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.
Showing posts with label Basketball. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Basketball. Show all posts
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)
10 July 2009
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
23 June 2009
Two Shopping Days 'til Draft Day!!!
For NBA General Managers and die hard fans around the globe, the time is nigh, draft day is upon us!! On Thursday, Friday morning for us in Australia the suspense will build to a crescendo. So far all is quiet but expect moves to be made leading up to the draft in the form of trades. There are several rumours around with Shaq, Yao Ming, Chris Bosh and , Josh Smith being the hottest. As for what your team gets under their tree, here is my look at the notables.
Blake Griffin (PF): raw power and attitude, a pure NBA power forward, don't see the Clippers going past him, needs to develop mid range game.
Hasheem Thabeet (Goes On) (C): I have already given him the addition to his name because now that Matumbo has retired, "Thabeet goes on", get it!! Seriously though he may develop a vit more of an offensive game than Matumbo had. Along with the next few names could end up anywhere from pick 2-7. Oklahoma City widely predicted to take him at number three.
James Harden (SG): he shoots well, he handles well and he's athletic. Could be bound for New York if not taken sooner.
Ricky Rubio (PG): may continue the Spanish invasion of Memphis.
Jordan Hill (PF): another power forward of note, he may be a King for more than a day in Sacremento.
Tyreke Evans (PF): a tall athletic point guard who will cause nightmares for defenders and coaches in a few years time, could be off to mystify them in Washington.
DeJuan Blair (PF): a smallish power forward but a big dog in any fight under the basket, could be roughing them up on the Jersey Shore.
I will mention more in my next edition tomorrow as the time nears, until then, happy speculating!!
Blake Griffin (PF): raw power and attitude, a pure NBA power forward, don't see the Clippers going past him, needs to develop mid range game.
Hasheem Thabeet (Goes On) (C): I have already given him the addition to his name because now that Matumbo has retired, "Thabeet goes on", get it!! Seriously though he may develop a vit more of an offensive game than Matumbo had. Along with the next few names could end up anywhere from pick 2-7. Oklahoma City widely predicted to take him at number three.
James Harden (SG): he shoots well, he handles well and he's athletic. Could be bound for New York if not taken sooner.
Ricky Rubio (PG): may continue the Spanish invasion of Memphis.
Jordan Hill (PF): another power forward of note, he may be a King for more than a day in Sacremento.
Tyreke Evans (PF): a tall athletic point guard who will cause nightmares for defenders and coaches in a few years time, could be off to mystify them in Washington.
DeJuan Blair (PF): a smallish power forward but a big dog in any fight under the basket, could be roughing them up on the Jersey Shore.
I will mention more in my next edition tomorrow as the time nears, until then, happy speculating!!
19 June 2009
Emu's announced
Basketball australia has released the Emu's squad for the upcoming FIBA Under 19 World Championships in Auckland from the 2-12 July.
The squad consists of:
Listed by player, Association played in and State.
The coaching/administration staff consists of:
Head Coach: Marty CLARKE
Assistant Coach: Tim MALLON
Assistant Coach: Damien COTTER
Manager: Bob McGUGAN
Physio: Peter SUFFOLK
Doctor: Dr Graham LEE
The emus will play in a Four Nations tournament in Melbourne on 26-28 of June along with teams from Spain, Greece and France.
If you are in the area, get out and support the Emu's in their preparation for the Championships.
The squad consists of:
Bryce ARNOTT / Dandenong / VIC
Ryan BROEKHOFF / Frankston / VIC
Jason CADEE / Bankstown / NSW
Matthew DELLAVEDOVA / Maryborough / VIC
Cody ELLIS / Sterling / WA
Hugh GREENWOOD / Hobart / TAS
Shane HARRIS-TUNKS / Liverpool / NSW
Matthew HODGSON / Ipswich / QLD
Brock MOTUM / Brisbane / QLD
Jorden PAGE / Maroochydore / QLD
Christian SALECICH / Southern Districts / QLD
Mitchell YOUNG / Logan / QLD
Ryan BROEKHOFF / Frankston / VIC
Jason CADEE / Bankstown / NSW
Matthew DELLAVEDOVA / Maryborough / VIC
Cody ELLIS / Sterling / WA
Hugh GREENWOOD / Hobart / TAS
Shane HARRIS-TUNKS / Liverpool / NSW
Matthew HODGSON / Ipswich / QLD
Brock MOTUM / Brisbane / QLD
Jorden PAGE / Maroochydore / QLD
Christian SALECICH / Southern Districts / QLD
Mitchell YOUNG / Logan / QLD
The coaching/administration staff consists of:
Head Coach: Marty CLARKE
Assistant Coach: Tim MALLON
Assistant Coach: Damien COTTER
Manager: Bob McGUGAN
Physio: Peter SUFFOLK
Doctor: Dr Graham LEE
The emus will play in a Four Nations tournament in Melbourne on 26-28 of June along with teams from Spain, Greece and France.
If you are in the area, get out and support the Emu's in their preparation for the Championships.
15 June 2009
Fat Lady sings in Orlando!
Yes it is over! The Magic have fallen in Game 5 of the NBA Finals losing to the LA Lakers by the score of 99-86. After falling behind by nine points early the LA outfit regrouped in the second and third quarters to put the finishing touches on their 15th Championship.
The Lakers were again led by Kobe Bryant with the support of Pau Gasol and Lamar Odom. Bryant can now claim ownership of a crown without the "can't do it without Shaq" hoodoo as he was also the Finals MVP. Once again the Orlando backcourt was non existent putting in another horrible shooting performance.
Finally, in conclusion, I put forward this closing statement. I am not a Laker Basher per se, I have always been an admirer of the franchise over the years. I have always appreciated the way the game was played by Magic, Jabbar, Worthy and company along with the more recent contributions from Shaq in the late 90's - 2001. Recently I feel too much of the focus/hype surrounding the team has centered on one person while the likes of Gasol, Odom, Bynum and the rest of the supporting cast went unheralded. Now all of those gentlemen can enjoy and savour the spoils of a true team effort. Congrats!!
The Lakers were again led by Kobe Bryant with the support of Pau Gasol and Lamar Odom. Bryant can now claim ownership of a crown without the "can't do it without Shaq" hoodoo as he was also the Finals MVP. Once again the Orlando backcourt was non existent putting in another horrible shooting performance.
Finally, in conclusion, I put forward this closing statement. I am not a Laker Basher per se, I have always been an admirer of the franchise over the years. I have always appreciated the way the game was played by Magic, Jabbar, Worthy and company along with the more recent contributions from Shaq in the late 90's - 2001. Recently I feel too much of the focus/hype surrounding the team has centered on one person while the likes of Gasol, Odom, Bynum and the rest of the supporting cast went unheralded. Now all of those gentlemen can enjoy and savour the spoils of a true team effort. Congrats!!
12 June 2009
Orlando in six prediction dead!!!
My prediction of the Orlando Magic winning the NBA title in six games fell by the wayside with todays 99-91 overtime loss to the LA Lakers. Kobe Bryamt returned to form for the Lakers who survived early foul trouble and more hot shooting by Orlando to go ahead in the third quarter and eventually pull out the win after trailing by double digits at half time. The game marked the first occaison since 1984 that two finals games have gone into overtime. Bryant finished with 32 points while Hedo Turkoglu led the Magic with 25 but missed several key free throws late in the game.
Game 5 of the series will be Sunday night (Monday Aussie time). The Magic need a win to extend the series while the Lakers can claim championship number 15 with a victory.
Game 5 of the series will be Sunday night (Monday Aussie time). The Magic need a win to extend the series while the Lakers can claim championship number 15 with a victory.
11 June 2009
Has the power been restored??
Good Question as the Orlando Magic simply shot the lights out in their 108-104 win over the LA Lakers on Tuesday night (Wed Aussie time). Even with the great shooting performance, the Lakers will have to look at missed freethrows and defensive lapses as contributing factors in letting aan opportunity to go up 3-0 in the series slip away. Kobe Bryant who shot only 50% from the line missed a crucial attempt in the last minute that would have cut the Magic lead to one. The Lakers poor foul line performance came after a Game two performance where they made 14 in a row late in the game.
The Lakers shooting aside, the Magic set an NBA Finals record in shooting 62.5% from the field. It was the first Finals win for the Orlando franchise and got them back into the series with Game 4 scheduled for Thursday (Friday Aussie time). Will this be Miami-Dallas redeux?? If the Magic can eek out another home win, it will be game on!!
The Lakers shooting aside, the Magic set an NBA Finals record in shooting 62.5% from the field. It was the first Finals win for the Orlando franchise and got them back into the series with Game 4 scheduled for Thursday (Friday Aussie time). Will this be Miami-Dallas redeux?? If the Magic can eek out another home win, it will be game on!!
08 June 2009
Prediction in trouble!!!!
My forcast of a Macic win in the NBA finals looks to be in trouble!!! After losing again to the Lakers in LA today, Orlando finds themselves in a 2-0 hole. The Magic put forth a much better effort but fell short in overtime as Pau Gasol came up huge in the extra period.
Rashard Lewis and Hedo Turkoglu showed vast improvement in their shooting efforts over game one. dwight Howard had a better all around game but committed a costly seven turnovers.
Maybe the hoodoo of having never won a Finals game is keeping the Magic from getting over the hump, we will find out on tuesday as the Finals shift to Orlando. There is still a slight chance of my 4-2 prediction surviving!!!!
Rashard Lewis and Hedo Turkoglu showed vast improvement in their shooting efforts over game one. dwight Howard had a better all around game but committed a costly seven turnovers.
Maybe the hoodoo of having never won a Finals game is keeping the Magic from getting over the hump, we will find out on tuesday as the Finals shift to Orlando. There is still a slight chance of my 4-2 prediction surviving!!!!
07 June 2009
Under 19 World Championships
The FIBA Under 19 World Championships will be held from 2-12 July in Auckland, New Zealand.
The groups are set as follows:
Group A: Angola, Greece, Lithuania and Puerto Rico
Group B: Egypt, France, Iran and USA
Group C: Australia, Canada, Spain and Syria
Group D: Argentina, Croatia, Kazakhstan and New Zealand
Some of the worlds finest young basketballers will be competing in the tournament so if you are in the area get out and have a look before they become famous!!
There will be team previews forthcoming in the next few weeks so stay tuned.
Also have a visit to : fiba.com where you can find more on the international game.
The groups are set as follows:
Group A: Angola, Greece, Lithuania and Puerto Rico
Group B: Egypt, France, Iran and USA
Group C: Australia, Canada, Spain and Syria
Group D: Argentina, Croatia, Kazakhstan and New Zealand
Some of the worlds finest young basketballers will be competing in the tournament so if you are in the area get out and have a look before they become famous!!
There will be team previews forthcoming in the next few weeks so stay tuned.
Also have a visit to : fiba.com where you can find more on the international game.
Local Scene
The Australian National Basketball League (NBL), is set to tip off its revamped competition on 24 September 2009. The season opener will see the New Zealand Breakers hosting the Cairns Taipans at the North Shore Events Centre. The eight team league will have its season conclude on Valentines Day 2010 with post season play to follow. The eight teams for this season's competition are:
Gold Coast Breakers
Cairns Taipans
New Zealand Breakers
Melbourne Tigers
Adelaide 36ers
Perth Wildcats
Wolloongong Hawks
Townsville Crocodiles
By all means get out to matches as often as possible to keep the game alive in Australia. Also visit nbl.com.au, the offical website of the NBL.
Gold Coast Breakers
Cairns Taipans
New Zealand Breakers
Melbourne Tigers
Adelaide 36ers
Perth Wildcats
Wolloongong Hawks
Townsville Crocodiles
By all means get out to matches as often as possible to keep the game alive in Australia. Also visit nbl.com.au, the offical website of the NBL.
29 May 2009
Opening Blog -- Just one to get me started.
Allo All:
I was recently asked who I thought was the best basketball player to ever play in the ACC? Note this is to be for their collegiate career, not accomplishments afterwards.
First and foremost, I say that you can't go past one David Thompson from NC State. For a 6'4" Small forward/Shooting guard, he garnered unprecedented attention from other teams. None other than Michael Jordan was in awe of his unreal leaping ability. The lob pass was brought into vogue by the Monte Towe (a 5'4" point guard) to David Thompson connection. The Thompson led State teams also eventually brought an end to the awesome UCLA dynasty which at the time was lead by one Bill Walton.
Note: there will be more to come on this subject, just getting the opening comments out there for a start.
Further from yesterday, Wikipedia goes on to say that the lob pass was "invented" by Thompson/Towe, amazing. Thompson had a 48 inch vertical leap that put his game constantly above the rim.
The rivalry between NC State and UCLA during the 1973-1974 seasons is legendary but even more memorable is the in conference rivalry between State and Maryland. The 1974 ACC Championship game, a 103-100 overtime victory by NC State over the Terps is considered by some one of the greatest ever collegiate games. State went on to finish that season with a perfect record on the way to an NCAA title.
The gentleman who posed this query of the best ACC player ever has put forward Art Heyman from Duke (1960-1963), as the best ACC player ever, sorry bud you have to put aside the local hero worship and look to the facts. Among the learned, Michael Jordan, Ralph Sampson, Tim Duncan, Christian Laettner, and Len Bias along with Thompson are truly the greatest to pass through the ACC when considering just their college careers. Often at his camps, Jordan points to Thompson as the player he watched and admired most when he was growing up.
Thompson's Accomplishments:
Collegiate
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_Thompson_(basketball)#College_career
Ok, look for more in the next few days as I tackle more history and current happenings in the Hoops Universe.
I was recently asked who I thought was the best basketball player to ever play in the ACC? Note this is to be for their collegiate career, not accomplishments afterwards.
First and foremost, I say that you can't go past one David Thompson from NC State. For a 6'4" Small forward/Shooting guard, he garnered unprecedented attention from other teams. None other than Michael Jordan was in awe of his unreal leaping ability. The lob pass was brought into vogue by the Monte Towe (a 5'4" point guard) to David Thompson connection. The Thompson led State teams also eventually brought an end to the awesome UCLA dynasty which at the time was lead by one Bill Walton.
Note: there will be more to come on this subject, just getting the opening comments out there for a start.
Further from yesterday, Wikipedia goes on to say that the lob pass was "invented" by Thompson/Towe, amazing. Thompson had a 48 inch vertical leap that put his game constantly above the rim.
The rivalry between NC State and UCLA during the 1973-1974 seasons is legendary but even more memorable is the in conference rivalry between State and Maryland. The 1974 ACC Championship game, a 103-100 overtime victory by NC State over the Terps is considered by some one of the greatest ever collegiate games. State went on to finish that season with a perfect record on the way to an NCAA title.
The gentleman who posed this query of the best ACC player ever has put forward Art Heyman from Duke (1960-1963), as the best ACC player ever, sorry bud you have to put aside the local hero worship and look to the facts. Among the learned, Michael Jordan, Ralph Sampson, Tim Duncan, Christian Laettner, and Len Bias along with Thompson are truly the greatest to pass through the ACC when considering just their college careers. Often at his camps, Jordan points to Thompson as the player he watched and admired most when he was growing up.
Thompson's Accomplishments:
Collegiate
- Three-year letter winner (1973–1975)
- The Sporting News national Player of the Year (1975)
- USBWA College Player of the Year (1975)
- Consensus First-Team All-America (1973, 1974, 1975) by Associated Press (AP), United Press International (UPI), Eastman Kodak, The Sporting News
- AP National Player of the Year (1974, 1975)
- UPI Player of the Year (1975)
- Eastman Kodak Award (1975)
- Naismith Award (1975)
- Adolph Rupp Trophy (1975)
- Coach & Athlete Magazine Player of the Year (1975)
- Helms Foundation Player of the Year (1974, 1975)
- National Association of Basketball Coaches Player of the Year (1975)
- United States Basketball Writers Association Player of the Year (1975)
- Dunlop Player of the Year (1975)
- Sullivan Award finalist (1974, 1975)
- Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) Player of the Year (1973, 1974, 1975)
- ACC Athlete of the Year (1973, 1975)
- All-ACC First Team (1973, 1974, 1975)
- North Carolina State retired his jersey number 44 (1975)
- Led North Carolina State to the 1974 NCAA championship (30-1 record), 76-64 over Marquette University
- In national semi-final win over UCLA, scored 28 points
- In championship game, scored 21 points against Marquette
- Most Valuable Player (MVP), NCAA Tournament (1974)
- Led Wolfpack to a 79-7 record during his final three season (freshmen were ineligible then) including 57-1 during his sophomore and junior seasons (27-0, 30-1), the best in ACC history. His senior year record was 22-6.
- Scored 2,309 points (26.8 ppg) in 86 varsity games; including highs of 57 points as a senior, 41 as a junior and 40 as a sophomore
- Averaged 35.6 ppg, including a 54-point high on the North Carolina State freshman team
- Grabbed 694 rebounds (8.1 rpg) in 86 games
- World University Games MVP (1973)
- Enshrined in North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame (1982)
- NCAA All-Decade Team of the 1970s
- Named to the ACC 50th Anniversary men's basketball team as one of the fifty greatest players in ACC history.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_Thompson_(basketball)#College_career
Ok, look for more in the next few days as I tackle more history and current happenings in the Hoops Universe.
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