Hello....sorry for the change of venue but my blog is now at: http://cdstarrbblog.blogspot.com
I had a few pesky layout problems but now will get back to what I do best at the new location.
23 July 2009
18 July 2009
Bit of Housekeeping!!!
Finally I am able to catch up and do a bit of housekeeping!!
In the latest from the NBA today, Zach Randolph has been traded from the LA Clippers to the Memphis Grizzlies for former teammate Quentin Richardson. Though Randolph had been the leading scorer for the Clippers last season, the addition of #1 draft pick Blake griffin saw his role with the team disappear. Richardson returns to the Clippers, a team he left as a free agent after the 2003-2004 season. He will provide the team with a swingman that can add depth to the rotation.
Catching up on the Free Agent Market:
Name: (Position) From: To:
Trevor Ariza (F) LA Lakers Houston Rockets
Ron Artest (G/F) Houston Rockets LA Lakers
Brandon Bass (F) Dallas Mavericks Orlando Magic
Jamal Crawford (G) Golden St. Warriors Atlanta Hawks
Channing Frye (F/C) Portland Trailblazers Phoenix Suns
Ben Gordon (G) Chicago Bulls Detroit Pistons
Dahntay Jones (G) Denver Nuggets Indiana Pacers
Shawn Marion (F) Toronto Raptors Dallas Mavericks
Antonio McDyess (F) Detroit Pistons San Antonio Spurs
Anthony Parker (G) Toronto Raptors Cleveland Cavaliers
Quenton Ross (G/F) Memphis Grizzlies Dallas Mavericks
Hedo Turkoglu (F) Orlando Magic Toronto Raptors
Charlie Villanueva (F) Milwaukee Bucks Detroit Pistons
Rasheed Wallace (F/C) Detroit Pistons Boston Celtics
That is the up to the minute report, will be looking at the effect of signings on teams as the season draws closer. Aussie ABA, NBL, WNBA and EuroLeague...I'm getting there, will look at these soon.
In the latest from the NBA today, Zach Randolph has been traded from the LA Clippers to the Memphis Grizzlies for former teammate Quentin Richardson. Though Randolph had been the leading scorer for the Clippers last season, the addition of #1 draft pick Blake griffin saw his role with the team disappear. Richardson returns to the Clippers, a team he left as a free agent after the 2003-2004 season. He will provide the team with a swingman that can add depth to the rotation.
Catching up on the Free Agent Market:
Name: (Position) From: To:
Trevor Ariza (F) LA Lakers Houston Rockets
Ron Artest (G/F) Houston Rockets LA Lakers
Brandon Bass (F) Dallas Mavericks Orlando Magic
Jamal Crawford (G) Golden St. Warriors Atlanta Hawks
Channing Frye (F/C) Portland Trailblazers Phoenix Suns
Ben Gordon (G) Chicago Bulls Detroit Pistons
Dahntay Jones (G) Denver Nuggets Indiana Pacers
Shawn Marion (F) Toronto Raptors Dallas Mavericks
Antonio McDyess (F) Detroit Pistons San Antonio Spurs
Anthony Parker (G) Toronto Raptors Cleveland Cavaliers
Quenton Ross (G/F) Memphis Grizzlies Dallas Mavericks
Hedo Turkoglu (F) Orlando Magic Toronto Raptors
Charlie Villanueva (F) Milwaukee Bucks Detroit Pistons
Rasheed Wallace (F/C) Detroit Pistons Boston Celtics
That is the up to the minute report, will be looking at the effect of signings on teams as the season draws closer. Aussie ABA, NBL, WNBA and EuroLeague...I'm getting there, will look at these soon.
14 July 2009
Final Report from U19 World championships
Courtesy of www.fiba.com, here is the final table and games report from the now completed Under 19 World championships.
Report:
AUCKLAND (FIBA U19 World Championship) – The ninth FIBA U19 World Championship have been run and won, and the USA have claimed the gold medal for the first time since 1991.
The US faced a tough battle in the gold medal game, but survived a second half comeback from Greece to record an 88-80 victory, after leading 46-30 at half time.
As with the USA’s semi final, they could not match their opponents after half time, as Greece won the third quarter 21-14. They could have been much closer after missing 7 free throws in the term.
A spectacular alley-oop finish from Arnett Moultrie capped a 5-0 USA run in the first 74 seconds of the final period to extend the lead to 14, and although Greece challenged on numerous occasions and closed to 8 points with 7:51 to play, the USA had the answers.
When Klay Thompson and Ashton Gibbs hit back-to-back triples the lead was 73-61 and the gold medal decided.
Leading scorers for the USA were Tyshawn Taylor (18 points, 6 assists, 5 steals), Gibbs (13 points), Thompson (10 points, 3 blocks) and Moultrie (10 points, 9 rebounds).
For Greece, Kostas Sloukas (17 points, 4 assists, 4 steals), Nikolaos Pappas (16 points), Leonidas Kaselakis (15 points, 6 rebounds) and Kostas Papanikolaou (12 points, 5 rebounds) all tried gallantly.
It is the USA’s fourth triumph at the FIBA U19 World Championship, while for Greece, their silver medal joins the gold they won in 1995 in Athens, and the bronze they secured in Thessaloniki in 2003.
The USA and Greece were joined on the podium by bronze medallist Croatia. Tournament MVP Mario Delas scored 24 of his 28 points after half time as his team held off a desperate Australia, 87-81.
Delas scored 9 points in the gripping last quarter, including a big offensive rebound and two free throws with 1:11 remaining when Australia had drawn level, 79-79, after trailing by as much as 9 points.
Australian captain Matthew Dellavedova (14 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals) was almost the hero for his team, but his fifth and final foul with scores tied and just over a minute to play was a key moment.
From there Croatia scored 8 points to 2, including a huge three pointer from Ivan Batur, his first field goal since 6:44 to play in the first quarter.
Delas (28 points, 12/15 fg, 5 rebounds) received outstanding support from Toni Prostran (21 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists) and Tomislav Zubcic (16 points, 6 rebounds).
For Australia, Cody Ellis was outstanding defensively and finished with 9 points, 6 rebounds and 4 blocks. Mitchell Young (15 points, 6 rebounds), Ryan Broekhoff (11 points, 7 rebounds) and Brock Motum (10 points, 5 rebounds) were also strong contributors.
In the day’s first game, Canada proved too good for France, taking 7th position with a 82-74 win.
Mangisto Arop (16 points, 7/12 fg) and Cory Joseph (18 points, 7 rebounds, 3 assists) again led Canada, who used an 11-4 run to begin the third quarter, and a 15-7 streak at the start of the last period to create their final 8-point margin.
For France, who claim 8th position in the tournament with a 3-6 record, Nicolas Lang (19 points, 5/10 3pfg), Alexis Tanghe (16 points) and Christophe Leonard (15 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists) led the scoring.
Argentina celebrated claiming 5th place enthusiastically with their supporters, after extending an 11-point half time lead to defeat Puerto Rico, 92-70.
Argentina were led by Andres Landoni (17 points), Juan Fernandez (12 points, 8 rebounds, 7 assists), Mateo Gaynor (14 points) and Luciano Gonzalez (12). The South Americans finish the tournament with a 5-4 record.
Puerto Rico’s best were again Jio Fontan (19 points, 6 assists) and Mike Rosario (21 points), as their team finished the tournament in 6th place with 5 wins and 4 losses.
So the 2009 FIBA U19 World Championship in Auckland, New Zealand has come to an end, with the USA, Greece and USA the medallists. As a confederation, the Americas were the big winners with four teams in the top 7.
The tournament returns in 2011, and if it has the drama, skill, speed and athleticism of this championship, basketball fans are once again in for a treat.
Awards:
AUCKLAND (FIBA U19 World Championship) – The ninth FIBA U19 World Championship have been run and won, and the USA have claimed the gold medal for the first time since 1991.
A panel of accredited media representatives covering the 2009 FIBA U19 World Championship have selected the MVP and the All-Star Five of the Tournament.
>MVP: Mario Delas (Croatia).
>All-Star Five: Toni Prostran (Croatia), Nikos Pappas (Greece), Tyshawn Taylor (USA), Gordon Hayward (USA) and Mario Delas (Croatia).
The US faced a tough battle in the gold medal game, but survived a second half comeback from Greece to record an 88-80 victory, after leading 46-30 at half time.
As with the USA’s semi final, they could not match their opponents after half time, as Greece won the third quarter 21-14. They could have been much closer after missing 7 free throws in the term.
A spectacular alley-oop finish from Arnett Moultrie capped a 5-0 USA run in the first 74 seconds of the final period to extend the lead to 14, and although Greece challenged on numerous occasions and closed to 8 points with 7:51 to play, the USA had the answers.
When Klay Thompson and Ashton Gibbs hit back-to-back triples the lead was 73-61 and the gold medal decided.
Leading scorers for the USA were Tyshawn Taylor (18 points, 6 assists, 5 steals), Gibbs (13 points), Thompson (10 points, 3 blocks) and Moultrie (10 points, 9 rebounds).
For Greece, Kostas Sloukas (17 points, 4 assists, 4 steals), Nikolaos Pappas (16 points), Leonidas Kaselakis (15 points, 6 rebounds) and Kostas Papanikolaou (12 points, 5 rebounds) all tried gallantly.
It is the USA’s fourth triumph at the FIBA U19 World Championship, while for Greece, their silver medal joins the gold they won in 1995 in Athens, and the bronze they secured in Thessaloniki in 2003.
The USA and Greece were joined on the podium by bronze medallist Croatia. Tournament MVP Mario Delas scored 24 of his 28 points after half time as his team held off a desperate Australia, 87-81.
Delas scored 9 points in the gripping last quarter, including a big offensive rebound and two free throws with 1:11 remaining when Australia had drawn level, 79-79, after trailing by as much as 9 points.
Australian captain Matthew Dellavedova (14 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals) was almost the hero for his team, but his fifth and final foul with scores tied and just over a minute to play was a key moment.
From there Croatia scored 8 points to 2, including a huge three pointer from Ivan Batur, his first field goal since 6:44 to play in the first quarter.
Delas (28 points, 12/15 fg, 5 rebounds) received outstanding support from Toni Prostran (21 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists) and Tomislav Zubcic (16 points, 6 rebounds).
For Australia, Cody Ellis was outstanding defensively and finished with 9 points, 6 rebounds and 4 blocks. Mitchell Young (15 points, 6 rebounds), Ryan Broekhoff (11 points, 7 rebounds) and Brock Motum (10 points, 5 rebounds) were also strong contributors.
In the day’s first game, Canada proved too good for France, taking 7th position with a 82-74 win.
Mangisto Arop (16 points, 7/12 fg) and Cory Joseph (18 points, 7 rebounds, 3 assists) again led Canada, who used an 11-4 run to begin the third quarter, and a 15-7 streak at the start of the last period to create their final 8-point margin.
For France, who claim 8th position in the tournament with a 3-6 record, Nicolas Lang (19 points, 5/10 3pfg), Alexis Tanghe (16 points) and Christophe Leonard (15 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists) led the scoring.
Argentina celebrated claiming 5th place enthusiastically with their supporters, after extending an 11-point half time lead to defeat Puerto Rico, 92-70.
Argentina were led by Andres Landoni (17 points), Juan Fernandez (12 points, 8 rebounds, 7 assists), Mateo Gaynor (14 points) and Luciano Gonzalez (12). The South Americans finish the tournament with a 5-4 record.
Puerto Rico’s best were again Jio Fontan (19 points, 6 assists) and Mike Rosario (21 points), as their team finished the tournament in 6th place with 5 wins and 4 losses.
So the 2009 FIBA U19 World Championship in Auckland, New Zealand has come to an end, with the USA, Greece and USA the medallists. As a confederation, the Americas were the big winners with four teams in the top 7.
The tournament returns in 2011, and if it has the drama, skill, speed and athleticism of this championship, basketball fans are once again in for a treat.
Semi Finals:
AUCKLAND (FIBA U19 World Championship) - It was semi final night at the FIBA U19 World Championship, and the near capacity crowd at the North Shore Events Centre in Auckland were given a treat.
The USA dominated the first half of their semi final against Croatia, taking a 46-33 lead into half time.
With the USA seemingly cruising to the gold medal game, Mario Delas sparked his team with three interior baskets early in the third quarter. Tomislav Zubcic then nailed two 3-pointers, and when Toni Prostran scored a driving basket Croatia led 55-53.
The final quarter was a classic, with both teams trading baskets throughout. But it was the USA that kept its nose in front, and with Shelvin Mack hitting a tough pull up and Gordon Haywood hitting 4/4 free throws and pulling in a crucial offensive rebound, the USA secured their 81-77 win.
Haywood was again outstanding for the USA with 15 points and 8 rebounds, while Seth Curry (10 points) was crucial in a first half that set up the USA’s victory. Ashton Gibbs (11 points) and Terrico White (10) also scored in double figures.
Prostran led Croatia with 15 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists, and along with Delas (17 points), Tomislav Zubcic (15 points, 8 rebounds) and Dino Butorac (15 points, 5/7 3pfg) almost led the Croatians into the final.
In the other semi final Greece made an emphatic statement that it plans to win the world championship, dismissing Australia, 84-69.
Greece’s 46-33 half time lead was soon out of Australia’s reach. When Kostas Papanikolaou and Vlantimir Giankovits hit big threes the score was 64-43 and the European champions were into the gold medal game.
Australia were troubled by the size, strength, speed and athleticism of Greece, who were led by Pappas (19 points, 4 rebounds), Giankovits (16 points, 9 rebounds), Papanikolaou (18 points, 10 rebounds) and Leonidas Kaselakis (13 points, 13 rebounds) .
For Australia, only Matthew Dellavedova (12 points, 3 assists, 2 steals) and Jorden Page (15 points) scored in double figures.
Puerto Rico will play off for 5th position after Jio Fontan hit the game winner against Canada with 2.6 seconds remaining.
When Kevin Young dunked in style to start the last quarter, Puerto Rico led 57-47 and seemed on their way to victory before Mangisto Arop stepped in to almost steal the game for Canada.
Arop finished with 20 points and 9 rebounds, and was helped by Tristan Thompson, who recorded 13 points and 11 rebounds in 26 minutes. For Puerto Rico, Fontan was superb with 16 points, 4 rebounds and 4 assists. Their other game winners were Young (9 points, 9 rebounds, 3 blocks) and Carlos Lopez (7 points, 10 rebounds , 4 blocks).
Puerto Rico will face Americas rival Argentina, who came from 14 points down to defeat France, 92-84. France now play Canada in the playoff for 7th position.
Little used Argentine guard Nicola¡s Laprovittola was his team’s hero, nailing three triples in 1:20 and two important free throws to lead Argentina from a 73-75 deficit to a 85-78 lead.
Matias Nocedal (20 points), Andres Landoni (15 points, 6 rebounds), Laprovittola and Juan Fernandez (both 14 points) were all strong contributors for Argentina. Andrew Albicy (24 points, 6 assists, 4 steals) and Christophe Leonard (17 points, 7 rebounds) were the best for France.
Ninth place belongs to Lithuania, who led Spain from the first whistle to record an easy 88-64 victory.
Vytenis Cisauskas was the class player on the court, recording 20 points and 6 rebounds by half time, and finishing with 22 points, 8 rebounds and 3 assists. Gediminas Orelik had his most productive game of the tournament, nailing 6 three pointers in the second half on his way to 30 points and 9 rebounds.
For Spain, who didn’t come closer than 11 points after half time, Toni Vicens (12 points, 10 rebounds) and Daniel Perez (11 points, 5 assists) continued their consistent world championship campaigns, but received little help, with only Julio Sosa (11 points) joining them in double figures.
And Egypt celebrated heartily after their 86-78 defeat of Kazakhstan earned them 11th position.
Amro Sherif Abdelhalim was again the star, collecting 32 points, 14 rebounds and 3 assists as the African champions picked up their second win of tournament. Big man Omar Oraby (24 points, 11 rebounds) was also a strong contributor.
Alexandr Tyutyunik (20 points), Pavel Illin (17 points) and Omirzak Akhmet (14 points, 5 rebounds) led the way for Kazakhstan.
The line-up for the final day of the FIBA U19 World Championship at Auckland’s North Shore Events Centre is as follows:
Sunday, 12th July 2009:
Classification:
Game 59 (11:00 hours): France vs. Canada (7 – 8)
Game 60 (13:30 hours): Argentina vs. Puerto Rico (5 – 6)
Finals:
Game 61 (17:00 hours): Australia vs. Croatia (3 – 4)
Game 62 (19:30 hours): Greece vs. USA (1 – 2)
AUCKLAND (FIBA U19 World Championship) – The ninth FIBA U19 World Championship have been run and won, and the USA have claimed the gold medal for the first time since 1991.
The US faced a tough battle in the gold medal game, but survived a second half comeback from Greece to record an 88-80 victory, after leading 46-30 at half time.
As with the USA’s semi final, they could not match their opponents after half time, as Greece won the third quarter 21-14. They could have been much closer after missing 7 free throws in the term.
A spectacular alley-oop finish from Arnett Moultrie capped a 5-0 USA run in the first 74 seconds of the final period to extend the lead to 14, and although Greece challenged on numerous occasions and closed to 8 points with 7:51 to play, the USA had the answers.
When Klay Thompson and Ashton Gibbs hit back-to-back triples the lead was 73-61 and the gold medal decided.
Leading scorers for the USA were Tyshawn Taylor (18 points, 6 assists, 5 steals), Gibbs (13 points), Thompson (10 points, 3 blocks) and Moultrie (10 points, 9 rebounds).
For Greece, Kostas Sloukas (17 points, 4 assists, 4 steals), Nikolaos Pappas (16 points), Leonidas Kaselakis (15 points, 6 rebounds) and Kostas Papanikolaou (12 points, 5 rebounds) all tried gallantly.
It is the USA’s fourth triumph at the FIBA U19 World Championship, while for Greece, their silver medal joins the gold they won in 1995 in Athens, and the bronze they secured in Thessaloniki in 2003.
The USA and Greece were joined on the podium by bronze medallist Croatia. Tournament MVP Mario Delas scored 24 of his 28 points after half time as his team held off a desperate Australia, 87-81.
Delas scored 9 points in the gripping last quarter, including a big offensive rebound and two free throws with 1:11 remaining when Australia had drawn level, 79-79, after trailing by as much as 9 points.
Australian captain Matthew Dellavedova (14 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals) was almost the hero for his team, but his fifth and final foul with scores tied and just over a minute to play was a key moment.
From there Croatia scored 8 points to 2, including a huge three pointer from Ivan Batur, his first field goal since 6:44 to play in the first quarter.
Delas (28 points, 12/15 fg, 5 rebounds) received outstanding support from Toni Prostran (21 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists) and Tomislav Zubcic (16 points, 6 rebounds).
For Australia, Cody Ellis was outstanding defensively and finished with 9 points, 6 rebounds and 4 blocks. Mitchell Young (15 points, 6 rebounds), Ryan Broekhoff (11 points, 7 rebounds) and Brock Motum (10 points, 5 rebounds) were also strong contributors.
In the day’s first game, Canada proved too good for France, taking 7th position with a 82-74 win.
Mangisto Arop (16 points, 7/12 fg) and Cory Joseph (18 points, 7 rebounds, 3 assists) again led Canada, who used an 11-4 run to begin the third quarter, and a 15-7 streak at the start of the last period to create their final 8-point margin.
For France, who claim 8th position in the tournament with a 3-6 record, Nicolas Lang (19 points, 5/10 3pfg), Alexis Tanghe (16 points) and Christophe Leonard (15 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists) led the scoring.
Argentina celebrated claiming 5th place enthusiastically with their supporters, after extending an 11-point half time lead to defeat Puerto Rico, 92-70.
Argentina were led by Andres Landoni (17 points), Juan Fernandez (12 points, 8 rebounds, 7 assists), Mateo Gaynor (14 points) and Luciano Gonzalez (12). The South Americans finish the tournament with a 5-4 record.
Puerto Rico’s best were again Jio Fontan (19 points, 6 assists) and Mike Rosario (21 points), as their team finished the tournament in 6th place with 5 wins and 4 losses.
So the 2009 FIBA U19 World Championship in Auckland, New Zealand has come to an end, with the USA, Greece and USA the medallists. As a confederation, the Americas were the big winners with four teams in the top 7.
The tournament returns in 2011, and if it has the drama, skill, speed and athleticism of this championship, basketball fans are once again in for a treat.
Awards:
AUCKLAND (FIBA U19 World Championship) – The ninth FIBA U19 World Championship have been run and won, and the USA have claimed the gold medal for the first time since 1991.
A panel of accredited media representatives covering the 2009 FIBA U19 World Championship have selected the MVP and the All-Star Five of the Tournament.
>MVP: Mario Delas (Croatia).
>All-Star Five: Toni Prostran (Croatia), Nikos Pappas (Greece), Tyshawn Taylor (USA), Gordon Hayward (USA) and Mario Delas (Croatia).
The US faced a tough battle in the gold medal game, but survived a second half comeback from Greece to record an 88-80 victory, after leading 46-30 at half time.
As with the USA’s semi final, they could not match their opponents after half time, as Greece won the third quarter 21-14. They could have been much closer after missing 7 free throws in the term.
A spectacular alley-oop finish from Arnett Moultrie capped a 5-0 USA run in the first 74 seconds of the final period to extend the lead to 14, and although Greece challenged on numerous occasions and closed to 8 points with 7:51 to play, the USA had the answers.
When Klay Thompson and Ashton Gibbs hit back-to-back triples the lead was 73-61 and the gold medal decided.
Leading scorers for the USA were Tyshawn Taylor (18 points, 6 assists, 5 steals), Gibbs (13 points), Thompson (10 points, 3 blocks) and Moultrie (10 points, 9 rebounds).
For Greece, Kostas Sloukas (17 points, 4 assists, 4 steals), Nikolaos Pappas (16 points), Leonidas Kaselakis (15 points, 6 rebounds) and Kostas Papanikolaou (12 points, 5 rebounds) all tried gallantly.
It is the USA’s fourth triumph at the FIBA U19 World Championship, while for Greece, their silver medal joins the gold they won in 1995 in Athens, and the bronze they secured in Thessaloniki in 2003.
The USA and Greece were joined on the podium by bronze medallist Croatia. Tournament MVP Mario Delas scored 24 of his 28 points after half time as his team held off a desperate Australia, 87-81.
Delas scored 9 points in the gripping last quarter, including a big offensive rebound and two free throws with 1:11 remaining when Australia had drawn level, 79-79, after trailing by as much as 9 points.
Australian captain Matthew Dellavedova (14 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals) was almost the hero for his team, but his fifth and final foul with scores tied and just over a minute to play was a key moment.
From there Croatia scored 8 points to 2, including a huge three pointer from Ivan Batur, his first field goal since 6:44 to play in the first quarter.
Delas (28 points, 12/15 fg, 5 rebounds) received outstanding support from Toni Prostran (21 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists) and Tomislav Zubcic (16 points, 6 rebounds).
For Australia, Cody Ellis was outstanding defensively and finished with 9 points, 6 rebounds and 4 blocks. Mitchell Young (15 points, 6 rebounds), Ryan Broekhoff (11 points, 7 rebounds) and Brock Motum (10 points, 5 rebounds) were also strong contributors.
In the day’s first game, Canada proved too good for France, taking 7th position with a 82-74 win.
Mangisto Arop (16 points, 7/12 fg) and Cory Joseph (18 points, 7 rebounds, 3 assists) again led Canada, who used an 11-4 run to begin the third quarter, and a 15-7 streak at the start of the last period to create their final 8-point margin.
For France, who claim 8th position in the tournament with a 3-6 record, Nicolas Lang (19 points, 5/10 3pfg), Alexis Tanghe (16 points) and Christophe Leonard (15 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists) led the scoring.
Argentina celebrated claiming 5th place enthusiastically with their supporters, after extending an 11-point half time lead to defeat Puerto Rico, 92-70.
Argentina were led by Andres Landoni (17 points), Juan Fernandez (12 points, 8 rebounds, 7 assists), Mateo Gaynor (14 points) and Luciano Gonzalez (12). The South Americans finish the tournament with a 5-4 record.
Puerto Rico’s best were again Jio Fontan (19 points, 6 assists) and Mike Rosario (21 points), as their team finished the tournament in 6th place with 5 wins and 4 losses.
So the 2009 FIBA U19 World Championship in Auckland, New Zealand has come to an end, with the USA, Greece and USA the medallists. As a confederation, the Americas were the big winners with four teams in the top 7.
The tournament returns in 2011, and if it has the drama, skill, speed and athleticism of this championship, basketball fans are once again in for a treat.
Semi Finals:
AUCKLAND (FIBA U19 World Championship) - It was semi final night at the FIBA U19 World Championship, and the near capacity crowd at the North Shore Events Centre in Auckland were given a treat.
The USA dominated the first half of their semi final against Croatia, taking a 46-33 lead into half time.
With the USA seemingly cruising to the gold medal game, Mario Delas sparked his team with three interior baskets early in the third quarter. Tomislav Zubcic then nailed two 3-pointers, and when Toni Prostran scored a driving basket Croatia led 55-53.
The final quarter was a classic, with both teams trading baskets throughout. But it was the USA that kept its nose in front, and with Shelvin Mack hitting a tough pull up and Gordon Haywood hitting 4/4 free throws and pulling in a crucial offensive rebound, the USA secured their 81-77 win.
Haywood was again outstanding for the USA with 15 points and 8 rebounds, while Seth Curry (10 points) was crucial in a first half that set up the USA’s victory. Ashton Gibbs (11 points) and Terrico White (10) also scored in double figures.
Prostran led Croatia with 15 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists, and along with Delas (17 points), Tomislav Zubcic (15 points, 8 rebounds) and Dino Butorac (15 points, 5/7 3pfg) almost led the Croatians into the final.
In the other semi final Greece made an emphatic statement that it plans to win the world championship, dismissing Australia, 84-69.
Greece’s 46-33 half time lead was soon out of Australia’s reach. When Kostas Papanikolaou and Vlantimir Giankovits hit big threes the score was 64-43 and the European champions were into the gold medal game.
Australia were troubled by the size, strength, speed and athleticism of Greece, who were led by Pappas (19 points, 4 rebounds), Giankovits (16 points, 9 rebounds), Papanikolaou (18 points, 10 rebounds) and Leonidas Kaselakis (13 points, 13 rebounds) .
For Australia, only Matthew Dellavedova (12 points, 3 assists, 2 steals) and Jorden Page (15 points) scored in double figures.
Puerto Rico will play off for 5th position after Jio Fontan hit the game winner against Canada with 2.6 seconds remaining.
When Kevin Young dunked in style to start the last quarter, Puerto Rico led 57-47 and seemed on their way to victory before Mangisto Arop stepped in to almost steal the game for Canada.
Arop finished with 20 points and 9 rebounds, and was helped by Tristan Thompson, who recorded 13 points and 11 rebounds in 26 minutes. For Puerto Rico, Fontan was superb with 16 points, 4 rebounds and 4 assists. Their other game winners were Young (9 points, 9 rebounds, 3 blocks) and Carlos Lopez (7 points, 10 rebounds , 4 blocks).
Puerto Rico will face Americas rival Argentina, who came from 14 points down to defeat France, 92-84. France now play Canada in the playoff for 7th position.
Little used Argentine guard Nicola¡s Laprovittola was his team’s hero, nailing three triples in 1:20 and two important free throws to lead Argentina from a 73-75 deficit to a 85-78 lead.
Matias Nocedal (20 points), Andres Landoni (15 points, 6 rebounds), Laprovittola and Juan Fernandez (both 14 points) were all strong contributors for Argentina. Andrew Albicy (24 points, 6 assists, 4 steals) and Christophe Leonard (17 points, 7 rebounds) were the best for France.
Ninth place belongs to Lithuania, who led Spain from the first whistle to record an easy 88-64 victory.
Vytenis Cisauskas was the class player on the court, recording 20 points and 6 rebounds by half time, and finishing with 22 points, 8 rebounds and 3 assists. Gediminas Orelik had his most productive game of the tournament, nailing 6 three pointers in the second half on his way to 30 points and 9 rebounds.
For Spain, who didn’t come closer than 11 points after half time, Toni Vicens (12 points, 10 rebounds) and Daniel Perez (11 points, 5 assists) continued their consistent world championship campaigns, but received little help, with only Julio Sosa (11 points) joining them in double figures.
And Egypt celebrated heartily after their 86-78 defeat of Kazakhstan earned them 11th position.
Amro Sherif Abdelhalim was again the star, collecting 32 points, 14 rebounds and 3 assists as the African champions picked up their second win of tournament. Big man Omar Oraby (24 points, 11 rebounds) was also a strong contributor.
Alexandr Tyutyunik (20 points), Pavel Illin (17 points) and Omirzak Akhmet (14 points, 5 rebounds) led the way for Kazakhstan.
The line-up for the final day of the FIBA U19 World Championship at Auckland’s North Shore Events Centre is as follows:
Sunday, 12th July 2009:
Classification:
Game 59 (11:00 hours): France vs. Canada (7 – 8)
Game 60 (13:30 hours): Argentina vs. Puerto Rico (5 – 6)
Finals:
Game 61 (17:00 hours): Australia vs. Croatia (3 – 4)
Game 62 (19:30 hours): Greece vs. USA (1 – 2)
11 July 2009
Jawai on the move
Aussie big man Nathan Jawai was part of a four team mega deal recently completed in the NBA.
The trade saw Shawn Marion go to Dallas, Jerry Stackhouse go to Memphis where he has been waived, in addition to Jawai forward Kris Humphries went from Toronto to Dallas. Additionally, Greg Buckner went from Memphis to Dallas with the Mavericks sending Antoine Wright and Devean George to Toronto.
Rounding out the deal, Memphis received a second round pick and cash from Toronto while Orlando recieved cash from both the Raptors and Mavericks.
World Under 19 Championships Report
courtesy of : www.fiba.com
AUCKLAND (FIBA U19 World Championship) - Australia, Croatia, Greece and the USA will battle it out for the medals after an absorbing quarter final day at the FIBA U19 World Championship in New Zealand.
The game of the day was played between Australia and France. When Ryan Broekhoff nailed a three with 2:08 remaining in the third quarter, Australia led 58-49. But baskets to Nicolas Lang (17 points) and Christophe Leonard (22 points, 13 rebounds, 3 assists) ensured Les Bleus were within striking distance at three quarter time.
The final quarter was a classic, with Australia extending their lead to 7 points, but France charging back behind Leonard, who scored 11 points for the quarter. When Lang (17 points, 5/10 3pfg) nailed a tough three from the corner they led 71-66 with 4:37 to play.
Then Matthew Dellavedova (18 points) hit from the perimeter, Jorden Page hit two tough shots, and Cody Ellis (14 points, 10 rebounds) nailed a long three to give Australia a 79-73 victory, and a place in the semi finals.
Greece also had to work hard to beat Puerto Rico and book their place in the semis, where they will meet Australia.
The game seemed all over shortly after half time when Croatia jumped to a 54-33 lead. But an 11-0 run in two minutes had Puerto Rico within 10 points, and back to back threes from Jio Fontan left the game in the balance at three quarter time, 64-57.
Mike Rosario threatened to take over the game early in the last term, as Puerto Rico closed to 71-68 half way through the period. Tomislav Zubcic then stepped up and put the game finally out of reach, scoring 7 points in just 75 seconds.
Zubcic finished with 27 points and 8 rebounds, with strong support from Prostran (20 points, 8 assists, 7 rebounds) and Mario Delas (19 points, 10 rebounds). Rosario (25 points, 7 rebounds) and Fontan (20 points, 4 assists, 3 steals) were outstanding for Puerto Rico.
Greece made a statement that they are finding their best form at the right time, demolishing Argentina 86-60.
Greece extended their 25-17 quarter time lead to 41-32 at half time, and continued to suffocate the Argentine offence in the third. When Epameinondas Papantoniou nailed a three pointer with 1:30 remaining to three quarter time, and Nikos Pappas hit a buzzer beater to finish the period, the score was 59-42 and the contest effectively over.
Leonidas Kaselakis was outstanding for Greece with 20 points on 8/13 shooting and 8 rebounds, and was well supported by Kostas Papanikolaou (17 points) and Georgios Georgakis (11 points, 6 rebounds).
For Argentina, only Fabián Ramírez Barrios (10 points) reached double figures, as his team coughed up 21 turnovers and shot just 32% from the field.
In the day’s last quarter final, the USA blew Canada off the court with an 11/16 three point shooting clinic in the first half. The US won the second half 42-37 to record a 93-73 win and move on to face Croatia in a mouth-watering semi final match-up.
For the USA, Gordon Hayward (20 points), Howard Thompkins, Seth Curry (both 12), Tyshawn Taylor and John Shurna (both 10) all scored in double figures. The Canadians were led by Tristan Thompson (18 points, 8 rebounds) and Kelly Olynk (14 points, 7 rebounds).
The semi final line up at the North Shore Events Centre is as follows:
Australia v Greece; 6:15pm
USA v Croatia; 8:30pm
Limited tickets are still available, and both games will be shown on FIBA TV.
In the classification games for positions 9-12, Lithuania made light work of Kazakhstan, scoring the biggest score of the tournament in their 113-79 victory.
For Lithuania, Eimantis Bendzius (21 points, 5 rebounds) , Dovidas Redikas (19 points, 8 rebounds), Adomas Drungilis (16 points, 10 rebounds), and Vytenis Cizauskas (14 points, 4 assists, 4 steals) all enjoyed a day out.
Alexandr Tyutyunik again led the way for Kazakhstan, scoring 20 points and grabbing 6 rebounds. The strong 200cm forward is third in tournament scoring with over 19ppg. Shooters Pavel Illin (12 points) and Anton Arsenyev (11) also scored in double figures.
Egypt came out determined to upset Spain and move into the top ten at the tournament. The African champions led by 4 points at quarter time, and refused to lie down for the full 40 minutes.
Ultimately it was the class of guards Alex Hernandez (16 points) and Daniel Perez (15) that made the difference. Amro Sherif Abdelhalim (17 points, 7 rebounds) led the way for Egypt, while Toni Vicens (18 points, 8 rebounds) and Egyptian seven footer Omar Tarek Oraby (13 points, 12 rebounds, 2 blocks) enjoyed an entertaining battle in the low block.
The classification games for Saturday at the North Shore Events Centre are as follows:
Kazakhstan v Egypt; 9:00am (for positions 11 and 12)
Spain v Lithuania; 11:15am (for positions 9 and 10)
Argentina v France; 1:30pm (for positions 5-8)
Puerto Rico v Canada; 4:00pm (for positions 5-8)
The trade saw Shawn Marion go to Dallas, Jerry Stackhouse go to Memphis where he has been waived, in addition to Jawai forward Kris Humphries went from Toronto to Dallas. Additionally, Greg Buckner went from Memphis to Dallas with the Mavericks sending Antoine Wright and Devean George to Toronto.
Rounding out the deal, Memphis received a second round pick and cash from Toronto while Orlando recieved cash from both the Raptors and Mavericks.
World Under 19 Championships Report
courtesy of : www.fiba.com
AUCKLAND (FIBA U19 World Championship) - Australia, Croatia, Greece and the USA will battle it out for the medals after an absorbing quarter final day at the FIBA U19 World Championship in New Zealand.
The game of the day was played between Australia and France. When Ryan Broekhoff nailed a three with 2:08 remaining in the third quarter, Australia led 58-49. But baskets to Nicolas Lang (17 points) and Christophe Leonard (22 points, 13 rebounds, 3 assists) ensured Les Bleus were within striking distance at three quarter time.
The final quarter was a classic, with Australia extending their lead to 7 points, but France charging back behind Leonard, who scored 11 points for the quarter. When Lang (17 points, 5/10 3pfg) nailed a tough three from the corner they led 71-66 with 4:37 to play.
Then Matthew Dellavedova (18 points) hit from the perimeter, Jorden Page hit two tough shots, and Cody Ellis (14 points, 10 rebounds) nailed a long three to give Australia a 79-73 victory, and a place in the semi finals.
Greece also had to work hard to beat Puerto Rico and book their place in the semis, where they will meet Australia.
The game seemed all over shortly after half time when Croatia jumped to a 54-33 lead. But an 11-0 run in two minutes had Puerto Rico within 10 points, and back to back threes from Jio Fontan left the game in the balance at three quarter time, 64-57.
Mike Rosario threatened to take over the game early in the last term, as Puerto Rico closed to 71-68 half way through the period. Tomislav Zubcic then stepped up and put the game finally out of reach, scoring 7 points in just 75 seconds.
Zubcic finished with 27 points and 8 rebounds, with strong support from Prostran (20 points, 8 assists, 7 rebounds) and Mario Delas (19 points, 10 rebounds). Rosario (25 points, 7 rebounds) and Fontan (20 points, 4 assists, 3 steals) were outstanding for Puerto Rico.
Greece made a statement that they are finding their best form at the right time, demolishing Argentina 86-60.
Greece extended their 25-17 quarter time lead to 41-32 at half time, and continued to suffocate the Argentine offence in the third. When Epameinondas Papantoniou nailed a three pointer with 1:30 remaining to three quarter time, and Nikos Pappas hit a buzzer beater to finish the period, the score was 59-42 and the contest effectively over.
Leonidas Kaselakis was outstanding for Greece with 20 points on 8/13 shooting and 8 rebounds, and was well supported by Kostas Papanikolaou (17 points) and Georgios Georgakis (11 points, 6 rebounds).
For Argentina, only Fabián Ramírez Barrios (10 points) reached double figures, as his team coughed up 21 turnovers and shot just 32% from the field.
In the day’s last quarter final, the USA blew Canada off the court with an 11/16 three point shooting clinic in the first half. The US won the second half 42-37 to record a 93-73 win and move on to face Croatia in a mouth-watering semi final match-up.
For the USA, Gordon Hayward (20 points), Howard Thompkins, Seth Curry (both 12), Tyshawn Taylor and John Shurna (both 10) all scored in double figures. The Canadians were led by Tristan Thompson (18 points, 8 rebounds) and Kelly Olynk (14 points, 7 rebounds).
The semi final line up at the North Shore Events Centre is as follows:
Australia v Greece; 6:15pm
USA v Croatia; 8:30pm
Limited tickets are still available, and both games will be shown on FIBA TV.
In the classification games for positions 9-12, Lithuania made light work of Kazakhstan, scoring the biggest score of the tournament in their 113-79 victory.
For Lithuania, Eimantis Bendzius (21 points, 5 rebounds) , Dovidas Redikas (19 points, 8 rebounds), Adomas Drungilis (16 points, 10 rebounds), and Vytenis Cizauskas (14 points, 4 assists, 4 steals) all enjoyed a day out.
Alexandr Tyutyunik again led the way for Kazakhstan, scoring 20 points and grabbing 6 rebounds. The strong 200cm forward is third in tournament scoring with over 19ppg. Shooters Pavel Illin (12 points) and Anton Arsenyev (11) also scored in double figures.
Egypt came out determined to upset Spain and move into the top ten at the tournament. The African champions led by 4 points at quarter time, and refused to lie down for the full 40 minutes.
Ultimately it was the class of guards Alex Hernandez (16 points) and Daniel Perez (15) that made the difference. Amro Sherif Abdelhalim (17 points, 7 rebounds) led the way for Egypt, while Toni Vicens (18 points, 8 rebounds) and Egyptian seven footer Omar Tarek Oraby (13 points, 12 rebounds, 2 blocks) enjoyed an entertaining battle in the low block.
The classification games for Saturday at the North Shore Events Centre are as follows:
Kazakhstan v Egypt; 9:00am (for positions 11 and 12)
Spain v Lithuania; 11:15am (for positions 9 and 10)
Argentina v France; 1:30pm (for positions 5-8)
Puerto Rico v Canada; 4:00pm (for positions 5-8)
10 July 2009
Day 6 Under 19 World Championships
Courtesy of: www.fiba.com
AUCKLAND (FIBA U19 World Championship) - The games just keep getting better at the FIBA U19 World Championship, and now the quarter finalists have been set. Friday at the North Shore Events Centre in Auckland, New Zealand will see the eight best U19 teams in the world battle it out for a place in the medal rounds.
The match-ups for the knockout quarter finals on Friday, 10 July are:
- Greece v Argentina – 1:30pm
- Australia v France – 4:00pm
- Croatia v Puerto Rico – 6:15pm
- USA v Canada – 8:30pm
All times are New Zealand time, and all quarter finals will be screened on FIBA TV.
On day 6, Australia remained undefeated and claimed top spot in Group F with a stunning 79-74 win over Croatia in the game of the tournament to date.
A large and vocal crowd saw Matthew Dellavedova score 15 final quarter points as the Australians extended a one point lead at the last change to win by 5. Dellavedova scored 17 for Australia, and was helped by Cody Ellis (14 points), Mitchell Young and Brock Motum (both 10).
For Croatia, Toni Prostran and Tomislav Zubcic both scored 14, while Ivan Batur (12 points), Dino Butorac (11) and Leon Radocevic (10) all contributed.
The USA took out top spot in Group E with a hard fought 76-69 win over Lithuania. With only 4 points the margin at three quarter time, Tyshawn Taylor scored three acrobatic scoop shots in the final four minutes to give the US the margin they required.
He finished with 13 points and 4 assists and received support from Klay Thompson (10 points, 7 rebounds, 3 assists), Darius Miller (10 points) and John Shurna (9) in a once again even spread for the Americans.
For Lithuania, Donatas Montiejunas (12 points) and Dovydas Redikas (11 points, 8 rebounds, 3 assists) joined the outstanding Tautvydas Slezas (21 points) in double figures. Slezas also secured 12 rebounds as Lithuania won the rebound count 45-31, but missed out on a quarter final spot.
Greece narrowly avoided elimination when they nailed four crucial free throws to hold off a fast finishing France. Greece led 60-40 at three quarter time before France unleashed a furious 13-3 streak to close the gap to 10 points.
Jonathan Bourhis nailed his fourth 3-pointer for the game to reduce the margin to 67-72 with 0:32 to play, before Greece secured the win from the free throw line.
Stars for Greece were Nikolaos Pappas (20 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists), Leonidas Kaselakis (18 points, 9 rebounds) and Kostas Sloukis (17 points, 5 assists). For France, Bourhis collected 18 points and 5 rebounds and Christophe Leonard recorded 13 points and 8 rebounds.
Canada showed great composure down the stretch to defeat Argentina 67-57 and set up a quarter final match-up with their North American rivals, the USA.
In the decisive third quarter, Mangisto Arop (18 points) and Cory Joseph (20 points, 9/15 fg) led the way for Canada, with a long range buzzer beater from Typhoon Nurse making the score 54-45 at three quarter time.
While Argentina repeatedly challenged in the final term, Canada ran down the clock intelligently and recorded an impressive victory. Lisandro Rasio (14 points, 7 rebounds) and Luciano Gonzalez (12 points) were solid for Argentina.
Puerto Rico did as expected and defeated Egypt, 99-71, to move through to the final eight. Mike Rosario bounced back from a poor game against the USA to score 22 points in 20 minutes of court time, while Raymond Cintron had his best game of the tournament with 17.
For Egypt, Adham Mohamed Elsayed (17 points, 3/6 3pfg) and Amro Sherif Abdelhalim (22 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists) put in strong performances, and will be looking to do so again as their team competes for positions 9-12 on Friday and Saturday.
While Spain recorded a comprehensive 101-71 win over a depleted Kazakhstan, the European power will also be playing off in the classification round, with their 17-point defeat to Argentina on Monday leaving them last in a three way tie with the Spaniards and Canada.
Against the Kazaks, Jorge Santana was the star of the day, nailing 6/6 from the perimeter on his way to 26 points, while Toni Vicens continued his strong tournament with 11 points.
While Alexandr Tyutyunik, Pavel Illin , Rustem Tuleu (all 12 points) and Alexandr Zhigulin (13 points, 8 rebounds) all enjoyed productive offensive moments for Kazakhstan, the Asian runners up were never at home against the Spanish pressure defence.
With six games on Friday, including four quarter finals on FIBA TV, the FIBA U19 World Championship is building towards a dramatic conclusion.
Paulo Kennedy
FIBA
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AUCKLAND (FIBA U19 World Championship) - The games just keep getting better at the FIBA U19 World Championship, and now the quarter finalists have been set. Friday at the North Shore Events Centre in Auckland, New Zealand will see the eight best U19 teams in the world battle it out for a place in the medal rounds.
The match-ups for the knockout quarter finals on Friday, 10 July are:
- Greece v Argentina – 1:30pm
- Australia v France – 4:00pm
- Croatia v Puerto Rico – 6:15pm
- USA v Canada – 8:30pm
All times are New Zealand time, and all quarter finals will be screened on FIBA TV.
On day 6, Australia remained undefeated and claimed top spot in Group F with a stunning 79-74 win over Croatia in the game of the tournament to date.
A large and vocal crowd saw Matthew Dellavedova score 15 final quarter points as the Australians extended a one point lead at the last change to win by 5. Dellavedova scored 17 for Australia, and was helped by Cody Ellis (14 points), Mitchell Young and Brock Motum (both 10).
For Croatia, Toni Prostran and Tomislav Zubcic both scored 14, while Ivan Batur (12 points), Dino Butorac (11) and Leon Radocevic (10) all contributed.
The USA took out top spot in Group E with a hard fought 76-69 win over Lithuania. With only 4 points the margin at three quarter time, Tyshawn Taylor scored three acrobatic scoop shots in the final four minutes to give the US the margin they required.
He finished with 13 points and 4 assists and received support from Klay Thompson (10 points, 7 rebounds, 3 assists), Darius Miller (10 points) and John Shurna (9) in a once again even spread for the Americans.
For Lithuania, Donatas Montiejunas (12 points) and Dovydas Redikas (11 points, 8 rebounds, 3 assists) joined the outstanding Tautvydas Slezas (21 points) in double figures. Slezas also secured 12 rebounds as Lithuania won the rebound count 45-31, but missed out on a quarter final spot.
Greece narrowly avoided elimination when they nailed four crucial free throws to hold off a fast finishing France. Greece led 60-40 at three quarter time before France unleashed a furious 13-3 streak to close the gap to 10 points.
Jonathan Bourhis nailed his fourth 3-pointer for the game to reduce the margin to 67-72 with 0:32 to play, before Greece secured the win from the free throw line.
Stars for Greece were Nikolaos Pappas (20 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists), Leonidas Kaselakis (18 points, 9 rebounds) and Kostas Sloukis (17 points, 5 assists). For France, Bourhis collected 18 points and 5 rebounds and Christophe Leonard recorded 13 points and 8 rebounds.
Canada showed great composure down the stretch to defeat Argentina 67-57 and set up a quarter final match-up with their North American rivals, the USA.
In the decisive third quarter, Mangisto Arop (18 points) and Cory Joseph (20 points, 9/15 fg) led the way for Canada, with a long range buzzer beater from Typhoon Nurse making the score 54-45 at three quarter time.
While Argentina repeatedly challenged in the final term, Canada ran down the clock intelligently and recorded an impressive victory. Lisandro Rasio (14 points, 7 rebounds) and Luciano Gonzalez (12 points) were solid for Argentina.
Puerto Rico did as expected and defeated Egypt, 99-71, to move through to the final eight. Mike Rosario bounced back from a poor game against the USA to score 22 points in 20 minutes of court time, while Raymond Cintron had his best game of the tournament with 17.
For Egypt, Adham Mohamed Elsayed (17 points, 3/6 3pfg) and Amro Sherif Abdelhalim (22 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists) put in strong performances, and will be looking to do so again as their team competes for positions 9-12 on Friday and Saturday.
While Spain recorded a comprehensive 101-71 win over a depleted Kazakhstan, the European power will also be playing off in the classification round, with their 17-point defeat to Argentina on Monday leaving them last in a three way tie with the Spaniards and Canada.
Against the Kazaks, Jorge Santana was the star of the day, nailing 6/6 from the perimeter on his way to 26 points, while Toni Vicens continued his strong tournament with 11 points.
While Alexandr Tyutyunik, Pavel Illin , Rustem Tuleu (all 12 points) and Alexandr Zhigulin (13 points, 8 rebounds) all enjoyed productive offensive moments for Kazakhstan, the Asian runners up were never at home against the Spanish pressure defence.
With six games on Friday, including four quarter finals on FIBA TV, the FIBA U19 World Championship is building towards a dramatic conclusion.
Paulo Kennedy
FIBA
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Day 5 Under 19 World Championships
From www.fiba.com
AUCKLAND (FIBA U19 World Championship) - Australia, Croatia and the USA remain undefeated after day 5 of the FIBA U19 World Championship, while powerhouses Greece, Lithuania and Argentina stand of the brink of elimination with one day to go in the second round.
The USA powered to victory over Puerto Rico, subduing day 4 star Mike Rosario and executing a punishing transition game to win 82-61.
Howard Thompkins (14 points, 9 rebounds) and Gordon Hayward (11 points, 7 rebounds) led the way for the USA, while Lio Fontan (16 points, 6/15, 4 assists) and Rosario (11 points, 4/15 fg) both scored in double figures, but struggled mightily with the tough US perimeter defence.
Puerto Rico must defeat Egypt tomorrow to guarantee passage through to the quarter finals.
Croatia survived a strong challenge from Spain, who won the third quarter 28-21 to draw within one of the Croats. But Dino Butorac scored 10 of his 16 points in the last quarter to keep Croatia’s perfect record intact.
Leon Radosevic was a powerhouse inside for Croatia, scoring 22 points and grabbing 8 rebounds, while Spain were best served by Toni Vicens, who nullified Croatia’s height advantage by compiling 18 points and 9 rebounds.
A win over Kazakhstan on day 6 will see Spain through to the quarter finals, while Croatia play Australia to determine top spot in Group F.
Australia stunned Argentina by taking a 34-10 lead midway through the second quarter, but Luciano Gonzalez led surge saw the Americas champions draw within 6 points at three quarter time.
Australia held their nerve in the last quarter to record a 76-65 win, with Cody Ellis, Jason Cadee and Brock Motum all scoring 16 points. Gonzalez (14 points, 4/7 fg) was the only player in double figures for Argentina, whose offensive struggles in the first 14 minutes cost them victory.
Argentina must beat Canada on day 6 to guarantee a quarter final berth, otherwise they will be relying on other results going their way.
France provided the performance of the day, hitting 8 first half three pointers on the way to a 57-34 lead at the main break. While Lithuania closed to within 14 points a three quarter time, the French were never seriously challenged and ran out 95-78 winners.
Christophe Leonard collected 22 points, 5 rebounds and 3 steals and steadied his team when the Lithuanians made their run. Jonathan Bourhis nailed 6-three pointers on his way to 18 points.
Big man Adomas Drungilus scored 24 points and pulled down 9 rebounds for Lithuania, who were out-rebounded 27-40.
Greece made short work of Egypt, but must beat France on day 6 to move to the knockout stage of the tournament. The European champions led 37-17 at quarter time, 59-22 at half time and 76-36 at the last break before winning 100-59.
Nikolaos Pappas (18 points), Leonidas Kaselakis (12 points) and Ioannis Angelopoulos (11 points, 4 rebounds) enjoyed the day out for Greece, while for the overmatched Egyptians, Adham Mohamed Elsayed (16 points, 4 rebounds) and Osama Shawki Mohamed (12 points, 7 rebounds) reached double figures.
Kazakhstan lost no respect in their 108-70 loss to Canada, but the North Americans did what needed to be done, and now can possibly secure a place in the knockout round by defeating Argentina.
Against the Kazaks, Cory Joseph finished with 20 points on 9/14 shooting and 6 rebounds, and received excellent support from Typhoon Nurse with 25 points and 5 rebounds, and captain Kelly Olynk (24 points, 9 rebounds).
Kazak forward Alexandr Tyutyunik was again outstanding with 19 points.
In the classification games, New Zealand claimed 13th place in their first ever FIBA U19 World Championship with a 62-54 win over Angola. Brook Ruscoe (20 points, 3 assists) and Rob Loe were again New Zealand’s best, while Angolan Miguel Kiala dominated the paint to record 16 points and 12 rebounds.
Iran recorded their first win of the world championship, easily accounting for Syria, 93-53. Mohammad Amjad finished with 29 points, 6 rebounds, 3 assists and 3 steals in 28:47. Amazingly, he had scored just 26 points in the first four games of the tournament.
Captain Arsalan Kazemi also farewelled the tournament in style, recording 23 points, 9 rebounds, 5 assists, 4 steals and 2 blocks. For Syria, who finish in 16th place, only Tarek Al Jabe put up any stern resistance with 14 points and 5 boards.
Stay tuned to www.newzealand2009.fiba.com as the quarter finalists are decided at the FIBA U19 World Championship in Auckland, New Zealand.
Paulo Kennedy
FIBA
AUCKLAND (FIBA U19 World Championship) - Australia, Croatia and the USA remain undefeated after day 5 of the FIBA U19 World Championship, while powerhouses Greece, Lithuania and Argentina stand of the brink of elimination with one day to go in the second round.
The USA powered to victory over Puerto Rico, subduing day 4 star Mike Rosario and executing a punishing transition game to win 82-61.
Howard Thompkins (14 points, 9 rebounds) and Gordon Hayward (11 points, 7 rebounds) led the way for the USA, while Lio Fontan (16 points, 6/15, 4 assists) and Rosario (11 points, 4/15 fg) both scored in double figures, but struggled mightily with the tough US perimeter defence.
Puerto Rico must defeat Egypt tomorrow to guarantee passage through to the quarter finals.
Croatia survived a strong challenge from Spain, who won the third quarter 28-21 to draw within one of the Croats. But Dino Butorac scored 10 of his 16 points in the last quarter to keep Croatia’s perfect record intact.
Leon Radosevic was a powerhouse inside for Croatia, scoring 22 points and grabbing 8 rebounds, while Spain were best served by Toni Vicens, who nullified Croatia’s height advantage by compiling 18 points and 9 rebounds.
A win over Kazakhstan on day 6 will see Spain through to the quarter finals, while Croatia play Australia to determine top spot in Group F.
Australia stunned Argentina by taking a 34-10 lead midway through the second quarter, but Luciano Gonzalez led surge saw the Americas champions draw within 6 points at three quarter time.
Australia held their nerve in the last quarter to record a 76-65 win, with Cody Ellis, Jason Cadee and Brock Motum all scoring 16 points. Gonzalez (14 points, 4/7 fg) was the only player in double figures for Argentina, whose offensive struggles in the first 14 minutes cost them victory.
Argentina must beat Canada on day 6 to guarantee a quarter final berth, otherwise they will be relying on other results going their way.
France provided the performance of the day, hitting 8 first half three pointers on the way to a 57-34 lead at the main break. While Lithuania closed to within 14 points a three quarter time, the French were never seriously challenged and ran out 95-78 winners.
Christophe Leonard collected 22 points, 5 rebounds and 3 steals and steadied his team when the Lithuanians made their run. Jonathan Bourhis nailed 6-three pointers on his way to 18 points.
Big man Adomas Drungilus scored 24 points and pulled down 9 rebounds for Lithuania, who were out-rebounded 27-40.
Greece made short work of Egypt, but must beat France on day 6 to move to the knockout stage of the tournament. The European champions led 37-17 at quarter time, 59-22 at half time and 76-36 at the last break before winning 100-59.
Nikolaos Pappas (18 points), Leonidas Kaselakis (12 points) and Ioannis Angelopoulos (11 points, 4 rebounds) enjoyed the day out for Greece, while for the overmatched Egyptians, Adham Mohamed Elsayed (16 points, 4 rebounds) and Osama Shawki Mohamed (12 points, 7 rebounds) reached double figures.
Kazakhstan lost no respect in their 108-70 loss to Canada, but the North Americans did what needed to be done, and now can possibly secure a place in the knockout round by defeating Argentina.
Against the Kazaks, Cory Joseph finished with 20 points on 9/14 shooting and 6 rebounds, and received excellent support from Typhoon Nurse with 25 points and 5 rebounds, and captain Kelly Olynk (24 points, 9 rebounds).
Kazak forward Alexandr Tyutyunik was again outstanding with 19 points.
In the classification games, New Zealand claimed 13th place in their first ever FIBA U19 World Championship with a 62-54 win over Angola. Brook Ruscoe (20 points, 3 assists) and Rob Loe were again New Zealand’s best, while Angolan Miguel Kiala dominated the paint to record 16 points and 12 rebounds.
Iran recorded their first win of the world championship, easily accounting for Syria, 93-53. Mohammad Amjad finished with 29 points, 6 rebounds, 3 assists and 3 steals in 28:47. Amazingly, he had scored just 26 points in the first four games of the tournament.
Captain Arsalan Kazemi also farewelled the tournament in style, recording 23 points, 9 rebounds, 5 assists, 4 steals and 2 blocks. For Syria, who finish in 16th place, only Tarek Al Jabe put up any stern resistance with 14 points and 5 boards.
Stay tuned to www.newzealand2009.fiba.com as the quarter finalists are decided at the FIBA U19 World Championship in Auckland, New Zealand.
Paulo Kennedy
FIBA
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