Israel's hoopsters sweep to exhibition tournament title
Still lacking three of its stars, Israel's national basketball team took care of business again with a 74-68 victory over host Ukraine on Thursday, providing more optimism ahead of the European Championship qualifiers. Its third straight win made Israel champion of the Aerosvit Cup exhibition tournament. Yogev Ohayon ran the point smoothly, while Alex Tyus was effective once again with a team-leading 17 points. Elishay Kadir and Gal Mekel also contributed. The team trailed 39-37 at halftime before Israel showed its depth. "This tournament gave us a lot," said Israel coach Arik Shivek after the game. (Arie Livnat)
U20 basketball team secures spot in Europe's Division A
Israel's under-20 basketball team defeated Belgium 69-66 last night to advance to the semifinal and guarantee that it will advance to Division A of the U20 European Championship. Israel scored the game's first 11 points as part of a 16-2 run, and led by as much as 23 points at 49-26. However, Belgium roared back with a flurry of threes, to take its first lead of the game at 63-62. After the lead switched hands a couple of times, Or Solomon buried a three-pointer to give Israel the lead for good at 67-66 with 36 seconds remaining. "It's a huge accomplishment for the guys, who showed determination and fight," said coach Sharon Drucker yesterday. Solomon finished with a double-double - 16 points and 15 rebounds. (Arie Livnat)
Cook puts England in charge against South Africa in first test
Alastair Cook hit his 20th cricket test century to steer England to 267-3 at stumps yesterday on the opening day of the first test against South Africa at The Oval. Cook hit a measured 114 not out from 283 balls, with a six and 11 fours, to put England in charge. Jonathan Trott made 71 from 162 balls with nine fours. (AP )
