Official Eurobasket 2007 thread

[Slomo]

Scores so far:
03.09.2007
Serbia 65 - 73 Russia
Czech Republic 78 - 83 Germany
Latvia 85 - 77 Croatia
Poland 66 - 74 France
Israel 66 - 76 Greece
Turkey 69 - 86 Lithuania
Portugal 56 - 82 Spain
Italy 68 - 69 Slovenia

04.09.2007
Russia 90 - 56 Israel
Lithuania 95 - 75 Czech Republic
Croatia 90 - 68 Portugal
France 69 - 62 Italy
Greece 68 - 67 Serbia
Germany 79 - 49 Turkey
Spain 93 - 77 Latvia
Slovenia 70 - 52 Poland

[Slomo]

Link to official website: http://www.eurobasket2007.org

[Slomo]

Can somebody explain to me the FIBA point system?

Italy lost both games but has 2 points? Same with Poland?

What is next? We stop keeping score so we won't hurt any body's feelings?

[angel_luv]

Can somebody explain to me the FIBA point system?

Italy lost both games but has 2 points? Same with Poland?

What is next? We stop keeping score so we won't hurt any body's feelings?


Does it have to do with tie breakers somehow?

[Ozzy]

Can somebody explain to me the FIBA point system?

Italy lost both games but has 2 points? Same with Poland?

What is next? We stop keeping score so we won't hurt any body's feelings?

You always get one point for a loss. The only way to get no points is if the team doesn't show up ... Nothing more to it ...

[Medvedenko]

Go Poland....ugh....my home country is getting worked over....oh well.

[Slomo]

Go Poland....ugh....my home country is getting worked over....oh well.Loads of rookie mistakes - they need more experience.

[Freeze]

Can somebody explain to me the FIBA point system?

Italy lost both games but has 2 points? Same with Poland?

What is next? We stop keeping score so we won't hurt any body's feelings?

1 Win = 2 pts
1 Loss = 1pt

[Slomo]

Geting points for losing doesn't strike you as odd?

[timvp]

I'm contemplating ordering these games on mediazone.com. How is the quality? Any announcers?

This looks like it's going to be a nice tournament.

[Freeze]

Geting points for losing doesn't strike you as odd?

Bah, that's just the way it works, and the most important is to compete :downspin:

Anyway, even with a rule 1win=1pt, 1loss=nothing, rankings would have been the same :p:

[Flopper]

Bah, that's just the way it works, and the most important is to compete :downspin:

Anyway, even with a rule 1win=1pt, 1loss=nothing, rankings would have been the same :p:

yup, it's just there to keep the losing team from feeling bad.

[velik_m]

Can somebody explain to me the FIBA point system?

Italy lost both games but has 2 points? Same with Poland?

What is next? We stop keeping score so we won't hurt any body's feelings?

Come on, it's been like that for like - forever. If the team doesn't show up they get 0 points (and the game is registered as 20-0).

[velik_m]

I would just like to add: the refs suck on this tournament. FIBA refs are getting worse every year.

[Pero]

Yeah man, it was "always" like that, also in different euro leagues, where have you been living? :lol

Timvp, AngelLuv and Ploto are watching it through media zone, you should ask them. It appears it's good though.

[Pero]

Then again, they are bigger fans than you. :lol

[Kibic]

Can somebody explain to me the FIBA point system?

Italy lost both games but has 2 points? Same with Poland?

What is next? We stop keeping score so we won't hurt any body's feelings?
Uppsss expert!? That suprise me. This is from mid 80-is. Before it was normal, 0-loss, 2-for win.

[Slo spurs fan]

Then again, they are bigger fans than you. :lol
:lol but true.

[Slo spurs fan]

Bigest dissapointment so far is Turkey and biggest upset is Germany in my opinion.
We are not so bad too, even without our 5 "star" players and regardless of our latest loss of Čapin. We will see what we can do against France. I hope Dragič can stay infront of Tony as he did in friendly game in Maribor. Yes I know it was just a friendly game but....

[JPB]

Bigest dissapointment so far is Turkey and biggest upset is Germany in my opinion.
We are not so bad too, even without our 5 "star" players and regardless of our latest loss of Čapin. We will see what we can do against France. I hope Dragič can stay infront of Tony as he did in friendly game in Maribor. Yes I know it was just a friendly game but....

That's a tricky game for France. They beat Slovenia 3 times in friendly games and there's a possibility of incinscient superiority complex.
but I trust TP and NBA players to get the job done.

An underestimated player so far is Diawara for France. He hustles, makes 3, takes boards. I think it's a game for him tonight.

[JPB]

I'm contemplating ordering these games on mediazone.com. How is the quality? Any announcers?

This looks like it's going to be a nice tournament.

Don't know about the quality since I'm watching them on TV.

About the tournament :

Euro champs games are often bitter, tactical and close. Don't expect a lot of show (except with France :hungry: ) but rather pretty low scores.

But there's a lot of intensity cos every game is important.

The main interesting is that you have 6-7 teams that are close and that can realisticly get the crown.

And the intensity is growing up as the competion is advancing. (It's still the first round now). When you are in elimination games, intensity is at his highest and every possession is a little drama. The decision is often maid, or not, in the last minutes.

[Kamnik]

Croatia is doing bad and Slovenia good in this tourny....

What more can we wish ;))

[Pero]

Yeah, but didn't you predict croatia and slovenia for third place? :lol

[gus]

Best FIBA tournament in the world. Every team is competitive. In the world or the Olympics you'll have the Asian and African teams which are not good.

Gus

[ducks]

Basketball: Parker leads France at European basketball championships

Web Posted: 09/04/2007 09:34 PM CDT

Paul Logothetis
Associated Press

MADRID, Spain — Tony Parker scored 36 points Tuesday, leading Group D leader France past Italy 69-62 and handing the Olympic runner-up its second loss at the European championship.

Parker scored 13 of France's first 17 points, but the Spurs star had only two more the rest of the first half. France, down by five at halftime, opened the second half with a 6-0 run to take its first lead, 37-36, when Parker made two free throws after Andrea Crosario drew a technical for slamming the ball into the base of the basketball pole.

Parker scored his team's next 10 points to give France a 47-41 lead, but as he sat for most of the final two minutes of the third quarter, Italy closed within 51-47. Italy scored six straight at start of the fourth to reclaim the lead. Tariq Kirksay hit a 3-pointer with three minutes remaining to put France ahead for good, 63-60.

Pau Gasol had 26 points and nine rebounds to lead world champion Spain over a stubborn Latvia side 93-77 in Sevilla, where Croatia (1-1) beat Portugal (0-2) 90-68 in another Group B game. Lithuania moved into the second round with a 95-75 win over Group C rival Czech Republic (0-2) before Germany (2-0) routed Turkey (0-2) 79-49 behind 24 points from Dirk Nowitzki.

At Granada, Serbia's Milan Gurovic banked in a three-pointer from inside half-court to force overtime against Greece, where the reigning champions stayed undefeated with a 68-67 win. Also in Group A, Russia won its second straight, dominating last-minute qualifier Israel 90-56.

Lithuania, which defeated Turkey by 16 points Monday, moved closer to the second round with a 95-75 win over Group C rival Czech Republic (0-2).

In the other Group D match, Slovenia (2-0) advanced with a 70-52 win over Poland.

The top three from each group move on to the second round of group play. That will decide the quarterfinals, which begin in Madrid on Sept. 13.

Three-time European champion Lithuania shot 63 percent to dominate a Czech team that lost to Germany in overtime Monday. Ksistof Lavrinovic scored 22 in less than 20 minutes for Lithuania.

Russia, which beat Serbia on Monday, seems eager to improve on its consecutive eighth-place finishes. American-born John Robert Holden lobbed a pass for Andrei Kirilenko to slam at 4:25 of the second period to give Russia a 32-21 lead. The Russians kept their double-digit lead the rest of the way.

Croatia looks set to clinch its place in the second round. Damir Markota scored 13 and four other players were in double figures.

[Kamnik]

Yeah, but didn't you predict croatia and slovenia for third place? :lol

I think my ego will be unhurt if we play someone else for the third place! :lol

[Streakyshooter08]

I watched Germany- Turkey and I was really amazed how bad Turkey played. Okur was a complete non- factor. Kutluay and Ilyasova played bad as well. Looks like their chemistry is really bad.

I was also surprised that Italy lost both of their games. It will be interesting how the tournament goes on...

[Slo spurs fan]

Good luck to your team, Streaky. We will meet again (after Belgrade 05) in Madrid. Be prepared for ass wooping! ;) We will revenge that loss!

[angel_luv]

I'm contemplating ordering these games on mediazone.com. How is the quality? Any announcers?

This looks like it's going to be a nice tournament.


The quality is good. No announcers now that you mention it- just the sound of fans. Feels like you are at the game. :)

This is my third year to watch this way. I really enjoy it.

[Ozzy]

Darko Milicic completely lost it after Serbia lost to Greece in OT:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jaKk8vBiCPw

Probably only Spurstalk members from Slovenia (and other ex-Yugoslavia countries) will understand this, but maybe it's better that way. Basically it's just one swear word after another... (oriented towards the referees).

If anyone translates this to FIBA officials, he will probably get suspended for a game or two, if not even baned from the championship ...

I didn't watch the game, so I don't know if the refereeing was really that bad, but he sure picked the wrong way of commenting it.

[Slo spurs fan]

Now I belive rumors were true. He is/was part of Serbian mafia. Don´t ask me for the link, becouse that were rumors.

[Slomo]

Darko Milicic completely lost it after Serbia lost to Greece in OT:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jaKk8vBiCPw

Probably only Spurstalk members from Slovenia (and other ex-Yugoslavia countries) will understand this, but maybe it's better that way. Basically it's just one swear word after another... (oriented towards the referees).

If anyone translates this to FIBA officials, he will probably get suspended for a game or two, if not even baned from the championship ...

I didn't watch the game, so I don't know if the refereeing was really that bad, but he sure picked the wrong way of commenting it.Wow!!!!

I've seen/heard players meltdowns before but this is easily the worst one! Watched it twice because I couldn't believe he was really saying that stuff.

I had to smile a couple of times (after the reporter asks him to calm down) but when he actually threatens the refs family members (daughter) that took all the humour out of it.

He should be thrown out of the tournament for what he said in that video.

[velik_m]

Eh, it was hardly any deviation from standard serbian talk.

[Slo spurs fan]

I understand Darko a little bit after todays´ game against France. But we won!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Anyway. :)

[Slomo]

Today's scores (so far):

05.09.2007
Israel 87 - 83 Serbia
Lithuania 84 - 80 Germany
Portugal 77 - 67 Latvia
Slovenia 67 - 66 France

[angel_luv]

I hope Turkey wins today. Come on Hedo! :)

[ata]

I hope Turkey wins today. Come on Hedo! :)
I don't know what to wish for. Winner of Turkey/Chech game will be next Slovenian oponent on Saturday. Do we want Hedo or Jiri?

[angel_luv]

I don't know what to wish for. Winner of Turkey/Chech game will be next Slovenian oponent on Saturday. Do we want Hedo or Jiri?


Who is best for Slovenia to play match up wise?

When it comes to Slovenia, Hedo has to lose. ( Sorry Hedo!)

[angel_luv]

It would be nice if Hedo could get a win today before losing to us on Saturday.

[Slo spurs fan]

Who is best for Slovenia to play match up wise?

When it comes to Slovenia, Hedo has to lose. ( Sorry Hedo!)
Well, we are able to win against almost all teams, but in other hand we can lost to really anyone. So it doesn´t really matter who will be our next opponent.

[velik_m]

Well, we are able to win against almost all teams, but in other hand we can lost to really anyone. So it doesn´t really matter who will be our next opponent.

Yeah but we have some unfinished business with Turkey...

[angel_luv]

Yeah but we have some unfinished business with Turkey...


Then I say, let's beat them big time. :)


Remind me what they did to us.

[velik_m]

WC Japan.

[Bruno]

Greece lost against Russia :spin

Baring a surprise, Group E standings should be :
1. Spain
2. Russia
3. Greece
4. WGAF

Finishing 3rd in the group F will be better than finishing 2nd.
The 3rd team will have an easier quarter final than the 2nd one (Greece>Russia) and an easier Semi final (Spain>team X)

I wouldn't be surprised to see some tanking...

[Slo spurs fan]

Well Bruno it seems like Croatia will upset Spain. 77-70 Cro, with 7 mins to go.

[Slo spurs fan]

And Cro was down by 15+ in first half.

[angel_luv]

WC Japan.


I thought we lost a heart breaker to China at the buzzer and then lost in the elimination round to Germany.

Must be mixing up my tournaments. :dizzy

All I remember from WC Japan is not sleeping since I was up at all hours watching games. :)

[Slo spurs fan]

Well 11-0 run by Spain :lol

[Slo spurs fan]

Croat Tomas hit 3 pointer with 3 sec to go. Cro +1 !

[Slo spurs fan]

Croatia won!!!

[Slo spurs fan]

Well I don´t like Croatia, but I hate Spain, becouse they fucked up Croatia in Belgrade 2005 with huge help from the refs.

[Bruno]

Wasn't Spain on something like a 27 or 28 win game streak ?

[Bruno]

Group E :
Russia : 2-0
Croatia : 2-0
Spain : 1-1
Greece : 1-1
Israel : 0-2
Portugal : 0-2

Group F :
Lithuania : 2-0
Slovenia : 2-0
Germany : 1-1
France : 1-1
Italy : 0-2
Turkey : 0-2

[Slo spurs fan]

Yes they were on 29 game win streak.

[Bruno]

The second round will be great.

Russia, Croatia, Spain and Greece should get in quarter final but the big question will be in what order. Israel and Portugal are weaker.

The group F is even more open. Lithuania seems slightly better than other teams but the other 5 teams are damn close.

Euro is for sure the most interesting competition outside the nba.

[angel_luv]

Hedo won! :)

[Streakyshooter08]

Good luck to your team, Streaky. We will meet again (after Belgrade 05) in Madrid. Be prepared for ass wooping! ;) We will revenge that loss!

Thanks.:) I am actually really surprised Germany played that well up to this point. They could have won against Lithuania if they played a little smarter. It will be interesting to see. Their strengh is defense. On offense there are a lot better teams than Germany...

[velik_m]

Croatia has a really nice offensive flow in a game against Israel.

[Slo spurs fan]

LOL Croatia lost to Israel!!! 80-75

[Slo spurs fan]

OMFG, two days after thay beat world champions Spain, they lost to qualifier Israel. They also lost to Latvia in the 1st round. They will catch us up in games lost to far inferior teams.

[velik_m]

poor D from Croatia.

Interesting: Israel beat Bosnia and Macedonia in qualifying, took out Serbia in group stage and now beat Croatia. Ex-Yu killers.

[velik_m]

They will catch us up in games lost to far inferior teams.

No, we're still far ahead.

[Slo spurs fan]

I hope we will met them in finals. There we could lost. I don´t care if we get silver or gold. :)

[ducks]

Nowitzki, Parker to meet in next round
Associated Press, Updated 2 hours ago STORY


MADRID, Spain (AP) - The European Basketball Championship is living up to its billing as one of the most competitive in history.

Thank its NBA players for that.
After a first round of buzzer-beaters, comebacks and surprising exits, the 12 remaining squads travel to Madrid on Thursday to prepare for the second stage of group play, vying for a spot in the quarterfinals.

Five of the top six leading scorers are NBA players, with Dallas Mavericks forward Dirk Nowitzki leading the way with 29 points per game. Nowitzki will face San Antonio Spurs guard Tony Parker - who is second in scoring with 25.7 points - when Germany plays France on Saturday in Group F.

Parker missed a game-tying free throw with two seconds left in Wednesday's 67-66 loss to Group D winner Slovenia, but the NBA Finals MVP has shaken off the inconsistency he showed two years ago, when France took bronze.

Lithuania, which won Group C ahead of Germany and Turkey, has emerged as a serious contender.

The 2003 champions are racking up the best team statistics in the tournament so far, leading in points scored per game (88.3), 3-point percentage (42.6), total rebounds (40.3) and assists (15.3).

"Over the past three days we've come together as a team," said Golden State Warriors guard Sarunas Jasikevicius, who leads the tournament with seven assists per game while adding 14.3 points. "As long as we keep improving, we have a chance to do something."

Lithuania opens the next stage against Italy in Group F. The Italians beat Poland on Wednesday to avoid early elimination.

Toronto Raptors center Andrea Bargnani has improved with each game for Italy, scoring 19 points against Poland, while guard Marco Belinelli of the Golden State Warriors has averaged 14 per game.

World champion Spain saw a 28-game unbeaten streak come to an end with its 85-84 loss to Croatia.

Though Spain coach Pepu Hernandez said the loss "wasn't so important," Memphis Grizzlies center Pau Gasol likened it to a wake-up call.

"We can't believe that we're going to win by just showing up," Gasol said. "We have to go out and give 100 percent, because no one is unbeatable."

Spain opens Group E on Friday against Greece in a rematch of last year's world championship final, which Spain won 70-47.

Also on Friday, Portugal plays unbeaten Russia, which has been led by Andrei Kirilenko.

The Utah Jazz forward has averaged a double-double (17 points, 14 rebounds) through three Russian wins, adding two blocks per game.

Israel plays Croatia on Friday after its 87-83 win over Serbia handed the Serbs their earliest exit from the European Championship in 60 years.

The loss has been labeled a "disaster" by media back home, with coach Zoran Slavnic offering his resignation.

"We fell psychologically and morally while (Israel) could do anything they wanted to," Minnesota Timberwolves guard Marko Jaric said. "I am sorry, but life goes on."

Also in Group F, Turkey plays Slovenia.

First-round results against fellow qualifiers carry over, with the top four from each group moving into the quarterfinals, which begin on Sept. 13.

[angel_luv]

Lithuania opens the next stage against Italy in Group F. The Italians beat Poland on Wednesday to avoid early elimination.

Toronto Raptors center Andrea Bargnani has improved with each game for Italy, scoring 19 points against Poland, while guard Marco Belinelli of the Golden State Warriors has averaged 14 per game

I have the game on. :)

[angel_luv]

Italy needs to man up. Come on guys!

[Kamnik]

Italy needs to man up.

Italian men arent exactly famous for being very manly....
:p:

[angel_luv]

Italian men arent exactly famous for being very manly....
:p:

Just as well. I prefer Slovenians anyway. :)

[angel_luv]

:lol They're playing " Kiss me" for the half time break.

Italy playing much better. :) I hope A.B. has an awesome second half to win the game.

[angel_luv]

This turned out to be a game. Come on Italy.

[themvp]

Score?

[angel_luv]

Italy lost by five, I believe.

[velik_m]

Portgual does good job for Croatia once again.

[velik_m]

Greece wins over Croatia with a buzzer beater.

[Bruno]

Greece only win by 3. They will be at best 3rd in their group.
It means that the 1st or 2nd team will have to play against Greece.

[velik_m]

Greece only win by 3. They will be at best 3rd in their group.
It means that the 1st or 2nd team will have to play against Greece.

The way they play, that's still better than playing versus Russia or Spain.

[Bruno]

The way they play, that's still better than playing versus Russia or Spain.

I rather see France playing against Russia or Croatia than Greece.
Maybe Greece aren't playing well for the moment but they are French NT nightmare for years.

[Kill_Bill_Pana]

Spanoulis hits 3 pointer at buzzer for win for Greece.


Greece team has purposely position itself to play France because they have owned France for so long.

[Kill_Bill_Pana]

Spanoulis buzzer beater. He drive full court two crossovers, ankle breaker then pullup 26 footer for win. Spurs needs to bring him back.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9LZtf_lr_es

[Bruno]

Greece team has purposely position itself to play France because they have owned France for so long.

:rolleyes
They aren't really in position to play France.

[Pero]

It wasn`t exactly an ankle breaker. Planinic (I think) slipped. But great shot! :)

[Kill_Bill_Pana]

It wasn`t exactly an ankle breaker. Planinic (I think) slipped. But great shot! :)

So you make defender fall down when you change dribble it's not ankle breaker?

Please explain, in Greece this considered ankle breaker.

[Kill_Bill_Pana]

:rolleyes
They aren't really in position to play France.

You think Lithunania beat France even with Sabas hurts?

[Bruno]

You think Lithunania beat France even with Sabas hurts?

Even if France beat Lithuania tomorrow, it doesn't mean that they will play Greece.
Teams in the group F have still 2 games to play, it's too soon to calculate who will play against who.

[Freeze]

with 1.42 remaining Spain 78 - 67 Russia

Edit : end of game, Spain by 12


So you make defender fall down when you change dribble it's not ankle breaker?

Please explain, in Greece this considered ankle breaker.

That the point, you need to make it, here it seems more that the defender slipped when he wanted to stop running.
But indeed, the shoot is awsome :clap


You think Lithunania beat France even with Sabas hurts?

France is an inconsistant team and have off nights in every tournament these last year... 2005 is a good example :
a mediocre 1st round 2L (Greece, Slovenia) 1W (Bosnia)
Then they defeat the world champion playing with homecourt advantage : Serbia.
Easy winn against Lithuania in quarterfinals
In Semi thay have lost by one against Greece because they couldn't hit a FT in the final minutes
In the game for the bronze, they destroyed Spain by 30...

Talented, but inconsistant team.

[Kill_Bill_Pana]

Even if France beat Lithuania tomorrow, it doesn't mean that they will play Greece.
Teams in the group F have still 2 games to play, it's too soon to calculate who will play against who.


But you don't think most likely it will beat Greece vs. France?

Personal I hope very much see Parker go against Papaloukas, Diamantidis, and Spanoulis.

You do not think this be amazing match up to see?

Maybe too after game Parker can ask Spanoulis to come back again after this year.

I relly believe Spurs have greatest guard rotation in world if they have Parker/Manu then Kill Bill backs them up.

[Pero]

So you make defender fall down when you change dribble it's not ankle breaker?

Please explain, in Greece this considered ankle breaker.

It just looked like Planinic slipped to me. Maybe it was because of the crossover, or maybe the floor was wet. In any case it doesn`t matter. :)

[Freeze]

Maybe too after game Parker can ask Spanoulis to come back again after this year.

I relly believe Spurs have greatest guard rotation in world if they have Parker/Manu then Kill Bill backs them up.

Spurs will never pay a 5M$ buyout for any player. And you would like them to do it for a backup ?!?
:downspin:

[Kill_Bill_Pana]

Spurs will never pay a 5M$ buyout for any player. And you would like them to do it for a backup ?!?
:downspin:

Have you watch tournament?

Even some of my American friends admit so far he has better defense than any NBA player way he plays.

Steve Nash can be shut down by Spanoulis.

You see Diamantidis defense?

I huge fan of Bruce Bowen, but compares with Diamantidis he poor defender.

Spurs never have to worry about Nash again they have defender like Spanoulis or Diamantidis for him.

[Slo spurs fan]

Are you on crack, kill bill pana?

[Kill_Bill_Pana]

Spurs will never pay a 5M$ buyout for any player. And you would like them to do it for a backup ?!?
:downspin:


Also he has $4.85 million buyout but he also has player option. So it depend on how much Spurs offers.

See what I mean?

Spurs offers $4.85 million for 2 years same he get for last two years from Panathinaikos) and he opt out after one year and join Spurs.

So it based on what Spurs willing to pay. Billy say he never again take less money to play in NBA after dealing with Van Gundy. He also tells me though Lindsey and Buford tells him money and spaces on Spurs open after next year.

So it up to Spurs, Billy can opt out after this year but he not coming for less than $4.85 million for over 2 years .

Sp Spurs could offer him 2 year deal at $2.425 million per year and he could opt out and join.

Billy cannot join Spurs again for 3 years if he not opt out BEFORE option clause because buyout equal $4.85 million.

Understands?

So Billy realisitic he stay for 3 years unless Spurs offers his contract BEFORE player clause come up with Greens which be next August.

Billy realize no way Spurs pay that buyout, but also Spurs does tell him based on what happen next year IF they still wants him they offer him money BEFORE player clause opt out with Greens expire.

So what I say is, IF Parker force issue Billy be Spur NEXT YEAR.

If not Billy probably just stay in Athens.

[Freeze]

I huge fan of Bruce Bowen, but compares with Diamantidis he poor defender.
:lol :lol :lol :lol
:lol :lol :lol :lol


Have you watch tournament?

Even some of my American friends admit so far he has better defense than any NBA player way he plays.

Steve Nash can be shut down by Spanoulis.

You see Diamantidis defense?

I huge fan of Bruce Bowen, but compares with Diamantidis he poor defender.

Spurs never have to worry about Nash again they have defender like Spanoulis or Diamantidis for him.

That's not the point, Spurs Organisation won't pay a 5M $ buyout, ask your American friends, and look at Scola's example.

[Kill_Bill_Pana]

Are you on crack, kill bill pana?

You even know Diamantidis?

He BETTER defender than Bruce Bowen.

[Slo spurs fan]

You even know Diamantidis?

He BETTER defender than Bruce Bowen.
I see. You are on crack. I am Slovene, so I watch him every year. He is really good defender, BUT, please don´t compare him with Bruce.

[ploto]

Who would have guessed when the tournament started that I could write the following words--

the only 2 undefeated teams left are Slovenia and Lithuania!

I don't know why people ae not paying more attention to Lithuania. Everyone is focused on Spain, Greece, Russia, France...

[Kill_Bill_Pana]

Who would have guessed when the tournament started that I could write the following words--

the only 2 undefeated teams left are Slovenia and Lithuania!

I don't know why people ae not paying more attention to Lithuania. Everyone is focused on Spain, Greece, Russia, France...


I think Lithuania VERY good, but with Sabas hurt they not beat Greece or France coming up I think.

[Kill_Bill_Pana]

I see. You are on crack. I am Slovene, so I watch him every year. He is really good defender, BUT, please don´t compare him with Bruce.

I think Diamantidis have like 7 feet wingspan and much quicker than Bowen.

You realize he have freakish wingspan right?

He have as good as Bowen but more physical tools than Bowens. He just swarm over offense players like Spider as they say in Greece.

[magic]

Spanoulis hits 3 pointer at buzzer for win for Greece.


http://dailymotion.alice.it/tag/++2007/video/x2xyit_spanoulis-greece-buzzer-beater-agai_sport

[Slo spurs fan]

I think Lithuania VERY good, but with Sabas hurt they not beat Greece or France coming up I think.
Sorry Billy, but the golden days of your Greece are over. Your team sucks this year. They beat poor and depleted Serbia in OT, depleted Croatia with buzzer-beater, lost to Russia and has been demolished by Spain. Your only good win is against "mighty" Israel. So don´t dream about beating Spain, Lithuania, Russia etc at all. And pass that what you are smoking.

[Kill_Bill_Pana]

Sorry Billy, but the golden days of your Greece are over. Your team sucks this year. They beat poor and depleted Serbia in OT, depleted Croatia with buzzer-beater, lost to Russia and has been demolished by Spain. Your only good win is against "mighty" Israel. So don´t dream about beating Spain, Lithuania, Russia etc at all. And pass that what you are smoking.


Well our best 2 big players not playing. Starting PF Fotsis (team's 2nd lead scorer after Spanoulis and best 3 point shooter) and Sofo starting C and best post scorer both out.

So I think Greece proves so far how good they are to win without starting PF and starting C and two best big players and two best big player scorers.

But even with this problem we surely can beat Russia. We surely can beat Croatia again. We sure can beat Lithuania, Germany, even France and yes we can beat Slovenia or any others except Spain.

Spain main problem we have because we not have Fotsis he about 6-11 240 and we not have Sofoklis he about 6-9 340 when he play but he get too 400 pounds and he not play now.

I think I have good kg to pounds there. Fotsis gain weight from NBA days like 10 kilo probably.

Even without 2 starters Greece 2nd best team in tournament.

So we maybe not beat Spain because starting PF and C not playing, but I still not count team out though. Spain bad match up but some team could beat Spain maybe, depend on how match up goes.

Greece much better team than before. People not realize players like Fotsis, Diamantidis, Sofo, and especially Spanoulis getting better.

Spanoulis already best Greek player ever and he just turn 25, he just look better every tournament, every year even though he not play a whole year he still get better.

[magic]

Spanoulis already best Greek player ever


:nope

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=93qc8EzsohM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=94X7oyzlfeY
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2PYutPDp3cM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gjKjvNVidNw

[Pero]

I think Lithuania VERY good, but with Sabas hurt they not beat Greece or France coming up I think.

Who is hurt?

[Slo spurs fan]

When exactly was Sofoklis your starting center?

And I won´t mention how depleted are Serbia, Croatia and Slovenia. It would be to long post.

Your team is strong only on paper. They showed nothing so far. Yes your team can beat aforementioned teams, but not on this tournament, because your players don´t act like humble hard workers anymore. They act like superstars and plays without any organization in offensive and without ferocious defense, like they played in past.

[Kill_Bill_Pana]

When exactly was Sofoklis your starting center?

And I won´t mention how depleted are Serbia, Croatia and Slovenia. It would be to long post.

Your team is strong only on paper. They showed nothing so far. Yes your team can beat aforementioned teams, but not on this tournament, because your players don´t act like humble hard workers anymore. They act like superstars and plays without any organization in offensive and without ferocious defense, like they played in past.

Sofo given starting center for this Eurobasket but coach make point he only get to play if he lose weight.

[Slo spurs fan]

He was never your starting center, so don´t say Greece miss their starting center.
And he is one big, fat Mofo. I understand your coach Yanakis.

[Kill_Bill_Pana]

:nope

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=93qc8EzsohM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=94X7oyzlfeY
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2PYutPDp3cM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gjKjvNVidNw


Spanoulis only 25.

He already IS best Greek player ever.

By time he gets to 28 or so no other Greek player touches him.

Spanoulis in Greece:

First year Maroussi take scrub team to league title game.

First year ULEB Cup take scrub team to title game.

He all ULEB and all Greek. He lkead team in scoring and assists off bench.

He 2nd lead scorer 2nd assists Greek league and ULEB Cup league his 2nd year ULEB CUP with Maroussi. He 6th man of year. He lead team in scoring and assists off bench.

He signs with European powerhouse since final four days of Euroleague Panathinaikos.

He has team win Greek League and Greek Cup. He lead team in scoring OFF BENCH. He all Greek.

FIRST YEAR Euroleague, he 10th in MVP, he all Euroleague 2nd team to Papaloukas (MVP of Euroleague, Scola for example just MVP of Spain)

He twice MVP of week. He rookie of year, he 7th place FIBA European player of year. Looks at list, Parker and Dirk and Pau for example also on list.

He does this ROOKIE YEAR

Worlds 2006 he leads Greece in scoring for tournament off bench, they get silver medal. He leads Greece with 22 points in win against US off bench.

2007 Eurobasket he lead team in steals, assists, scoring OFF BENCH.

He just 25. You look at where Gallis, Diamantidis, Giannakis, Alvertis, Papaloukas, Ntikoudis at when they age 25.............

you compares them as rookies in ULEB Cup or Euroleague you compares them international level at this age............

not even close Spanoulis biggest talent in basketball Greece ever have.

[Kill_Bill_Pana]

He was never your starting center, so don´t say Greece miss their starting center.
And he is one big, fat Mofo. I understand your coach Yanakis.

He was. Coach name him starter and only say he must get down to 340 pounds. He not so he stay off team, but he ALREADY named starter.

[Freeze]

Spanoulis only 25.

He already IS best Greek player ever.

By time he gets to 28 or so no other Greek player touches him.

Spanoulis in Greece:

First year Maroussi take scrub team to league title game.

First year ULEB Cup take scrub team to title game.

He all ULEB and all Greek. He lkead team in scoring and assists off bench.

He 2nd lead scorer 2nd assists Greek league and ULEB Cup league his 2nd year ULEB CUP with Maroussi. He 6th man of year. He lead team in scoring and assists off bench.

He signs with European powerhouse since final four days of Euroleague Panathinaikos.

He has team win Greek League and Greek Cup. He lead team in scoring OFF BENCH. He all Greek.

FIRST YEAR Euroleague, he 10th in MVP, he all Euroleague 2nd team to Papaloukas (MVP of Euroleague, Scola for example just MVP of Spain)

He twice MVP of week. He rookie of year, he 7th place FIBA European player of year. Looks at list, Parker and Dirk and Pau for example also on list.

He does this ROOKIE YEAR

Worlds 2006 he leads Greece in scoring for tournament off bench, they get silver medal. He leads Greece with 22 points in win against US off bench.

2007 Eurobasket he lead team in steals, assists, scoring OFF BENCH.

He just 25. You look at where Gallis, Diamantidis, Giannakis, Alvertis, Papaloukas, Ntikoudis at when they age 25.............

you compares them as rookies in ULEB Cup or Euroleague you compares them international level at this age............

not even close Spanoulis biggest talent in basketball Greece ever have.

Off the bench but with the biggest playing time :spin

Nice to read a greek homer here :lol

[Kill_Bill_Pana]

Off the bench but with the biggest playing time :spin

Nice to read a greek homer here :lol

No he NEVER lead team in play time.

Not even this tournament. You bother with facts here?

I thinks Spurs fans needs be more factual. They always more factual than Rockets or Maverick fans but lately they seem just as bad at not having facts.

[Freeze]

He was. Coach name him starter and only say he must get down to 340 pounds. He not so he stay off team, but he ALREADY named starter.

And France is playing without Pietrus, Gelabale, Petro, Jeanneau, Mahinmi, Noah,... all starters before Bergeaud decided they were not selected or injured, or haven't got their passeport yet :spin

[Freeze]

No he NEVER lead team in play time.
Not even this tournament. You bother with facts here?

2nd greek PT currently....

[Pero]

He was. Coach name him starter and only say he must get down to 340 pounds. He not so he stay off team, but he ALREADY named starter.

How much does Sofoklis weigh now?

And again, who is injured in Lithuania team? Did you mean Sarunas?

[Kill_Bill_Pana]

How much does Sofoklis weigh now?

And again, who is injured in Lithuania team? Did you mean Sarunas?

400 pounds. He is 6-9 without shoes and like 400 pounds by Greek press report.

Yes Sarunas I thought he hurtes his I don't know how spell hamstrings?

[Kill_Bill_Pana]

2nd greek PT currently....

Yes, not first as you implys.

Actually he gets only 28.6 minutes hardly much at all compared to many other players.

He gets same PT as many other "stars" in tournament he have much higher numbers. But with Greece he, Diamantidis, and Papaloukas won't all get so much minutes, so right now Diamantidis gets many minutes others 2 don't.

Like Spanoulis average 28.6 minutes

http://www.eurobasket2007.org/en/default.asp?cid=%7B2F4F3340-F4D9-47CF-97E8-4BFA48AD3FE7%7D&pageID=%7B1423B646-4477-42E2-94F9-F7809ED82B7F%7D&compID=%7BD166E39E-2323-4863-B229-76357A926FA2%7D&season=2007&statCat=Minutes

[Pero]

400 pounds. He is 6-9 without shoes and like 400 pounds by Greek press report.

Yes Sarunas I thought he hurtes his I don't know how spell hamstrings?

400 pounds!!! Holy Crap!!! :dizzy

Hamstrings is correct. I didn`t know he was hurt. And at first you said Sabas, so I wasn`t sure whether it was a typo or you meant someone else.

[Kill_Bill_Pana]

400 pounds!!! Holy Crap!!! :dizzy

Hamstrings is correct. I didn`t know he was hurt. And at first you said Sabas, so I wasn`t sure whether it was a typo or you meant someone else.


http://www.realgm.com/boards/viewtopic.php?t=700478&postdays=0&postorder=asc&start=12

yes picture there, Olympiakos and Clipper fans not happy either.

http://www.thrylos-fans.net/images/stories/basket/sofo-meta.jpg

[Slo spurs fan]

He was. Coach name him starter and only say he must get down to 340 pounds. He not so he stay off team, but he ALREADY named starter.
He never,ever STARTED for Greek national team! NEVER! It doesn´t matter what he was named, it only matter what was his role in your team.

And becouse you didn´t answered to my questions, I am done. So is your team.

[JPB]

I rather see France playing against Russia or Croatia than Greece.
Maybe Greece aren't playing well for the moment but they are French NT nightmare for years.

You're damn right but maybe it's time to break the malediction :ihit

Last time we lost vs them in 2005, we really gave them the game.

It's true that when Greece is hitting its trees like in the second half vs Croatia, then you're in big trouble.

But Croatia's D was not very smart. How many times did I see wide open 3's for Greece while they were red hot beyond the arc. :(

[Slo spurs fan]

Croatian coach Repeša was stupid enough to call for zone defense all the second half.

[Streakyshooter08]

I am really looking forward to tonights game against Slovenia. I really hope we will win, but I don't think it will happen. Hopefully it will be a great game...

[JPB]

This is live or die for Germany tonight.

[Slo spurs fan]

I am really looking forward to tonights game against Slovenia. I really hope we will win, but I don't think it will happen. Hopefully it will be a great game...
Can´t wait..... :hungry:

[velik_m]

This is live or die for Germany tonight.

No that will be against Italy on wednesday..

[ploto]

TKY- Italy down to the wire!!

Hedo to the line-- 30 points already today...

TKY 70 Italy 68 20 seconds to go

Foul TKY-- free throws to Italy- 9 to go. Both good.

TKY misses 3 at the buzzer.

TKY 70 Italy 70 Overtime

[ploto]

TKY blowing it...

[Bruno]

Thanks to Italy for this win, France NT is now qualified for the top 8.

[Alain]

France is going to finish 3rd and will play Russia while Slovenia will lose against Lithuania and then against Greece. :smokin

[Slo spurs fan]

Thank you, Alain.

[Slomo]

Thank you, Alain.:lol :tu

[Bruno]

Thanks to Italy for this win, France NT is now qualified for the top 8.

And thanks to Slovenia for beating Germany.

What has happened today is a perfect scenario for French NT, even the loss against Lithuania.

First, the last game of the group against Turkey is meaningless. Win or Loss, France will finish third. French players will be well rested for the Quarterfinal that will happen the next day.

Second and if Spain beat Israel tomorrow, France won't face Spain or Greece in Quarterfinal and they won't face Spain in Semifinal if they win the quarterfinal.

A quarterfinal against Croatia or Russia won't be easy at all, but it's the less worst case for France NT.

[Alain]

Thank you, Alain.

You're welcome.
But you should thank karma :stirpot:

[angel_luv]

TKY- Italy down to the wire!!

Hedo to the line-- 30 points already today...

TKY 70 Italy 68 20 seconds to go

Foul TKY-- free throws to Italy- 9 to go. Both good.

TKY misses 3 at the buzzer.

TKY 70 Italy 70 Overtime


Oh no, Hedo lost?

And after such a game too! Poor Hedo! He's been awesome.

[bigfish22]

I'm sorry if I'm not lookin hard enough, but can anyone post the link to the Nesterovich/Turiaf video please? Thanks to whoever is helpful?

[Slo spurs fan]

Look harder.

[Alain]

can anyone post the link to the Nesterovich/Turiaf video please?
Which one? (he did this hammer thing 3 times before being ejected for another foul)

[Slo spurs fan]

Which one? (he did this hammer thing 3 times before being ejected for another foul)
Are you bitter or retarded?
He made 2 hard fouls on Turiaf and one nice and soft as kiss foul on Tony.

[sendman]

Which one? (he did this hammer thing 3 times before being ejected for another foul)

Dude, just get over it! Your team did. Yesterday Smodiš got hammered much worst then your "rastaman" and you don't see people crying their eyes out all over the place.

And I thought Italians are drama queens!
:dramaquee :dramaquee :dramaquee

[bigfish22]

Didn't mean to stir up controversey here. I was just wondering about the play where he ended up injuring Truiaf. How bout that video guys?

[Dario]

I still cant get it how someone can come back on the court and play 15 minutes after he dislocates his shoulder. Drama queen or incredible toughness?

[Alain]

Are you bitter or retarded?
Calling names, now... Serbian ancesters?


He made 2 hard fouls on Turiaf and one nice and soft as kiss foul on Tony.
I'm glad you admit there was at least 2 hard fouls. That mean Rasho should have been ejected during the first half (that would have spared us the homers crying about him being tossed on a soft foul).
And you're right as I remember now, the first hammer was delivered by Smodis on Weis earlier. Like Claude Bergeaud said: "Fortunately these were not on a guard, he could have been decapitated!"

I'm out of that anyway cause it's useless. Hope our favorites will meet again in final for another good wrestling show. :p:

[Pero]

Yaaaaaawwwnnnn...

[Kamnik]

Slovenian players this year (starting with Smodis) make hard fauls and generally play hard/strong defence. I respect them for that.

Unlike some other pussy like teams we had in the past.

Looks like even Rasho got some toughness of Smoki :D

[sendman]

Calling names, now... Serbian ancesters?


Like Claude Bergeaud said: "Fortunately these were not on a guard, he could have been decapitated!"

I'm out of that anyway cause it's useless. Hope our favorites will meet again in final for another good wrestling show. :p:

And then some heads will ROLL!
:spin :fight :spin :fight :spin :fight

[Slo spurs fan]

Calling names, now... Serbian ancesters?


I'm glad you admit there was at least 2 hard fouls. That mean Rasho should have been ejected during the first half (that would have spared us the homers crying about him being tossed on a soft foul).
:rolleyes
Hard foul is not flagrant foul.
Your team is just a bunch of :dramaquee (except Tony ofcorse)

[JPB]

And thanks to Slovenia for beating Germany.

What has happened today is a perfect scenario for French NT, even the loss against Lithuania.

First, the last game of the group against Turkey is meaningless. Win or Loss, France will finish third. French players will be well rested for the Quarterfinal that will happen the next day.

Second and if Spain beat Israel tomorrow, France won't face Spain or Greece in Quarterfinal and they won't face Spain in Semifinal if they win the quarterfinal.

A quarterfinal against Croatia or Russia won't be easy at all, but it's the less worst case for France NT.

CIA Bergeaud :lol

[JPB]

It's true that with only two tickets for the olympics, avoiding Spain till the finale is a good thing, supposing we make the semi.

[sendman]

I have to say that there are only 3 strong candidates for medals this year:
Lithuania, Russia and Spain in no particular order.
Second group consist France, Slovenia and Greece.
Worst chances for a medal have Croatia and Italy (I think Germany won't make the final cut).

[Pero]

Is there any chance we get to play Israel or Portugal in the quarter-finals? :D

[Pero]

It looks we will play Croatia or Greece, depending if we win or lose tomorrow. Either way it will be extremly difficult, I can't decide who I'd rather play against.

[ploto]

It looks we will play Croatia or Greece, depending if we win or lose tomorrow. Either way it will be extremly difficult, I can't decide who I'd rather play against.
Croatia or Greece is preferable to Spain or Russia. :)

[sendman]

It's true that with only two tickets for the olympics, avoiding Spain till the finale is a good thing, supposing we make the semi.
If you think that France can beat Russia, then my friend, you are seriously delusional.

The other explenation for your strange behaviour can be: :smokin :drunk :jekka :married: :frying:

[Alain]

If you think that France can beat Russia, then my friend, you are seriously delusional.
French players do as they were already talking about semifinal in the bus back to the hotel. :rolleyes

[JPB]

If you think that France can beat Russia, then my friend, you are seriously delusional.

The other explenation for your strange behaviour can be: :smokin :drunk :jekka :married: :frying:

What makes you so confident ?

Sorry but it's not unlikely at all.
I wouldn't say any of the two is favorite. It's elimination games and both teams have weapons to bring to the court.

If you look at past champs, teams that were good in the pool games were not necesseraly the ones who advanced. It's all about being there at the right time, when it counts.

Besides, Russia has an history of shoking in big games and France was in the last four , the last two euro champs so it's open.

But I'd be happy to read valuable arguments other than smilies. :toast

[Pero]

Of course it's possible that France beats Russia, it won't be easy though, same for all games. Except whoever plays Spain maybe. And darn it, Israel lost. Was the last quarter 25:5? Ouch...

[Kill_Bill_Pana]

I don't see why everyone thinks Greece is not longer so good. They just begin playing now.

[sendman]

What makes you so confident ?

Sorry but it's not unlikely at all.
I wouldn't say any of the two is favorite. It's elimination games and both teams have weapons to bring to the court.

If you look at past champs, teams that were good in the pool games were not necesseraly the ones who advanced. It's all about being there at the right time, when it counts.

Besides, Russia has an history of shoking in big games and France was in the last four , the last two euro champs so it's open.

But I'd be happy to read valuable arguments other than smilies. :toast

That Russian team is on the mission! They are lightning fast, athletic, good shooters, with smothering defense. Simply they are better then the French team in every single aspect of the game. But don't take my word for it. Watch the game and see for yourself. Then you can praise me latter. :clap
Just to make things clear. I like French team better, and I would like to see you win. But it’s not going to happen.

[velik_m]

That Russian team is on the mission! They are lightning fast, athletic, good shooters, with smothering defense. Simply they are better then French team in every single aspect of the game. But don't take my word for it. Watch the game and see for yourself. Then you can praise me latter. :clap
Just to make things clear. I like French team better, and I would like to see you win. But it’s not going to happen.

Russia is not all that. They went from under-rated to over-rated fast. I think French have 50-50 chance of beating them.

[sendman]

Russia is not all that. They went from under-rated to over-rated fast. I think French have 50-50 chance of beating them.

Just watch and learn.

[Bruno]

The underrating of Greece is kinda amazing. Tomorrow is the start of a new euro, it's win or go home now and Greece will be really hard to beat because they are true winners.
It's the same thing than Spurs, they weren't playing great during the regular season and people say that they were old and done. We know the result...
I don't think Greece will win it all because Spain is too strong but they will be fine. I'm quite happy to see France facing Russia instead of Greece. Even if Russia will be the favorite, I think that France has way more chances to beat Russia than to beat Greece.

[Kamnik]

The underrating of Greece is kinda amazing. Tomorrow is the start of a new euro, it's win or go home now and Greece will be really hard to beat because they are true winners.
It's the same thing than Spurs, they weren't playing great during the regular season and people say that they were old and done. We know the result...
I don't think Greece will win it all because Spain is too strong but they will be fine. I'm quite happy to see France facing Russia instead of Greece. Even if Russia will be the favorite, I think that France has way more chances to beat Russia than to beat Greece.

Agreed.

Greece maybe plays at 90% in first 6 games because they are so succesful and their motivation isnt at full

Unlike Slovenia per say where all the players are there to proove something and give 110% in 6 first games.

In quarterfinals Greece is stronger than Russia for sure. (theoreticaly) They will play aggresive and fight like crazy for every ball.

So yeah... you face better chances against Russia than Greece.

[sendman]

The underrating of Greece is kinda amazing. Tomorrow is the start of a new euro, it's win or go home now and Greece will be really hard to beat because they are true winners.
It's the same thing than Spurs, they weren't playing great during the regular season and people say that they were old and done. We know the result...
I don't think Greece will win it all because Spain is too strong but they will be fine. I'm quite happy to see France facing Russia instead of Greece. Even if Russia will be the favorite, I think that France has way more chances to beat Russia than to beat Greece.

No my friend, they are not underrated, they are just over the hill! Don't tell me that they wanted to go to overtime against Serbs and that they deliberately won with buzzer beater against Croatia. Can you name one game where they looked half decent?

[Pero]

That game against Slovenia where they crushed us? Oh wait, that hasn't happened yet. :lol:

[Pero]

And hopefully it won't happen at all. Maybe we play croatia.

[velik_m]

Germany beats Italy and makes the 1/4 finals. They will play Spain.

[ata]

What a shity game that was, full of mistakes

[Slo spurs fan]

Congrats Streaky.

[Streakyshooter08]

Thanks! :) This game was absolutely horrible. It was really amazing that Germany won that game. Dirk was a non- factor and the whole team shot really bad. It was good that Italy was nervous as well. I am curious to see what Belinelli will be able to do in the NBA.

I think we won't have a shot at winning tomorrow but they still have the chance to qualify for the qualifying tournament next summer.

[velik_m]

Marconato sucks, but what was worse for Italy (in entire tournament) is a really bad play by Basile. What happened to him?

[ata]

Some trivia: exactly same teams are qualified for elimination games as two year ago.

[DeusEx]

Lithuania Vs Slovenia

Ramunas Siskauskas led four players in double figures with 21 points as Lithuania over-powered Slovenia 80-61 to remain the only undefeated at the 2007 EuroBasket and set up a quarter-final showdown with Croatia.
Slovenia, who also came into the game with a perfect record, succumbed to Lithuania's overall size and depth, getting out-rebounded 44-22 while being out-scored 28-14 in the

Team leader Sarunas Jasikevicius did not play in the second half due to injury.
final 15 minutes.

The Slovenians will next face defending champions Greece in Friday's quarter-finals.
"We don't play a game over two quarters. We have to play a full 40 minutes. It's impossible to win a game in 10 or 20 minutes so we went step by step," said Siskauskas, who also added three rebounds and three assists.
"(In the second half) we didn't do anything really different but we improved our defense a bit from the first half and tried to do what works for us on offense. And the result shows it worked."
Darius Songalia had 17 points, Ksistof Lavrinovic scored 14 and Rimantas Kaukenas chipped in 11 points and four assists.

Lithuania's star play-maker Sarunas Jasikevicius didn't play in the second half due to a left hamstring problem and tallied two points, three rebounds and two assists in 15 minutes.
Jaka Lakovic paced the Slovenians with 15 points while Matjaz Smodis added 11 points in a losing effort.
"Lithuania is a very strong team and tonight they were simply better than us. In some situations we didn't react well. We stayed in the game until midway through the third quarter. Lithuania play team basketball, everybody is playing tough defense and strong offense," said Lakovic.
The game was highly intense but just as high in quality as well - at least until the Lithuanians showed their dominance in a battle of two of Europe's most efficient and balanced teams.
Despite some 1,000 Lithuanian fans seemingy turning Madrid's Telefonica Arena into a home match in Kaunas, Lithuania trailed 14-12 midway through the first quarter. But Ramunas Butautas's side held Slovenia scoreless for 2:30 and pushed ahead 21-14 on their way to a 26-18 lead after one period.
Slovenia worked hard defensively in the second quarter and were able to use an 11-4 run to cut the deficit to 30-29 with five minutes left in the half.

Lithuania still led 38-37 before Kaukenas and Siskauskas both drained long bombs for a 44-41 Lithuania lead at the break.
Slovenia began to run out of weapons and get worn down by the never-ending warehouse of defenders and scorers from the Lithuania bench.

A lay-up by Matjaz Smodis trimmed the deficit to 52-47 halfway through the third quarter but the Baltic powers went on an 11-2 run to open their first double-digit cushion and led 63-49 going into the fourth quarter.
Uros Slokar trimmed the margin to 63-53 but Lithuania reeled off seven straight points and would eventually increase the lead to 20 points in the final minute.


It seems the Liths are now 6-0. Anyone watch this game? I found it more than excellent.

[ploto]

Quarter-Final Round

13.09.2007
Russia vs France
19:00

Spain vs Germany
21:30


14.09.2007
Lithuania vs Croatia
19:00

Slovenia vs Greece
21:30

Top 2 not counting Spain qualify for the Olympics. Next 4 go to the extra Olympic Qualifying tournament next summer (12 teams compete for the last 3 Olympic spots). One team is out.

[DeusEx]

My predictions for those games:

Russia Vs France Winner = Russia.
Spain Vs Germany Winner = Spain.
Lithuania Vs Croatia Winner= Lithuania (im rooting for :) )
Slovenia Vs Greece Winner= Slovenia (sorry greeks i hope you win but my logic tells me it will be Slovenian victory)

[Pero]

From you fingers to god`s ears. :lol

[angel_luv]

From you fingers to god`s ears. :lol


Amen. Hallelujah! :elephant :clap

[DeusEx]

so far i was right, russia won vs france. What an amazing game eh guys ? that was crazy.

[Jimmy1234]

Parker choked two free throws away in the last five seconds and Russia won.

[Pero]

One was on purpose.

[ploto]

RUS 75
FRA 71

Next up- Spain vs Germany

[ploto]

One was on purpose.
but he missed the rim and only got backboard

[velik_m]

Go Germany!

[ploto]

Clock still not working...

24 second clock not working, but will play

will ring bell at 8 seconds on shot clock
PA announcer announces 8 seconds!! :spin

[Pero]

It looks like Germany is getting the same treatment from Spain like they did from Slovenia. Too bad, I was hoping Dirk would go nuts, score 70 and win the game. Then we would beat Greece and knock them out of the semi-finals. Well, hopefully the second part will come true at least. :lol

[DeusEx]

second game came out to like i predicted in favor of Spain. I guess i shouldve bet money on these games eh ?

[angel_luv]

I'm sorry France lost, for Tony's sake.

[Streakyshooter08]

Congrats Spain!

Well, I never believed that Germany had a chance to win it. But to go down like that really sucks. They have not 1 player who is able to knock down a shot on a regular basis. Garrett and Green are jokes, Femerling is too slow and even Okulaja has lost ist. Dirk disappeared completely in the 2nd half. The worst thing is that they are not able to bring the ball up against a press. It would be huge if they could be 7th to have the chance to qualify for the Olympics but even if they reach the tournament they likely won't win a game there with teams like France,.... also being there.

That said, it was disgusting how Gasol acted during the game. He was arrogant, complained for fouls and tryed to make players look stupid. I really hate something like that, he really showed no class.

Still looking forward to the other games.

[Kamnik]

Congrats Spain!

Well, I never believed that Germany had a chance to win it. But to go down like that really sucks. They have not 1 player who is able to knock down a shot on a regular basis. Garrett and Green are jokes, Femerling is too slow and even Okulaja has lost ist. Dirk disappeared completely in the 2nd half. The worst thing is that they are not able to bring the ball up against a press. It would be huge if they could be 7th to have the chance to qualify for the Olympics but even if they reach the tournament they likely won't win a game there with teams like France,.... also being there.

That said, it was disgusting how Gasol acted during the game. He was arrogant, complained for fouls and tryed to make players look stupid. I really hate something like that, he really showed no class.

Still looking forward to the other games.

Agree about Gasol.

I have lots of respect for German team because they get really good results each year with the minimum talented players (at least most of them.

You fight hard and overachieve every year.



On the other hand there are some really really talented teams like Serbia, Turkey (maybe also Slovenia) who underachieve every single year.



So congratz for that and keep your heads up.

[Streakyshooter08]

Thanks a lot Kamnik, those times are definetly over. After Dirk there is no chance that Germany will be successfull again. We have no talents and no future. Our 1st league has only few German players and those players don't even play a lot. It is sad to see that Baskeball has virtually no future over here. It will be interesting to see how this team will do after Nowitzki...

Good to have the NBA...:)

[ploto]

That said, it was disgusting how Gasol acted during the game. He was arrogant, complained for fouls and tryed to make players look stupid. I really hate something like that, he really showed no class.

I simply can not stand Gasol. To watch him whine in FIBA just he does in the NBA annoys me to no end.

[velik_m]

Thanks a lot Kamnik, those times are definetly over. After Dirk there is no chance that Germany will be successfull again. We have no talents and no future. Our 1st league has only few German players and those players don't even play a lot. It is sad to see that Baskeball has virtually no future over here. It will be interesting to see how this team will do after Nowitzki...

Good to have the NBA...:)

German system is completly fucked up. To have a star like Nowitzki and no young followers... Where is germany's youth team? In youth competitions you have serbia, spain, russia, france, lithuania... even slovenia - where is germany? When country like Bolgaria has a better youth team than you, it's time to take a really hard look at your youth programs.

[Streakyshooter08]

German system is completly fucked up. To have a star like Nowitzki and no young followers... Where is germany's youth team? In youth competitions you have serbia, spain, russia, france, lithuania... even slovenia - where is germany? When country like Bolgaria has a better youth team than you, it's time to take a really hard look at your youth programs.

I absolutly agree. There is no real system. It is all about soccer over here. No money, no Basketball on TV, no good coaches only few talents with no perspective of playing a lot. It is sad true... There won't be any changes anytime soon. :depressed

Sorry for the off-topic.:)

[ploto]

Lithuania 74
Croatia 72

Sorry I missed it... :(

more missed free throws

[ploto]

France got dominated by Croatia. 86-69

Croatia guaranteed spot in qualifying tournament. France to play loser of Slovenia-Germany for 7th place and that final spot in the qualifier next summer.

[Slomo]

Is anybody watching GRE vs SPA?

Pretty ugly game...

[Slomo]

Spain 82 - 77 Greece

[Kill_Bill_Pana]

It again very clear.

Top teams in world

1. US
2. Argentina
3. Spain
4. Greece
5. Lithuania


These the great teams all can beat other and can win after this all other team are below. US team have 4 teams can beat them in 2008 Olympics.

[Slomo]

http://www.cikava.com/gallery/albums/Emoticons/huh.jpg

[Pero]

Lithuania is better than Greece IMO.

[Kill_Bill_Pana]

Lithuania is better than Greece IMO.

I guess we find out soon.

[Slomo]

Russia 86 - 74 Lithuania

It looks like KBP will have his wish.

[Pero]

I guess we find out soon.

:lol Indeed.
But this is total crap, no team that I wanted managed to get in the finals (that is Slo. and Lit.). Now I'm with Russia and Kirilenko for MVP. Hopefully I didn't just jinx them. :lol

[angel_luv]

I am rooting for Spain now, since I am a fan of Calderon and Jorge.

[Pero]

Not that it mattered, but Germany beat Croatia.

[Slomo]

Lithuania takes Bronze!

Lithuania 78 : 69 Greece

[Pero]

I guess we find out soon.

:)

[Kamnik]

Damn.... 2 teams i dont like in finals. Cant root for anyone...

I liked Greeks and Lithuanians.

[sendman]

That Russian team is on the mission! They are lightning fast, athletic, good shooters, with smothering defense. Simply they are better then the French team in every single aspect of the game. But don't take my word for it. Watch the game and see for yourself. Then you can praise me latter. :clap
Just to make things clear. I like French team better, and I would like to see you win. But it’s not going to happen.
:clap :clap :clap
YOU CAN PRAISE ME NOW! :smokin :smokin :danceclub

[stéphane]

Wow Stunning victory from Russia !!!
Congrats to AK47 he was huge for Russia...

[ploto]

Unbelievable end of championship game-- Russia wins by 1.

This has been the most amazing basketball tournament I have possibly ever seen!

[Pero]

Our Slavic brothers won! :)

[ploto]

MVP of Eurobasket-- Andre Kirilenko

[ploto]

So nice-- the commentator said that the 2 who were unfortunate not to make the All- tournament team were Khryapa and Rasho. :)

[Kamnik]

I watched the game over the internet with russian comentators.... he used such funny words and sounds i had to laugh my way through most of the game! :lol

Great game, great tournament and i love the fact Spain didnt win it! I never like favourites. (except Spurs that is) :toast

[Hemotivo]

Russia is not all that. They went from under-rated to over-rated fast. I think French have 50-50 chance of beating them.
:lol :lol :lol

[Pero]

Now I'm with Russia and Kirilenko for MVP. Hopefully I didn't just jinx them. :lol
I guess I didn't. Well that's something at least. :lol

[Pero]

:lol :lol :lol

Well they barely overcame France.,

[sendman]

Well they barely overcame France.,
Pero, you are starting to sound stupid.
Spain lost to Croatia, so what?
We led against Greeks by 16...5 to go, so what?
Slovenia has 6-3 win loss record and is 7th,
Croatia has 3-6 record and is 6th, SO WHAT?

Bodies are counted at the end. Russia won, and Frenchies are 8tht.

[Hemotivo]

http://www.marca.com/elementosPortada/fotosPortada/2007/09/16/gasol_triste160907.jpg
PRICELESS

[Pero]

And I'm not disputing that. But the way you made it sound was like France doesn't have a chance and that Russia will blow them out, which didn't happen. It's true though, it doesn't matter.

[Pero]

What did Kirilenko average in the tournament?

[sendman]

What did Kirilenko average in the tournament?
http://www.eurobasket2007.org/en/cid_BqypGFJPHy-Nw4lwIAq,v3.teamID_381.compID_qMRZdYCZI6EoANOrUf9l e2.season_2007.roundID_5169.playerID_24490.html

[Kamnik]

Slovenia has 6-3 win loss record and is 7th,
Croatia has 3-6 record and is 6th, SO WHAT?
[/B]

Hey funny fact. I didnt think about it before. :p:

[Pero]

http://www.eurobasket2007.org/en/cid_BqypGFJPHy-Nw4lwIAq,v3.teamID_381.compID_qMRZdYCZI6EoANOrUf9l e2.season_2007.roundID_5169.playerID_24490.html

Thanks.
Does anyone know if Holden speaks Russian? I'm curious. :lol

[loveThe23]

Are my serbs still in the tournament??? this shit's never on tv. :madrun

[Kamnik]

Thanks.
Does anyone know if Holden speaks Russian? I'm curious. :lol

hehe, the same question came to my mind

[velik_m]

Funny stuff. Yesterday Spanish surprisingly won European championship in volleyball in Moscow against Russia. And then Russians won euro title in basketball in Madrid against Spain.

[Streakyshooter08]

Wow. What a great tournament. I am happy Russia won it! Kirilenko played really fine. I wonder if it gives him a push for the upcomming NBA season.

IMO Germany overachieved again by being 5th. They played total crap against Slovenia (30 point loss) and Spain (30 point loss) and then come back to beat Solvenia and Croatia to get the 5th spot. I never expected that.

I am really looking forward to the NBA season. Seeing a lot of Basketball during summer was a good thing. :)

[JPB]

And to think France had a shot vs Russia in quarter finals :bang and now they won't even make the pre-olympics qualifying tournament.

[Admidave50]

Really happy that Spain didn't win, the end of the game was really intense! Lucky shot by Russia and unlucky for Pau and Spain, haha.


And to think France had a shot vs Russia in quarter finals :bang and now they won't even make the pre-olympics qualifying tournament.

Come on man, face it, our team SUCK!!

[Texas_Ranger]

Bravo Russia.:clap