There are only two more rounds left in the Regular Season in FIBA Europe Cup. The round was exceptionally exciting as five games ended with a tiny margin. Here is the last round review presented by Job Market.
The game had a very big importance for second-ranked Slovakian Levice as it allowed them to take a leadership position. Levice smashed 4th ranked Cypriot Anorthosis at home 100-68. Levice looked well-organized offensively handing out 30 assists comparing to just 10 passes made by Anorthosis‘ players. 25 personal fouls committed by Anorthosis helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Finnish point guard Aatu Kivimaki (185-1997, agency: Blacktop Management) fired 19 points and 9 assists for the winners. American Stephon Jelks (198-1996, college: Mercer) chipped in 20 points and 6 rebounds. British Jordan Williams (203-1995) produced 11 points and 8 rebounds for lost side. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. As mentioned above they are at the top of the standings, which they share with 6 other teams. Anorthosis at the other side still closes the standings with four games lost. They share the position with 6 other teams. Anorthosis will play next round against strong Bursaspor trying to get back on the winning streak. Levice will try to continue on its current victory against second ranked Zaragoza on the road.
Undefeated German EnBW Ludwigsburg (3-1) recorded its first loss in Glasgow. Visitors were edged by third ranked British Gladiators (2-2) 73-71. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of EnBW Ludwigsburg. It may be a crucial game in the contest for the top position in the league. Worth to mention a great performance of guard Patrick Whelan (195-1996, college: William Jewell) who helped to win the game recording 25 points, 5 rebounds and 8 assists. Toto Fagbenle contributed with 17 points for the winners. American guard Hunter Maldonado (201-1999, college: Wyoming, agency: Octagon Europe) replied with 12 points and 8 rebounds for Ludwigsburg. EnBW Ludwigsburg’s coach tried various players’ combinations and tested in total twelve players in this game, but that didn’t help. Caledonia moved-up to second place, which they share with 9 other teams. Ludwigsburg at the other side still keeps top position with one game lost. They share it with 6 other teams. Caledonia will play against league’s second-placed Dijon on the road in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Ludwigsburg will play against Trepca and hopes to get back on the winning track.
An interesting game where German Braunschweig (#2) beat host Cypriot AEK Larnaca (#4) 72-63 on Wednesday evening. Worth to mention a great performance of Sananda Fru who helped to win the game recording 23 points and 8 rebounds. Braunschweig’s coach used an eleven-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. At the losing side Taveion Hollingsworth responded with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 10 rebounds. Braunschweig maintains second position with 2-2 record having just six point less than leader Bilbao, which they share with 9 other teams. Loser AEK Larnaca dropped to the third place with three games lost. They share the position with 5 other teams. Braunschweig will meet at home Keravnos (#4) in the next round. AEK Larnaca will play against the league’s leader Tofas in Bursa and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Rest of the games of round 4 were quite predictable and ended without any surprises. Here they are:
Cholet defeated Fribourg in a road game 85-81. Le Portel lost to Estonian defending champion Kalev/Cramo at home 54-77. Charleroi won against Sabah on the opponent’s court 78-68. Kutaisi unfortunately lost to Prievidza in a home game 104-108. Bilbao rolled over Balkan on the road 93-62. Dnipro was crushed by Anwil on its own court 63-100. Limburg lost to undefeated PAOK in Thessaloniki 76-94. Parnu won against Pitesti at home 73-70. FC Porto managed to outperform Szolnok on the opponent’s court 88-71. Winless Rilski recorded a loss to Alba in a home game 83-93. Zaragoza defeated Bursaspor on the road 89-87. Keravnos lost to undefeated Tofas on its own court 96-99. Maroussi lost to Norrkoping in a road game 71-74. Spojnia lost to undefeated Oradea at home 65-77. Dijon managed to beat Trepca on the opponent’s court 89-84. Antwerp defeated Constanta in a home game 84-81. Sporting lost to undefeated Sassari on the road 71-88. Dnipro lost to undefeated Sassari on its own court 55-98.
The best stats of 4th round was 11 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals by Miralem Halilovic of Sassari.
Fribourg – Cholet 81-85
The game between closely ranked teams ended with their biggest opponent Swiss Fribourg‘s (2-2) home loss to top-ranked French Cholet Basket (4-0) 81-85 on Tuesday. Cholet made 16-of-21 free shots (76.2 percent) during the game. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 25 assists. Worth to mention a great performance of Jamaican-Canadian guard Stefan Smith (187-1999, college: St.John’s, agency: Players Group) who helped to win the game recording 17 points and 4 assists and point guard Nathan De Sousa (190-2003, agency: Octagon Europe) who added 10 points and 7 assists during the contest. Five Cholet Basket players scored in double figures. Cholet Basket’s coach used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. At the losing side American-Nigerian forward Mezie Offurum (203-2000, college: JMU) responded with 20 points and 5 rebounds and power forward Arnaud Cotture (201-1995) scored 9 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. Cholet Basket have a solid four-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 4-0 record, which they share with 6 other teams. Defending Swiss champion Fribourg keeps the second place with two games lost. They share the position with 9 other teams. Cholet will meet at home Antwerp (#3) in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Fribourg will play against Constanta and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Fribourg: M.Offurum 20+5reb+2ast, R.Williams 14+3reb+1ast, R.Kovac 11+1reb, A.Cotture 9+5reb+5ast, J.Kazadi 8+6reb+3ast, N.Jurkovitz 7+6reb+5ast
Cholet: S.Smith 17+4reb+4ast, A.Roberson 14+5reb+1ast, G.Ayayi 13+1reb+1ast, J.McNeace 13+5reb+2ast, N.De Sousa 10+4reb+7ast, B.Vautier 6+3reb+3ast
gschID: 1213383
Le Portel – Kalev/Cramo 54-77
The game between closely ranked teams ended with top-ranked Estonian Kalev/Cramo‘s (4-0) road victory over their biggest opponent French Le Portel (2-2) 77-54 on Tuesday. Kalev/Cramo outrebounded Le Portel 43-27 including a 30-14 advantage in defensive rebounds. Kalev/Cramo looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. Worth to mention a great performance of Kregor Hermet (205-1997) who helped to win the game recording 18 points and 8 rebounds (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) and guard Kasper Suurorg (200-2002, college: SFC) who added 13 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists during the contest. At the losing side American power forward Jack Nunge (213-1999, college: Xavier) responded with 13 points and 7 rebounds and point guard Gaetan Meyniel (189-2000) scored 9 points and 5 assists. Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Kalev/Cramo have a solid four-game winning streak. Defending Estonian champion maintains first position with 4-0 record, which they share with 6 other teams. Loser Le Portel keeps the second place with two games lost. They share the position with 9 other teams. Kalev/Cramo will meet at home Rilski (#4) in the next round. Le Portel will play against Alba in Szekesfehervar and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Le Portel: J.Nunge 13+7reb, G.Meyniel 9+4reb+5ast, K.Zoriks 8+1reb+2ast, C.Kelly 6+1ast, E.Diawara 6+2reb+2ast, D.Gholston 4+4reb
Kalev/Cramo: K.Hermet 18+8reb+1ast, K.Suurorg 13+6reb+6ast, S.Kaukiainen 10+2reb+5ast, S.Vaaks 8+2reb+2ast, H.Toom 8+5reb, P.Tape 7+8reb+3ast
gschID: 1213384
Sabah – Charleroi 68-78
Rather expected game in Baku where 4th ranked Azerbaijani Sabah (0-4) was defeated by top-ranked Belgian Spirou Charleroi (4-0) 78-68 on Wednesday. Charleroi dominated down low during the game scoring 48 of its points in the paint compared to Sabah‘s 26. Worth to mention a great performance of Bulgarian forward Yordan Minchev (202-1998) who helped to win the game recording 18 points and 5 rebounds and American point guard Cobe Williams (183-2000, college: Tulsa) who added 11 points and 8 assists during the contest. Five Spirou Charleroi players scored in double figures. Spirou Charleroi’s coach used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. At the losing side American guard Hassani Gravett (188-1996, college: S.Carolina) responded with 24 points and his fellow American import guard KamRon Blue (201-2000, college: Coppin St.) scored 16 points and 5 rebounds. Spirou Charleroi have a solid four-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 4-0 record, which they share with 6 other teams. Defending Azerbaijani champion Sabah still closes the standings with four games lost. They share the position with 6 other teams. Charleroi will meet at home Norrkoping (#3) in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Sabah will play against the league’s second-placed Maroussi in Athens and hopes to get finally their first victory.
Top scorers:
Sabah: H.Gravett 24+4reb+2ast, K.Blue 16+5reb+1ast, M.Holton Jr. 7+3reb+2ast, K.Cavars 7+10reb+2ast, A.Voinalovych 6+3reb+1ast, A.Butjankovs 3+4reb
Charleroi: Y.Minchev 18+5reb+3ast, X.Pintelon 14+5reb+2ast, G.Knudsen 13+4reb+1ast, C.Williams 11+2reb+8ast, W.Brandwijk 10+8reb, S.Hollanders 7+4reb+1ast
gschID: 1213385
Kutaisi – Prievidza 104-108
The game between closely ranked teams ended with second ranked Slovakian Prievidza‘s (3-1) road victory over 3rd ranked Georgian Kutaisi (1-3) 108-104 on Wednesday. Prievidza looked well-organized offensively handing out 26 assists. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Prievidza made 7 blocks. Worth to mention a great performance of American guard Daishon Smith (185-1995, college: ULM) who helped to win the game recording 30 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists and the other American import Keith Jordan (198-1998, college: SHU) who added 29 points and 12 rebounds during the contest. At the losing side American guard Elijah Joiner (190-1999, college: Iona) responded with 31 points, 6 rebounds, 7 assists and 4 steals and power forward Giorgi Korsantia (207-1998, agency: BIG) produced a double-double by scoring 18 points and 12 rebounds. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Prievidza keeps a position of league leader, which they share with 6 other teams. Defending Georgian champion Kutaisi keeps the third place with three games lost. They share the position with 5 other teams. Prievidza will meet at home Balkan (#4) in the next round. Kutaisi will play against the league’s leader Bilbao and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Kutaisi: E.Joiner 31+6reb+7ast, G.Korsantia 18+12reb+2ast, G.Ochkhikidze 16+4reb+2ast, M.Smith 12+11reb+4ast, M.Berishvili 11+2reb+4ast, A.Dvalishvili 8+6reb
Prievidza: D.Smith 30+6reb+6ast, K.Jordan 29+12reb, H.Dean 22+17reb, C.Jackson 12+8reb+16ast, D.Krestinin 9+14reb+2ast, D.Hlivak 6+6reb+2ast
gschID: 1213386
AEK Larnaca – Braunschweig 63-72
An interesting game where German Braunschweig (#2) beat host Cypriot AEK Larnaca (#4) 72-63 on Wednesday evening. Braunschweig made 22-of-26 free shots (84.6 percent) during the game. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. Worth to mention a great performance of forward Sananda Fru (209-2003) who helped to win the game recording 23 points and 8 rebounds and American guard TJ Crockett (187-1999, college: Lindenwood) who added 13 points during the contest. Braunschweig’s coach used an eleven-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. At the losing side American guard Taveion Hollingsworth (188-1999, college: WKU) responded with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 10 rebounds and his fellow American import power forward Brison Gresham (201-1998, college: Texas Southern) produced a double-double by scoring 12 points and 10 rebounds. Braunschweig maintains second position with 2-2 record having just six point less than leader Bilbao, which they share with 9 other teams. Loser AEK Larnaca dropped to the third place with three games lost. They share the position with 5 other teams. Braunschweig will meet at home Keravnos (#4) in the next round. AEK Larnaca will play against the league’s leader Tofas in Bursa and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
AEK Larnaca: T.Hollingsworth 18+10reb, A.Bell 13+3reb+5ast, B.Gresham 12+10reb+2ast, I.Panteli 8+4reb+2ast, J.Hunt 5+5reb, I.Giannaras 3+1ast
Braunschweig: S.Fru 23+8reb+1ast, T.Crockett 13+2reb+3ast, C.Flanigan 9+6reb+3ast, T.Mitchell 8+7reb+3ast, A.Velicka 7+2reb+7ast, G.Schilling 4+3reb+1ast
gschID: 1213387
Balkan – Bilbao 62-93
Not a big story in a game in Botevgrad where 4th ranked Bulgarian Balkan (0-4) was outplayed by top-ranked Spanish Surne Bilbao (4-0) 93-62 on Wednesday. Bilbao dominated down low during the game scoring 46 of its points in the paint compared to Balkan‘s 26. They outrebounded Balkan 42-29 including 32 on the defensive glass. Worth to mention a great performance of Icelandic center Tryggvi Hlinason (215-1997) who helped to win the game recording 9 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists and Belgian power forward Thijs de Ridder (203-2003) who added 10 points and 6 rebounds during the contest. At the losing side forward Georgi Boyanov (200-1993, college: USA) responded with 17 points and 8 rebounds and center Andrey Ivanov (205-1996, agency: BIG) scored 13 points and 4 assists (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field). Since the result was very predictable, it gave the chance for the coaches to test many bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Surne Bilbao have a solid four-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 4-0 record, which they share with 6 other teams. Loser Balkan still closes the standings with four games lost. They share the position with 6 other teams. Bilbao will meet at home Kutaisi (#3) in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Balkan will play against the league’s second-placed Prievidza and hopes to get finally their first victory.
Top scorers:
Balkan: G.Boyanov 17+8reb+2ast, A.Ivanov 13+2reb+4ast, T.Marshall 9+8reb, I.Gavrilovic 8+1reb, K.Toshkov 5+3reb+5ast, C.Jones 3+2reb+3ast
Bilbao: X.Rabaseda 10+3reb+2ast, H.Frey 10+1reb+2ast, T.de Ridder 10+6reb, R.Dominguez 9+2reb+1ast, T.Hlinason 9+7reb+5ast, M.Abdur-Rahkman 9+1reb+1ast
gschID: 1213388
Dnipro – Anwil 63-100
Everything went according to plan when second ranked Polish Anwil (3-1) outleveled on the road 4th ranked Ukrainian Dnipro (1-5) 100-63 on Wednesday. Anwil forced 21 Dnipro turnovers. They shot the lights out from three sinking 14 long-distance shots on high 51.9 percentage. Anwil looked well-organized offensively handing out 28 assists comparing to just 13 passes made by Dnipro‘s players. Worth to mention a great performance of American-Polish Luke Petrasek (206-1995, college: Columbia) who helped to win the game recording 15 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists and Canadian center Nick Ongenda (211-2000, college: DePaul) who added 12 points and 6 rebounds during the contest. Four Anwil players scored in double figures. Anwil’s coach felt very confident that he used entire bench and allowed the starting five to rest. At the losing side Olexandr Mishula (191-1992) responded with 22 points and forward Stanislav Tymofeyenko (205-1989, agency: Octagon Europe) scored 15 points and 7 rebounds. Anwil keeps a position of league leader, which they share with 6 other teams. Dnipro lost third consecutive game. Defending Ukrainian champion keeps the fourth place with five games lost. Anwil will meet at home league’s leader Sassari in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Dnipro will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
Dnipro: O.Mishula 22+4reb+3ast, S.Tymofeyenko 15+7reb+2ast, V.Koniev 11+1reb, M.Zakurdaiev 5+3reb+1ast, D.Sypalo 4+4reb+1ast, I.Dubonenko 4+3reb+1ast
Anwil: L.Petrasek 15+5reb+4ast, K.Gruszecki 15+1reb+1ast, J.Turner 15+1reb+3ast, N.Ongenda 12+6reb+2ast, M.Michalak 9+2reb+3ast, R.Jackson Jr. 9+7reb
gschID: 1213389
PAOK – Limburg 94-76
There was no surprise in Thessaloniki where 3rd ranked Belgian Limburg United (1-3) was defeated by top-ranked Greek PAOK (4-0) 94-76 on Wednesday. PAOK made 19-of-25 free shots (76.0 percent) during the game. PAOK outrebounded Limburg 38-25 including 28 on the defensive glass. Worth to mention a great performance of American guard Frank Bartley IV (191-1994, college: Louisiana) who helped to win the game recording 20 points and the other American import center Devonte Upson (206-1993, college: SE Louisiana) who added 13 points and 8 rebounds (perfect from the field making all six shots) during the contest. Bartley IV is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. At the losing side Jonas Delalieux (202-1992) responded with 23 points and 8 rebounds and American guard Jaren Holmes (193-1998, college: Iowa St., agency: One Motive Sports) scored 10 points and 4 assists. Four Limburg players scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. PAOK have a solid four-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 4-0 record, which they share with 6 other teams. Loser Limburg United keeps the third place with three games lost. They share the position with 5 other teams. PAOK will meet league’s second-placed FC Porto on the road in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Limburg will play against Szolnok and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Limburg: J.Delalieux 23+8reb+2ast, E.Pemberton 12+1reb+3ast, Q.Serron 12+1reb+2ast, J.Holmes 10+3reb+4ast, J.Lesuisse 7+2reb, T.Vanderhaegen 6+3reb
PAOK: F.Bartley IV 20+3reb+3ast, D.Katsivelis 14+2reb+4ast, D.Upson 13+8reb, K.Papadakis 8+4reb+3ast, S.Reynolds Jr. 8+4reb+6ast, R.Kreuser 7+4reb+3ast
gschID: 1213390
Parnu – Pitesti 73-70
We could consider it a predictable result in the game between close teams when fourth ranked Estonian Parnu (1-3) edged at home one of their biggest challengers Romanian Pitesti (1-3) 73-70 on Wednesday. Worth to mention a great performance of Ivo-Van Tamm (202-1996) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 14 points and 12 rebounds and American point guard Christian Bradford (185-1995, college: Radford) who added 15 points and 5 assists during the contest. Bradford is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. Four Parnu players scored in double figures. At the losing side American guard Corey Allen-Williams (188-1998, college: Georgia St.) responded with 19 points and 5 assists and his fellow American import forward Kyndahl Hill (201-1994, college: Weber St.) scored 23 points. Pitesti’s coach let to play ten players, but that didn’t help to avoid defeat in this game. Parnu left bottom position moving up to third place, which they share with 5 other teams including defeated Pitesti. It was Pitesti‘s third loss in a row. Parnu will meet league’s leader Oradea on the road in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Pitesti will play against the league’s second-placed Spojnia and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Pitesti: K.Hill 23+3reb, C.Allen-Williams 19+3reb+5ast, Z.Smith 8+9reb+1ast, A.Price 7+2reb+2ast, C.Jones 6+8reb, T.Fometescu 5+2reb+1ast
Parnu: R.Valge 16+2reb+3ast, C.Bradford 15+2reb+5ast, I.Tamm 14+12reb+1ast, A.Ogemuno-Johnson 12+6reb, O.Jarvi 9+4reb+3ast, O.Suurorg 5+1reb+1ast
gschID: 1213391
Szolnok – FC Porto 71-88
Rather expected game when 4th ranked Hungarian Szolnok (0-4) was defeated at home by second ranked Portuguese FC Porto (3-1) 88-71 on Wednesday. FC Porto outrebounded Szolnok 44-29 including a 20-4 advantage in offensive rebounds. Worth to mention a great performance of American forward Tanner Omlid (196-1993, college: WOU, agency: Worldwide SM) who helped to win the game recording 15 points and 9 rebounds and the other American import Max Landis (188-1993, college: PFW, agency: Promo Sport ID) who added 21 points during the contest. FC Porto’s coach allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. At the losing side Serbian point guard Strahinja Jovanovic (185-1996) responded with 20 points and 8 assists and Canadian forward Fardaws Aimaq (211-1999, college: California) scored 13 points and 8 rebounds. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. FC Porto keeps a position of league leader, which they share with 6 other teams. Loser Szolnok still closes the standings with four games lost. They share the position with 6 other teams. FC Porto will meet at home league’s leader PAOK in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Szolnok will play against Limburg and hopes to get finally their first victory.
Top scorers:
Szolnok: S.Jovanovic 20+3reb+8ast, B.Subotic 14+5reb, F.Aimaq 13+8reb, T.Pallai 13+1reb+1ast, N.Lukacs 4+3reb+1ast, B.Krnjajski 4+3reb
FC Porto: M.Landis 21+1reb+1ast, T.Omlid 15+9reb+1ast, P.Fayne II 13+4reb+3ast, T.Douglas 11+5reb+3ast, G.Delgado 8+8reb+3ast, M.Queiroz 7+6reb+1ast
gschID: 1213392
Rilski – Alba 83-93
The game between closely ranked teams ended with third ranked Hungarian Alba‘s (2-2) road victory over 4th ranked Bulgarian Rilski (0-4) 93-83 on Tuesday. Alba looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. Worth to mention a great performance of American point guard David Nichols (183-1996, college: FSU) who helped to win the game recording a double-double by scoring 17 points, 5 rebounds and 10 assists (on 7-of-8 shooting from the field) and the other American import forward Jeriah Horne (201-1998, college: Tulsa) who added 18 points and 4 steals (made all of his seven free throws) during the contest. Five Alba players scored in double figures. At the losing side Croatian-Bosnian forward Jure Planinic (206-2000, agency: AltusBasket) responded with a double-double by scoring 26 points and 12 rebounds (on 12-of-15 shooting from the field) and Chavdar Kostov (196-1988, agency: BIG) scored 12 points and 4 assists. Rilski’s coach let to play ten players, but that didn’t help to avoid defeat in this game. Alba moved-up to second place, which they share with 9 other teams. Defending Bulgarian champion Rilski still closes the standings with four games lost. They share the position with 6 other teams. Alba will meet at home league’s second-placed Le Portel in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Rilski will play against the league’s leader Kalev/Cramo in Tallinn and hopes to get finally their first victory.
Top scorers:
Rilski: J.Planinic 26+12reb+3ast, A.Arnett 13+4reb, C.Kostov 12+2reb+4ast, A.Simeonov 8+1reb, L.Rideau 7+4reb+4ast, M.Vasov 7+5ast
Alba: D.Vojvoda 18+4ast, J.Horne 18+4reb+2ast, D.Nichols 17+5reb+10ast, M.Filipovity 14+6reb+1ast, T.Thomas 10+7reb+1ast, M.Krivacevic 8+4reb+4ast
gschID: 1213393
Bursaspor – Zaragoza 87-89
Everything could happen at the game between two tied teams. Both first ranked Spanish Zaragoza and one of their biggest challengers Turkish Bursaspor had identical 2-1 record. But Bursaspor was not able to use a home court advantage and was edged by the opponent from Zaragoza 89-87 on Wednesday night. It was a key game for the top position in the league. Zaragoza dominated down low during the game scoring 62 of its points in the paint compared to Bursaspor‘s 38. Zaragoza looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. Worth to mention a great performance of Angolan center Jilson Bango (208-1999) who helped to win the game recording 24 points and 7 rebounds and Canadian guard Trae Bell-Haynes (188-1995, college: Vermont) who added 12 points and 10 assists during the contest. At the losing side American forward Donte Grantham (203-1995, college: Clemson) responded with a double-double by scoring 18 points and 12 rebounds and his fellow American import guard Jaylon Brown (183-1994, college: Evansville) scored 21 points and 7 assists. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Zaragoza maintains first position with 3-1 record, which they share with 6 other teams. Loser Bursaspor dropped to the second place with two games lost. They share the position with 9 other teams. Zaragoza will meet at home league’s leader Levice in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Bursaspor will play against Anorthosis in Nicosia and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Bursaspor: J.Brown 21+4reb+7ast, D.Grantham 18+12reb+3ast, D.Michineau 15+2reb+1ast, D.Mutaf 12+7reb+2ast, O.Utku Al 9+2reb+3ast, J.Sharma 8+7reb+1ast
Zaragoza: J.Bango 24+7reb, S.Yusta 14+1reb+1ast, T.Bell-Haynes 12+4reb+10ast, E.Sulejmanovic 10+7reb+1ast, B.Dubljevic 9+12reb, J.Rodriguez 9+1reb+3ast
gschID: 1213394
Keravnos – Tofas 96-99
Everything went according to plan in Nicosia where top-ranked Turkish Tofas (4-0) edged 3rd ranked Cypriot Keravnos (1-3) 99-96 on Wednesday. Tofas made 22-of-29 free shots (75.9 percent) during the game. Tofas outrebounded Keravnos 31-19 including 21 on the defensive glass. Tofas looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. Worth to mention a great performance of American Marcquise Reed (190-1995, college: Clemson, agency: Octagon Europe) who helped to win the game recording 24 points and 5 rebounds and Mexican-American point guard Alexander Perez-Kaufmann (191-1993) who added 18 points and 9 assists during the contest. Four Tofas players scored in double figures. At the losing side American guard Landrius Horton (193-1998, college: Columbus St.) responded with 35 points (!!!) and his fellow American import guard Josh Hagins (187-1994, college: UALR, agency: Haylett Sports) scored 18 points and 5 assists. Both coaches used bench players in such tough game. Tofas have a solid four-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 4-0 record, which they share with 6 other teams. Defending Cypriot champion Keravnos keep the third place with three games lost. They share the position with 5 other teams. Tofas will meet at home AEK Larnaca (#3) in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Keravnos will play against the league’s second-placed Braunschweig and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Keravnos: L.Horton 35+2reb+1ast, J.Hagins 18+4reb+5ast, T.Taylor 13+6reb+5ast, S.Michail 9+1ast, F.Tigkas 7+3reb+4ast, J.Crockett 7+1reb
Tofas: M.Reed 24+5reb+2ast, Y.Saybir 20+5reb, A.Perez-Kaufmann 18+3reb+9ast, J.O’Brien 14+3reb+4ast, K.Bankston 8+3reb, C.Kucukozkan 7
gschID: 1213395
Levice – Anorthosis 100-68
The game had a very big importance for second-ranked Slovakian Levice as it allowed them to take a leadership position. Levice smashed 4th ranked Cypriot Anorthosis at home 100-68. Levice looked well-organized offensively handing out 30 assists comparing to just 10 passes made by Anorthosis‘ players. 25 personal fouls committed by Anorthosis helped opponents get some easy free throw opportunities. Finnish point guard Aatu Kivimaki (185-1997, agency: Blacktop Management) fired 19 points and 9 assists for the winners. American Stephon Jelks (198-1996, college: Mercer) chipped in 20 points and 6 rebounds. Five Levice players scored in double figures. British Jordan Williams (203-1995) produced 11 points and 8 rebounds and Bahamas forward Kentwan Smith (203-1991, college: Stetson) added 12 points and 7 rebounds respectively for lost side. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. As mentioned above they are at the top of the standings, which they share with 6 other teams. Anorthosis at the other side still closes the standings with four games lost. They share the position with 6 other teams. Anorthosis will play next round against strong Bursaspor trying to get back on the winning streak. Levice will try to continue on its current victory against second ranked Zaragoza on the road.
Top scorers:
Anorthosis: G.Williams Jr. 12+2reb+1ast, K.Smith 12+7reb, J.Williams 11+8reb+1ast, D.Sanadze 8+1reb+1ast, K.Maragkos 7+1reb, R.Eleftheriou 4+1reb
Levice: S.Jelks 20+6reb+1ast, A.Kivimaki 19+3reb+9ast, D.Abrham 15+2reb+2ast, F.Terins 14+2reb+1ast, T.Nichols 13+3reb+11ast, B.Bojanovsky 12+9reb+3ast
gschID: 1213396
Norrkoping – Maroussi 74-71
We cannot really consider it an upset in the game between close teams when their biggest opponent Greek Maroussi (2-2) was edged on the road by third ranked Swedish Norrkoping (2-2) 74-71 on Wednesday. Norrkoping forced 22 Maroussi turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. Worth to mention a great performance of American power forward Shane Hunter (208-2001, college: Nova SE) who helped to win the game recording 19 points and 6 rebounds and the other American import guard Marcus Tyus (185-1994, college: Omaha) who added 14 points and 5 steals during the contest. Four Norrkoping players scored in double figures. At the losing side American Cameron Reynolds (201-1995, college: Tulane) responded with 31 points and Icelandic point guard Elvar Fridriksson (182-1994, college: Barry) scored 13 points and 4 assists. Maroussi’s coach tried various players’ combinations and tested in total twelve players, but that didn’t help to avoid defeat in this game. Defending Swedish champion moved-up to second place, which they share with 9 other teams including defeated Maroussi. Norrkoping will meet league’s leader Charleroi on the road in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Maroussi will play against Sabah and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Maroussi: C.Reynolds 31+4reb+1ast, E.Fridriksson 13+4reb+4ast, M.Raduljica 10+6reb+3ast, I.Sanogo 7+3reb+2ast, C.Langevine 6+3reb+1ast, J.Stove 4+2reb
Norrkoping: S.Hunter 19+6reb, M.Tyus 14+2reb+3ast, D.Green 14+1reb+1ast, D.Love 11+4reb+4ast, N.Dawit 6+2reb, T.Schuberg 5+2reb+9ast
gschID: 1213397
Spojnia – Oradea 65-77
The game between closely ranked teams ended with top-ranked Romanian Oradea‘s (4-0) road victory over their biggest opponent Polish Spojnia (2-2) 77-65 on Wednesday. Worth to mention a great performance of American point guard Brandon Brown (186-1989, college: UMW, agency: Worldwide SM) who helped to win the game recording 14 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists and Lithuanian power forward Paulius Petrilevicius (204-1991) who added 13 points and 8 rebounds during the contest. Four Oradea players scored in double figures. At the losing side American guard TaLon Cooper (193-1999, college: S.Carolina) responded with 15 points and 4 assists and his fellow American import guard Luther Muhammad (191-1999, college: Arizona St.) scored 10 points and 5 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Oradea have a solid four-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 4-0 record, which they share with 6 other teams. Loser Spojnia keeps the second place with two games lost. They share the position with 9 other teams. Oradea will meet at home Parnu (#3) in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Spojnia will play against Pitesti and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Spojnia: T.Cooper 15+2reb+4ast, L.Muhammad 10+5reb+2ast, S.Kowalczyk 9+2reb+3ast, J.Martinez 7+8reb+1ast, P.Kikowski 6+1ast, W.Gordon 5+8reb
Oradea: B.Brown 14+5reb+6ast, P.Petrilevicius 13+8reb, S.Pridgett 12+2reb+4ast, K.Richard 11+2reb+1ast, D.Tarolis 10+5reb+2ast, T.Williams 8+6reb+2ast
gschID: 1213398
Trepca – Dijon 84-89
Rather expected game in Mitrovice where 4th ranked Kosovan Trepca (0-4) was defeated by second ranked French JDA Dijon (3-1) 89-84 on Wednesday. Dijon looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. Worth to mention a great performance of German Christian Sengfelder (203-1995, college: Boise St.) who helped to win the game recording 18 points and 6 rebounds (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) and German swingman Joshua Obiesie (198-2000) who added 16 points (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) during the contest. JDA Dijon’s coach allowed to play the deep bench players in such tough game. At the losing side Montenegrin-Kosovan Mikaile Tmusic (189-1993) responded with a double-double by scoring 23 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists and forward Dardan Kapiti (208-2000, college: EKU) scored 16 points and 5 rebounds. Five Dijon and four Trepca players scored in double figures. Dijon keeps a position of league leader, which they share with 6 other teams. Defending Kosovan champion Trepca still closes the standings with four games lost. They share the position with 6 other teams. Dijon will meet at home Caledonia (#3) in the next round, which may be the game of the day. Trepca will play against the league’s leader Ludwigsburg and hopes to get finally their first victory.
Top scorers:
Trepca: M.Tmusic 23+10reb+4ast, D.Kapiti 16+5reb+1ast, M.Barro 12+4reb+4ast, L.Thomas 11+1reb+4ast, E.Kastrati 7+1reb, M.Johnson 7+1reb+9ast
Dijon: C.Sengfelder 18+6reb+1ast, J.Obiesie 16+3reb+2ast, A.Dokossi 13+3reb+1ast, D.Holston 12+1reb+4ast, K.Edwards 11+2reb+4ast, A.Julien 8+4reb+3ast
gschID: 1213399
Antwerp – Constanta 84-81
The game between closely ranked teams ended with third ranked Belgian Antwerp Giants‘ (2-2) home victory over 4th ranked Romanian Constanta (0-4) 84-81 on Wednesday. The game was dominated by American players. Worth to mention a great performance of guard Michael Flowers (185-1999, college: WSU) who helped to win the game recording 16 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists and Mike Moore (203-1994, college: Mount Olive) who added 18 points during the contest. At the losing side guard Duffy Jorden Randell (186-1996, college: N.Texas) responded with 27 points and 5 assists and forward Monyea Pratt (196-1985, college: Stillman) scored 8 points, 13 rebounds and 4 assists. Antwerp moved-up to second place, which they share with 9 other teams. Loser Constanta still closes the standings with four games lost. They share the position with 6 other teams. Antwerp will meet league’s leader Cholet on the road in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Constanta will play against the league’s second-placed Fribourg and hopes to get finally their first victory.
Top scorers:
Constanta: D.Jorden Randell 27+3reb+5ast, K.Allen 13+4reb+2ast, C.Baciu 12+3reb+1ast, M.Pratt 8+13reb+4ast, I.Philmore 7+2reb+2ast, A.Andries 6+1reb
Antwerp: M.Moore 18+4reb+3ast, M.Flowers 16+6reb+6ast, W.Baker 10+4reb+2ast, F.Tallir 10+2reb+1ast, K.Foster 8+4reb+2ast, E.Lasisi 7+7reb+3ast
gschID: 1213400
Caledonia G. – Ludwigsburg 73-71
Undefeated German EnBW Ludwigsburg (3-1) recorded its first loss in Glasgow. Visitors were edged by third ranked British Gladiators (2-2) 73-71. It ended at the same time the three-game winning streak of EnBW Ludwigsburg. It may be a crucial game in the contest for the top position in the league. Caledonia shot the lights out from three nailing 13 long-distance shots on high 61.9 percentage. Worth to mention a great performance of guard Patrick Whelan (195-1996, college: William Jewell) who helped to win the game recording 25 points, 5 rebounds and 8 assists. Forward Toto Fagbenle (206-2001, college: Coppin St.) contributed with 17 points for the winners. American guard Hunter Maldonado (201-1999, college: Wyoming, agency: Octagon Europe) replied with 12 points and 8 rebounds and his fellow American import guard Kellan Grady (196-1997, college: Kentucky) added 14 points and 6 rebounds in the effort for Ludwigsburg. EnBW Ludwigsburg’s coach tried various players’ combinations and tested in total twelve players in this game, but that didn’t help. Caledonia moved-up to second place, which they share with 9 other teams. Ludwigsburg at the other side still keeps top position with one game lost. They share it with 6 other teams. Caledonia will play against league’s second-placed Dijon on the road in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Ludwigsburg will play against Trepca and hopes to get back on the winning track.
Top scorers:
Ludwigsburg: K.Grady 14+6reb, E.Manjon 14+3reb+2ast, H.Maldonado 12+8reb+2ast, J.Simon 8+6reb+1ast, B.Tischler 6+3reb, J.Scott 5+3reb+1ast
Caledonia G.: P.Whelan 25+5reb+8ast, T.Fagbenle 17+4reb, T.Barnes 8+7reb+1ast, T.Stuckman 8+3reb, I.Hill 7+1reb+5ast, F.Malcolm 6+4reb+1ast
gschID: 1213401
Sassari – Sporting 88-71
Not a big story in a game when 3rd ranked Portuguese Sporting (1-4) was defeated on the road by top-ranked Italian Sassari (5-0) 88-71 on Wednesday. Worth to mention a great performance of guard Matteo Tambone (192-1994) who helped to win the game recording 17 points and American guard Brian Fobbs (196-1998, college: Towson) who added 13 points and 5 rebounds during the contest. At the losing side French center Ludgy Debaut (213-1998, college: ECU, agency: Helping Ballers) responded with 16 points and 9 rebounds and American forward Isaiah Armwood (206-1990, college: GWU) scored 8 points. Both coaches used bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Sassari have an impressive five-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 5-0 record. Sporting lost third consecutive game. They keep the third place with four games lost. Sassari will meet league’s second-placed Anwil in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Sporting will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
Sporting: L.Debaut 16+9reb+1ast, U.Razaque 11+1reb+1ast, A.Cruz 8+3reb+1ast, I.Armwood 8+4reb+1ast, J.Bailey 7+2reb+1ast, D.Ventura 7+3reb+2ast
Sassari: M.Tambone 17+1reb+3ast, B.Fobbs 13+5reb+2ast, J.Bibbins 13+4ast, M.Sokolowski 11+1reb, E.Bendzius 9+4reb, A.Cappelletti 8+4reb+2ast
gschID: 1213402
Round 6
Dnipro – Sassari 55-98
Everything went according to plan when top-ranked Italian Sassari (5-0) outleveled on the road 4th ranked Ukrainian Dnipro (1-5) 98-55 on Thursday. Sassari had a 33-21 advantage in offensive rebounds. Worth to mention a great performance of Bosnian center Miralem Halilovic (205-1991) who helped to win the game recording 11 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals and Giovanni Veronesi (198-1998, agency: SLN) who added 15 points during the contest. Four Sassari players scored in double figures. Sassari’s coach felt very confident that he used entire bench and allowed the starting five to rest. At the losing side forward Volodymyr Koniev (203-1989) responded with 10 points and 5 rebounds and Olexandr Mishula (191-1992) scored 11 points. Sassari have an impressive five-game winning streak. They maintain first position with 5-0 record. Dnipro lost third consecutive game. Defending Ukrainian champion keeps the fourth place with five games lost. Sassari will meet league’s second-placed Anwil in the next round and it will be for sure the game of the week. Dnipro will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
Dnipro: O.Mishula 11+3reb, V.Koniev 10+5reb+1ast, M.Zakurdaiev 8+2reb, I.Dubonenko 6, I.Lishchyna 6, D.Sypalo 5+7reb
Sassari: G.Veronesi 15+3reb+3ast, M.Halilovic 11+6reb+4ast, E.Bendzius 11+3reb, M.Tambone 11+4reb+2ast, A.Cappelletti 10+1reb+4ast, M.Sokolowski 9+2reb+1ast
gschID: 1237097
