 points and 7 rebounds and international forward Victor Wembanyama (224-2004) added 13 points, 7 rebounds and 4 blocks respectively.
Top scorers:
Levallois: T.Thomas 16+7reb+1ast, W.Victor 13+7reb, B.Brown Jr. 12+1reb, C.Bilal 9+2reb+2ast, H.Besson 5+3ast, L.Konate 2+3reb+4ast
ASVEL: D.Bost 21+4reb+3ast, R.Obasohan 18+5reb+4ast, A.Tyus 10+6reb+1ast, J.Mathews 9+1reb+2ast, D.Lighty 8+2reb+2ast, A.Noua 8+2reb

Bourg - Monaco 71-85

It was a good game for Lithuanian center Donatas Motiejunas (213-1990) who led his team to a victory with 22 points and 7 rebounds. American guard Mike James (185-1990, college: Lamar) contributed with 12 points and 9 assists for the winners. Four Monaco players scored in double figures. Ghanian center Amida Brimah (213-1994, college: UConn) answered with 15 points and 5 rebounds and American point guard Jordan Floyd (188-1997, college: King) added 15 points in the effort for JL Bourg. Both coaches used bench players and allowed the starting five to rest.
Top scorers:
Bourg: A.Brimah 15+5reb, J.Floyd 15+1reb+2ast, B.Hugo 10+2reb+2ast, P.Pelos 9+3reb, A.Julien 7+2reb+5ast, K.Kevin 5+3reb
Monaco: D.Motiejunas 22+7reb+2ast, E.Okobo 12+2reb+3ast, J.Loyd 12+5reb+3ast, M.James 12+3reb+9ast, J.Blossomgame 7+4reb, Y.Makoundou 6+1reb

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GAMES OF THE SMALL STATES OF EUROPE

Luxembourg clinch Gold in Malta - by Eurobasket News

Gold medal for our men's 5vs5 national team! On Saturday, the team of coach Ken Diederich was able to win the games of the small States of Europe. In a thrilling final against host Malta in a crowded gym, Luxembourg was able to win the game 78:69. It is the first time in history that our men win the gold medal at the GSSE. Clancy Rugg (204-F/C-1991, college: Vermont) was simply unstoppable to start the game, he hit long range shots and attacked the basket and helped Luxembourg take a 40:30 lead into the break. The FLBB-squad kept the tempo high and was able to extend the lead in the third quarter with big plays. At the end of 3 quarters, Luxembourg led 60:47. Sparked by their amazing support from the stands, the home team did not give up and challenged Luxembourg. In fact, Malta stormed back and the game was close with 5 minutes remaining (64:63). The FLBB squad took over control of the game in the end and finally won this very intense game by 9 points.
Courtesy of: luxembourg.basketball

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GEORGIA

Eurobasket.com All-Georgian League Awards 2023 - by Dimitri Chelidze

Finals MVP: USA

Djimon Henson (193-G-1998) of TSU
Player of the Year: USA

Djimon Henson (193-G-1998) of TSU
GBF MVP: Georgia

George Tsintsadze (194-PG-1986) of TSU
Guard of the Year: USA

Tray Croft (185-G-1997) of Rustavi
Forward of the Year: USA

Djimon Henson (193-G-1998) of TSU
Center of the Year: Georgia

Beka Bekauri (209-F/C-1991) of TSU
Defensive Player of the Year: Georgia

Nikoloz Gaprindashvili (198-G/F-2002) of Kavkasia
Co-Young Player of the Year: Georgia

Luka Liklikadze (193-G-2003) of Olimpi
Domestic Player of the Year: Georgia

Beka Bekauri (209-F/C-1991) of TSU
Most Improved Player of the Year: Georgia

Beqa Lomashvili (195-F-1999) of Cactus
Coach of the Year: Nikoloz Cherkezishvili of Mega
GBF Coach of the Year: Leqso Lapanashvili of TSU

Eurobasket.com All-Georgian League First Team 2023

Riddley

Croft

Henson

Acliese III

Bekauri

First Team
USA

Kyle Riddley (192-G-1996) of Batumi
USA

Tray Croft (185-G-1997) of Rustavi
USA

Djimon Henson (193-G-1998) of TSU
USA

Linton Acliese III (201-F-1998) of Olimpi
Georgia

Beka Bekauri (209-F/C-1991) of TSU

Eurobasket.com All-Georgian League Second Team 2023

Tsintsadze

Bulashvili

Gaprindashvili

Gilsonx

Ellis

Second Team
Georgia

George Tsintsadze (194-PG-1986) of TSU
Georgia

Luka Bulashvili (192-PG-1998) of Rustavi
Georgia

Nikoloz Gaprindashvili (198-G/F-2002) of Kavkasia
USA

Marqus Gilsonx (196-F/C) of Mega
USA

Isaiah Ellis (203-C/F-1995) of Kavkasia

Eurobasket.com All-Georgian League Third Team 2023

Pkhakadze

Maziashvili

Kuxhausen

Chechelashvili

Patashuri

Third Team
Georgia

Otar Pkhakadze (188-PG-1993) of Delta
Georgia

Luka Maziashvili (187-PG-2000) of Kutaisi
USA

Dru Kuxhausen (183-PG-1998) of Olimpi
Georgia

Nika Chechelashvili (195-F/G-1999) of Mega
Georgia

Guga Patashuri (199-F-1998) of Rustavi

Eurobasket.com Georgian League All-Domestic Players Team 2023

Tsintsadze

Bulashvili

Gaprindashvili

Patashuri

Bekauri

All-Domestic Players Team
Georgia

George Tsintsadze (194-PG-1986) of TSU
Georgia

Luka Bulashvili (192-PG-1998) of Rustavi
Georgia

Nikoloz Gaprindashvili (198-G/F-2002) of Kavkasia
Georgia

Guga Patashuri (199-F-1998) of Rustavi
Georgia

Beka Bekauri (209-F/C-1991) of TSU

Eurobasket.com Georgian League All-Imports Team 2023

Riddley

Croft

Henson

Acliese III

Ellis

All-Imports Team
USA

Kyle Riddley (192-G-1996) of Batumi
USA

Tray Croft (185-G-1997) of Rustavi
USA

Djimon Henson (193-G-1998) of TSU
USA

Linton Acliese III (201-F-1998) of Olimpi
USA

Isaiah Ellis (203-C/F-1995) of Kavkasia

Eurobasket.com All-Georgian League Honorable Mention 2023

Darbaidze

Drumwright

Rogava

Diggs

McNeal

Forrest

Honorable Mention
Georgia

Nika Darbaidze (204-F-1998) of TSU
USA

Malcolm Drumwright (188-PG-1995) of TSU
Georgia

Revaz Rogava (191-G-1993) of Rustavi
USA

Avery Diggs (208-C) of Rustavi
USA

Chris McNeal (185-G-1997) of Kavkasia
USA

Justin Forrest (188-G) of Kavkasia
Georgia

Ilia Londaridze (205-C/F-1989) of Kavkasia
Georgia

Otari Buliava (198-G/F-1994) of Mega
USA

Ronnie Rousseau III (175-PG-1995) of Mega
Georgia

Luka Kalatozishvili (198-F-1999) of Olimpi
Georgia

Givi Bakradze (180-PG-1991) of Olimpi
Georgia

Luka Liklikadze (193-G-2003) of Olimpi
USA

Aubrey McAlpine (196-G-1989) of Olimpi
USA

Ryan Allen (188-G-1998) of Cactus
USA

Jason Copman (198-C/F-1998) of Cactus
Georgia

Saba Lobjanidze (197-G/F-1993) of Batumi
Georgia

Giorgi Ochkhikidze (190-PG-2004) of Batumi
USA

Jordan Session (203-F/C-1996) of Batumi
USA

Avi Toomer (190-G-1997) of Delta
Georgia

Gegi Baqradze (206-C-1994) of Delta
Georgia

Kakhaber Jintcharadze (196-F/G-1993) of Kutaisi
USA

Jarvis Ray (198-F-1990) of Kutaisi
Georgia

Akaki Lomouri (198-F-1991) of Titebi
Georgia

Sandro Sanadze (190-G-1995) of Titebi
USA

Darius Bell (203-F-1999) of Titebi
Georgia

Michael Ugrekhelidze (193-G-1999) of Titebi
Georgia

Luka Zakradze (193-G-1996) of Vera
USA

Kaiden Rice (201-G) of Vera

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GERMANY

Stats Leaders - 1.Bundesliga

Stats Leaders

PPG

RPG

APG

SPG

BPG

DeWayne RUSSELL

Oldenburg
(180-PG-1994)
Avg: 20.6

20.6

19.2

19.2

18.4

18.0

Stats Leaders - 2.Bundesliga

Stats Leaders

PPG

RPG

APG

SPG

BPG

TJ CROCKETT

Bochum
(185-G-1999)
Avg: 18.5

18.5

17.0

17.0

16.9

16.8

ProA Round 1 of Finals. First leg game ends in a draw - by Eurobasket News

Tuebingen - Vechta 78-78

24 personal fouls committed by Tigers helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Worth to mention a great performance of Joel-Sadu Aminu (192-1997) who helped to win the game recording 32 points and 8 rebounds. American forward Naz Bohannon (198, college: Clemson) contributed with 20 points and 11 rebounds (on 10-of-13 shooting from the field). American Zac Seljaas (203-1997, college: BYU) answered with 10 points and 7 rebounds for Tigers. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game.

The EPG Baskets Win The Pro B Title Over Rasta Vechta 2 81-60 As Brian Butler Says Farewell With One Last Thunderous Dunk - by Miles Schmidt-Scheuber

In what better situation could a Pro B finalist be in then what the EPG Baskets Koblenz found themselves on June third? They had won the first game in Vechta by 20 points and now were at home for the final game? Vechta would have to win by at least 21 points and they were in the packed CGM arena in Koblenz that was full with dream Green fans. Unfortunate for Vechta was that in the absolute most vital game of the season, they were a pooped club who simply had had too many guys playing NBBL and Pro A during the season. It was a mild Saturday night in Koblenz were the troops of head coach Pat Elzie were ready to conquer the Pro B title. They had worked very hard for 9 months and now finally the moment was there where they could celebrate it with their own die-hard fans. Vechta came in with pressure having to perform while the EPG Baskets Koblenz could do a lot except panic and instead played the basketball everyone expected of them dominating from the get go and winning in usual EPG Baskets fashion with 81-60. Once again the EPG Baskets Koblenz had some down phases during the game, but overall defended with passion and aggressively never allowing their opponent to get a groove. It would also be Brian Butler's last game as he will be playing elsewhere next year. It was a great farewell with the Pro B title. 'This wasn't a cake walk, but a lot of hard work tonight. We showed why we should be the champion with how we played. I'm very proud of my team and we showed this season how far we can go with hard work', warned ex easyCredit BBL allstar dunk champion Brian Butler. For Rasta Vechta 2, it was a game where they came in as the major underdog, but they gave all they had. 'I have to give credit to Koblenz. They are a very good team. But we also fought hard. There was a big difference with the physicality and we had problems matching it. The biggest difference today was the energy level', stressed Rasta Vechta 2 guard JJ Culver.

The EPG Baskets Koblenz jumped all over Rasta Vechta 2 taking the 8-0 lead as ex BBL player Dominque Johnson drilled home 2 three's and captain Marvin Heckel made a lay in. The guests finally got on the board with baskets from Germans and ex Cologne guard Leon Okpara and top German prospect Johan Gruenloh with a tip in dunk. But the EPG Baskets Koblenz just kept putting on pressure at both ends and extended their lead to 20-6 going on a 12-2 run. In the run top Pro B center Moses Poelking took advantage of his physicality and just dominated the zone with 3 baskets and overall the team was sharing the ball around nicely as ex Temple (NCAA) guard Alani Moore hit a jumper after breaking an ankle, Heckel made a runner and Johnson a lay in. 'It was a super start by us. We were very focused. We played the way we should and like we were a league higher', said EPG Baskets Koblenz CEO Thomas Klein. After back to back buckets by Roman Bedime and Okpara, Koblenz closed out the first quarter with a 5-0 run to lead 25-11 after 10 minutes. Alani Moore made free throws and ex Bremerhaven forward Niclas Sperber nailed a three pointer. 'With the exception of two minutes, it was a good quarter. We were brutally focused and very efficient. You could see that there was an unbelievable difference in physicality in our favor', commented Thomas Klein.

The EPG Baskets Koblenz had a few ups and downs in the second quarter, but overall were in good control of the game and led comfortably at half-time 40-28. Rasta Vechta 2 began the second quarter strong with a 6-2 run as they received back to back three's From Okpara and ex easyCredit BBL player Kevin Smit. Koblenz had little flow as their ball movement stalled. The guests had little scoring options at that time and had to rely a lot on Kevin Smit who carried his team as best he could as he hit two three's, but they couldn't make any ground. The EPG Baskets Koblenz had good offensive execution as their combination of good team basketball and individual class was simply too much for the young Vechta team. Three's by Heckel and Moore and a dunk on transition by Brian Butler kept Koblenz ahead 37-23. Koblenz upped their physicality again and allowed little entries in the paint. Plus the overall experience was also a factor as the roster of Vechta was half filled with NBBL (U-19) players and at times looked totally mismatched in the skills department. Koblenz fell asleep at the end allowing two easy Bedime baskets as the 1-1 defense was beat without much resistance. 'We had a lot of ups and downs. We were too unconcentrated. Vechta did a good job upping their defensive intensity and physicality giving problems', expressed Thomas Klein.

In the third quarter the EPG Baskets Koblenz continued to keep up the pressure at both ends and led by as much as 20 points and 58-44 after 30 minutes. The EPG Baskets Koblenz came out of the locker room pumped and raced out on a 10-2 run to extend their lead to 50-30. In the run, Koblenz got easy baskets in the zone as Poelking scored twice and Johnson threw down a hard dunk. Alani Moore always showing total calmness hit a trey and also made a pretty touch ball off a loose ball ala Larry Bird that found Poelking for the easy basket. 'Alani Moore is my MVP of the Pro B. He does it all. He is such a good player', raved Thomas Klein. The guests then found some energy going on a 8-1 run to trail only 51-38. In the run the gang of head coach Hendrik Gruhn got 2 three's from 2022 NBBL champion Kaya Byram and Okpara and a hard one handed dunk by Johan Grunloh on transition. Poelking and 2023 NBBL finalist Noah Jannen traded buckets as Koblenz still led 55-41. The guests got a few more extra chances as the EPG Baskets Koblenz had problems on the defensive rebound. Rasta Vechta lost a bit of energy as fatigue was setting in disallowing them to get over the hump and get the score under double figures. 100 point man JJ Culver and ex Breitengussbach center Leo Saffer traded baskets to close out the third quarter. 'We played strong defense. We knew they were young and had to be physical. We gave them no chance inside as we didn't want anybody to get hot so we relied on contested three's', stated Brian Butler. 'We tried comeback, but were getting tired. They are really talented and it was hard to stop them 1-1. We tried different things on defense, but couldn't stop them', said JJ Culver.

The EPG Baskets Koblenz had no more serious let downs winning the fourth quarter easily and coasting to the Pro B title. The EPG Baskets Koblenz began well getting baskets from German Moritz Huebner and another trey by Alani Moore for the 63-45 advantage. After an offensive rebound and put back, it was Brian Butler who made a turn around shot and brutal throw down dunk for the 67-47 lead. 'That dunk is near the top in my career. That was a nice was way to close out my time with Koblenz. I will be back, but now it's time for more focus on my family', added Brian Butler. Grunloh then added a tip in dunk that looked so easy. 'This kid has incredible athleticism. He is so versatile and flexible something very rare for his age. He is so aggressive at both ends of the court. He is a great player. I love to watch him', stated Thomas Klein. Grunloh finished with 9/7 stats and is appreciated by all. 'He is an amazing player. He is a great shot blocker. He will make up for your mistake with his defense and presence in the zone. It was a pleasure playing with him', said JJ Culver. With a few minutes left, it was apparent that Rasta Vechta wouldn't get over the hump on this night. It was time to get some special love for his team by the creator. 'My biggest joy this season was how the team always stuck together no matter what especially through the immense pressure. I also liked how the top players accepted their roles and it was all about team and not self', warned Thomas Klein. Down the stretch the guests got baskets from Jannen and German Killian Brockhoff while the Pro B champion closed out the win with a transition three pointer by Yasin Turan and lay in by Leo Saffer. 'We shut the door on them well. We enjoyed the atmosphere. It was the first title for many guys', stressed Brian Butler. 'We gave our best until the end. They stayed mentally strong and always applied pressure on us. They were prepared very well and always had an answer', stressed JJ Culver. The EPG Baskets Koblenz were led by Alani Moore with 20 points. Moses Poelking added 16 points and Dominque Johnson 13 points while Rasta Vechta 2 were led by Leon Okpara with 15 points. The EPG Baskets Koblenz shot 53% from the field and 42% form outside and had 38 rebounds and 13 turnovers while Rasta Vechta 2 shot 36% from the field and 28% form outside and had 30 rebounds and 13 turnovers.

Zipser may be back at Heidelberg - by Eurobasket News

MLP Academics Heidelberg (BBL) is close to sign 29-year old ex-international small forward Paul Zipser (203cm-94kg-1994) for upcoming 2023-24 season who played last time at FC Bayern Muenchen. It is actually his comeback to MLP Academics Heidelberg as he has played here before. He has played there for the last four years. The team played in three different competitions (!!!) that year, and he had a chance to explore basketball on different levels. In 26 BBL games he recorded 4.0ppg and 1.7rpg last season. Zipser helped them to win the cup. He also played 20 games in Euroleague where he averaged just 2.8ppg and 1.1rpg.
In 2016 he was drafted by Chicago Bulls (NBA) in second round (48th overall).
Zipser was also a member of German international program for some years. He played for German Senior National Team between 2012 and 2019 and previously for U20 National Team in 2013.
Zipser represented Germany at the Qualifications to European Championships (FIBA EuroBasket) 2017 seven years ago.
He has played previously professionally in Spain (Burgos) and NBA G League (Windy City Bulls). Zipser was voted to Eurobasket.com German Bundesliga All-Domestic Players Team in 2016 and 2021.

(via @DDPronos)

BBL Round 3 of Semi-Finals. Ulm and Bonn to clash for title - by Eurobasket News

Ulm - Bayern 104-102

32 personal fouls committed by Bayern Muenchen helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. The best player for the winners was Brazilian Bruno Caboclo (206-1995) who scored 22 points and 8 rebounds (went 10 for 10 at the free throw line !!!). Spanish point guard Juan Nunez (192-2004) chipped in 11 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists. At the other side the best for losing team was international Andreas Obst (191-1996) who recorded 19 points and 5 assists and American point guard Cassius Winston (185-1997, college: Michigan St.) added 22 points (went 14 for 14 at the free throw line !!!) respectively. Five ratiopharm Ulm and four Bayern Muenchen players scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game.
Top scorers:
Bayern: C.Winston 22+1reb+1ast, A.Obst 19+3reb+5ast, O.Jaramaz 12+4reb+3ast, N.Weiler-Babb 10+8reb+2ast, I.Bonga 9+1reb+1ast, N.Giffey 8+2reb+1ast
Ulm: B.Caboclo 22+8reb+3ast, Y.Matheus 15+1reb+6ast, J.Hawley 13+6reb+2ast, K.Jallow 12+5reb+1ast, T.Klepeisz 12+2reb, N.Juan 11+9reb+4ast

Ludwigsburg - Bonn 73-82

Telekom Baskets outrebounded EnBW Ludwigsburg 44-27 including a 31-17 advantage in defensive rebounds. They brought some defensive toughness making 8 blocks. EnBW Ludwigsburg was plagued by 24 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a good game for American-North Macedonian point guard TJ Shorts (175-1997, college: UC Davis) who led his team to a victory with 20 points and 4 assists. International center Leon Kratzer (211-1997) contributed with 11 points, 9 rebounds and 4 blocks for the winners. Shorts is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. Four Telekom Baskets players scored in double figures. American point guard Will Cherry (185-1991, college: Montana) answered with 17 points and 5 rebounds and the other American import guard Prentiss Hubb (190-1999, college: Notre Dame, agency: Green Sports Management) added 18 points in the effort for EnBW Ludwigsburg. EnBW Ludwigsburg's coach rotated eleven players in this game, but that didn't help.
Top scorers:
Ludwigsburg: P.Hubb 18+2reb+3ast, W.Cherry 17+5reb+1ast, S.Miller 9+8reb+2ast, S.Waardenburg 8+4reb, J.Dunn 8+2ast, P.Jacob 6
Bonn: T.Shorts 20+3reb+4ast, J.Hawkins 12+6reb, L.Kratzer 11+9reb, J.Morgan 10+5reb+2ast, T.Ward 9+9reb+1ast, D.Williams 7+2reb+2ast

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GREECE

Stats Leaders - A1

Stats Leaders

PPG

RPG

APG

SPG

BPG

Loukas MAVROKEFALIDIS

Ioni.
(209-C-1984)
Avg: 21.1

21.1

17.6

16.2

15.7

15.3

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

GUATEMALA

Liga Nacional Round 4: Huehuetenango lose to PSM - by Eurobasket News

Here is the last round review presented by Job Market.

The most important game of round 4 took place in between two undefeated teams where PSM crushed Huehuetenango (2-1) 75-48 on Saturday night. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Huehuetenango. It was a key game for the top position in the league. PSM have a solid three-game winning streak. They keep a position of league leader, which they share with Antigua FC and Solola. Huehuetenango at the other side dropped to the third place with one game lost. They share the position with 3 other teams. They were replaced at the leadership position by PSM. Huehuetenango will play next round against Suchitepequez trying to make it back to the top of the standings. PSM will try to continue on its current victory against sixth ranked Salcaja on the road.
Salcaja (2-1) recorded its first loss on the court of fifth ranked San Lucas. Visitors were defeated by San Lucas 60-54. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Salcaja. San Lucas moved-up to third place, which they share with 3 other teams including defeated Salcaja. San Lucas will play against league's second-placed Solola in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Salcaja will play against the league's leader PSM and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Very important is a road loss of third ranked Izabal (3-2) against top-ranked Antigua FC (3-0) on Saturday night. Visiting Izabal was defeated by Antigua FC in 75-65. Antigua FC have a solid three-game winning streak. They keep a position of league leader, which they share with Solola and PSM. Loser Izabal dropped to the fourth place with two games lost. Antigua FC will meet San Jose (#9) in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Izabal will play against Tecpan (#7) and hope to secure a win.

There were no shocking results in the other games in round 4: Chimaltenango outscored San Jose in a home game 91-37. St. Lucia rolled over Jalapa on the road 93-51. Quiche defeated Momostenango on its own court 75-74. Winless Quetzaltenango was smashed by Suchitepequez in a road game 84-63. Winless Panajachel lost to defending champion Solola at home 23-112.

Group A

Tecpan - Amatitlan P. 20-0

Chimaltenango - San Jose 91-37

Very predictable result when top-ranked Chimaltenango (5-0) smashed at home bottom-ranked San Jose (0-5) 91-37 on Saturday. Chimaltenango have an impressive five-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 5-0 record. Loser San Jose still closes the standings with five games lost. Chimaltenango will meet league's second-placed St. Lucia in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. San Jose will play against Antigua FC (#3) and hopes to get finally their first victory.

Jalapa - St. Lucia 51-93

Not a big story in a game when 6th ranked Jalapa (1-4) was rolled over at home by top-ranked St. Lucia (4-0) 93-51 on Saturday. St. Lucia have a solid four-game winning streak. They maintain second position with 4-0 record behind leader PSM. Loser Jalapa dropped to the eighth place with four games lost. St. Lucia will meet at home league's leader Chimaltenango in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Jalapa will play against Jutiapa (#6) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

Antigua FC - Izabal 75-65

Very important is a road loss of third ranked Izabal (3-2) against top-ranked Antigua FC (3-0) on Saturday night. Visiting Izabal was defeated by Antigua FC in 75-65. Antigua FC have a solid three-game winning streak. They keep a position of league leader, which they share with Solola and PSM. Loser Izabal dropped to the fourth place with two games lost. Antigua FC will meet San Jose (#9) in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Izabal will play against Tecpan (#7) and hope to secure a win.

Group B

Quiche - Momostenango 75-74

Everything could happen at the game between two tied teams. Both tenth ranked Quiche and bottom-ranked Momostenango had identical 0-2 record. This time Quiche used a home court advantage and edged the opponent from 75-74 on Saturday night. Quiche (1-2) left bottom position moving up to seventh place. It was Momostenango's third loss in a row. They still close the standings with three games lost. They share the position with Quetzaltenango and Panajachel. Quiche will meet at home Panajachel (#9) in the next round. Momostenango will play against Quetzaltenango and hopes to get finally their first victory.

San Lucas - Salcaja 60-54

Undefeated Salcaja (2-1) recorded its first loss on the court of fifth ranked San Lucas. Visitors were defeated by San Lucas 60-54. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Salcaja. San Lucas moved-up to third place, which they share with 3 other teams including defeated Salcaja. San Lucas will play against league's second-placed Solola in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Salcaja will play against the league's leader PSM and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

Suchitepequez - Quetzaltenango 84-63

There was no surprise when bottom-ranked Quetzaltenango (0-3) was outplayed on the road by sixth ranked Suchitepequez (2-1) 84-63 on Saturday. Suchitepequez moved-up to third place, which they share with 3 other teams. Loser Quetzaltenango still closes the standings with three games lost. They share the position with Panajachel and Momostenango. Suchitepequez will meet Huehuetenango (#3) in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Quetzaltenango will play against Momostenango (#8) and hopes to get finally their first victory.

PSM - Huehuetenango 75-48

There was a change at the Liga Nacional leadership position after last games. The most important game of round 4 took place in between two undefeated teams where PSM crushed Huehuetenango (2-1) 75-48 on Saturday night. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Huehuetenango. It was a key game for the top position in the league. PSM have a solid three-game winning streak. They keep a position of league leader, which they share with Antigua FC and Solola. Huehuetenango at the other side dropped to the third place with one game lost. They share the position with 3 other teams. They were replaced at the leadership position by PSM. Huehuetenango will play next round against Suchitepequez trying to make it back to the top of the standings. PSM will try to continue on its current victory against sixth ranked Salcaja on the road.

Panajachel - Solola 23-112

No shocking result in a game when top-ranked Solola (3-0) outleveled on the road bottom-ranked Panajachel (0-3) 112-23 on Saturday. Solola have a solid three-game winning streak. Defending champion keeps a position of league leader, which they share with Antigua FC and PSM. Loser Panajachel still closes the standings with three games lost. They share the position with Quetzaltenango and Momostenango. Solola will meet at home San Lucas (#4) in the next round. Panajachel will play against Quiche (#7) and hopes to get finally their first victory.

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

INDONESIA

Stats Leaders

Stats Leaders

PPG

RPG

APG

SPG

BPG

Brandone FRANCIS

Prawira
(194-SF-1994)
Avg: 25.9

25.9

25.7

21.0

20.7

19.9

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

ISRAEL

Loto League Stats Leaders

Stats Leaders

PPG

RPG

APG

SPG

BPG

Tyler BEY

I.Ness Ziona
(201-F-1998)
Avg: 20.3

20.3

19.4

17.7

17.4

16.8

Winner League Round 2 of Semi-Finals. Maccabi Tel-Aviv and Hapoel Tel-Aviv enter Finals - by Eurobasket News

H.Holon - M.Tel-Aviv 85-112

Maccabi Tel-Aviv shot 63.1 percent from the field. They shot the lights out from three sinking 18 long-distance shots on high 52.9 percentage. Maccabi Tel-Aviv looked well-organized offensively handing out 34 assists comparing to just 20 passes made by Hapoel Holon's players. American Bonzie Colson Jr (198-1996, college: Notre Dame, agency: Octagon Europe) orchestrated the victory by scoring 23 points. The other American import point guard Wade Baldwin IV (193-1996, college: Vanderbilt) contributed with a double-double by scoring 10 points and 10 assists for the winners. Maccabi Tel-Aviv's coach Oded Kattash felt very confident that he used entire bench which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. American-Liberian point guard Joe Ragland (182-1989, college: Wichita St.) replied with 16 points and 9 assists and American Chris Johnson (198-1990, college: Dayton) added 17 points in the effort for Hapoel Holon. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
M.Tel-Aviv: B.Colson Jr. 23+4reb+1ast, L.Brown 13+2reb+8ast, Y.Ziv 12+1ast, J.Cohen 11+4reb+4ast, J.DiBartolomeo 11+3reb+1ast, W.Baldwin IV 10+4reb+10ast
H.Holon: C.Johnson 17+4reb, J.Ragland 16+4reb+9ast, S.Dawson 12+3reb+4ast, H.Dalton 12+8reb, N.Misgav 11+1reb+2ast, N.Artzi 8+3reb+2ast

H.Tel-Aviv - H.Jerusalem 77-68

Hapoel Tel-Aviv made 20-of-24 charity shots (83.3 percent) during the game. American guard JCovan Brown (188-1990, college: Texas) scored 29 points to lead the charge for the winners and American-Nigerian center Chinanu Onuaku (207-1996, college: Louisville) chipped in 6 points, 12 rebounds and 5 assists during the contest. Hapoel Tel-Aviv's coach Danny Franco allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. The former international forward Oz Blayzer (199-1992) responded with a double-double by scoring 22 points and 10 rebounds and American center Zachary Hankins (211-1996, college: Xavier) scored 12 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists. Four Hapoel Jerusalem players scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
H.Tel-Aviv: J.Brown 29+2ast, J.Hoard 13+3reb, J.McRae 12+4reb+1ast, X.Munford 8+2reb+3ast, T.Ginat 6+5reb, C.Onuaku 6+12reb+5ast
H.Jerusalem: O.Blayzer 22+10reb, Z.Hankins 12+8reb+4ast, K.Smith 12+2reb+4ast, L.Randolph 11+4reb+3ast, K.Carrington 6+4reb, B.Brown 5+1reb+4ast

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

ITALY

Stats Leaders - Lega2

Stats Leaders

PPG

RPG

APG

SPG

BPG

Russ SMITH

Nardo
(183-PG-1991)
Avg: 24.3

24.3

20.5

19.3

18.4

18.3

stats leader

Stats Leaders

PPG

RPG

APG

SPG

BPG

Marco LAGANA

Mont.
(197-SG-1993)
Avg: 23.5

23.5

19.1

19.0

18.0

17.8

Overview of Serie B Round 3 of Finals - by Eurobasket News

Vigevano - Livorno Libertas 86-70

Vigevano looked well-organized offensively handing out 26 assists. It was a good game for forward Lorenzo DAlessandro (198-1996, agency: SLN) who led his team to a victory with 17 points and 8 rebounds (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field). Swingman Stefano Laudoni (197-1989) contributed with 16 points and 6 assists for the winners. Swingman Jacopo Lucarelli (197-1996, agency: Players Group) answered with 17 points and 7 rebounds and the former international power forward Tommaso Fantoni (206-1985, agency: Players Group) added 11 points and 6 rebounds in the effort for Livorno Libertas. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games.
Top scorers:
Vigevano: L.D'Alessandro 17+8reb+1ast, S.Laudoni 16+4reb+6ast, F.Rossi 15+5reb+4ast, J.Mercante 11+6reb+5ast, M.Peroni 10+1ast, G.Broglia 7+6reb+3ast
Livorno Libertas: J.Lucarelli 17+7reb, A.Ricci 15+1reb+1ast, T.Fantoni 11+6reb+2ast, A.Bargnesi 10+4ast, M.Gianni 6+1reb, F.Fratto 4+3reb+3ast

Mestre - Orzinuovi 73-71

Mestre forced 22 Orzinuovi turnovers. Strangely Orzinuovi outrebounded Mestre 40-17 including a 27-12 advantage in defensive rebounds. Orzinuovi was plagued by 27 personal fouls down the stretch. It was a great evening for swingman Alberto Conti (195-1998) who led his team to a victory scoring 25 points and 6 rebounds. Point guard Nicolo Pellicano (182-2002) helped adding 12 points and 4 assists. The best for the losing side was guard Ennio Leonzio (191-1994) with 21 points and guard Giovanni Gasparin (190-1991, agency: Interperformances) scored 11 points and 8 rebounds.
Top scorers:
Mestre: A.Conti 25+6reb+1ast, N.Pellicano 12+1reb+4ast, P.Bocconcelli 10+1reb, A.Mazzucchelli 9+3reb+3ast, T.Rossi 4, M.Bortolin 4+6reb+1ast
Orzinuovi: E.Leonzio 21+4reb+3ast, G.Gasparin 11+8reb+2ast, E.Trapani 9+3reb, R.Ponziani 9+7reb, A.Procacci 8+1reb+1ast, M.Planezio 8+7reb+3ast

Faenza - Rieti Real 66-76

Rieti Real made 24-of-30 free shots (80.0 percent) during the game. It was an exceptional evening for guard Simone Tomasini (198-1993) who led the winners and scored 26 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists. Alessandro Ceparano (198-2001) accounted for 13 points and 7 rebounds for the winning side. Forward Simone Aromando (200-1997, agency: SLN) came up with 19 points and 6 rebounds and Giacomo Siberna (192-1996) added 12 points and 9 rebounds respectively for Faenza in the defeat. Both coaches tested many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest.
Top scorers:
Rieti Real: S.Tomasini 26+9reb+4ast, P.Lorenzo 14+2reb+3ast, C.Alessandro 13+7reb+1ast, R.Chinellato 9+2reb+1ast, F.Bushati 6+2reb+1ast, N.Mastrangelo 4+7reb
Faenza: S.Aromando 19+6reb, G.Siberna 12+9reb+2ast, S.Vico 9+2reb+5ast, G.Poggi 7+9reb+3ast, L.Molinaro 5+1reb, M.Petrucci 4+7reb+3ast

Fabriano - RO Luiss 77-72

Fabriano had a 29-18 advantage in offensive rebounds. It was an exceptional evening for Francesco Papa (198-1995, agency: Players Group) who led the winners with a double-double by scoring 16 points and 15 rebounds. Naturalized Argentinian point guard Nicolas Stanic (180-1984) accounted for 23 points and 6 assists for the winning side. Four Fabriano players scored in double figures. Point guard Marco Pasqualin (178-1997) came up with 9 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists and point guard Domenico DArgenzio (174-2001) added 15 points respectively for RO Luiss in the defeat. RO Luiss' coach Andrea Paccarie rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help.
Top scorers:
Fabriano: N.Stanic 23+1reb+6ast, S.Centanni 18+8reb+2ast, F.Papa 16+15reb+3ast, G.Gianmarco 10+3reb+1ast, G.Alessandro 5+2reb, Y.Fall 3+7reb
RO Luiss: D.Domenico 15+2reb+3ast, M.Legnini 13+4reb, M.Jovovic 9+6reb, M.Pasqualin 9+7reb+4ast, M.Fallucca 8+7reb+1ast, G.Allodi 8+8reb

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

JUCO

Josh Smith will continue his college career at North Carolina Central University - by Eurobasket News

North Carolina Central University inked 6-4 guard Josh Smith for upcoming season. Smith originally came from Chicago (IL), and he is moving here from Independence Community College (NJCAA) where he played only for one year. In 30 games he averaged 13.9ppg, 2.7rpg and 1.1apg.

North Carolina Central University roster for 2023-24:

Guards:
Brock Williams
Josh Smith

Forwards:
Perry Smith
Po'Boigh King

Center:
Emmanuel Izunabor

(via @VerbalCommits)

Gossett takes over at Northern Oklahoma Tonkawa - by Eurobasket News

Northern Oklahoma College Tonkawa has selected Brandon Gossett to lead the Maverick basketball program. Gossett comes to NOC after serving as an assistant coach for the Kansas City Kansas Community College Blue Devils the past two seasons. 'It's an honor to be named the Head Men's Basketball Coach at Northern Oklahoma Tonkawa,' Gossett said. 'I want to thank Alan Foster and everyone who was in on the decision for this opportunity. I am excited to lead these young men on and off the floor, and continue to grow the program. After meeting with everyone and seeing all the community had to offer, the decision was a no brainer, as Tonkawa felt like home. I am looking forward to this new challenge and becoming a part of the Mavericks family!' 'After an extensive search, we are please that we were able to select coach Gossett to lead our basketball program,' said NOC Athletic Director Alan Foster. 'I believe he is ready to continue the great tradition that has been the hallmark of Maverick success on the court.' Gossett has seven years of experience at the college level. In two seasons at KCK, the Blue Devils were 40-23 while in his first season at KCK, Gossett helped the team to a 21-10 record, coaching four all Jayhawk Conference honorees. This was the first time the Blue Devils have reached 20 wins in seven years. Before coming to Kansas City, Gossett was an assistant at Emporia State University apart of the MIAA, where he helped the Hornets to an 11-12 record overall, in a shortened season due to COVID. The Hornets increased their conference wins from four in 2019 to eleven in 2020, in Gossett one season as an assistant. During his stint at North Central Missouri College in Trenton, Mo. As the lead assistant at NCMC, Gossett helped lead the Pirates to an NJCAA Division II national tournament berth in 2019-20. Along the way NCMC won the NJCAA Region XVI and District XII championships while being ranked #1 in the country for seven weeks. The Pirates set a school record going 27-3, before the NJCAA tournament was shut down due to COVID. Prior to his time at NCMC, the Aurora, Ill. Native spent one season as an assistant at Peru State College in Nebraska. He helped the Bobcats to a 23-11 record and a trip to the NAIA Division I Men's Basketball National Tournament at Municipal Auditorium in Kansas City. Gossett got his start in coaching at Rock Valley College in Rockford, Ill. During his two seasons at RVC, the Golden Eagles went 50-15 while being ranked in every NJCAA Division III national poll. Gossett was a part of the men's basketball team as a student-athlete at both Lakeland University (WI) and Eureka College (ILL), Gossett graduated with a Bachelor's of Science in Criminal Justice in 2016. Gossett also is a Graduate of Chadron State where he earned his Master's in Organizational Management. Gossett is a native of Aurora, Illinois where he attended West Aurora High School playing for Illinois Hall of Fame coach Gordie Kirkman. He replaces Patrick Nee who accepted the men's position at Allen County Community College in Iola, Kansas.
Courtesy of: nocmavs.com

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

LEBANON

Asia-Basket.com All-Lebanese League Awards 2023 - by Ahmad Madwar

Finals MVP: South Sudan

Duop Reath (210-C-1996) of Al Riyadi
Player of the Year: USA

Cliff Alexander (203-C/F-1995) of Al Nasr
Guard of the Year: USA

Zach Lofton (193-G-1992) of Dynamo
Swingman of the Year: Lebanon

Sergio El Darwich (193-G-1996) of Sagesse
Center of the Year: USA

Cliff Alexander (203-C/F-1995) of Al Nasr
Import Player of the Year: USA

Cliff Alexander (203-C/F-1995) of Al Nasr
Domestic Player of the Year: Lebanon

Wael Arakji (194-G-1994) of Al Riyadi
Sixth Man of the Year: Lebanon

Amir Saoud (186-G-1991) of Al Riyadi
Newcomer of the Year: USA

Jordan Jackson (190-G-1997) of Beirut Club
Most Improved Player of the Year: Lebanon

Jimmy Salem (190-G-1995) of Champville
Defensive Player of the Year: Lebanon

Karim Zeinoun (188-G-1999) of Al Riyadi
Coach of the Year: Jad El Hajj of Dynamo

Asia-Basket.com All-Lebanese League First Team 2023

Lofton

Arakji

El Darwich

Alexander

Reath

First Team
USA

Zach Lofton (193-G-1992) of Dynamo
Lebanon

Wael Arakji (194-G-1994) of Al Riyadi
Lebanon

Sergio El Darwich (193-G-1996) of Sagesse
USA

Cliff Alexander (203-C/F-1995) of Al Nasr
South Sudan

Duop Reath (210-C-1996) of Al Riyadi

Asia-Basket.com All-Lebanese League Second Team 2023

Mezher

Saoud

Murphy

Roach II

Haidar

Second Team
Lebanon

Ali Mezher (182-PG-1994) of Sagesse
Lebanon

Amir Saoud (186-G-1991) of Al Riyadi
USA

Kevin Murphy (197-G-1990) of Al Riyadi
USA

Kerwin Roach II (192-PF-1996) of Al Nasr
Lebanon

Mohamad Haidar (203-F/C-1990) of Al Karameh

Asia-Basket.com All-Lebanese League Honorable Mention 2023

Zeinoun

Gyokchyan

Tabbara

Khalil

Ezzeddine

Honorable Mention
Lebanon

Karim Zeinoun (188-G-1999) of Al Riyadi
Lebanon

Hayk Gyokchyan (203-F-1990) of Al Riyadi
Lebanon

Bilal Tabbara (198-PF-1993) of Al Riyadi
Egypt

Ismail Moneim (205-C-1976) of Al Riyadi
Lebanon

Jad Khalil (186-PG-1996) of Dynamo
France

Karim Ezzeddine (206-F/C-1997) of Dynamo
Lebanon

Mark Alkhoury (196-F/G-1998) of Dynamo
Senegal

Ibrahima Thomas (213-F-1987) of US Monastir
Lebanon

Omar Jamaleddine (193-G-2000) of Beirut Club
USA

Kenny Hayes (189-G-1987) of Beirut Club
USA

Jesse Jones (183-PG) of Homentmen
Lebanon

Youssef Ghantous (191-G-1996) of Liders
Lebanon

Christophe Khalil (192-G/F-1999) of Liders
Lebanon

Jimmy Salem (190-G-1995) of Champville
USA

Myles Carter (185-G-1999) of Atlas
USA

Dallas Morgan (185-G) of NSA
Lebanon

Ibrahim Haddad (1998) of Byblos
USA

Jordan Jackson (190-G-1997) of Beirut Club

Asia-Basket.com Lebanese League All-Domestic Players Team 2023

Arakji

Saoud

El Darwich

Ezzeddine

Haidar

All-Domestic Players Team
Lebanon

Wael Arakji (194-G-1994) of Al Riyadi
Lebanon

Amir Saoud (186-G-1991) of Al Riyadi
Lebanon

Sergio El Darwich (193-G-1996) of Sagesse
France

Karim Ezzeddine (206-F/C-1997) of Dynamo
Lebanon

Mohamad Haidar (203-F/C-1990) of Al Karameh

Asia-Basket.com Lebanese League All-Imports Team 2023

Lofton

Murphy

Roach II

Alexander

Reath

All-Imports Team
USA

Zach Lofton (193-G-1992) of Dynamo
USA

Kevin Murphy (197-G-1990) of Al Riyadi
USA

Kerwin Roach II (192-PF-1996) of Al Nasr
USA

Cliff Alexander (203-C/F-1995) of Al Nasr
South Sudan

Duop Reath (210-C-1996) of Al Riyadi

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

LITHUANIA

Stats Leaders - LKL

Stats Leaders

PPG

RPG

APG

SPG

BPG

Ahmad CAVER

Wolves
(188-G-1996)
Avg: 17.1

17.1

16.7

16.6

15.9

15.4

LKL Round 2 of Finals. Rytas bounce back with confident home win - by Eurobasket News

FINAL

Rytas - Zalgiris 94-71

Rytas looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. 24 personal fouls committed by Zalgiris helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American guard Marcus Foster (191-1995, college: Creighton) orchestrated the victory by scoring 22 points. Colombian center Jaime Echenique (211-1997, college: Wichita St.) contributed with 18 points for the winners. American point guard Isaiah Taylor (190-1994, college: Texas) replied with 20 points and his fellow American import power forward Tyler Cavanaugh (206-1994, college: GWU) added 11 points and 6 rebounds in the effort for Zalgiris. Four Zalgiris players scored in double figures. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games.
Top scorers:
Zalgiris: I.Taylor 20+4reb+3ast, T.Dimsa 12+2reb+1ast, T.Cavanaugh 11+6reb+1ast, L.Lekavicius 10+3reb+1ast, K.Hayes 6+2reb, L.Birutis 4+3reb+1ast
Rytas: M.Foster 22+4reb+1ast, J.Echenique 18+3reb+1ast, E.Kairys 11+1reb+1ast, G.Radzevicius 10+6reb+3ast, J.Gorham 8+5reb+1ast, L.Uleckas 6+2reb+2ast

3-4 Place

Jonava - Lietkabelis 87-88

Lietkabelis made 20-of-25 charity shots (80.0 percent) during the game. Jonava was plagued by 25 personal fouls down the stretch. American guard Jamel Morris (193-1992, college: Fairmont St.) scored 17 points to lead the charge for the winners and forward Gediminas Orelik (199-1990) chipped in 11 points and 7 rebounds during the contest. American point guard Glynn Watson Jr (185-1997, college: Nebraska) responded with 29 points and 4 assists (on 10-of-12 shooting from the field) and Serbian center Goran Huskic (210-1992, college: Howard Col., TX) scored 11 points and 8 assists. Four Jonava players scored in double figures.
Top scorers:
Jonava: G.Watson Jr. 29+3reb+4ast, J.Garrett 16+2reb+2ast, G.Huskic 11+4reb+8ast, D.Bickauskis 10+2reb+1ast, M.Laksa 8+3reb+2ast, A.Majauskas 7+3reb
Lietkabelis: J.Morris 17+2reb+3ast, K.Kullamaee 11+1ast, G.Orelik 11+7reb+3ast, R.Mantas 11+3reb+3ast, J.Randell 9+1reb+2ast, Z.Sakic 8+1reb

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LUXEMBOURG

Luxembourg clinch Gold in Malta - by Eurobasket News

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

MALTA

Luxembourg clinch Gold in Malta - by Eurobasket News

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MEXICO

CIBACOPA Stats Leaders

Stats Leaders

PPG

RPG

APG

SPG

BPG

Jordan STEVENS

Los M
(182-PG-1994)
Avg: 26.4

26.4

22.0

21.9

21.7

21.3

CIBACOPA Round 1 of Semi-Finals. Astros and Hermosillo record victories - by Eurobasket News

Astros - Culiacan 101-96

Astros looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Astros made 8 blocks. 30 personal fouls committed by Caballeros de Culiacan helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. American swingman Aaron Valdes (196-1993, college: Hawaii) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 33 points (!!!) and 10 rebounds for the winners and his fellow American import Lagerald Vick (196-1997, college: Kansas) chipped in 16 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. Five Astros players scored in double figures. At the losing side Colombian Michaell Jackson (190-1987) responded with 34 points (!!!) and 8 rebounds and American guard Teyvion Kirk (193-1999, college: UIC) scored 18 points and 7 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game.
Top scorers:
Astros: A.Valdes 33+10reb+2ast, S.Ponds 17+2reb+6ast, L.Vick 16+5reb+5ast, J.Loveridge 11+4reb+2ast, I.Whaley 11+11reb+1ast, J.Machado 6+6reb
Culiacan: M.Jackson 34+8reb+3ast, T.Kirk 18+7reb+2ast, J.Cumberland 15+7reb+1ast, J.Hughes III 9+9reb, M.Tarrance 8+8reb+4ast, D.Soto 4+1reb+1ast

Hermosillo - Tijuana 73-64

Americans were the main players on the court. Forward Aaron Wheeler (206-1998, college: St.John's) nailed a double-double by scoring 18 points and 18 rebounds for the winning side and guard Terrence Drisdom (196-1992, college: CPP) accounted for 20 points and 6 rebounds. Guard Spencer Williams (188-1995, college: Wooster) came up with 15 points and 5 assists and Anthony Young (200-1989, college: KWC) added 16 points respectively for Tijuana Zonkeys in the defeat.
Top scorers:
Hermosillo: T.Drisdom 20+6reb, J.Ivey 18+3reb+4ast, A.Wheeler 18+18reb+2ast, N.Eastern 8+2reb+1ast, J.Bird 4+3reb+1ast, J.Camacho 3+4reb
Tijuana: A.Young 16+4reb, S.Williams 15+3reb+5ast, A.Pruitt 13+5reb+1ast, J.Webster 8+7reb+4ast, E.Garibay 7+8reb, G.McCray 4+5reb

CIBACOPA Round 2 of Semi-Finals. Wins for Culiacan and Hermosillo - by Eurobasket News

Astros - Culiacan 91-98

Caballeros de Culiacan dominated down low during the game scoring 58 of its points in the paint compared to Astros' 38. Colombian Michaell Jackson (190-1987) scored 16 points and 6 rebounds to lead the charge for the winners and American guard Jarron Cumberland (196-1997, college: Cincinnati) chipped in 9 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists during the contest. American forward Jordan Loveridge (198-1993, college: Utah) responded with 20 points and 5 rebounds and his fellow American import Lagerald Vick (196-1997, college: Kansas) scored 19 points. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games.
Top scorers:
Culiacan: J.Hughes III 18+3reb+2ast, M.Jackson 16+6reb+3ast, M.Tarrance 15+1reb+2ast, D.Hunter 11+5reb, D.Soto 9+4reb, J.Cumberland 9+9reb+5ast
Astros: J.Loveridge 20+5reb+2ast, L.Vick 19+4reb+2ast, I.Whaley 18+7reb, S.Ponds 13+3reb+2ast, A.Valdes 8+1reb+6ast, J.Anderson 6+4reb+7ast

Hermosillo - Tijuana 76-68

Americans were the main players on the court. Guard Terrence Drisdom (196-1992, college: CPP) notched 25 points and 6 rebounds to lead the effort and forward Aaron Wheeler (206-1998, college: St.John's) supported him with 16 points and 11 rebounds. Even a double-double of 20 points and 13 rebounds by Akia Pruitt (203-1997, college: UNCP) did not help to save the game for Tijuana Zonkeys. Guard Joshua Webster (190-1997, college: Missouri St.) added 16 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists for the guests.
Top scorers:
Hermosillo: T.Drisdom 25+6reb+1ast, J.Ivey 20+6reb, A.Wheeler 16+11reb+2ast, J.Bird 6+2reb, J.Camacho 4+2reb, N.Eastern 4+5reb+1ast
Tijuana: A.Pruitt 20+13reb+1ast, J.Webster 16+5reb+4ast, G.McCray 12+9reb+1ast, I.Alvarado 9+2reb+2ast, E.Garibay 6+8reb, S.Williams 5+3ast

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

NAIA

Ohio Christian names Miller as new Head Men's Basketball Coach - by Eurobasket News

Ohio Christian University has announced Ron Miller as their new head men's basketball coach. 'I am extremely blessed to be the next head basketball coach at Ohio Christian University,' Miller said. 'I believe we have the potential to do great things here and I am very excited to become part of the Trailblazer family.' 'We are pleased with the hiring of Ron Miller as he brings a breadth of knowledge and experience at the collegiate level,' athletic director George Arroyo Jr. said. 'Ron has hit the ground running with the recruitment of quality and talented athletes that will impact results on the court. His training sessions with the team have been intense, filled with discipline and work ethic as his goal is to make an immediate presence in the RSC. ' Miller comes to Ohio Christian from Malone University where he worked as an assistant coach from 2016-2022 and obtained a master's degree in Organizational Leadership. He helped take the Pioneers to a 2020-21 G-MAC Conference Championship as well as an NCAA Tournament appearance that same year. He got his undergraduate degree in Education from Division II Alderson Broaddus University where he was a varsity basketball player for four years. During that time the Battlers took home two regular-season championships as well as two conference championships. Miller served on the Alderson Broaddus coaching staff in the fall of 2016 before beginning his stint at Malone. Miller conducted his own summer skills camps while in college and also gained coaching experience working for Point Guard College. 'I would like to thank Mr. George Arroyo Jr. and Dr. Ron Smith for this opportunity,' Miller said. 'I would also like to thank Coach Casey Kaufman (Malone), Coach Greg Zimmerman (Alderson Broaddus), and Coach Chad Spurgeon (New Philadelphia) for all their mentorship in coaching. Lastly, I would like to thank my parents, Ron and Angela, for all their love and support.' 'During the interview process, it was clear that Ron is a competitor, and that extends beyond the basketball court,' Arroyo Jr. said. 'His mission to develop players as students, people of character and faith, and fundamentally sound athletes are what we expect from our coaching staff and those we hire. Ron's prior successes in leading men, along with his winning experiences as a player and high school/collegiate coach will serve the team well as he ushers in a new era of basketball at Ohio Christian University.' 'I believe the OCU basketball program is an excellent position for success. We have a great group of returning players that really value winning and team success. Additionally, we have great facilities here and great faculty members that will help us in the recruiting process. It will be extremely important for us to develop a culture of toughness and unselfishness for us to reach our team goals, but once that is established I believe we can have great success here at OCU.'
Courtesy of: ocutrailblazers.com

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NBA

Nets To Hire Kevin Ollie As Assistant Coach - by Eurobasket News

The Nets plan to hire Kevin Ollie as an assistant coach, reports Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN. Ollie was a finalist for the Pistons' head coaching vacancy, but the team ultimately convinced former Suns coach Monty Williams to take the job. Ollie was said to be a favorite of Detroit's general manager, Troy Weaver. A former NBA journeyman guard who played for 11 different teams in his 13 seasons, Ollie began his coaching career after retiring as a player in 2010. He was the head coach at UConn from 2012-18 and won a national title with the Huskies in 2014 but lost his job after the NCAA opened an investigation into UConn and its coaches for recruiting violations. More recently, Ollie was the head coach of the Overtime Elite program for two years, beginning in 2021. He issued a statement in March announcing that he was leaving that position. Nets head coach Jacque Vaughn decided to make some changes to his staff last month, letting go of three assistants. Vaughn was named interim head coach when Brooklyn fired Steve Nash after a 2-5 start, later receiving a multiyear deal while having the interim tag removed. Ollie will be one of his new additions.
Courtesy of: hoopsrumors.com

Sources: Pelicans hiring James Borrego as associate head coach - by Eurobasket News

The New Orleans Pelicans are hiring James Borrego as associate head coach, sources told ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski on Saturday afternoon. Borrego, who was the head coach for the Charlotte Hornets from 2018 to 2022, turned down several other opportunities to be a top assistant to take the job with the Pelicans, sources said. The Pelicans will also retain assistant coach Jarron Collins , who was head coach Willie Green 's top assistant the past two seasons, sources said. Collins was one of the final candidates for the head-coaching vacancy for the Detroit Pistons. New Orleans had an open position on the coaching staff after assistant Ryan Pannone left earlier this spring to take a spot on the Alabama men's basketball coaching staff. Borrego and Green, who just completed his second season as the Pelicans' head coach, have history together. Borrego spent two seasons as an assistant coach in New Orleans, from 2010 to 2012, when the team was still known as the Hornets. Green played for New Orleans in the 2010-11 season. Following his stint in New Orleans, Borrego went to Orlando, where he spent 2012 to 2015 as an assistant for the Magic. During the 2014-15 season, Borrego served as the interim head coach. That season was also Green's only year playing for Orlando and his final season as a player. The Pelicans are eager to incorporate Borrego's offensive philosophy into a lineup that will feature Zion Williamson, Brandon Ingram and CJ McCollum next season. While injuries played a major part, the Pelicans finished 20th in offensive rating last season and were second to last in 3-pointers attempted per game. During his final season in Charlotte, Borrego's Hornets were sixth in the league in 3s attempted, eighth in offensive rating and fifth in the league in pace. Borrego led the Hornets to a 43-39 record in 2021-22 and back-to-back trips to the play-in tournament but was let go in April 2022.
Courtesy of: espn.com

Terry Stotts To Join Bucks' Coaching Staff - by Eurobasket News

Former Trail Blazers head coach Terry Stotts is finalizing a contract to be part of Adrian Griffin 's new coaching staff with the Bucks, according to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski. A report on Friday indicated that Milwaukee was seeking an experienced assistant to pair with Griffin, who's a first-time head coach. Stotts and James Borrego were both mentioned as candidates, but Borrego has since agreed to join the Pelicans as associate head coach. Stotts, 65, has been out of the NBA since parting ways with the Trail Blazers in 2021 after running the team for nine seasons. He previously served as head coach of the Hawks and Bucks and has a career record of 402-318. The Celtics reportedly considered hiring Stotts as an assistant when Joe Mazzulla took over the team last September following Ime Udoka's suspension. The Mavericks were also rumored to have interest in adding him to Jason Kidd's staff.
Courtesy of: hoopsrumors.com

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NCAA1

Tyler Henry transfers to Louisiana Tech - by Eurobasket News

Louisiana Tech University strengthened their roster with addition of 6-4 guard Tyler Henry for season 2023-24. East Stroudsburg (PA) native played for the last three years at University of Southern Indiana. In 30 games he recorded 7.8ppg and 2.5rpg last season. Henry's team ended regular season as a second best place in GLVC East Division and he was also voted to GLVC All-Sportsmanship Team in 2022. His team won GLVC East Division Regular Season Championship in 2021.
He played also at Durham College in 2019-2020.
Henry graduated Putnam Science Prep Academy (Putnam, CT) in 2019.

Louisiana Tech University roster for 2023-24:

Guards:
Tahlik Chavez
Tyler Henry
Jordan Turner

Forwards:
Daniel Batcho
Devin Ree

(via @VerbalCommits)

Jalen Haynes commits to George Mason University - by Eurobasket News

George Mason University agreed terms with forward Jalen Haynes (6'8''-249lbs) for upcoming 2023-24 season. Fort Lauderdale (FL) native moved there from East Tennessee State University where he spent his sophmore year. In 32 games he had 14.6ppg, 6.4rpg and 1.5apg last season. Haynes was named to All-Southern Conference Third Team this year.
He played also at Virginia Tech University in 2021-2022. His team won ACC Tournament in 2022.
Haynes' high school career he had spent at Dillard in Fort Lauderdale, FL, which he graduated in 2021. Haynes played also for Nightrydas Elite (FL) in AAU.
The list of the past achievements is quite long as among others he helped his team make it to the FHSAA Florida Class 6A Finals and he was also voted to The Leger Florida 6A All-State First Team in 2020.

George Mason University roster for 2023-24:

Guards:
Darius Maddox
Woody Newton

Forward:
Jalen Haynes

Center:
Nicolas Pavrette

(via @VerbalCommits)

Ja'Sean Jackson will continue his college career at Lamar - by Eurobasket News

Lamar University inked 6-0 point guard Ja'Sean Jackson for upcoming season. San Antonio (TX) native played for the last two years at Abilene Christian University. In 30 games he averaged 3.4ppg, 1.5rpg and 1.6apg last season. Wildcats made it to the WAC Tournament Finals and CBI Championship Semifinals in 2022.
Jackson has played high school basketball at Karen Wagner in San Antonio, TX, which he graduated in 2021. He received San Antonio Express News Player of the Year and District Player of the Year award and he was also voted to All-State selection that year.
Among many awards his team ended regular season as a second best place in State in 2019. Wildcats won State Championship in 2020. Jackson was selected to All-Region selection in two consecutive years: 2020 and 2021. (via @VerbalCommits)

Josh Smith will continue his college career at North Carolina Central University - by Eurobasket News

(via @VerbalCommits)

Kadar Waller transfers to California State University Bakersfield - by Eurobasket News

California State University Bakersfield added to their roster point guard Kadar Waller (6'0''-169lbs) for new 2023-24 season. Bakersfield (CA) native played for the last two years at Mississippi Valley State University. In 30 games he recorded 6.7ppg, 1.8rpg and 1.6apg last season.
Waller played also at Collin County College in 2020-2021. He helped his team make it to the NJCAA D1 Southwest District Semifinals, NJCAA D1 Region V North Finals and NTJCAC Tournament Finals in 2021.
Waller graduated Mount Zion Prep School (Baltimore, MD) in 2020, which he joined from Liberty High.

California State University Bakersfield roster for 2023-24:

Guards:
Kadar Waller
Jaden Alexander
Corey Stephenson

Forward:
Cameron Wilbon

(via @VerbalCommits)

Darryon Prescott will continue his college career at Coppin State University - by Eurobasket News

Coppin State University landed 7-0 center Darryon Prescott for new season. Prescott comes from Florida International University where he played only for one year.
He has played high school basketball at Math Civics and Sciences Charter in Philadelphia, PA, which he graduated in 2022.
Prescott helped his team make it to the PIAA Pennesylvania Class 3A Semifinals in 2021. (via @VerbalCommits)

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NCAA2

Hanson named Assistant Basketball Coach at Minnesota Crookston - by Eurobasket News

The University of Minnesota Crookston men's basketball program announced the hiring of Joel Hanson as assistant men's basketball coach. Hanson comes to Minnesota Crookston after spending two years as a graduate assistant for the men's basketball program at Upper Iowa University. He joins the staff of Head Coach Bryan Beamish, who enters his second season leading the Golden Eagles. Hanson will join Beamish and Assistant Coach Tim Lubke, who is in his third season as an assistant coach for the Golden Eagles. 'I am very excited to add Joel to our coaching staff,' said Head Coach Bryan Beamish. 'He comes highly recommended, from a very good program that has had a lot of success in the NSIC. His experience at the NCAA Division II level will help our program tremendously. Joel will impact our program in a number of ways immediately and can't wait to get him up to campus and get started.' Hanson worked under Head Coach Brooks McKowen, helping the Peacocks to a combined 42-22 mark in two years. During the 2021-22 season, Hanson helped Upper Iowa to a 26-6 mark and a berth in the 2022 NCAA Division II Central Region Tournament, where they made it to the second round before falling to Augustana University. Hanson helped coach Joe Smoldt and Jake Hilmer to All-NSIC First Team nods in 2021-22, and Jareese Williams to an All-NSIC Second Team pick. Hilmer was again named to the first team in 2022-23, and was selected the NSIC South Player of the Year. Lucas Duax was selected to the All-NSIC Second Team, and was the NSIC Defender of the Year, while Nick Reid was named All-NSIC Second Team. Hanson assisted with player workouts, film sessions, and game day operations for the Peacocks. Prior to Upper Iowa, Hanson was a manager for the Iowa State University men's basketball team. He helped with player workouts, film sessions, and game day operations for the Big 12 program. He helped the Cyclones from 2018-21. The 2018-19 squad made the NCAA Division I Tournament led by Tyrese Haliburton, who is now with the Indiana Pacers and was a NBA All Star in 2023. In addition, the squad had Talen Horton-Tucker of the Utah Jazz, and Lindell Wigginton of the Milwaukee Bucks. He received his bachelor's degree in management and marketing from Iowa State University, and his master's degree in sports administration from Upper Iowa. He went to South Winneshiek High School in Calmar, Iowa.
Courtesy of: goldeneaglesports.com

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NEW ZEALAND

Stats Leaders

Stats Leaders

PPG

RPG

APG

SPG

BPG

Javion BLAKE

Jets
(191-G-1997)
Avg: 23.7

23.7

23.1

22.5

22.2

22.1

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NICARAGUA

Brumas de Jinotega win Torneo Carlos Ulloa 2023 - by Eurobasket News

Brumas de Jinotega have won Torneo Carlos Ulloa 2023 beating Jaguares 2-1 in the Final series. Brumas de Jinotega posted a decisive 76-70 win to seal the trophy. Juan Herrera (187-PF-1996) top-scored for the winners with 21 points, whilst Kevin Andino (190-PF) poured in 18. Rafael Mendoza (2001) followed them with 14 points in the winning effort. Daniel Cardoza (175-PG) and Kaleb Myers (G-2004) replied with 17 points each in a loss.

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PHILIPPINES

PBA Stats Leaders

Stats Leaders

PPG

RPG

APG

SPG

BPG

Shock troopers take charge as Hotshots fend off feisty Road Warriors - by Eurobasket News

AFTER Mark Barroca's take-charge action in Magnolia's down-to-the-wire win over Converge last time, it's the turn of the shock troopers to lead the way. With Ian Sangalang and Calvin Abueva still out, relief big men Jackson Corpuz (193-F-1989) and James Laput (208-C-1996, college: Young Harris) combined for 37 as the Hotshots streaked to their third straight win in the PBA on Tour at the expense of NLEX, 103-97, Saturday night at the Baliwag Star Arena in Baliwag, Bulacan. Defensive-minded Corpuz showcased his seldom-seen offensive skills in banging in a game-high 19 points spiked by a 3-of-4 three-point shooting. He dropped 12 of his tally in the third quarter as Magnolia seized control with a 30-14 exchange. Laput, Magnolia's 6-foot-10 "project," produced another double-double output of 18 markers and 13 rebounds en route to player of the game honors. Second stringers Jerrick Ahanmisi (185-G-1997) (15, all via three-pointers) and Jed Mendoza (eight) also shone in Win No. 3. Ahanmisi's fifth trey gave Magnolia a 91-78 cushion going to the last 6:48 while Mendoza's long bomb with 12 seconds left quashed NLEX's late uprising for good. "Si coach Chito (Victolero) is a really great players' coach. He sees that we're putting in the efforts day in and day out and he's giving us the chance," said Laput. Ben Adamos, NLEX's trade acquisition from Phoenix, hit the ground running his debut for the Road Warriors, firing 18 markers spiked by a 4-of-5 three-point shooting in the match presented by Arena Plus and sponsored by Bingo Plus. NLEX, however, failed to end its misery in the pre-season tilt and fell to 0-3. The Hotshots created an early 26-16 separation but the Road Warriors countered with three successive treys to make it a one-point contest after 12 minutes. Frankie Lim's charges continued the charge in the second, outscoring Magnolia 28-19, to wrest a 53-45 margin at the halftime break. A Corpuz-instigated third-quarter storm, however, enabled the Hotshots to regain command 75-67, never to relinquish it.
Courtesy of: pba.ph

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POLAND

DBE Stats Leaders

Stats Leaders

PPG

RPG

APG

SPG

BPG

Gerry BLAKES

MKS DG
(193-SG-1993)
Avg: 20.5

20.5

18.3

18.3

18.1

17.8

EBL Round 1 of Finals. King take 1-0 lead - by Eurobasket News

FINAL

Slask - King 78-89

Wilki Morskie looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. The game was dominated by American players. Forward Tony Meier (204-1990, college: Milwaukee) fired 24 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Point guard Alex Hamilton (193-1993, college: Louisiana Tech) chipped in 16 points and 5 assists. Four Wilki Morskie players scored in double figures. Guard Justin Bibbs (196-1996, college: Virginia Tech) produced 19 points and 4 assists and point guard Jeremiah Martin (189-1996, college: Memphis) added 16 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists respectively for lost side. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games.
Top scorers:
Slask: J.Bibbs 19+3reb+4ast, J.Martin 16+5reb+4ast, L.Kolenda 12+4reb+2ast, J.Niziol 9+3reb+1ast, A.Parakhouski 6+4reb, I.Ramljak 6+7reb+1ast
King: T.Meier 24+8reb+3ast, A.Hamilton 16+3reb+5ast, B.Brown 13+1reb+3ast, K.Borowski 10+6reb+1ast, A.Mazurczak 9+3reb+7ast, Z.Cuthbertson 9+8reb

3-4 Place

Legia - Stal 73-85

Stal players were unselfish on offense dishing 22 assists. Worth to mention a great performance of Latvian guard Aigars Skele (193-1992) who helped to win the game recording 20 points and 9 assists. The former international power forward Damian Kulig (205-1987) contributed with 18 points and 8 rebounds for the winners. Four Stal players scored in double figures. American swingman Travis Leslie (193-1990, college: Georgia) answered with 12 points and 5 rebounds and the former international guard Lukasz Koszarek (187-1984) added 16 points in the effort for Legia. Both coaches tested many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest.
Top scorers:
Legia: L.Koszarek 16+1reb+2ast, T.Leslie 12+5reb+2ast, G.Kulka 9+7reb+1ast, A.Holman 8+5reb+1ast, G.Kaminski 8+3reb+3ast, G.Groselle 8+10reb+1ast
Stal: A.Skele 20+4reb+9ast, D.Kulig 18+8reb+3ast, M.Michalak 12+8reb+3ast, N.Djurisic 12+7reb+2ast, A.Zalucki 7, O.Silins 7+6reb+2ast

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PUERTO RICO

Stats Leaders - BSN

Stats Leaders

PPG

RPG

APG

SPG

BPG

Brandon KNIGHT

Quebradillas
(190-G-1991)
Avg: 24.2

24.2

22.6

22.0

21.3

20.6

BSN Round 36: Capitanes lose to Osos - by Eurobasket News

The games at this stage are more interesting as they can be crucial for the final standings in Regular Season. Despite we already know who is stronger and who is weaker, there may be still last minute surprises and upsets. Here is the last round review presented by Job Market.

The most important game in the last round took place in Manati between third ranked Capitanes (17-14) and sixth ranked Osos (11-20) on Saturday night. Capitanes were defeated by Osos on the road 93-110. They made 27-of-32 free shots (84.4 percent) during the game. Osos shot the lights out from three sinking 13 long-distance shots on high 56.5 percentage. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. 25 personal fouls committed by Capitanes helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. It was a good game for American guard Sheldon Mac (196-1992, college: Miami, FL, agency: Slash Sports) who led his team to a victory with 31 points, 8 rebounds and 8 assists. The other American import forward Davon Jefferson (203-1986, college: USC) contributed with 21 points and 12 rebounds for the winners. The former international point guard Denis Clemente (183-1986, college: Kansas St.) replied with 26 points for Capitanes. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Osos maintains sixth position with 11-20 record. Capitanes at the other side dropped to the second place with 14 games lost. They share the position with Guaynabo. Osos are looking forward to face league's leader Piratas in Quebradillas in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Capitanes will have a break next round.
An interesting game for Piratas (20-10) which hosted in Quebradillas second-best Atleticos (18-11). First ranked Piratas managed to get a 8-point victory 81-73. Worth to mention a great performance of American center Hassan Whiteside (213-1989, college: Marshall) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 27 points, 12 rebounds and 5 blocks and Tyquan Rolon who added 13 points, 6 rebounds and 11 assists during the contest. The best for the losing side was American forward Rondae Hollis-Jefferson (201-1995, college: Arizona) with a double-double by scoring 21 points, 12 rebounds and 6 assists. Atleticos' coach rotated twelve players in this game, but that didn't help. Piratas maintains first position with 20-10 record. Atleticos at the other side keep the second place with 11 games lost. Piratas will play against Osos (#6) in Manati in the next round where they are favorite. Atleticos will play at home against the league's leader Vaqueros (#1) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
An interesting game for Vaqueros (20-11) which played road game in Guaynabo against second-best Mets (17-14). First ranked Vaqueros managed to get a 5-point victory 86-81. The winners were led by Angel Rodriguez who scored that evening 17 points, 9 assists and 6 steals. Even a double-double of 15 points, 24 rebounds and 7 assists by DeMarcus Cousins did not help to save the game for Mets. Vaqueros have a solid three-game winning streak. Defending champion maintains first position with 20-11 record. Loser Mets keep the second place with 14 games lost. They share the position with Arecibo. Vaqueros will meet league's second-placed Atleticos in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Mets will have a break next round.

In the last two games of round 36 Fajardo beat Humacao on the road 106-91. Ponce won against Mayaguez on its own court 94-88.

Humacao - Fajardo 91-106

We could consider it a predictable result in the game between close teams when sixth ranked Cariduros (13-19) beat 5th ranked Grises (12-19) in Humacao 106-91 on Friday. Cariduros shot the lights out from three sinking 17 long-distance shots on high 53.1 percentage. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 25 assists. The winners were led by American guard Archie Goodwin (196-1994, college: Kentucky) who scored that evening 17 points, 5 rebounds and 8 assists and the former international point guard Ivan Gandia-Rosa (185-1997, college: UNF, agency: Octagon Europe) supported him with 23 points and 4 assists. Even a double-double of 18 points, 12 rebounds and 4 assists by American swingman James Ennis (201-1990, college: LBSU) did not help to save the game for Grises. His fellow American import point guard Travis Trice II (183-1993, college: Michigan St.) added 25 points and 7 assists. Five Cariduros and four Grises players scored in double figures. Both coaches tested many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Cariduros have a solid three-game winning streak. They moved-up to fifth place. Loser Grises dropped to the sixth position with 19 games lost. Cariduros will meet at home league's second-placed Atleticos in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Grises will play against Gigantes (#4) in Carolina and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Humacao: T.Trice II 25+1reb+7ast, J.Ennis 18+12reb+4ast, A.Mitchell 18+1reb+1ast, J.Josiah 10+4reb, A.Kappos 8+3reb+2ast, G.Belardo 6+5reb+3ast
Fajardo: I.Gandia-Rosa 23+2reb+4ast, M.Camper 19+3reb+4ast, A.Goodwin 17+5reb+8ast, E.Griffin 15+1reb, P.Timajh 14+12reb+3ast, A.Abreu 10+4reb+2ast

Quebradillas - San German 81-73

An interesting game for Piratas (20-10) which hosted in Quebradillas second-best Atleticos (18-11). First ranked Piratas managed to get a 8-point victory 81-73. Piratas had a 33-22 advantage in offensive rebounds. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 22 assists. Worth to mention a great performance of American center Hassan Whiteside (213-1989, college: Marshall) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 27 points, 12 rebounds and 5 blocks and the former international guard Tyquan Rolon (192-1995, college: LeMoyne) who added 13 points, 6 rebounds and 11 assists during the contest. Four Piratas players scored in double figures. The best for the losing side was American forward Rondae Hollis-Jefferson (201-1995, college: Arizona) with a double-double by scoring 21 points, 12 rebounds and 6 assists and the former international center Jorge Bryan Diaz (210-1989, college: Nebraska) scored 12 points and 6 rebounds. Atleticos' coach rotated twelve players in this game, but that didn't help. Piratas maintains first position with 20-10 record. Atleticos at the other side keep the second place with 11 games lost. Piratas will play against Osos (#6) in Manati in the next round where they are favorite. Atleticos will play at home against the league's leader Vaqueros (#1) and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
San German: R.Hollis-Jefferson 21+12reb+6ast, T.Fernandez 14+2reb+1ast, J.Bryan Diaz 12+6reb+1ast, N.Mason 9+2reb+8ast, J.Erazo 7+3reb, E.Ayala 6
Quebradillas: H.Whiteside 27+12reb+1ast, W.Phillip 14+9reb+1ast, R.Harris 14+1reb+1ast, T.Rolon 13+6reb+11ast, F.Gaines 5+1reb, I.Pineiro 4+3reb+3ast

Ponce - Mayaguez 94-88

We cannot really consider it an upset in the game between close teams when one of their biggest challengers Indios (14-18) lost to fifth ranked Leones (11-19) in Juana Diaz 88-94 on Friday. Leones made 16-of-19 free shots (84.2 percent) during the game. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. The winners were led by naturalized Nicaraguan swingman Jared Ruiz (188-1992) who scored that evening 22 points and 6 rebounds and the former international guard Jezreel De Jesus (185-1991, agency: Interperformances) supported him with 16 points and 7 assists (went 7 for 7 at the free throw line). Even 25 points by the former international guard Jorge Pacheco-Ortiz (186-1998, college: Liberty) did not help to save the game for Indios. American forward Jeremy Tyler (208-1991, college: Louisville) added 19 points and 6 rebounds. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures. Leones have a solid three-game winning streak. They maintain fifth position with 11-19 record. Loser Indios keep the fourth place with 18 games lost. Leones will meet at home higher ranked Gigantes (#4) in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. Indios will play against Cangrejeros and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Mayaguez: J.Pacheco-Ortiz 25+4reb+3ast, J.Tyler 19+6reb, D.Hogg 14+5reb+3ast, J.Cintron 14+5reb+3ast, J.Matos 10+6reb+2ast, J.Early Jr. 4+1reb
Ponce: J.Ruiz 22+6reb+1ast, A.Ford 18+5reb+2ast, J.De Jesus 16+3reb+7ast, T.Robinson 12+4reb+3ast, M.Rosario 10+2reb+3ast, J.Wilson 6+4reb+3ast

Guaynabo - Bayamon 81-86

An interesting game for Vaqueros (20-11) which played road game in Guaynabo against second-best Mets (17-14). First ranked Vaqueros managed to get a 5-point victory 86-81. Vaqueros forced 19 Mets turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. The winners were led by the former international point guard Angel Rodriguez (180-1992, college: Miami, FL, agency: Octagon Europe) who scored that evening 17 points, 9 assists and 6 steals and American-North Macedonian center Jacob Wiley (203-1994, college: EWU) supported him with 18 points. Even a double-double of 15 points, 24 rebounds and 7 assists by American power forward DeMarcus Cousins (211-1990, college: Kentucky) did not help to save the game for Mets. The former international guard Jaysean Paige (188-1994, college: WVU) added 21 points. Five Vaqueros and four Mets players scored in double figures. Vaqueros have a solid three-game winning streak. Defending champion maintains first position with 20-11 record. Loser Mets keep the second place with 14 games lost. They share the position with Arecibo. Vaqueros will meet league's second-placed Atleticos in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Mets will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
Guaynabo: J.Paige 21+3reb+3ast, D.Cousins 15+24reb+7ast, E.Crawford 12+4reb+1ast, G.Browne 10+2reb+2ast, J.Miranda 7, R.Balkman 6+2reb+2ast
Bayamon: J.Wiley 18+3reb+3ast, A.Rodriguez 17+2reb+9ast, J.Mojica 16+2reb+2ast, S.Thompson Jr. 13+6reb+2ast, K.Doolittle 11+9reb+3ast, I.Romero 6+2reb+1ast

Manati - Arecibo 110-93

The most important game in the last round took place in Manati between third ranked Capitanes (17-14) and sixth ranked Osos (11-20) on Saturday night. Capitanes were defeated by Osos on the road 93-110. They made 27-of-32 free shots (84.4 percent) during the game. Osos shot the lights out from three sinking 13 long-distance shots on high 56.5 percentage. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. 25 personal fouls committed by Capitanes helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. It was a good game for American guard Sheldon Mac (196-1992, college: Miami, FL, agency: Slash Sports) who led his team to a victory with 31 points, 8 rebounds and 8 assists. The other American import forward Davon Jefferson (203-1986, college: USC) contributed with a double-double by scoring 21 points and 12 rebounds for the winners. The former international point guard Denis Clemente (183-1986, college: Kansas St.) replied with 26 points and Dominican Victor Liz (190-1986) added 19 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists in the effort for Capitanes. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Osos maintains sixth position with 11-20 record. Capitanes at the other side dropped to the second place with 14 games lost. They share the position with Guaynabo. Osos are looking forward to face league's leader Piratas in Quebradillas in the next round and they do not belong to the favorites in that game. Capitanes will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
Arecibo: D.Clemente 26+3reb+3ast, V.Liz 19+6reb+5ast, P.Bass 18+8reb+2ast, T.Bishop 11+4reb+1ast, D.Huertas 7+2reb+7ast, J.Rodriguez 6+3reb+1ast
Manati: S.Mac 31+8reb+8ast, I.Sosa 27+1reb+3ast, D.Jefferson 21+12reb+3ast, J.Guitian 12+3reb+1ast, C.Gaston 7+6reb+3ast, L.Tejada 6+1reb+2ast

Hassan Whiteside gets MVP of the Week award for Puerto Rican BSN (by Hoops Agents) - by Eurobasket News

Experienced American Hassan Whiteside (213-C-1989) had a very impressive game in the last week for league's leader Quebradillas and that's him to receive a Hoops Agents Player of the Week award for week 35.
The 33-year old center had a double-double of 27 points and seventeen rebounds, while his team lost the game against Mayaguez (#4, 14-18) 79-84. Despite this loss Quebradillas managed to keep Puerto Rican BSN leading position. They afford to lose this game, but they have to be very careful to avoid similar "accidents". Quebradillas has a very solid 20-10 record, but they cannot be too comfortable about keeping top position. In the team's last game Whiteside had a remarkable 73.3% from 2-point range. He just recently signed at Quebradillas, being already a very valuable addition to the team. Marshall University graduate has very impressive stats this year. Whiteside is in league's top in points (3rd best: 22.0ppg) and averages solid 2.6bpg and 55.5% FGP.

The second most remarkable performance in last week's games was young American forward Jordan Cintron (203-F-1998) of Mayaguez. Cintron impressed basketball fans with 26 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists. It was enough for Mayaguez to edge the higher-ranked Quebradillas (#1, 20-10) by 5 points 84-79. It was definitely game of the week between two contenders to the top position in Group A. Mayaguez consolidated its place in top 4 of the standings. His team is not often considered as one of the league's best with a mere 14-18 record. Cintron is one of the most experienced players at Mayaguez and has a reputation of one of team's most reliable players.

The third best performed player last week was Australian Mitch Creek (196-F/G-1992) of second-ranked Guaynabo. Creek scored 26 points and grabbed ten rebounds. Despite Creek's great performance Guaynabo lost 92-95 to the lower-ranked Fajardo (#5, 13-19). But his team cannot count on just a single shooter as he also needs help of the other teammates. The last thing Guaynabo needs is to lose another game like this one. They lose more and more distance to the top teams in Group B. Their record is 17 victories and 13 lost games. Creek has a great season in Puerto Rico. After 19 games, he made it on the list of the league's leaders in points with 20.0ppg (7th best). He also has FGP: 55.7% and 3PT: 45.6%.

Other top performing players last week:
4. Rondae Hollis-Jefferson (201-F-1995) of San German - 26 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists
5. DeMarcus Cousins (211-C/F-1990) of Guaynabo - 22 points, 11 rebounds and 3 assists
6. Ivan Gandia-Rosa (185-PG-1997) of Fajardo - 24 points and 4 rebounds
7. Archie Goodwin (196-G-1994) of Fajardo - 19 points, 9 rebounds and 3 assists
8. Paris Bass (207-F/C-1995) of Arecibo - 16 points, 14 rebounds and 4 assists
9. Victor Liz (190-SG-1986) of Arecibo - 17 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists
10. Tremont Waters (180-PG-1998) of Carolina - 21 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists

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

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RWANDA

RBL Round 18: Orion defeat Espoir in the closest game of the week - by Eurobasket News

Here is the last round review presented by Job Market.

This derby game ended with only three-point defeat on the road of second-best Espoir (14-5) to sixth ranked Orion (11-8) 88-85 on Friday evening. Orion moved-up to fifth place, which they share with K-Titans. Espoir at the other side keeps the second position with five games lost.
RBL top team - REG (17-1) had no problems winning another game. This time they beat seventh ranked Tigers (10-9) in Kigali 64-48. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Tigers. REG have an impressive nine-game winning streak. Defending champion maintains first position with 17-1 record. Tigers at the other side keep the seventh place with nine games lost. REG will play against IPRC-Huye (#10) at home in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Tigers will have a break next round.
9th ranked SFTS (6-13) was outscored at home by fifth ranked APR (11-2) with the biggest margin this round 97-66 on Friday night. APR moved-up to fourth place. Loser SFTS keeps the ninth position with 13 games lost. APR will meet IPRC-Musanze (#11) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. SFTS will play against Patriots and hope to secure a win.

In the last game of round 18 UGB lost to Patriots on the opponent's court 64-73.

Orion - Espoir 88-85

This derby game ended with only three-point defeat on the road of second-best Espoir (14-5) to sixth ranked Orion (11-8) 88-85 on Friday evening. Orion moved-up to fifth place, which they share with K-Titans. Espoir at the other side keeps the second position with five games lost.

Patriots - UGB 73-64

Very expected game when 8th ranked UGB (10-11) was defeated on the road by third ranked Patriots (13-2) 73-64 on Friday. Patriots have a solid four-game winning streak. They maintain third position with 13-2 record having seven points less than leader REG. Loser UGB keeps the eighth place with 11 games lost. Patriots will meet SFTS (#9) in the next round where they are favorite. UGB will have a break next round.

REG - Tigers 64-48

RBL top team - REG (17-1) had no problems winning another game. This time they beat seventh ranked Tigers (10-9) in Kigali 64-48. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of Tigers. REG have an impressive nine-game winning streak. Defending champion maintains first position with 17-1 record. Tigers at the other side keep the seventh place with nine games lost. REG will play against IPRC-Huye (#10) at home in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Tigers will have a break next round.

SFTS - APR 66-97

9th ranked SFTS (6-13) was outscored at home by fifth ranked APR (11-2) with the biggest margin this round 97-66 on Friday night. APR moved-up to fourth place. Loser SFTS keeps the ninth position with 13 games lost. APR will meet IPRC-Musanze (#11) on the road in the next round and are hoping to win another game. SFTS will play against Patriots and hope to secure a win.

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SLOVAKIA

Handlova keeps Obert for another season - by Michal Duchovic

MBK Banik Handlova (Nike SBL) re-signed 24-year old 183cm point guard Branislav Obert for upcoming season. Obert played there last season. In 23 Nike SBL games he recorded 3.4ppg and 1.2rpg.
He represented Slovakia at the European Championships (FIBA EuroBasket) U20 Division B in Sofia (Bulgaria) five years ago. His stats at that event were 3 games: 4.0ppg, 1.3spg.
Obert has played previously for two other teams: SKP Banska Bystrica and Ziar/Hronom.

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SLOVENIA

Stats Leaders - 1A

Stats Leaders

PPG

RPG

APG

SPG

BPG

Tavian DUNN-MARTIN

Sentjur
(173-PG-1998)
Avg: 20.1

20.1

17.2

17.2

16.8

16.4

Liga Nova KBM Round 2 of Finals. Helios snatch road win - by Eurobasket News

Cedevita Ol. - Helios Suns 81-82

The guests trailed by 7 points after three quarters before their 24-16 charge, which allowed them to win the game. The best player for the winners was the former international forward Blaz Mahkovic (201-1990, agency: Interperformances) who scored 20 points and 4 assists. Tibor Mirtic (202-2003) chipped in 10 points and 9 rebounds. Four Helios Suns players scored in double figures. Serbian swingman Marko Jeremic (192-1991) produced 25 points and the former international point guard Matic Rebec (183-1995, agency: SLN) added 13 points and 9 assists respectively for the hosts. Cedevita Ol.'s coach Jurica Golemac rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help.
Top scorers:
Cedevita Ol.: M.Jeremic 25+4reb+1ast, E.Muric 14+3reb+1ast, M.Rebec 13+3reb+9ast, Z.Dragic 9+3reb+1ast, Y.Ferrell 8+2reb+4ast, K.Matkovic 5
Helios Suns: B.Mahkovic 20+3reb+4ast, N.Bacvic 15+2reb+1ast, D.Tunstall 13+5reb+1ast, M.Tibor 10+9reb+3ast, L.Buljevic 7+6reb, T.Ferme 6+2reb+2ast

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SPAIN

Stats Leaders - LEB Gold

Stats Leaders

PPG

RPG

APG

SPG

BPG

Michael CARRERA

Lleida
(196-F-1993)
Avg: 20.3

20.3

19.0

17.2

16.6

15.9

LEB Gold Round 3 of Quarter-Finals. Palencia and Burgos reach semis - by Eurobasket News

Lleida - Valladolid 77-71

The best player for the winners was Argentinian guard Juan Ignacio Marcos (188-2000) who scored 15 points and 7 rebounds. Croatian-Bosnian power forward Marko Bakovic (205-1993) chipped in 7 points and 10 rebounds. At the other side the best for losing team was center Sergio De La Fuente (198-1989) who recorded 20 points and 5 rebounds and Swedish point guard Melwin Pantzar (190-2000) added 17 points and 4 assists respectively. Both coaches allowed to play bench players saving starting five for next games.
Top scorers:
Valladolid: S.De La Fuente 20+5reb, M.Pantzar 17+3reb+4ast, K.Allen 10+3reb+2ast, R.Belemene 9+4reb+1ast, M.Torres Cuevas 5+3reb+3ast, G.Gantt 3+1reb
Lleida: J.Ignacio Marcos 15+7reb+1ast, A.Sidibe 11+5reb, V.Vucetic 9+2reb+1ast, J.Lobo 9+1reb+4ast, R.Lopez 8+2reb, M.Bakovic 7+10reb+1ast

Alicante - Palencia 60-63

It was a great evening for DR Congolese forward Jonathan Kasibabu (203-1996, college: Fairfield) who led his team to a victory scoring 6 points and 16 rebounds. American point guard Alec Wintering (183-1995, college: Portland) helped adding 14 points and 5 assists. The best for the losing side was power forward Eduard Gatell (206-1989) with a double-double by scoring 10 points and 11 rebounds and American forward Sean McDonnell (203-1995, college: Westmont, agency: Helping Ballers) scored 16 points. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game.
Top scorers:
Alicante: S.McDonnell 16+4reb, E.Gatell 10+11reb, S.Berg 9+3reb, D.Blaylock 7+2reb+1ast, N.Rakocevic 5+3reb, A.Steinarsson 4+5reb+8ast
Palencia: A.Wintering 14+2reb+5ast, M.Kamba 14+7reb, K.Kostadinov 9+2reb+1ast, J.Ortega 7+5reb+2ast, G.Martinez 6+2reb+1ast, J.Kasibabu 6+16reb+1ast

Gipuzkoa - Coruna 71-83

Coruna outrebounded Gipuzkoa 39-27 including a 33-21 advantage in defensive rebounds. The best player for the winners was Latvian point guard Ingus Jakovics (186-1993) who scored 13 points and 5 rebounds. Guard Alejandro Hernandez (189-1990) chipped in 10 points and 4 assists. At the other side the best for losing team was American-Italian guard Adam Sollazzo (198-1990, college: ETSU) who recorded 20 points and 5 rebounds and American guard Justin Jaworski (190-1999, college: Lafayette) added 20 points and 4 assists respectively. Both coaches allowed to play bench players saving starting five for next games.
Top scorers:
Gipuzkoa: J.Jaworski 20+4ast, A.Sollazzo 20+5reb+2ast, A.Zubizarreta 11+2reb, M.Carlson 7+3reb, R.Nurger 6+3reb, A.Martinez 4+4reb
Coruna: J.Ingus 13+5reb+3ast, L.Nwogbo 11+2reb+1ast, A.Hernandez 10+4reb+4ast, J.Vega 9+4reb+1ast, G.Filipovic 9+4reb+1ast, Y.Barrueta 9+5reb+2ast

Burgos - Estudiantes 87-85

It was an exceptional evening for the former international forward Carlos Suarez (203-1986) who led the winners and scored 12 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Slovenian point guard Luka Rupnik (186-1993, agency: Octagon Europe) accounted for 8 points and 5 assists for the winning side. Point guard Adams Sola (193-2000) came up with 14 points and 7 rebounds and American-Italian guard Paul Jorgensen (188-1996, college: Butler) added 16 points respectively for Estudiantes in the defeat. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches tested many bench players in such tough game.
Top scorers:
Estudiantes: P.Jorgensen 16+1reb+1ast, A.Sola 14+7reb+3ast, J.Franch 11+2reb, T.Leimanis 10+3reb+1ast, M.Hughes 9+2reb+3ast, K.Larsen 8+1reb+3ast
Burgos: C.Suarez 12+5reb+4ast, A.Barrera 11+3reb+1ast, A.Lopez 11+1ast, K.Thomas 11+1reb+3ast, M.Norelia 10+2reb, G.Corbalan 8+2reb+2ast

Sito Alonso will remain UCAM Murcia's head coach - by Eurobasket News

As officially announced by UCAM Murcia, Sito Alonso will keep on being the head coach of the Spanish side for next season. He has been the head coach of UCAM Murcia since 2019 and has concluded this past 2022-23 season just out of the ACB Playoffs, at the 9th spot. In the Basketball Champions League, he has been eliminated by Unicaja Malaga in the Quarter-Finals, not making it to the Final Four in Andalucia. Sito Alonso , who has been coaching teams like Joventut Badalona, Baskonia, and Barcelona in the past, became the head coach with the most games in the ACB in the club's history. During his 30-year career, he has collected one Copa del Rey with Joventut Badalona in 2008 and the bronze medal at the U20 EuroBasket with the Spanish national team.
Courtesy of: eurohoops.net

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SWITZERLAND

Stats Leaders LNA

Stats Leaders

PPG

RPG

APG

SPG

BPG

Isaiah ROSS

Lugano
(193-G/F-1996)
Avg: 23.0

23.0

22.5

22.4

20.1

19.9

SBL Round 1 of Finals. Fribourg claim first win - by Eurobasket News

Massagno - Fribourg 80-108

Fribourg dominated down low during the game scoring 60 of its points in the paint compared to Massagno's 36. They shot the lights out from three sinking 12 long-distance shots on high 57.1 percentage. Fribourg looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists comparing to just 9 passes made by Massagno's players. Worth to mention a great performance of American guard Davonta Jordan (188-1997, college: Buffalo) who helped to win the game recording 25 points and 4 assists (on 11-of-12 shooting from the field). The former international swingman Roberto Kovac (190-1990) contributed with 20 points for the winners. Five Fribourg players scored in double figures. American Shannon Bogues (190-1997, college: SF Austin) answered with 18 points and 5 rebounds and the other American import forward Isaiah Williams (201-1992, college: Iona) added 9 points in the effort for Massagno. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games.
Top scorers:
Massagno: S.Bogues 18+5reb+1ast, M.Mladjan 9+1reb, I.Williams 9+4reb+3ast, J.Galloway 8+4reb+1ast, D.Mladjan 7+2reb, E.Koludrovic 7+1reb
Fribourg: D.Jordan 25+4reb+4ast, R.Kovac 20+1reb+1ast, P.Gravet 15+1reb+3ast, N.Jurkovitz 11+5reb+3ast, A.Ballard 11+3reb, B.Mbala 11+7reb

Oberwart adds Lamar to their roster, ex Swiss Central - by Stefan Heinrich

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SYRIA

SBL Round 21: Al Ittihad lose to Al Wahda - by Eurobasket News

Here is the last round review presented by Job Market.

Top ranked Al Ittihad (14-3) recorded its third loss in Aleppo on Monday night. Hosts were defeated by third ranked Al Wahda (12-3) 68-56. Al Wahda have an impressive series of nine victories in a row. They maintain third place with 12-3 record having 2 victories less than leader Al Ittihad. Defending champion Al Ittihad still keeps top position with three games lost. Al Wahda are looking forward to face bottom-ranked Al Taleiah (#11) in Hama in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Al Ittihad's supporters also look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Aleppo to the arena Al Hurriyeh.
Another exciting game was a derby match between two teams from Aleppo: Al Jalaa (#6) and Al Hurriyeh (#7). Al Jalaa (11-5) won against visiting Al Hurriyeh (6-11) 70-64. Al Jalaa moved-up to fifth place. Al Hurriyeh at the other side keeps the seventh position with 11 games lost. Al Jalaa will play against Al Wathba (#10) in Homs in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Al Hurriyeh's supporters look forward to another derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Aleppo Al Ittihad.
The game with biggest result difference took place in Damascus. Local Al Jaish (13-4) outscored 5th ranked Al Karameh (10-5) 86-65 on Tuesday night. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Al Karameh. The victory was the fourth consecutive win for Al Jaish. They maintain second place with 13-4 record behind leader Al Ittihad. Loser Al Karameh dropped to the sixth position with five games lost. Al Jaish will meet Al Nawaeer (#4) in the next round. Al Karameh will play against Tishreen and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

In the last game of round 21 Hutteen was defeated by Al Wathba in Homs 83-71.

Al Ittihad - Al Wahda 56-68

Top ranked Al Ittihad (14-3) recorded its third loss in Aleppo on Monday night. Hosts were defeated by third ranked Al Wahda (12-3) 68-56. Al Wahda have an impressive series of nine victories in a row. They maintain third place with 12-3 record having 2 victories less than leader Al Ittihad. Defending champion Al Ittihad still keeps top position with three games lost. Al Wahda are looking forward to face bottom-ranked Al Taleiah (#11) in Hama in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Al Ittihad's supporters also look forward to an exciting derby game next round, where their team will travel locally in Aleppo to the arena Al Hurriyeh.

Al Jaish - Al Karameh 86-65

The game with biggest result difference took place in Damascus. Local Al Jaish (13-4) outscored 5th ranked Al Karameh (10-5) 86-65 on Tuesday night. It ended at the same time the two-game winning streak of Al Karameh. The victory was the fourth consecutive win for Al Jaish. They maintain second place with 13-4 record behind leader Al Ittihad. Loser Al Karameh dropped to the sixth position with five games lost. Al Jaish will meet Al Nawaeer (#4) in the next round. Al Karameh will play against Tishreen and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

Al Wathba - Hutteen 83-71

We cannot really consider it an upset in the game between close teams in Homs where 9th ranked Hutteen (4-14) was defeated by tenth ranked Al Wathba (3-15) 83-71 on Tuesday. Al Wathba maintains tenth place with 3-15 record. Loser Hutteen keeps the ninth position with 14 games lost. Al Wathba will meet higher ranked Al Jalaa (#5) in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Hutteen will have a break next round.

Al Jalaa - Al Hurriyeh 70-64

Another exciting game was a derby match between two teams from Aleppo: Al Jalaa (#6) and Al Hurriyeh (#7). Al Jalaa (11-5) won against visiting Al Hurriyeh (6-11) 70-64. Al Jalaa moved-up to fifth place. Al Hurriyeh at the other side keeps the seventh position with 11 games lost. Al Jalaa will play against Al Wathba (#10) in Homs in the next round which should be theoretically an easy game. Al Hurriyeh's supporters look forward to another derby game next round, where their team will face at home their local rival from Aleppo Al Ittihad.

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TAIWAN

PLeague+ Round 1 of Finals. Kings earn opening win - by Eurobasket News

Fubon Braves - Kings 72-86

Worth to mention a great performance of American-British center Byron Mullens (213-1989, college: Ohio St.) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 11 points and 20 rebounds. The former international center Chin-Min Yang (190-1984) contributed with 24 points for the winners. Four Kings players scored in double figures. Ukrainian power forward Igor Zaytsev (210-1989, agency: BIG) answered with 20 points and 5 rebounds and American forward Michael Singletary (198-1988, college: Texas Tech) added 7 points and 12 rebounds in the effort for Fubon Braves. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games.
Top scorers:
Fubon Braves: I.Zaytsev 20+5reb+1ast, C.Lin 12+4reb+2ast, H.Tseng 10+5reb+1ast, W.Tsai 7+3reb, M.Singletary 7+12reb+3ast, T.Chang 6+3reb+3ast
Kings: C.Yang 24+3reb+3ast, Q.Davis 16+10reb, K.Manigault 11+4reb+5ast, B.Mullens 11+20reb+2ast, S.Shih-Hsuan 7+6reb, C.Hung 6+3ast

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TURKEY

Stats Leaders - D1

Stats Leaders

PPG

RPG

APG

SPG

BPG

Jordon CRAWFORD

Buyu.
(168-PG-1990)
Avg: 19.6

19.6

19.5

19.0

18.9

18.0

TB2L Stats Leaders

Stats Leaders

PPG

RPG

APG

SPG

BPG

Tobin CARBERRY

Mersin
(193-G-1991)
Avg: 21.3

21.3

21.2

20.6

20.1

19.5

TBL Round 3 of Quarter-Finals - by Eurobasket News

Yalovaspor - TED Ankara 87-148

TED Ankara dominated down low during the game scoring 74 of its points in the paint compared to Yalovaspor's 28 and made 41-of-50 free shots (82.0 percent) during the game, while Yalovaspor only scored fourteen points from the stripe. They outrebounded Yalovaspor 64-33 including a 21-8 advantage in offensive rebounds. 24 personal fouls committed by Yalovaspor helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Worth to mention a quality performance of American center Brandon Walters (208-1995, college: MTSU) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 36 points (!!!) and 28 rebounds. His fellow American import guard Shane Gibson (188-1990, college: Sacred Heart) helped adding 40 points (!!!), 18 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 blocks (went 8 for 8 at the free throw line). Four TED Ankara players scored in double figures. The best for the losing side was American Ricky Ledo (201-1992, college: Providence, agency: Slash Sports) with 23 points and 5 rebounds and guard Sercan Topcu (188-1985) scored 18 points. Yalovaspor's coach Dervis Guney gave up on the game allowing to play ten players seeing no chance for a win.
Top scorers:
Yalovaspor: R.Ledo 23+5reb+3ast, S.Topcu 18+3reb+2ast, K.Bayram 15+4reb+2ast, D.Cevik 9+3reb+1ast, B.Ozkan 8+4reb+3ast, O.Haciyeva 5+4reb
TED Ankara: O.Kucuk 52+2reb+6ast, S.Gibson 40+18reb+4ast, B.Walters 36+28reb+2ast, C.Dalgali 10+8reb, K.Sariaslan 7+1reb+3ast, D.Sonmez 2+4reb

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UNITED KINGDOM

Fletcher Returns Home - by Jeff King

An Article by Scott Venci - Green Bay Gazette

One of the best players in University of Wisconsin-Green Bay men's basketball history is returning to his alma mater.

Former point guard Rahmon Fletcher (178-PG-1988, college: Green Bay) has been hired by first-year coach Sundance Wicks to serve as director of player development.

Fletcher will not be part of recruiting, but he will have several roles.

He will help coach during practice and always will be available afterward for individual work. If a player wants to put up extra shots or engage in a game of one-on-one, they can call Fletcher and he will be there for them.

Fletcher also will help bridge the gap between the program and the alumni while assisting with a Phoenix Fund that generates money for scholarships, travel and academic programming.

Fletcher was born and raised in Kansas City, but Green Bay became a home away from home during his Phoenix career.

It feels good to be back.

'It's amazing,' said Fletcher, who played for former coaches Tod Kowalczyk and Brian Wardle at UWGB from 2007 to 2011. 'A lot has changed, but a lot hasn't changed. Going into the Dick Bennett gym, I've got a lot of memories of running suicides and 22's and things like that.

'I became a man here. When I came in, I was 18, 19, and I left and was able to go and play professionally. Those were the most important years of my life, especially from a basketball standpoint and a life standpoint.

'It's a full circle moment, and I'm super excited.'

Fletcher's name is splashed all over UWGB's record book more than a decade after graduating.

He is tied for sixth with Alec Brown on the all-time scoring list (1,678), is fourth in steals (197), fifth in games played (128), sixth in assists (438), seventh in field goals (633) and tied for ninth with former teammate Mike Schachtner for 3-pointers (150).

Fletcher made the Horizon League all-conference team three times and averaged 13.1 points, 3.4 assists and 2.3 rebounds during his career.

He and Wicks didn't know each other before Wicks was hired by UWGB in March. Wicks eventually texted and called him while Fletcher was still finishing his professional season, and the two immediately clicked.

Fletcher believes the entire Phoenix coaching staff is top-notch, a group that includes assistants Pat Monaghan, Zach Malvik and Nic Reynolds and director of basketball operations Adam Owens.

The feeling is mutual.

'I am juiced for Fletch right now,' Wicks said. 'What a special opportunity for Rahmon Fletcher, one of Green Bay men's basketball all-time greats, to come back and serve in the capacity of mentoring, connecting, developing and differentiating our program from when he played here.

'The mission of our program since we got the job in March was to ignite the future Phoenix basketball while honoring the past. Fletch is that connection to two elite eras in the storied UWGB pastime.'

Wicks said UWGB athletic director Josh Moon and Chancellor Michael Alexander have been instrumental in the new path.

'We are only 80 days into this mission,' Wicks said. 'We have already seen massive growth, connectivity, commitment and community support for the rise of the Phoenix.'

Two Back For Nix - by Jeff King

Cheshire Phoenix are delighted to announce that Maceo Jack and David Ulph (198-F) will be continuing with the Phoenix for the 2023/24 season.

David joined the club from Manchester Giants and proved to be a fan favourite for the Nix' this season with his never say die attitude.

The 6'7 forward averaged 5.5ppg and 5.5rbs this season helping the club achieve their highest place finish and first playoff semi final since 2016.

Head Coach Ben Thomas

'Bringing Ulph back was a really easy decision, he is a great team mate and person to have around the club. On the court he continuously improved throughout the season and played a huge part in the run in over the last couple of months.

I know he's become a fan favourite due to his blue collar work rate on the floor and we will be looking for him to bring that same energy again next season. I'm really looking forward to working with him again.'

David Ulph

'I am really happy to return to Cheshire for my second season. Nix Nation have treated me like family and I'm really excited to continue to improve and build on the successful year we've just had together #LETSGONIX'

Announcing the re-signing of American forward Maceo Jack who joined the club part way through the season and provided them with some spectacular high flying dunks. He averaged 9.5ppg and 4.4rbs helping the team to a BBL Trophy Final and 5th place finish.

Maceo Jack

'I'm excited to rejoin the Phoenix for a second year. I am looking forward to building upon what we did last year and reaching new heights. Nixnation really embraced me this past season and I can't wait to play in front of you guys at EPSV again'

Ben Thomas

'We're really happy to have Maceo back with us for another season. He continued to improve as the season went on and we know he will carry on in the same way next year. Over the past month and a half Maceo has shown his versatility in playing multiple positions on floor and putting the teams needs first. This is definitely the team-first type of play'

Return Of The Mack - by Jeff King

Leicester Riders are excited to announce the return of point guard Kimbal Mackenzie (187-G-1996, college: Bucknell) for the 2023/24 season.

Mackenzie has proved a fan-favourite in his two seasons in Leicester, earning the Supporters Club Player of the Year last season - voted for by the Riders faithful.

His 12.7 points and 3.8 assists also saw him named on the Molten BBL British Team of the Year alongside teammate Patrick Whelan.

'Kimbal has been excellent for us and we are thrilled to have him back at the club. We have enjoyed working with him these past two seasons, he is a player who comes ready to play every day,' reflected Head Coach Rob Paternostro.

'He is a versatile guard who can be effective in many different spots on the floor and has shown the ability to make winning plays in important moments of the game.'

'His ability to fill different roles last seasons was very impressive.'

Mackenzie put in countless team-leading performances throughout the 2022/23 season, perhaps none better than his 31 point explosion against the Cheshire Phoenix in February. He went 11-15 from the field and 7-7 from the free-throw line in the Riders' 105-91 win.

'My family and I are thrilled to be returning to Leicester for my third season,' commented Kimbal. 'The experience that we have had within the city and with the fans has been amazing. I look forward to continuing the winning ways of the Riders. Since day one, Leicester has felt like home, and in the business of being a professional athlete, it can be rare to be with the same team for multiple years, so I'm thankful for that.'

'I'm happy to still be playing in front of the best fans in the league! A fanbase that makes Morningside one of the best home court advantages in the league, and fans that frequently travel across the country to support us.'

'In deciding to come back, it's the culture that Coach Rob has built for years that played a big part. Rob is a players' coach, and the ultimate competitor, someone who I love going to battle with. I look forward to playing with a great group of guys, and to winning a lot of basketball games!'

Mackenzie's form earned him his first call-up to the Great Britain Senior squad, making his debut in a FIBA World Cup Qualifier against Serbia in Belgrade.

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URUGUAY

Latinbasket.com All-Uruguay LUB Awards 2023 - by Eurobasket Center

Finals MVP: USA

Adonys Henriquez (201-G-1994) of Hebraica
Player of the Year: Dominican Republic

Luis Santos (203-C-1994) of Cocodrilos
Guard of the Year: USA

Donald Sims (190-SG-1987) of Guaiqueries
Forward of the Year: Uruguay

Ignacio Xavier (196-F-1999) of Goes
Center of the Year: Dominican Republic

Luis Santos (203-C-1994) of Cocodrilos
Domestic Player of the Year: Italy

Luciano Parodi (182-PG-1994) of Hebraica
Import Player of the Year: Dominican Republic

Luis Santos (203-C-1994) of Cocodrilos
Defensive Player of the Year: Uruguay

Mateo Sarni (185-PG-1998) of Urupan
Coach of the Year: Leonardo Zylberstein of Hebraica

Latinbasket.com All-Uruguay LUB First Team 2023

Sims

Parodi

Xavier

Thomas

Santos

First Team
USA

Donald Sims (190-SG-1987) of Guaiqueries
Italy

Luciano Parodi (182-PG-1994) of Hebraica
Uruguay

Ignacio Xavier (196-F-1999) of Goes
USA

Charles Thomas (202-F/C-1986) of Brillantes
Dominican Republic

Luis Santos (203-C-1994) of Cocodrilos

Latinbasket.com All-Uruguay LUB Second Team 2023

Vidal

Osimani

Zanotta

Hassell

Vargas

Second Team
Uruguay

Santiago Vidal (180-G-1989) of Panteras
Uruguay

Joaquin Osimani (193-SG-1987) of Riachuelo LR
Uruguay

Juan Zanotta (185-G-1995) of Penarol
USA

Franklin Hassell (203-F/C-1988) of Hebraica
Dominican Republic

Eloy Vargas (211-C-1988) of Trotamundos

Latinbasket.com All-Uruguay LUB Honorable Mention 2023

Osimani

Graterol

Henriquez

Hilliard

Aska

Thomas

Honorable Mention
Uruguay

Martin Osimani (194-G-1981) of Goes
Venezuela

Windi Graterol (204-C-1986) of Guaiqueries
USA

Adonys Henriquez (201-G-1994) of Hebraica
USA

Anthony Hilliard (195-G/F-1986) of Airs
U.S. Virgin Islands

Ivan Aska (201-F-1990) of Malvin
USA

Quintrell Thomas (203-PF-1990) of Defensor
USA

Gary McGhee (210-C-1988) of Nacional
USA

Tavrion Dawson (202-F/C-1996) of Ancud
USA

Ricardo Glenn (6'8''-C-1990) of Charlotte T.
USA

Eric Ferguson (203-F-1989) of Urupan
Lithuania

Zygimantas Riauka (206-C-1993) of Urupan
Uruguay

Mateo Sarni (185-PG-1998) of Urupan
Brazil

Hatila Passos (211-C-1985) of Urunday
USA

Marcus Thomas (191-PG-1995) of Al Nassr

Latinbasket.com Uruguay LUB All-Domestic Players Team 2023

Vidal

Osimani

Parodi

Xavier

Wachsmann

All-Domestic Players Team
Uruguay

Santiago Vidal (180-G-1989) of Panteras
Uruguay

Joaquin Osimani (193-SG-1987) of Riachuelo LR
Italy

Luciano Parodi (182-PG-1994) of Hebraica
Uruguay

Ignacio Xavier (196-F-1999) of Goes
Germany

Kiril Wachsmann (203-PF-1984) of Malvin

Latinbasket.com Uruguay LUB All-Imports Team 2023

Sims

Henriquez

Hassell

Thomas

Santos

All-Imports Team
USA

Donald Sims (190-SG-1987) of Guaiqueries
USA

Adonys Henriquez (201-G-1994) of Hebraica
USA

Franklin Hassell (203-F/C-1988) of Hebraica
USA

Charles Thomas (202-F/C-1986) of Brillantes
Dominican Republic

Luis Santos (203-C-1994) of Cocodrilos

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VENEZUELA

Stefan Moody agrees terms with Igokea - by Eurobasket News

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Women News

Thor AK Akureyri tabs Lore Devos, ex Castors Braine - by Eurobasket News

Thor AK Akureyri (D1) inked 24-year old Belgian international 185cm forward Lore Devos (college: Colorado State, agency: LBM Management) for upcoming season. Devos played most recently at Castors Braine in Belgian Top Division Women. In 23 games she averaged 7.3ppg, 4.7rpg and 1.0apg last season. She helped them to make it to both league and Cup finals after they ended regular season as second best team. Devos also played 10 games in Eurocup where she had just 2.7ppg and 2.2rpg.
The previous (2021-22) season she played at BCF Elfic Fribourg Basket in Swiss SBL. In 7 games she recorded 9.7ppg, 4.7rpg, 2.0apg, 1.3spg and 1.4bpg in that year. She contributed to her team winning the Supercup. Devos also played 6 games in Eurocup where she got 8.0ppg, 6.0rpg and 2.0apg in that year.
She has been also a member of Belgian international program for some years. Devos has regularly played for Belgian senior team since 2022 and previously for U18 National Team back in 2017.
She represented Belgium at the European Championships (FIBA EuroBasket) U20 in Klatovy (Czech Republic) four years ago. Her team got to the Semifinals and her stats at that event were 7 games: Score-3 (14.7ppg), Reb-5 (8.1rpg), 2.7apg, FGP: 44.2%, 3PT: 23.5%, FT: 83.3%.
Devos graduated from Colorado State in 2021 and it will be her third season in pro basketball.

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CHINA

Sandrine Gruda paces France past China - by Eurobasket News

France - China PR 76:63

Sandrine Gruda paced France past China in friendly game. She nailed 16 points as France celebrated a 76-63 win. The hosts opened the game with a narrow 16-15 run and added a 24-21 rally in the second period. France dominated the third quarter with a 20-10 surge, whilst the guests won the last stanza 17-16.
Alexia Chartereau (189-F/C-1998) poured in 12 points, whilst Mamignan Toure (183-SG-1994) scored 10 for the home side. Ru Zhang (179-F-1999) and Luo Xinyu (188-F-2001) replied with 16 points each in the losing effort.

France achieve another win over China - by Eurobasket News

France - China 81:50

France achieved another win over China in a friendly game. The European side posted an 81-50 victory in the second game. China grabbed an 18-15 lead at the start, whilst France replied with a 21-17 rally in the second frame. The hosts erupted with a massive 27-2 surge in the third quarter to seal the win.
Mamignan Toure (183-SG-1994) top-scored for the winners with 11 points and Iliana Rupert (194-C-2001) brought 10. S Y Yang and Zhen-Qi Zhenqi Pan (190-C-1995) replied with 11 points each for the Asian team.

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COLOMBIA

LSBF Round 8: Guerreros keep a leadership position - by Eurobasket News

What a coincidence that all visitors won their games. Here is the last round review presented by LBM Management.

The game had a very big importance for first-ranked Guerreros as it allowed them to take a leadership position. Guerreros smashed second-ranked Bogota on the road 69-47. Guerreros forced 21 Bogota turnovers. The former international power forward Wendy Coy (178-1998) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 15 points and 15 rebounds. Forward Gabriela Chivata (165-2002) contributed with 18 points and 9 rebounds (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field) for the winners. Angela Ibanez replied with a double-double by scoring 16 points and 11 rebounds for Bogota. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Undefeated Guerreros (9-0) have an impressive nine-game winning streak. As mentioned above they are alone now at the top position. Bogota at the other side still keeps top place with five games lost. They share the position with Huila and Cundinamarca. Bogota will play next round against strong Huila trying to get back on the winning streak. Guerreros will try to continue on its current victory against fifth ranked Caqueta at home.
Another exciting game for Raptors (3-5) which played on the court of one of their biggest challengers Azucareras (2-6). Fifth ranked Raptors won 53-48. Worth to mention a great performance of forward Lizeth Cuadros (-1995) who helped to win the game recording 17 points and 8 rebounds and Karol Hernandez who added 10 points and 6 rebounds during the contest. The former international guard Mayra Caicedo (160-2000, college: Tarleton St.) responded with 16 points and 4 assists. Raptors moved-up to third place. Azucareras lost fourth consecutive game. Newly promoted team dropped to the fourth position with six games lost.
A very close game took place in between Caldas and Escuela. Second ranked Caldas (5-3) got a very close victory on the road over 4th ranked Escuela (2-5). Caldas managed to escape with a 2-point win 58-56 on Saturday evening. The winners were led by Libia De la Rosa who scored that evening 11 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists. Caldas' coach used an eleven-player rotation in such tough game. Even a double-double of 31 points and 10 rebounds by Isabel Rodriguez did not help to save the game for Escuela. Caldas have a solid three-game winning streak. Newly promoted Caldas maintains second position with 5-3 record despite having the same number of points like the leader Indeportes. Escuela at the other side, also newcomer in the league, dropped to the fifth place with five games lost.

There were no big surprises in other games of round 8: Caldas smashed Raptors on the road 70-45. Azucareras lost to defending champion Indeportes on its own court 28-67. Guerreros outscored Cundinamarca in Bogota 57-29. Soacha was rolled over Huila at home 40-60.

The Round Review is presented by LBM Management. A full-service agency focused on Women's basketball sphere and working worldwide. A global and ethical quality service.

Raptors - Caldas 45-70

No shocking result in a game when second ranked Caldas (5-3) crushed 5th ranked Raptors (3-5) in Pereira 70-45 on Friday. Caldas forced 19 Raptors turnovers and had a 18-6 advantage in offensive rebounds. The winners were led by Valentina Lopez (-1994) who scored that evening 20 points and the former international power forward Tania Valencia (177-1994) supported her with 14 points and 10 rebounds. Even 14 points and 6 rebounds by Argentinian swingman Sofia Paoli (178-1996) did not help to save the game for Raptors. The former international Laura Garrido (172-1990) added 9 points and 10 rebounds for the hosts. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Caldas have a solid three-game winning streak. Newly promoted Caldas maintains second position with 5-3 record despite having the same number of points like the leader Indeportes. Loser Raptors dropped to the third place with five games lost.
Top scorers:
Raptors: S.Paoli 14+6reb+1ast, G.Laura 9+10reb, C.Lizeth 7+4reb+1ast, O.Ana 4+1reb, A.Alejandra 3+2reb, M.Mariana 2+3reb
Caldas: L.Valentina 20+4reb+2ast, V.Tania 14+10reb+1ast, L.Sanchez 10+7reb+6ast, G.Isabella 8+6reb+3ast, L.De la Rosa 7+6reb+1ast, C.Ivana 4+3reb+2ast

Azucareras - Indeportes 28-67

Rather expected game when 3rd ranked Azucareras (2-6) were smashed at home by top-ranked Indeportes (8-0) 67-28 on Friday. Indeportes held Azucareras to an opponent 20.8 percent shooting from the field compared to 35.5 percent accuracy of the winners. Indeportes forced 27 Azucareras turnovers. The winners were led by the former international guard Carolina Lopez (188-1998) who scored that evening 11 points and 5 rebounds and the former international forward Yuliany Paz (195-2000) supported her with 12 points and 5 rebounds. Five Indeportes players scored in double figures. Even 13 points by forward Laura Martinez (-1994) did not help to save the game for Azucareras. Alejandra Cogollo (-2006) added 3 points and 5 rebounds for the hosts. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Indeportes have an impressive eight-game winning streak. Defending champion maintains first position with 8-0 record. Azucareras lost fourth consecutive game. Newly promoted team dropped to the fourth place with six games lost.
Top scorers:
Azucareras: L.Martinez 13+4reb, C.Alejandra 3+5reb+3ast, C.Katherine 3+4reb+1ast, L.Torres 3+1reb, M.Karla 2+2reb+1ast, C.Diana 2+5reb+1ast
Indeportes: Y.Paz 12+5reb+2ast, L.Ramirez 12+1ast, M.Daihana 12+4reb+1ast, L.Carolina 11+5reb+3ast, B.Susana 10+2reb+1ast, C.Mariana 6+6reb

Azucareras - Raptors 48-53

Another exciting game for Raptors (3-5) which played on the court of one of their biggest challengers Azucareras (2-6). Fifth ranked Raptors won 53-48. They made 18-of-21 charity shots (85.7 percent) during the game. Worth to mention a great performance of forward Lizeth Cuadros (-1995) who helped to win the game recording 17 points and 8 rebounds and guard Karol Hernandez (-2002) who added 10 points and 6 rebounds during the contest. Four Raptors players scored in double figures. The former international guard Mayra Caicedo (160-2000, college: Tarleton St.) responded with 16 points and 4 assists and forward Laura Martinez (-1994) scored 15 points. Raptors moved-up to third place. Azucareras lost fourth consecutive game. Newly promoted team dropped to the fourth position with six games lost.
Top scorers:
Azucareras: M.Caicedo 16+4reb+4ast, L.Martinez 15+4reb+1ast, V.Ibone 9+8reb+1ast, L.Torres 6+7reb, C.Katherine 2+2reb+1ast, R.Maria 0
Raptors: C.Lizeth 17+8reb+3ast, D.Prens 10+7reb, H.Karol 10+6reb+2ast, G.Laura 10+2reb+1ast, S.Paoli 2+7reb, O.Ana 2+3reb+3ast

Escuela - Caldas 56-58

A very close game took place in between Caldas and Escuela. Second ranked Caldas (5-3) got a very close victory on the road over 4th ranked Escuela (2-5). Caldas managed to escape with a 2-point win 58-56 on Saturday evening. The winners were led by the former international center Libia De la Rosa (185-1992) who scored that evening 11 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists and Valentina Lopez (-1994) supported her with 13 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Caldas' coach used an eleven-player rotation in such tough game. Even a double-double of 31 points and 10 rebounds by the former international Isabel Rodriguez (175-1999, college: Southwest) did not help to save the game for Escuela. Jeimmy Tamayo (-1999) added 9 points and 8 rebounds for the hosts. Caldas have a solid three-game winning streak. Newly promoted Caldas maintains second position with 5-3 record despite having the same number of points like the leader Indeportes. Escuela at the other side, also newcomer in the league, dropped to the fifth place with five games lost.
Top scorers:
Escuela: I.Rodriguez 31+10reb+1ast, A.Rosana 10+6reb, T.Jeimmy 9+8reb+1ast, D.Mariana 4+6reb+1ast, G.Steffany 2+6reb, A.Wendy 0
Caldas: L.Valentina 13+5reb+4ast, E.Laura 13+2reb, L.De la Rosa 11+8reb+5ast, V.Tania 6+4reb, M.Daniela 6+3reb, W.Klennie 4+9reb

Cundinamarca - Guerreros 29-57

The game between closely ranked teams ended with top-ranked Guerreros' (9-0) road victory over second-ranked Cundinamarca (4-5) 57-29 on Friday. Guerreros held Cundinamarca to an opponent 24.5 percent shooting from the field compared to 32.9 percent accuracy of the winners. Guerreros forced 31 Cundinamarca turnovers. The winners were led by the former international power forward Wendy Coy (178-1998) who scored that evening 12 points and 7 rebounds and forward Gabriela Chivata (165-2002) supported her with 11 points and 5 rebounds. Even 6 points and 7 rebounds by center Erika Escobar (-1992) did not help to save the game for Cundinamarca. Forward Isabella Mosquera (180-2004) added 9 points and 5 rebounds for the hosts. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Guerreros have an impressive nine-game winning streak. Despite that victory Guerreros went down to second position due to points difference. Cundinamarca lost fourth consecutive game. They still keep top place with five games lost. They share the position with Huila and Bogota. Guerreros will meet at home Caqueta (#5) in the next round. Cundinamarca will play against Soacha (#6) and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Cundinamarca: M.Isabella 9+5reb, Q.Lady 8+4reb, E.Erika 6+7reb+2ast, M.Leidy 2+8reb+1ast, M.Lina 2+2reb+1ast, O.Maria 2+6reb+1ast
Guerreros: C.Wendy 12+7reb+1ast, C.Gabriela 11+5reb+3ast, S.Pardo 6+5reb, H.Ulloa 6+7reb+1ast, C.Valentina 5+1reb+1ast, B.Maria 5+4reb+1ast

Soacha - Huila 40-60

The game between closely ranked teams ended with 6th ranked Soacha's (1-8) home loss to fifth ranked Huila (4-5) 40-60 on Friday. The winners were led by Heylin Quiroz (-1990) who scored that evening 15 points and 5 rebounds and Arleidy Perea (-2004) supported her with 12 points. Even 9 points and 9 rebounds by Carolina Raga did not help to save the game for Soacha. Diana Luz added 9 points and 4 steals for the hosts. Both coaches used bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Huila keeps a position of league leader, which they share with Cundinamarca and Bogota. Soacha lost third consecutive game. They keep the sixth place with eight games lost. Huila will meet league's leader Bogota on the road in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Soacha will play against Cundinamarca (#3) and hope to win that game.
Top scorers:
Soacha: R.Carolina 9+9reb, L.Diana 9+3reb, G.Maira 6+2reb, G.Dayanna 4+4reb+1ast, R.Melida 4+2reb, R.Ana 3+3reb
Huila: Q.Heylin 15+5reb+1ast, P.Arleidy 12+3reb, O.Juliana 9+2reb, N.Garcia 8+1ast, B.Laura 5+3reb, C.Juliana 4+6reb+1ast

Bogota - Guerreros 47-69

The game had a very big importance for first-ranked Guerreros as it allowed them to take a leadership position. Guerreros smashed second-ranked Bogota on the road 69-47. Guerreros forced 21 Bogota turnovers. The former international power forward Wendy Coy (178-1998) orchestrated the victory with a double-double by scoring 15 points and 15 rebounds. Forward Gabriela Chivata (165-2002) contributed with 18 points and 9 rebounds (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field) for the winners. Angela Ibanez replied with a double-double by scoring 16 points and 11 rebounds and Angie Triana added 6 points and 9 rebounds in the effort for Bogota. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Guerreros (9-0) have an impressive nine-game winning streak. As mentioned above they are alone now at the top position. Bogota at the other side still keeps top place with five games lost. They share the position with Huila and Cundinamarca. Bogota will play next round against strong Huila trying to get back on the winning streak. Guerreros will try to continue on its current victory against fifth ranked Caqueta at home.
Top scorers:
Bogota: I.Angela 16+11reb, M.Valentina 6+5reb+1ast, T.Angie 6+9reb+1ast, G.Carolina 5+2reb+2ast, G.Vannesa 4+2reb, R.Ana 3+2reb+1ast
Guerreros: C.Gabriela 18+9reb+1ast, C.Wendy 15+15reb+2ast, N.Contreras 13+3reb+1ast, H.Ulloa 9+6reb+4ast, S.Pardo 5+3reb, P.Maria 3+3reb

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CROATIA

Klara Rimarcuk agreed terms with KAZL Split - by Zeljko Zule

Kosarkaska Akademija Zana Lelas Split (Premijer Liga) strengthened their roster with addition of 19-year old 173cm point guard Klara Rimarcuk for season 2023-24. Rimarcuk has played for the last five years at Brod na Savi. In 20 Premijer Liga games she recorded 13.6ppg, 3.3rpg, 2.7apg and 2.4spg last season.

Italian National Team successfully starts EuroBasket 2023 preparation - by Eurobasket News

Croatia - Italy 57:82

Italian National Team successfully started EuroBasket 2023 preparation beating Croatia 82-57. They trailed 5 points at the end fo the first period and took full control of the game after it. Italy replied with a 28-14 run in the second frame and won the third quarter 24-12. Moreover, Italy closed the game with a final 18-14 rally.
Jasmine Keys (192-PF-1997) top-scored for the winners with 14 points and Cecilia Zandalasini (189-F-1996) as well as Andre notched 11 each. Klaudia Perisa (180-SG-1996) replied with 17 points in defeat, whilst Mandic brought 13.

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CYPRUS

Cyprus edge hosting Malta to earn Bronze - by Eurobasket News

Malta's commitments in the women's basketball competition at the Games of the Small States of Europe ended on Saturday with Malta taking fourth place after a 10-point defeat to Cyprus. Malta had been looking to avenge their 1-2 run in the competition and it looked like it was about to happen during the game's progression as Amber Melgoza had another 30+ points game and the second double-double in as many days. She finished with 32 points, 12 rebounds, and three assists. Stephanie De Martino (184-F-1993), Amelia Simmons (181-F-1987, college: WILMU), and Ashleigh Van Vliet (180-SG-1990) all scored nine with the latter grabbing eight boards. It was Cyprus' Veatriki Akathiotou (166-G-1995) who opened the game's scoring with a three-pointer. Jessica Azzopardi (1998) replied by cutting into the late for a layup and threes from Simmons and Amber Melgoza (178-G-1998, college: Washington) gave Malta their first lead of the day with 3.4 minutes to go in the opening quarter. The second quarter was just as intense but Cyprus began to find their shot and opened a 10-point gap midway through the rubber. Josephine Diaby brought the gap to within six with a long-range effort before Amber Melgoza downed another three-ball to make it just three points. A tussle under the rim from Diaby levelled the game with a minute to go but Cassidy Mihalko (180-G-1995, college: CBU) gave Cyprus the lead again. Nonetheless, a Van Vliet three-ball sent the game to halftime with Malta in charge 39-37. There was an identical start to the half as Akathiotou hit a shot from the corner to bring Cyprus level again. Another make gave them the lead but Amber Melgoza was poised as she made her 16th and eventually 18th point in quick succession. Cyprus replied with a four-point play but Amber Melgoza drove to the hoop to level the score yet again. Akathiotou fired another three and Stilyana Chenaklieva added another in between a shot from the line as Cyprus led by seven in an instant. Simmons and Amber Melgoza replied to bring it back to three, the latter making it two with an and-one play in the final two minutes of the quarter. Cyprus opened a seven-point lead at the start of the fourth and Mihalko made matters worse for Malta with a pair of threes to give Cyprus their first double-digit lead as they lead by 13 points. As time trickled by, Malta began to struggle and only a De Martino three could stop Cyprus' run which had put them up eight. De Martino put up another shot from distance after a pair of Cyprus freeshots as the gap was now single digits in the final minute of the game. The last 30 seconds of the game became a fight o the death but the only baskets came from Cyprus as they sealed the deal to get revenge after game one and take bronze.
Courtesy of: sportsdesk.com.mt

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CZECH REPUBLIC

Czech Republic post second straight win over Great Britain - by Eurobasket News

Czech Republic - Great Britain 66:48

Czech Republic posted the second straight win over Great Britain. After a 98-44 win in the opener, Czech Republic won another game 66-48.
Czech Republic grabbed a 26-14 lead at the start, whilst Great Britain reduced to 8 points at the halftime. In the second half Czech Republic produced an 18-10 rally in the third quarter and closed the game with a final 11-9 rally.
Tereza Vyoralova (176-SG-1994, agency: Basket Promotion Agency) top-scored for the winners with 14 points and Natalie Stoupalova (185-PF-1998, agency: Basket Promotion Agency) netted 12. Renata Brezinova (191-C-1990, agency: Basket Promotion Agency) produced 9, while Emma Cechova (195-F-2004) had 7. Holly Winterburn (178-G-2000, college: UC Davis) and Wallace answered with 8 points in a loss.

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DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

El Salvador edge Dominican Republic in friendly game - by Eurobasket News

El Salvador have edged Dominican Republic in friendly game. El Salvador posted a 76-69 win as both teams start the preparation for Caribbean and Centroamerican events.
In 2022 Cuba conquered the trophy in Havana at the Caribbean Women's Championship. The hosts rallied past Dominican Republic 79-60 in the title game.

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EL SALVADOR

El Salvador edge Dominican Republic in friendly game - by Eurobasket News

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FIJI

Queens add Whippy to their roster - by Eurobasket News

Tokomanawa Queens (Tauihi Basketball Aoteroa) added to their roster 32-year old Fijian guard Letava Whippy (175cm-1991, college: LIU Brooklyn). The last time (2020-2021) she played at Capital Swish Wellington in New Zealand WBC league. Whippy missed last two seasons and had longer break from professional basketball.
She represented Fiji at the Pacific Games in Apia (Samoa) four years ago. Whippy's team won Silver and her stats at that event were 5 games: 13.0ppg, 10.8rpg, 1.6apg, Steals-5 (3.0spg), FGP: 50.9%, FT: 58.3%.
Whippy is a very experienced player.
She graduated from Long Island University in 2015 and it will be her ninth season as a professional player.

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FRANCE

Angers sign Marine Dursus - by Eurobasket News

Angers - Union Feminine Basket 49 (LFB) signed 17-year old swingman Marine Dursus (174cm-2005) for upcoming 2023-24 season. Dursus has played for the last three years at Centre Federal BB Paris in the LF2. In 18 games she had 9.5ppg, 2.6rpg, 1.1apg and 1.6spg last season.
She represented France at the FIBA U18 Women's European Championship in Heraklion (Greece) last year. Her team won Bronze and her stats at that event were 7 games: 6.3ppg, 1.9spg, FGP: 52.6%, 3PT: 28.0%, FT: 75.0%.

(via @GuidoGuida)

Sandrine Gruda paces France past China - by Eurobasket News

France achieve another win over China - by Eurobasket News

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GAMES OF THE SMALL STATES OF EUROPE

Cyprus edge hosting Malta to earn Bronze - by Eurobasket News

Montenegro top Luxembourg to claim Gold in Malta - by Eurobasket News

Luxembourg - Montenegro 61-74

Montenegro earned the Golden medals at the Games of Small States of Europe. They overcame Luxembourg in the title game in Malta. The teams went neck and neck throughout the first half. Montenegro eked out a 41-37 halftime lead. Luxembourg snatched the lead early in the third term but not for long. The Balkan team secured a 3-point lead heading into the fourth term. Montenegro sank a pair of three-pointers early in the final stanza to boost the lead to 9 points and rallied to the victory at the end.

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GERMANY

Faenza adds Brossmann to their roster - by Eurobasket News

E-Work Faenza (Serie A1) added to their roster 26-year old German ex-international forward Patricia Brossmann (183cm-1997, college: San Diego) for season 2023-24. Brossmann played last season at Costa Masnaga. In 31 Serie A2 games in Italy she recorded 12.1ppg, 12.5rpg, 1.2apg and 1.5spg. Good season as she was named League Player of the Week (2 times).
She played in the final of WCC Tournament in 2018 and 2020.
The previous (2022) summer she played at Flames in Australian NBL One South where in 21 games she averaged impressive 18.1ppg, 10.2rpg, 4.9apg and 1.5spg in 2022 year.
She was also a member of German international program for some years. She played for German Senior National Team two years ago and previously for U18 National Team back in 2015.
Brossmann represented Germany at the European Championships (FIBA EuroBasket) U20 Division B in Eliat (Israel) six years ago. Her team won Gold and her stats at that event were 7 games: 8.1ppg, 7.0rpg, 1.3spg, FGP: 47.8%, 3PT: 18.2%, FT: 38.9%.
She has played previously professionally in France (Calais) and Germany (Hannover).
Brossmann was voted to WCC All-Freshman Team back in 2017.
She graduated from University of San Diego in 2020 and it will be her fourth season as a professional player. Brossmann played in the final of WCC Tournament in 2018 and 2020.

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ICELAND

Thor AK Akureyri tabs Lore Devos, ex Castors Braine - by Eurobasket News

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ISRAEL

ASA Jerusalem tabs Jovana Pasic, ex Herceg Novi - by Eran Sela

A.S.A. Jerusalem (D1) inked 31-year old Montenegrin international 180cm forward Jovana Pasic for upcoming season. Pasic played most recently at ZKK Herceg Novi in Montenegrin Prva A. She also spent pre-season at Angers - Union Feminine Basket 49 in French league.
Pasic has been also a member of Montenegrin international program for some years. She has regularly played for Montenegrin senior team since 2014 and previously for U20 National Team back in 2009.
Pasic represented Montenegro at the European Championships (FIBA EuroBasket) in Serbia and Latvia four years ago. Her stats at that event were 4 games: 6.0ppg, 2.3rpg, 1.8spg, FGP: 66.7%, 3PT: 44.4%, FT: 80.0%.
She is a very experienced player. Pasic has played also professionally in Romania (Arad and ASC Sepsi SIC Sfantu Gheorghe), Spain (Bembibre) and Serbia (Vojvodina 021 Novi Sad, Radivoj Korac, Partizan and Palanka 2012 Smed. Palanka).

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ITALY

Faenza adds Brossmann to their roster - by Eurobasket News

Faenza inks Marzia Tagliamento - by Eurobasket News

E-Work Faenza (Serie A1) signed 27-year old Italian ex-international forward Marzia Tagliamento (183cm-1996) for upcoming 2023-24 season. Tagliamento plays this summer at Libertadores in Mexican LNBPF. In 11 games just recently she had 13.5ppg, 3.3rpg and 2.3apg. The last season she played at Akronos Moncalieri in Italian Serie A1 where in 12 games she recorded 14.8ppg, 4.8rpg and 2.9apg.
She was also a member of Italian international program for some years. Tagliamento played for Italian Senior National Team between 2016 and 2021 and previously for U20 National Team back in 2016.
She represented Italy at the Qualifications to European Championships (FIBA EuroBasket) 2017 seven years ago. Her stats at that event were 2 games: 14.5ppg, 1.0rpg, 1.0apg, 1.0spg.
Tagliamento has played also professionally in France (Landes), Spain (Ensino) and Italy (Schio, Ragusa, Brindisi, NPL Dike and Battipaglia).

Faenza inks Antonia Peresson - by Eurobasket News

E-Work Faenza (Serie A1) signed 27-year old ex-international guard Antonia Peresson (170cm-1995, college: Georgia Tech) for upcoming 2023-24 season. Peresson played last season at Use Scotti Rosa Empoli. In 30 Serie A2 games she had 13.1ppg, 5.4rpg, 3.2apg and 1.3spg.
The most of previous (2021-22) season she spent at Bruschi San Giovanni Valdarno (also in Serie A2) where in 19 games she recorded 10.6ppg, 4.9rpg and 1.5apg in that year. She helped them to win the group title. Peresson also played for inexio Royals Saarlouis in German DBBL. In 6 games she averaged 10.0ppg, 3.3rpg, 3.3apg and 1.0spg in that year.
She was also a member of Italian international program for some years. Peresson played for Italian Senior National Team back in 2016 and previously for U18 National Team in 2013.
She represented Italy at the European Championships (FIBA EuroBasket) U20 in Lanzarote (Spain) eight years ago. Her stats at that event were 9 games: 9.1ppg, 1.7rpg, 2.6apg, FGP: 31.4%, 3PT: 42.6%.
Peresson has played previously for Udine.
She graduated from Georgia Institute of Technology in 2018 and it will be her sixth season as a professional player.

Ragusa signs Silvia Pastrello - by Eurobasket News

Passalacqua Ragusa (Serie A1) signed 22-year old international swingman Silvia Pastrello (180cm-2001) for upcoming 2023-24 season. Pastrello has played for the last two years at San Martino. In 24 Serie A1 games she had 8.2ppg, 3.5rpg, 1.4apg and 1.0spg last season.
She has been also a member of Italian international program for some years. Pastrello has regularly played for Italian senior team since 2022 and two years ago for U22 National Team.
She represented Italy at the European Championships (FIBA EuroBasket) U18 in Sarajevo (Bosnia and Herzegovina) four years ago. Her team won Gold and her stats at that event were 7 games: 6.0ppg, 5.4rpg, 1.7apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 48.5%, FT: 47.6%.
Pastrello has played previously for two other teams: Marghera and Lucca.

Ragusa lands Ilaria Milazzo - by Eurobasket News

Passalacqua Ragusa (Serie A1) tabbed 29-year old 173cm point guard Ilaria Milazzo for new season. Milazzo has played for the last two years at San Martino. In 26 Serie A1 games she averaged 14.2ppg, 4.5rpg and 4.2apg (top 3) last season. Good year as she was voted League Player of the Week.
She represented Italy at the European Championships (FIBA EuroBasket) U20 for Women in Udine (Italy) nine years ago. Milazzo's team won Bronze and her stats at that event were 9 games: 12.9ppg, 3.1rpg, 2.4apg, FGP: 33.3%, 3PT: 30.6%, FT: 87.1%.
Milazzo has played previously professionally also in Poland (Lublin) and Italy (Priolo, Torino and Umbertide). She was also selected to Eurobasket.com All-Italian Serie A1 Domestic Player of the Year back in 2019 and 2020.
Her team made it to the Polish Cup Final Four in 2021.

Ragusa welcomes back Miccoli - by Eurobasket News

Passalacqua Ragusa (Serie A1) landed 27-year old 183cm forward Maria Miccoli for upcoming season. It is actually her comeback to Ragusa as she has played here before. Miccoli has played for the last three years at Gesam Gas Le Mura Lucca in the Serie A1. In 28 games she averaged 7.8ppg, 5.8rpg, 2.3apg and 1.3spg last season. She helped them to make it to the Supercup semifinals.
Miccoli represented Italy at the World University Games in Gwangju (South Korea) eight years ago. Her stats at that event were 6 games: 4.7ppg, 4.2rpg, 1.5apg, 1.7spg.
She has played previously for four other teams: Triestina, Trieste, Vigarano and Orvieto.
Miccoli played in the final of Italian Serie A1 in 2018.

Ragusa keeps Juskaite for another season - by Eurobasket News

Passalacqua Ragusa (Serie A1) re-signed 25-year old Lithuanian international forward Laura Juskaite (187cm-83kg-1997) for season 2023-24. Juskaite played there last season. She managed to play in three leagues in two countries last year. In four Serie A1 games she recorded 8.8ppg, 4.5rpg, 1.3apg and 1.3spg. Juskaite also played for Vilniaus Kibirkstis-MRU in Lithuania league that season where in 8 Eurocup games she averaged impressive 18.4ppg, 7.1rpg, 2.5apg and 2.6spg. She also played 8 games in WBBL where she had very remarkable stats: 15.4ppg, 4.9rpg, 3.6apg and 2.5spg.
Juskaite has been also a member of Lithuanian international program for some years. She has regularly played for Lithuanian senior team since 2015 and previously for University National Team back in 2017.
Juskaite also represented Lithuania at the European Championships (FIBA EuroBasket) U20 in Matosinhos (Portugal) six years ago. Her stats at that event were 7 games: 16.1ppg, 8.4rpg, 2.7apg, 1.9spg, FGP: 53.2%, 3PT: 22.7%, FT: 71.1%.
She is quite experienced player. Juskaite has played also professionally in France (Hainaut), Poland (PolskaStrefaInwestycji Enea Gorzow Wielkopolski), Spain (Valencia) and Lithuania (Vilniaus universitetas and Jaunieji Talentai). She was voted to Eurobasket.com All-European Championships (FIBA EuroBasket) U18 Honorable Mention back in 2014 and 2015.

Passalacqua Ragusa roster for 2023-24:

Guards:
Ilaria Milazzo
Silvia Pastrello

Forwards:
Laura Juskaite
Maria Miccoli

Italian National Team successfully starts EuroBasket 2023 preparation - by Eurobasket News

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LATVIA

Latvia outscore Slovakia at the Arena Riga - by Eurobasket News

Latvia - Slovakia 74:61

Latvia outscored Slovakia 74-61 at the Arena Riga. They opened the game with a 22-15 run and led 11 points at the halftime. Slovakia tried to recover with a narrow 16-15 rally in the third quarter, whilst the hosts closed the game with a final 19-16 run.
Anete Steinberga (190-C-1990, college: UTEP) top-scored for the winners with 15 points, while Aleksa Gulbe (190-F-2000, college: Indiana) and Kate Vilka (184-F-1996, college: Fordham) added 14 each. Ivana Jakubcova (198-C-1994, college: USC) replied with 19 points in defeat and Terezia Palenikova (178-SF-1995) produced 12.

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LITHUANIA

Ragusa keeps Juskaite for another season - by Eurobasket News

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LUXEMBOURG

Montenegro top Luxembourg to claim Gold in Malta - by Eurobasket News

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MALTA

Cyprus edge hosting Malta to earn Bronze - by Eurobasket News

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MONTENEGRO

Montenegro top Luxembourg to claim Gold in Malta - by Eurobasket News

ASA Jerusalem tabs Jovana Pasic, ex Herceg Novi - by Eran Sela

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NAIA

NAIA Wiley College hires Mandley as new WBB Head Coach - by Eurobasket News

Wiley College announces coach Dewitte Mandley will lead the Women's Basketball Program. Coach Mandley is a seasoned coach who most recently served at Langston University as the men's basketball assistant coach and was the interim head coach for 19 games during the 2021-22 season. He helped guide the Lions to 31 wins and the Round of 16 in the 2023 NAIA Men's Basketball National Championship Tournament. Coach Mandley was previously an associate head coach for the professional basketball team Enid Outlaws and an assistant coach at Redlands Community College. He is a North Carolina A&T State University graduate, served in the United States Marine Corps, and played for both teams. 'Coach Mandley was an immediate standout candidate for this position. As an assistant coach, he was instrumental in developing many players who went on to conference teams and championship standouts. As a campus community member, he has contributed heavily to the character development of student-athletes,' said President & CEO Herman J. Felton Jr., J.D., Ph.D. Coach Mandley began June 1 at Wiley College. The transition of Coach Mandley to Wiley College offers the Lady Wildcats the opportunity to continue building on their exceptional foundation of winning and leadership, including five NAIA Tournament appearances - most recently in 2015. 'It's one thing to move and hope that you are operating in God's will, it's something totally different when that path is laid out, and you know you are positioned in his purpose,' said Mandley. The Lady Wildcats have their sights on building on their 16-win season and continuing to recover after the loss of their beloved coach, Tiffany Jackson, who passed away at the beginning of the season. Most of the roster is expected to return, including All-Gulf Coast Athletic Conference Second Team selection Diamond Hawthorne and starters Tamia Dolls and Minnie Miller.
Courtesy of: whoopdirt.com

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NCAA1

Kadidia Toure transfers to Arizona State University - by Eurobasket News

Arizona State University added to their roster forward Kadidia Toure (6'2'') for new 2023-24 season. Silver Spring (MD) native moved there from James Madison University where she spent her freshman year. In 20 games she recorded 3.6ppg and 2.1rpg last season. Her team won Sun Belt Regular Season Co-Championship and Sun Belt Tournament this year.
Toure graduated Our Lady of Good Counsel High School (Olney, MD) in 2022.

(via @raoul_000)

Macy Smith will continue her college career at Utah State University - by Eurobasket News

Utah State University landed 5-10 guard Macy Smith for new season. Blaine (MN) native played for the last two years at California State University Northridge. In 31 games she averaged 4.3ppg and 1.7rpg last season.
Smith has played high school basketball at Spring Lake Park High, which she graduated in 2021. (via @raoul_000)

Indiana inks Teri Moren to new deal - by Eurobasket News

Indiana University and IU head women's basketball coach Teri Moren have agreed to an extended contract that will make her among the highest paid women's basketball coaches in the country. Moren's deal features an average annual compensation of more than $1.3 million, which ranks second in the Big Ten and among the top coaches nationally. The contract has also been extended by two years thru the 2028-29 season and includes more significant
performance bonuses that can enhance the deal, including the following:
- Big Ten regular and postseason championships;
- Top three Big Ten regular season finishes;
- NCAA Tournament participation and victories; and
- conference and/or national coach of the year accolades.
'Teri Moren has clearly established herself as one of the nation's best basketball coaches, and in doing so has elevated Indiana Women's Basketball to an unprecedented level in our program's history,' said IU Vice President and Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Scott Dolson. 'The decision to modify her contract not only recognizes the tremendous successes she has enjoyed during her nine years here, but also Indiana University's commitment to continuing to elevate IU Women's Basketball into one of the best programs in the sport.' 'I am honored and humbled to receive a contract extension from Indiana University,' said Moren. 'I am incredibly proud of what we have been able to build during our time at IU which is a direct reflection of our student-athletes, coaches, support staff and fans who have all played a big part in our success. I am excited for what's happening in the future of our program. A very heartfelt thank you to President Whitten and Scott Dolson for their support and their trust in me to lead this program for the long term. I am proud to be a Hoosier.' The reigning AP National Coach of the Year and the IU program's all-time winningest coach, Moren has compiled a 200-93 record (99-57 Big Ten) during her nine seasons in Bloomington. She's enjoyed eight straight 20-win seasons, doubling the number of 20-win seasons that the program enjoyed in the previous 41 years. She's coming off a 2022-23 season where she guided the program to a 28-4 overall record, its first Big Ten regular season championship in 40 years, and its first-ever No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament. Her IU teams have earned invitations to each of the last four NCAA Tournaments and five overall during her tenure. Each of her NCAA-bound IU teams have won at least one NCAA Tournament game, while the 2020-21 team advanced to the Elite Eight and the 2021-22 team to the Sweet 16. In addition to the NCAA berths the team earned two WNIT invitations, highlighted by the 2018 WNIT Championship. The program's successes have also helped produce exponential growth in attendance at IU's women's basketball games. After averaging 2,708/game in the year prior to Moren's arrival, average home attendance as Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall reached an all-time best of 8,104/game in 2022-23, a 199% increase compared to 2013-14. After previously ranking near the bottom of the Big Ten in attendance, IU ranked second in the Big Ten and in the top 10 nationally last season.
Courtesy of: iuhoosiers.com

Frey named Associate Head Women's Basketball Coach at New Mexico State - by Eurobasket News

After a decade of dominance at South Georgia Technical College (SGTC), former Lady Jets head women's basketball coach James Frey is set to join Jody Adams' coaching staff ahead of the 2023-24 season, which will mark Adams' second year with NM State. 'I have known Coach James for many years and coached several of his players, including All-American and professional player Angiee Tompkins.' said Coach Adams. 'James is known for winning championships and building a culture of winning by landing recruits from all over the world. I have witnessed firsthand his love and genuine passion for each of his players over the last decade and how he relates to them in their own unique way.' Since 2012, Frey has served as the athletic director and head women's basketball coach at SGTC in Americus, Georgia. During that span, Frey has developed quite the resume, building one of the top junior college programs in the nation. In 11 years with the Lady Jets, Frey has produced a 306-61 overall record with a 164-22 record in conference play, eight Southeast District Championships, six NJCAA Tournament Sweet 16 appearances, and two NJCAA elite eight appearances. During that stretch, Frey earned himself the NJCAA Region 17 Coach of the Year seven times - including this past season - while also taking home the WBCA Two Year National Coach of the Year (2021) and WER National Coach of the Year (2023) awards for his teams' success. Frey's teams are known for their high-level defense, which consistently rank amongst the best at the JUCO level. Frey's team has ranked top-35 in scoring defense every year since being named head coach in 2012. Last season, the Lady Jets ranked eighth overall in scoring defense while also ranking 6th in opponent field goal percentage (32.4), 29th in opponent three-point percentage (26.0), 20th in blocks (1.8), and 28th in steals (6.9), which helped SGTC to 29-1 overall record and number one NJCAA ranking. Since 2012, Frey has produced a dozen All-Americans, including former Aggie guard Moe Shida and recent signing Feme Sikuzani Masudi. Another notable All-American Frey coached is former Wichita State Shocker Angiee Tompkins, who played under coach Adams at WSU from 2016-2018. Tompkins currently plays professional basketball for the Rojas of the Mexico-LNBPF league. Before coaching at SGTC, Frey was an associate head coach/recruiting coordinator at the College of Costal Georgia for both their men's and women's basketball programs. Frey served in this role for 21 years and oversaw all duties associated with each of the programs. Frey Joins an Aggie squad that is coming off a historic season that saw them win their first postseason game in over 30 years. Frey's experience and defensive prowess should fit right into the identity of Jody Adams' team, which ranked number one in the Western Athletic Conference for defense last season. Frey will look to help Adams continue the previous season's success into the next as they transition into their new home in Conference USA this fall.
Courtesy of: nmstatesports.com

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NCAA2

Jackson named Head Women's Basketball Coach at Erskine - by Eurobasket News

The Erskine Women's Basketball program has named Lisa Jackson ('07) to be the new head coach of the Flying Fleet, Athletic Director Mark Peeler announced on Friday morning. 'I have looked forward to this day for a long time. I have always felt Lisa Jackson would be the perfect fit to lead the Fleet's women's basketball program,' Peeler said. 'She was an outstanding collegiate player in Due West, loves the game of basketball, and is passionate about providing young women an awesome collegiate experience.' Jackson, who played for the Fleet from 2003-2007, joins the Erskine staff after spending last season as an associate head coach at Division I program, Chicago State University. She worked primarily with the guards and developing defensive strategies, as well as having the responsibility to prepare scouting reports for each opponent. In addition, she was the travel and scheduling coordinator for the Cougars. Jackson made at least 23 appearances in all four seasons as a player in the Erskine program, totaling 102 career games played. She averaged 12.7 PPG over the course of her career and contributed on both ends, totaling 5.9 rebounds and 1.7 steals per game as well. Jackson totaled over 1,500 points in her career and was named to the All-CVAC 2nd Team in 2004-05 and 2005-06. 'I am grateful for the opportunity given to return home and make an impact on the Erskine community! I look forward to building relationships and a purpose-driven culture! Go Fleet!' Jackson said. Jackson spent two seasons on the coaching staff of the Erskine men's program in the late-2000's and has also had stops at Fort Valley State, Jacksonville, Georgia Southern, Presbyterian, and Queens throughout her coaching career. She is a 2007 graduate of Erskine (B.S. Sports Management) and returned in 2021 to earn her Masters in Practical Ministry. Jackson takes over a program that increased its win total by seven games from the previous season and is expected to return its four leading scorers from last year.
Courtesy of: erskinesports.com

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NEW ZEALAND

Queens add Whippy to their roster - by Eurobasket News

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RWANDA

D1 Round 10: APR lose their first game against REG - by Eurobasket News

Here is the last round review presented by LBM Management.

The most crucial game of the last round was the first loss of APR (9-1) at the home court on Friday night. Hosts were defeated by REG (9-1) 59-52. It ended at the same time the nine-game winning streak of APR. It was a key game for the top position in the league. REG have an impressive five-game winning streak. Defending champion used an opportunity after APR lost their game and moved up joining them at the top position which they share with defeated APR. REG is looking forward to face RP-IPRC Huye (#4) in the next round. APR will play against The Hoops and is hoping to win this game.
Important game to mention about took place in . Eighth ranked UR BBC (1-8) saved a 2-point victory at home edging 7th ranked UR Kigali (1-9) 46-44 in the game for the seventh place. UR BBC left bottom position moving up to seventh place. It was UR Kigali's sixth loss in a row. Newly promoted team dropped to the bottom position with nine games lost. UR BBC will play against higher ranked Gahini (#5) in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. UR Kigali will play against GSMRR to get more than just one victory in their record.
Very important is a road loss of third ranked Gahini (4-4) against fifth ranked GSMRR (5-5) on Saturday night. Visiting Gahini was crushed by GSMRR in 90-43. GSMRR moved-up to third place. Newly promoted Gahini dropped to the fifth position with four games lost. GSMRR will meet at home bottom-ranked UR Kigali (#8) in the next round where they are favorite. Gahini will play against UR BBC and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

The Round Review is presented by LBM Management. A full-service agency focused on Women's basketball sphere and working worldwide. A global and ethical quality service.

APR - REG 52-59

The most crucial game of the last round was the first loss of APR (9-1) at the home court on Friday night. Hosts were defeated by REG (9-1) 59-52. It ended at the same time the nine-game winning streak of APR. It was a key game for the top position in the league. REG have an impressive five-game winning streak. Defending champion used an opportunity after APR lost their game and moved up joining them at the top position which they share with defeated APR. REG is looking forward to face RP-IPRC Huye (#4) in the next round. APR will play against The Hoops and is hoping to win this game.

UR BBC - UR Kigali 46-44

Important game to mention about took place in . Eighth ranked UR BBC (1-8) saved a 2-point victory at home edging 7th ranked UR Kigali (1-9) 46-44 in the game for the seventh place. UR BBC left bottom position moving up to seventh place. It was UR Kigali's sixth loss in a row. Newly promoted team dropped to the bottom position with nine games lost. UR BBC will play against higher ranked Gahini (#5) in the next round and it may be quite challenging game. UR Kigali will play against GSMRR to get more than just one victory in their record.

GSMRR - Gahini 90-43

Very important is a road loss of third ranked Gahini (4-4) against fifth ranked GSMRR (5-5) on Saturday night. Visiting Gahini was crushed by GSMRR in 90-43. GSMRR moved-up to third place. Newly promoted Gahini dropped to the fifth position with four games lost. GSMRR will meet at home bottom-ranked UR Kigali (#8) in the next round where they are favorite. Gahini will play against UR BBC and it may be a tough game between close rivals.

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SAUDI ARABIA

Capital clinches Women's Saudi Basketball League 2022-2023 title - by Abdul Hamid Addasi

Following are the results of Round 5 of of Women's Saudi Basketball League (WSBL) 2022-2023 Finals that took on Friday 2-6 2023

Al Hilal x Al Nassr76-63

Best Scorer in the match was Sierra Moore of Al Hilal with 41 points and efficiency of 43

Her colleague Yaea Hakami added 15 points with efficiency of 14

On the other hand best scorer in Al Nasser was Makeda Nicholas with 25 points

She added 23 rebounds 6 assists and 2 steals to be named MVP of the match with efficiency of 44

Her colleague Annoud Al Qahtani added 21 points for the team

Al Ittihad x Al Ahli 57-45

Best Scorer in the match was Gaby Cooper of Al Ittihad of with 34 points and efficiency of 27

On the other hand best scorer in Al Ahli was Aida Bakos with 26 points

She added 18 rebounds 4 assists and 4 steals to be named MVP of the match with efficiency of 29

Capital x Jeddah Utd74-61

Best Scorer in the match was Monique Reid of Capital with 57 points

She added 28 rebounds 2 assists and 3 steals to be named MVP of the match with efficiency of 65

Results of Round 4 of Women's Saudi Basketball League 2022-2023 Finals - by Abdul Hamid Addasi

Following are the results of Round 4 of of Women's Saudi Basketball League (WSBL) 2022-2023 Finals that took on Wednesday 31-5 2023

Al Ittihad x Al Hilal

53-65

Best Scorer in the match was Sierra Moore of Al Hilal with 50 points

She added 20 rebounds 2 assists to be named MVP of the match with efficiency of 53

On the other hand best scorer in Al Ittihad was Gaby Cooper with 20 points and efficiency of 25

Al Nassr x Capital

61-74

Best Scorer in the match was Makeda Nicholas of Al Nasser with 33 points and efficiency of 43

On the other hand best scorer in Capital was Monique Reid of Capital with 31 points

She added 28 rebounds 6 assists and 3 steals to be named MVP of the match with efficiency of 58

Al Ahli - Jeddah Utd

77-53

Best Scorer on the match was Houda Hamrouni of Jeddah Utd with 28 points

On the other hand best scorer in Al Ahli was Aida Bakos with 26 points

She added 20 rebounds 6 assists and 3 steals to be named MVP of the match with efficiency of 35

Results of Round 3 of Women's Saudi Basketball League 2022-2023 Finals - by Abdul Hamid Addasi

Following are the results of Round 3 of Women's Saudi Basketball League (WSBL) 2022-2023 Finals that took on Tuesday 30-5- 2023

Al Hilal x Al Ahli92-59

Best Scorer in the match was Sierra Moore of Al Hilal with 46 points

She added 25 rebounds 10 assists and 7 steals to be named MVP of the match with efficiency of 71

On the other hand best scorer in Al Ahli was Aida Bakos with 38 points and efficiency of 38

Capital x Al Ittihad83-62

Best Scorer in the match was Monique Reid with 47 points

She added 30 rebounds 7 assists and 5 steals to be named MVP of the match with efficiency of 68

On the other hand best scorer in Al Ittihad was Gaby Cooper with 30 points and efficiency of 33

Jeddah Utd x Al Nassr69-77

Best Scorer in the match was Houda Hamrouni of Jeddah Utd with 36 points and efficiency of 34

On the other hand best scorer in Al Nasser was Makeda Nicholas with 33 points

She added 20 rebounds 3 assists and 8 steals to be named MVP of the match with efficiency of 48

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SLOVAKIA

Latvia outscore Slovakia at the Arena Riga - by Eurobasket News

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SPAIN

Spain overwhelm Turkey in Cordoba - by Eurobasket News

Spain - Turkey 76:37

Spain overwhelmed Turkey 76-37 in Cordoba at the preparation for EuroBasket 2023. The hosts opened the game with a 16-6 surge and never looked behind. They won the second frame 22-9 and posted two more wins in the second half.
Maria Conde (187-F-1997, college: FSU) top-scored for the winners with 12 points, while Leonor Rodriguez-Manso (180-G-1991, college: FSU) notched 11. Alba Torrens (188-G/F-1989), Laura Quevedo (185-G-1996, college: Miami, FL) and Ginzo each delivered 8 points in a win. Olcay Cakir-Turgut (182-PG-1993) and Irem Topuz (176-F-1997) replied with 8 points each in the losing effort.

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SYRIA

Al Thawra wins the series vs Al Ahli of Aleppo 2-0 to clinch the title of Syrian Basketball League 2022-2023 - by Abdul Hamid Addasi

Al Thawra won the series vs AL Ahli of Aleppo 2-0 to clinch the title of Syrian Basketball League 2021-2022 after winning Game 2 56 -49 in the match that took place on Wednesday 31-5

.
The Finals Series were played on best of 3 format

Best scorer in the match was Cedra Suliman of Al Thawra with 19 points

She added 2 rebounds 5 assists and 4 steals to be named MVP of Game 2 with efficiency of 15

Other top scorers in Al Thawra were:

Jessica Hakimeh with 12 points

Zeina Yazgi (captain) of AlThawra with 11 points and efficiency of 11

On the other hand best scorer in AL Ahli of Aleppo was Minerva Ajlan with 12 points and efficiency of 13

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TURKEY

Spain overwhelm Turkey in Cordoba - by Eurobasket News

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UNITED KINGDOM

Czech Republic post second straight win over Great Britain - by Eurobasket News

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WNBA

Parker moves into 8th on WNBA scoring list, Aces beat Dream - by Eurobasket News

A'Ja Wilson (6'5''-F-1996, college: S.Carolina) scored 21 points, Candace Parker (6'4''-C/F-1986, college: Tennessee) moved into eighth on the WNBA's career scoring list, and the Las Vegas Aces beat the Atlanta Dream 92-87 on Friday night. Parker passed Katie Smith (6,452) on the points list and now trails Sue Bird (6,803) for seventh. Kelsey Plum (5'8''-PG-1994, college: Washington) made a key steal of Aari McDonald (5'6''-PG-1998, college: Arizona) and Chelsea Gray (5'11''-PG-1992, college: Duke) raced the other way for a fast-break layup to extend Las Vegas' lead to 89-84. But Rhyne Howard (6'2''-SF, college: Kentucky) completed a three-point play at the other end with 36 seconds left. Gray answered with a jumper from the free-throw line with 22.5 seconds left for a four-point lead and Kiah Stokes (6'3''-C-1993, college: UConn) blocked Howard's 3-point attempt at the other end. Jackie Young (6'0''-PG-1997, college: Notre Dame) scored 20 points, Plum added 15 and Parker finished with 13 for Las Vegas (5-0). Las Vegas led 45-30 at the break behind 12 points apiece from Wilson and Young. Cheyenne Parker (6'4''-F-1992, college: MTSU) had 25 points and 11 rebounds for Atlanta (2-3). Allisha Gray (6'0''-PG-1995, college: S.Carolina) added 16 points and Howard scored 15.
Courtesy of: newsday.com

Mystics rally again but fall short this time as Lynx grab first win - by Eurobasket News

For the second consecutive night, the Washington Mystics rallied furiously in the final period after blowing a third-quarter lead. This time, they couldn't finish the job. The Minnesota Lynx claimed their first win of the season with an 80-78 victory Saturday at Entertainment and Sports Arena. The final moments were a dizzying display after the Mystics trailed by three with 15.2 seconds remaining. Natasha Cloud (6'0''-PG-1992, college: St.Joseph's) found a wide-open Brittney Sykes (5'9''-PG-1994, college: Syracuse) for a three-pointer to tie the score at 78 with 7.1 seconds left. Minnesota's Tiffany Mitchell (5'9''-PG-1994, college: S.Carolina) then missed on a drive but got her own rebound and scored with three seconds left. Ariel Atkins (5'8''-PG-1996, college: Texas) was off the mark on a heave at the buzzer, giving the Lynx (1-6) the win. 'For us, it's a matter of focus right now,' Atkins said. 'That's the only thing that I can really attest to. It's not to say we're thinking about other things. I just think we just need to lock in to each other, focus on what we have going on the court and be intentional about what we're doing every single possession.' The last four minutes of the third quarter were the worst stretch of the game for the Mystics (3-3), and they let the Lynx claim a 10-point lead. Washington's poor shooting night got worse as Minnesota ripped off an 18-3 run to close the quarter. And the normally stout Mystics defense had no answer for Kayla McBride (5'11''-PG-1992, college: Notre Dame), who scored 12 of her game-high 24 points in the period. Napheesa Collier (6'3''-F-1996, college: UConn) added 17 points and nine rebounds on the night. 'I didn't think it was just the end of the third,' Mystics Coach Eric Thibault said. 'We just had lapses. As I told the team after the game, to be a great team, to be a good team, you can't do a lot of hard work and get yourself pushing and then turn around and just give it back because of a lack of focus or lack of execution. We're not a good enough team to just have three or four minutes where we just lose our minds.' Atkins (18 points) and Elena Delle Donne (6'5''-F-1989, college: Delaware) led Washington's 16-4 run in the fourth quarter to tie it at 67, but the Lynx answered with a 10-4 stretch before the Mystics surged again. Delle Donne finished with 12 points and seven rebounds despite not making a field goal until early in the third quarter. Natasha Cloud carried the Mystics in the first half and called it a night with 14 points and nine assists. Shakira Austin (6'5''-F-1999, college: Ole Miss, agency: LBM Management) added 14 points and 10 rebounds. The second-year standout has four double-doubles, tied for the most in the WNBA, but Washington shot 39.4 percent from the field and 30 percent from behind the arc.
Courtesy of: washingtonpost.com