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	<pubDate>10/31/2006 11:45:43 ET</pubDate>
	
	<lastBuildDate>05/24/2012 10:55:57 ET</lastBuildDate>
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	<title><![CDATA[L.A. D-Fenders Win First-Ever NBA D-League Development Champion Award]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/dfenders_named_development_champs_2012_05_10.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[The final chapter was disappointing - losing the 2012 NBA D-League Championship to the Austin Toros in three hard-fought games - but the book on the 2011-12 season for the Los Angeles D-Fenders was a page-turner of the highest order, filled with interesting characters and positive storylines.
<br /><br />
After a one-year hiatus, the D-Fenders took the NBA D-League by storm this season, finishing with the best regular season record in NBA D-League history (38-12), en route to a Western Conference Championship and the first overall seed in the 2012 NBA D-League Playoffs presented by BBVA.
<br /><br />
Eric Musselman, who boasts head coaching stints with the Golden State Warriors and Sacramento Kings, was named the winner of the Dennis Johnson Coach of the Year award, as voted by his fellow NBA D-League head coaches.
<br /><br />
During his first year with the team, Musselman oversaw the development of six top NBA D-League prospects who earned a total of eight GATORADE Call-Ups to the NBA this season, including the 2012 NBA D-League All-Star MVP Gerald Green of the New Jersey Nets and Houston Rockets guard Courtney Fortson, who both signed contracts for the remainder of the season with their NBA teams.
<br /><br />
"Eric's deep knowledge of the game and his unparalleled passion have been evident every step of the way for the D-Fenders this season," said Chris Alpert, Vice President of Basketball Operations and Player Personnel for the NBA D-League. "Not only was Eric able to achieve a level of on-court success our League has never seen before, he was able to do it while developing top NBA D-League prospects into current NBA contributors. I offer my hearty congratulations to him on a season well done."
<br /><br />
Malcolm Thomas, who spent time with the L.A. Lakers, San Antonio Spurs and Houston Rockets this season, was named to the 2012 All-NBA D-League First Team, the NBA D-League All-Defensive First Team and the NBA D-League All-Rookie First Team.
<br /><br />
Fortson and Elijah Millsap both were selected to the All-NBA D-League Second Team, while Brandon Costner was named to the All-NBA D-League Third Team. Zach Andrews was one of 10 players to earn All-NBA D-League Honorable Mention recognition.
<br /><br />
Though he wasn't with the team long enough to merit postseason award consideration, Green flourished under Musselman, and will have a host of NBA suitors this summer.
<br /><br />
Green, who was drafted by the Boston Celtics in the first round (18th overall) of the 2005 NBA Draft, lasted four seasons in the NBA, before continuing his career overseas. He decided to give the NBA D-League a try this season, and formed an instant bond with Musselman.
<br /><br />
"The NBA Development is a great league to get exposure," said Green. "I really have to give a lot of credit to the L.A. D-Fenders organization, and Eric Musselman, who's a great coach and has really helped me work on my game this year."
 <br /><br />
The D-Fenders were also named the 2011-12 NBA D-League Development Champion. The Development Champion is a new annual award designed to recognize the team that best embodies the NBA D-League's goals of developing NBA basketball talent via call-ups and assignments.
<br /><br />
The D-Fenders achieved the highest score based on a scoring system established by the Basketball Rules Committee (BRC), which awards points for assignments and call-ups (players and staff), as well as additional points for duration of a call-up.
]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[05/24/2012 10:55:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/dfenders_named_development_champs_2012_05_10.html</guid>
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<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Bakersfield Jam Managing Partner David Higdon Named Executive of the Year]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/higdon_named_executive_of_year_2012_05_22.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[NEW YORK, May 22, 2012 - Bakersfield Jam Managing Partner David Higdon is the recipient of the 2012 NBA Development League Team Executive of the Year Award, it was announced today by NBA Development League President Dan Reed. The NBA Development League Team Executive of the Year is determined by peer voting and teams are not allowed to vote for themselves.
<br /><br />
"The NBA D-League is pleased to recognize David Higdon with the Team Executive of the Year Award in honor of his extraordinary accomplishments this season," said Reed. "David, along with his wife Jacki and the entire Bakersfield Jam organization, represent the best that the NBA D-League has to offer through their strong commitment to the entire Bakersfield area, their innovative leadership, their exemplary customer service and their excellence on the court. Through David's vision, the Jam has become one of the NBA D-League's most successful organizations and a valued contributor to the Bakersfield community."
<br /><br />
Under Higdon's leadership, the Jam reached the NBA D-League Playoffs presented by BBVA for a second consecutive year advancing to the second round for the first time in the franchise's history as three players earned All NBA D-League honors this season. Through its innovative, multipurpose Jam Events Center, Higdon has created a destination for business leaders forging partnerships with over 45 local companies stretching across a wide spectrum of year-round marketing opportunities, involving NBA D-League games, entertainment events, and community service initiatives, and resulting in one of the highest renewal rates in the league.
<br /><br />
Recognizing the value of education, Higdon has also created the Bakersfield Jam Education Foundation as the cornerstone of the team's community service initiative. By teaming up with corporate partners and local leaders, the team has created an after school program for students involving Jam players and staff by providing educational incentives. The foundation was the recipient of the Golden Apple Award, the state's highest honor presented by the Association of California School Administrators.
<br /><br />
"It is an honor and a privilege to be named NBA Development Team Executive of the Year," said Higdon. "This award would not be possible without the tireless effort of the Jam employees. Stan Ellis and I would like to thank each of them for their loyal support and their determination, as well as our season ticket holders and business partners for their commitment to our team."
 <br /><br />
Bert Garcia of the Rio Grande Valley Vipers received the 2011 NBA D-League Team Executive of the Year Award, while Jon Jennings of the Maine Red Claws was the inaugural winner in 2010.
]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[05/24/2012 10:54:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/higdon_named_executive_of_year_2012_05_22.html</guid>
</item>
<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Austin's Dentmon Named Performer of the Week]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/austin_dentmon_named_performer_of_week_2012_01_17.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[NEW YORK - Justin Dentmon of the Austin Toros was today named NBA Development League Performer of the Week for games played Jan. 9-15.
Dentmon, a 6-0, 185-pound guard out of Washington, averaged 26.3 points, 7.0 assists and 4.3 rebounds in 39.5 minutes last week, shooting 53 percent from the floor. He tied a season-high with 31 points in a 114-107 road win over the Reno Bighorns on Jan. 15 as the Toros went 3-1 on the week.
For the season, Dentmon is averaging 23.9 points, 5.3 assists and 4.3 rebounds. ]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[01/17/2012 15:43:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/austin_dentmon_named_performer_of_week_2012_01_17.html</guid>
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<item>
	<title><![CDATA[House of Pain]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/broken_bypassed_anthony_mason_2011_12_13.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[Pain is where he lives now.
<br/><br/>
Pain is the teacher. The liberator. The place where Anthony Mason, Jr. grips for control. 
<br/><br/>
When NBA training camps began on Friday, four players from Mason's Sioux Falls Skyforce NBA Development League team got invitations to big league clubs. Mason wasn't one of them. So he bid goodbye to Greg Stiemsma, Charles Garcia, Gabe Pruitt and Casey Mitchell and buried his head in work again, disappearing to the gym again so he can finally, for the first time since his body began breaking down annually, take ownership of the pain that's put him here. 
]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[12/13/2011 13:57:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/broken_bypassed_anthony_mason_2011_12_13.html</guid>
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<item>
	<title><![CDATA[66ERS FALL SHORT ON THE ROAD TO WIZARDS ]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/20111211/TULDAK/gameinfo.html#nbaGIlive</link>
	<description><![CDATA[BISMARCK, N.D. -- Nkem Ojougboh recorded his second consecutive double-double with 15 points and 11 rebounds and Brady Morningstar pitched in 14 points and a team-high six assists, but the Tulsa 66ers (5-3) fell short to the Dakota Wizards (3-3) on the road by a 93-80 final Sunday inside the Bismarck Civic Center.
<br/><br/>
The Wizards, who used a 32-20 scoring advantage in the fourth quarter to claim the victory, were led by Maurice Baker with 23 points. Curtis Withers added a double-double with 10 points and a game-high 14 rebounds. Also scoring in double figures Sunday for the 66ers were Ryan Reid with 15 and Billy Rush with 10.
]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[12/12/2011 20:22:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/20111211/TULDAK/gameinfo.html#nbaGIlive</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Stampede Down D-Fenders ]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/20111210/IDALAD/gameinfo.html#nbaGIlive</link>
	<description><![CDATA[\n
LOS ANGELES -- Cheyne Gadson had 25 points and backcourt partner Tony Bobbitt added 18 and six rebounds and the Idaho Stampede (2-4) beat the Los Angeles D-Fenders 97-90 at the Toyota Sports Center on Saturday night. Antoine Walker added just four points, but led the team, along with Dontell Jefferson, with six assists. Walker, added to the roster on Thursday, led the Stampede in assists eight times last season. Willie Jenkins added 16 points.
</p>
\n
Off the bench, the Stampede scored 26 points and added seven blocked shots with Mildon Ambres leading the way with 12 points and two rejections.
</p>
\n
Idaho used a hot second quarter to catch up after falling behind by as many as 14 in the first quarter, making 12-of-20 shots, including 4-of-6 from behind the three point line -- they outscored Los Angeles 31-18 that quarter. All nine Stampeders scored in the period, and the road team forced eight turnovers, which ended up in 12 Idaho points.
</p>
\n
Los Angeles was led by Brandon Costner, who scored an Idaho opponent season-high 42 points, including 18 in the first quarter. Otis George had a game-high 11 rebounds for the D-Fenders (6-3).
</p>
\n
Idaho plays next at home against Bakersfield on Dec. 14 at 7 p.m.  
</p>
]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[12/12/2011 20:19:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/20111210/IDALAD/gameinfo.html#nbaGIlive</guid>
</item>
<item>
	<title><![CDATA[BAUDINET'S 21 POINTS LEADS ENERGY PAST SIOUX FALLS 103-89 ]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/20111210/SXFIWA/gameinfo.html#nbaGIlive</link>
	<description><![CDATA[\n
DES MOINES, Iowa -- The 2011 NBA D-League Champion Iowa Energy got 21 points from rookie guard Thomas Baudinet in their 103-89 win over Sioux Falls Saturday night. The win gives Iowa a sweep of the weekend series, and moves their record to 5-3 on the season.
</p>
\n
Both teams stalled out of the gate as neither team could muster a point in the first 2:52 of the contest. An Andrew Drevo layup opened the scoring for Iowa, who were down 22-20 at the end of the 1st quarter.
</p>
\n
The two Eastern conference rivals battled back and forth in the 2nd quarter, exchanging the lead numerous times. After a Michael Tveidt 3-pointer gave Iowa a 47-45 lead, Sioux Falls closed the half on a 4-0 spurt to take a 49-47 lead into the locker room. SkyForce standout Anthony Mason Jr. had a game high 16 points at the break to lead the visitors.
</p>
\n
With the game tied 60-60 mid-way through the 3rd quarter, Iowa went on an 8-0 run, capped by a layup from Thomas Baudinet, to get the crowd in the game. After a Billy McShepard bucket ended the Energy's run, Iowa rattled off six straight points to take a commanding 74-62 lead.
</p>
\n
Sioux Falls made one final effort to get back into the game in the 4th quarter, as a 7-0 SkyForce run brought the visitors to within three at 79-82. A Drevo jump hook ended that run, and Iowa stretched the lead to double digits in the final minutes of the game.
</p>
\n
Baudinet's career high 21 points led the Energy, while rookie Nick Murphy scored 20 points off the bench . Iowa won the rebounding battle for the second consecutive night, this time by a 41-33 margin.
</p>
\n
Sioux Falls was led by Mason's 26 point effort. Guard Dominique Coleman added 19 points and 9 rebounds for the SkyForce, who fall to 1-5 on the season.
</p>
\n
The Energy head to Ft. Wayne Friday night before returning home Saturday, December 17th against Reno. 
</p>]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[12/12/2011 20:17:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/20111210/SXFIWA/gameinfo.html#nbaGIlive</guid>
</item>
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	<title><![CDATA[CHARGE FALL TO RED CLAWS ]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/20111210/MNECTN/gameinfo.html#nbaGIlive</link>
	<description><![CDATA[\n

CANTON, Ohio -- The Canton Charge's three-game winning streak was snapped at the hands of the Maine Red Claws, 103-81, at the Canton Memorial Civic Center on Saturday night. Canton now sits at 3-3 on the season, while Maine improves to 2-4 with the win.
</p>
\n
The game was closely contested early on throughout the opening quarter, as Canton trailed by just one at the break. The Red Claws came out of the gate quickly in the second period however, going on an 18-3 run to propel them to a 39-23 lead. Maine's advantage would build up to 24 at one point, and they took a 53-33 lead into the intermission.
</p>
\n
The Charge continued to fight hard to try and get back into the game in the second half, but the shots weren't able to fall in enough for the home team and the large crowd at hand. The turnout of 3,454 was the second-largest of the season in Canton.
</p>
\n
Marcus Relphorde led the way for the Charge, scoring 17 while adding eight rebounds. Jonathan Blake was strong with 11 points, six rebounds and two blocked shots. It was Blake's third-straight game in which he had double-digit points.
</p>
\n
Kyle Gibson came off the bench to contribute 13 points and five rebounds. Antoine Agudio scored in double digits for the third-straight game, dropping in 15 with five rebounds. T.J. Campbell surpassed his season high with six assists.
</p>
\n
Courtney Pigram provided a major spark for Maine off the bench, pouring in 33 points on 13-of-22 shooting. Pigram was deadly from behind the arc, nailing 7-of-11 three-point attempts. Justin Brownlee and Anthony Kent were strong on the glass for the Red Claws, grabbing 10 and 12 rebounds respectively.
</p>
\n
The Charge will look to get back on track when they head to Sioux Falls for the first leg of a three game road trip to face the Skyforce Tuesday night. 
</p>]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[12/12/2011 20:16:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/20111210/MNECTN/gameinfo.html#nbaGIlive</guid>
</item>
<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Mad Ants Fall In Overtime to Springfield ]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/20111209/SPGFWN/gameinfo.html#nbaGIlive</link>
	<description><![CDATA[
FORT WAYNE, IN -- The Fort Wayne Mad Ants fell to the Springfield Armor 94-91 in overtime at the Memorial Coliseum. Despite both teams losing some of their starters to various NBA training camps, the two teams battled to the final buzzer.
After a tightly contested opening 12 minutes of play the two teams were tied up and the end of the period. Defense reigned supreme in the opening frame as the Armor held Fort Wayne to 36 percent shooting from the field, but the Mad Ants countered by forcing Springfield into eight turnovers.
<br/><br/>
The Armor went on a 6-0 run midway through the second quarter to build a lead. Corey Allmond started a 10-0 run in response for the Mad Ants when he hit a much needed three-pointer to halt the Armor's momentum. Fort Wayne led 49-42 at the half.
]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[12/10/2011 18:55:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/20111209/SPGFWN/gameinfo.html#nbaGIlive</guid>
</item>
<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Jam Stifle Stampede In Antoine Walker's Return]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/20111208/IDABAK/gameinfo.html#nbaGIlive</link>
	<description><![CDATA[
BAKERSFIELD, Calif. - The Idaho Stampede (1-4) saw the return of three-time NBA All Star Antoine Walker and had an excellent game from Willie Jenkins (23 points, five rebounds, four assists), but the Bakersfield Jam defeated Idaho 100-87 on Thursday night.
<br/><br/>
Walker, signed earlier in the day, made his first basket with 5:55 left in the third quarter and finished the night with seven points and five rebounds in 27:18 of play. Jenkins got off to a blazing start, scoring 18 points in the first half, including 13 in the first quarter.
]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[12/9/2011 18:52:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/20111208/IDABAK/gameinfo.html#nbaGIlive</guid>
</item>
<item>
	<title><![CDATA[ARMOR CRUSH THE CLAWS, IMPROVE TO 3-1 ]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/20111208/MNESPG/gameinfo.html#nbaGIlive</link>
	<description><![CDATA[
SPRINGFIELD, MA- Lance Hurdle led six players in double figures with a season-high 28 points as the Armor defeated the Maine Red Claws 97-89 tonight at the MassMutual Center. The Armor improve to 3-1 and currently sit atop the NBA D-League's Eastern Conference standings.
<br/><br/>
The Armor got off to a slow start tonight and trailed the Red Claws by as many as nine in the first quarter before closing the gap to 24-18 by the end of the first.
]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[12/9/2011 18:49:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/20111208/MNESPG/gameinfo.html#nbaGIlive</guid>
</item>
<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Prospect Watch, Week Two: Puzzle Pieces]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/prospect_watch_week_2_2011_12_06.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[Four years ago, Walker Russell, a 6-foot point guard out of Jacksonville State built like a shower curtain rod, stepped onto the floor at Madison Square Garden and let himself dream a little.
<br/><br/>
Russell, the son of a New York Knicks scout by the same name, had been invited to Knicks training camp after a three-year career at Jacksonville State in which he set the school's Division I scoring record (a mark later broken by current Iowa Energy forward Nick Murphy). He was undersized, he knew. But, as he stood on that floor that day in 2007, looking around at all the guys who knew what it was like to play there when those 24,000 seats were filled, he knew he could be one of them.
<br/><br/>
He didn't have a chance.]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[12/7/2011 16:24:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/prospect_watch_week_2_2011_12_06.html</guid>
</item>
<item>
	<title><![CDATA[LATE DEFENSIVE STAND HELPS D-FENDERS WIN STREAK TO FOUR]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/losangeles/111207dfenders_winstreakfour.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[Brandon Costner's blocked shot with just under six seconds remaining helped the Los Angeles D-Fenders push their win streak to four straight as they defeated the Rio Grande Valley Vipers 117-113 at Toyota Sports Center on Wednesday night. Costner led six D-Fenders (6-2) in double-digits after he totaled a game-high 24 points to go with five rebounds.
Brian Hamilton (13 points) put Los Angeles in position for the win with 46 seconds to go after he flushed home a breakaway dunk off one of his three steals to push the score to 115-111. Just 8 seconds earlier, Andrews (14 points, 8 rebounds) energized his team with an impressive baseline one-handed dunk.
]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[12/8/2011 16:59:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/losangeles/111207dfenders_winstreakfour.html</guid>
</item>
<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Charge Rally to Edge Mad Ants ]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/20111207/FWNCTN/gameinfo.html#nbaGIlive</link>
	<description><![CDATA[The Canton Charge came back from a 14-point deficit in the third quarter to win their second game in a row, 112-104, at the Canton Memorial Civic Center on Wednesday night. Canton was propelled by six players scoring double-digit points to even their record at 2-2 in their inaugural campaign.
After Fort Wayne built a six-point lead at the half, the Mad Ants went on a 12-0 run midway through the third period to build a 14-point advantage. Coach Jensen called a time out in order for his squad to gather themselves, as they were then able to erase the deficit entirely in the final 5:03 to even the score at 87-87 entering the final quarter.]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[12/8/2011 16:56:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/20111207/FWNCTN/gameinfo.html#nbaGIlive</guid>
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<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Toros Knock Off 66ers ]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/20111207/TULAUS/gameinfo.html#nbaGIlive</link>
	<description><![CDATA[CEDAR PARK, TX -- Justin Dentmon led all scorers with 27 points and Terrence Woodbury added 20 points to lead the Austin Toros (3-1) to victory over the Tulsa 66ers (4-2) Wednesday night at Cedar Park Center. The two teams are familiar with one another after playing three straight games against each other this young season. Austin leads the series 2-1.
The Toros overcame a 58-45 rebounding advantage by Tulsa thanks to a stifling defense that caused 27 turnovers by the 66ers. The Toros only turned the ball over 17 times. Turnovers would prove to be the difference in the second half, as Austin pulled away and never looked back.]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[12/8/2011 16:55:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/20111207/TULAUS/gameinfo.html#nbaGIlive</guid>
</item>
<item>
	<title><![CDATA[D-Fenders Bite Vipers To Extend Win Streak to Three]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/losangeles/111206dfenders_bite_vipers.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[Six players scored in double figures for the Los Angeles D-Fenders as they defeated the Rio Grande Valley Vipers 132-126 victory at the Toyota Sports Center on Monday night. With the win, the D-Fenders (5-2) extended their win streak to three games and snapped a four game losing streak versus the Vipers (4-2). Jamaal Tinsley controlled the D-Fenders' well-rounded offense as he handed out 15 assists to break the team individual record for assists in a game (13) that he set against Reno (11/28/11). One of his assists came with 1:41 remaining off a Courtney Fortson 3-pointer to extend the D-Fenders lead to nine. Fortson, who provided a scoring surge late, finished 24 points on 7-of-14 shooting and seven assists off the bench.]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[12/6/2011 11:16:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/losangeles/111206dfenders_bite_vipers.html</guid>
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<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Walker Russell Named NBA D-League Performer of the Week]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/potw_111205.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[ Walker Russell of the Fort Wayne Mad Ants was today named NBA Development League Performer of the Week for games played Nov. 25-- Dec 4.
A 6-0, 175-pound guard out of Jacksonville State who has been in training camp with the New York Knicks, Russell led Fort Wayne to a 2-1 record for the week, averaging 20.3 points, 11.0 assists and 4.0 rebounds.
<br/><br/>
Russell recorded back-to-back point-assist double-doubles to open the season, tallying 20 points and 12 assists during a 110-106 win on Nov. 25 vs. Sioux Falls, and posting 24 points and 14 assists on Dec. 2 during a 118-110 win at Springfield.]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[12/5/2011 18:35:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/potw_111205.html</guid>
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<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Tulsa Coach Nate Tibbetts Joins Cleveland Cavaliers Staff]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/tulsa/dale_osbourne__replace_nate__2011_12_05.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[The Tulsa 66ers, proud affiliate of the Oklahoma City Thunder, announced today that head coach Nate Tibbetts has accepted an opportunity to join the Cleveland Cavaliers as an assistant coach. The organization has also announced that current 66ers assistant Dale Osbourne will take over as head coach effective immediately.
<br/><br/>
Tibbetts began his third season with the 66ers this past November and compiled a 64-41 (.610) career record in Tulsa, including a 4-1 mark this season. He helped guide the 66ers to consecutive playoff appearances in his first two campaigns, including the NBA D-League Finals in 2010. Last season, Tibbetts served as head coach for the West Team in the 2011 NBA D-League All-Star Game and was also selected as head coach for the 2011 Pan American Games where he helped lead the USA Team to a bronze medal.]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[12/5/2011 18:33:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/tulsa/dale_osbourne__replace_nate__2011_12_05.html</guid>
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<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Weekend Rewind: Dec 2-4]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/weekend_wrap_dec_24_2011_12_05.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[Over the next few weeks, the NBA Development League is going to be a busy place. With NBA training camps about to start, dozens of players are expected to find their ways onto NBA training camp rosters. Some will stick, some will head back to their D-League rosters. And to make room for all the movement, NBA D-League teams are now temporarily allowed to keep 12 players on the roster until seven days after the start of training camps...which means that if you're taking notes, you should probably use pencil.]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[12/5/2011 18:29:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/weekend_wrap_dec_24_2011_12_05.html</guid>
</item>
<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Bakersfield Loses For First Time, Falls 118-95 to Rio Grande]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/20111204/RGVBAK/gameinfo.html#nbaGIlive</link>
	<description><![CDATA[\n
BAKERSFIELD, Calif. -- The Bakersfield Jam lost to the Rio Grande Valley Vipers by a score of 118-95 tonight. The Jam (3-1) drop their first game of the season and the Vipers (4-1) win their first road game of the year.
</p>
\n
The first period of the game was a close battle as the lead changed 4 times and the teams were tied twice as the Vipers took a 28-26 lead over the Jam at the end of the quarter. Rio Grande Valley got hot in the second, shooting 55.0 percent on the quarter, while Bakersfield went cold, only hitting 16.7 percent of their shots to bring the halftime score to 58-44 in favor of the Vipers. The third quarter continued to go RGV's way as they extended their lead to as many as 30 points and entered the final period being up 85-66. The Jam made a push to start the final period with Adrian Thomas hitting 4 of his 7 three pointers on the night in that quarter and trimmed the Vipers lead to only 10 points at the 7:34 mark but it wasn't enough to make the come back.
</p>
\n
Rio Grande Valley outscored Bakersfield 56-20 in the paint and 17-6 in the fast-break category. The Jam committed 23 turnovers and had only 18 team assists compared to the Vipers 33.
</p>
\n
Jam were led by Adrian Thomas with a game-high 21 points on 7-for-15 three point field goal shooting off the bench. Brian Butch finished with his third double-double of the season (14 points and 15 rebounds). Mustapha Farrakhan had 12 points and Anthony Harris added 10 points and dished out a team-high 6 assists.
</p>
\n
Seven Vipers scored in double figures this evening, led by Stanley Asumnu with 20 points off the bench. Forward Tyren Johnson contributed 19 points and Kelvin Lewis added 17. Josh Tarver and Marshall Brown had 12 points apiece. Terrel Harris and Jay-R Strowbridge scored 10 points each. Up next, Bakersfield will take on the Idaho Stampede on Thursday, December 8, at 7 pm PT at the Jam Events Center.  
</p>]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[12/5/2011 19:41:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/20111204/RGVBAK/gameinfo.html#nbaGIlive</guid>
</item>
<item>
	<title><![CDATA[BayHawks Drop Energy, 97-87, to Split Season Series]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/20111204/ERIIWA/gameinfo.html#nbaGIlive</link>
	<description><![CDATA[\n
DES MOINES, Iowa -- The 2011 NBA D-League Champion Iowa Energy couldn't overcome an 11 point halftime deficit as the Erie BayHawks defeated the Energy 97-87 Sunday night. The win gave Erie a split of the two game weekend series with Iowa.
</p>
\n
After a see-saw 1st quarter, Erie outscored the Energy 31-21 in the 2nd quarter to take a 51-40 lead into halftime. Erie's Mychel Thompson scored 12 points in the half while Tirrell Baines added 10. Iowa was led by Brandon Ewing's eight 1st half points.
</p>
\n
After an even 3rd quarter, Iowa used an 11-3 run to cut the Erie lead to 83-76 with 6:50 left in the game. Just as the momentum appeared to be in the Energy's favor, Thompson drilled a 3-pointer that started a 7-0 run for the BayHawks to put the game away for the visitors.
</p>
\n
Donald Sloan led Erie with 21 points and 7 assists while center Chris Daniels added 15 points and 13 rebounds. The win moves Erie to 2-3 on the season.
</p>
\n
Ewing finished with 17 points and 7 assists for the Energy, who now stand at 3-3 on the year.
</p>
\n
The Energy host Sioux Falls Friday and Saturday this week. Tickets for all regular season games are now on sale at www.DahlsTickets.com.  
</p>]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[12/5/2011 19:39:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/20111204/ERIIWA/gameinfo.html#nbaGIlive</guid>
</item>
<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Team Effort Propels Tulsa to 109-96 Win over Tulsa]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/20111203/AUSTUL/gameinfo.html#nbaGIlive</link>
	<description><![CDATA[\n
TULSA, Okla., Dec. 3, 2011 -- Marcus Lewis notched his third double-double of the season with 22 points and 12 rebounds and Jerome Dyson added 19 points and a game-high seven assists to lead the Tulsa 66ers (4-1) past the Austin Toros (2-1) by a 109-96 final Saturday night in Tulsa's home opener inside the Tulsa Convention Center.
</p>
\n
Additionally, Dwight Buycks added a season-high 18 points and five assists to help lead the 66ers. Also scoring in double figures was Ryan Reid with 14 and Xavier Alexander with 11.
</p>
\n
Collectively, Tulsa recorded a season-high 24 assists.
</p>
\n
"Recording over 20 assists is our goal as a team," 66ers head coach Nate Tibbetts said. "This is the first time we have eclipsed that, and we earned it. Everyone plays better and the offense is more productive when we share the basketball."
</p>
\n
The 66ers outrebounded the Toros by a wide 48-28 margin and outscored Austin in points in the paint by a 48-14 clip.
</p>
\n
Tulsa, who led by as many as 19 in the contest, forced 19 Austin turnovers and added seven steals. The 66ers also recorded a 31-10 advantage in points in the paint.
</p>
\n
The Toros were led by Justin Dentmon with a team-high 22 points. Myles McKay chipped in 18 points and Carldell Johnson posted seven assists.
</p>
\n
The 66ers will return to the court for their third straight matchup against the Toros next Wednesday, Dec. 7, at 7:30 p.m. CT in Austin inside Cedar Park Center. 
</p>
]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[12/5/2011 19:37:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/20111203/AUSTUL/gameinfo.html#nbaGIlive</guid>
</item>
<item>
	<title><![CDATA[D-Fenders Hold off Skyforce in Nail-Biter]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/20111203/LADSXF/gameinfo.html#nbaGIlive</link>
	<description><![CDATA[\n
Sioux Falls, S.D. -- The Los Angeles D-Fenders defeated the Sioux Falls Skyforce 94-92 Saturday night at the Sioux Falls Arena. Sioux Falls had a chance to tie the game in the final seconds but Casey Mitchell misfired on a tough shot as Los Angeles completed the weekend sweep.
</p>
\n
Los Angeles (4-2) took advantage of eight turnovers by Sioux Falls (1-3) in the first quarter and led by as many as 18 points (33-15). Mitchell scored 12 of his 20 points in the second quarter as the Skyforce outscored the D-Fenders 32-16 to tie the game at 50 apiece at halftime.
</p>
\n
Sioux Falls trailed by as many as 13 points (80-67) with just over 10 minutes to go in the game but stormed back and had a chance to tie the game with 7.9 seconds left as Gabe Pruitt stepped to the line to shoot two free throws. After making the first attempt he missed the second and Los Angeles came up with the big defensive rebound. Jamaal Tinsley split a pair of free throws to push the lead back to two points and Mitchell missed a contested shot as Sioux Falls dropped to 1-2 at home.
</p>
\n
Brandon Costner led all scorers with 34 points including a perfect 10-of-10 free throws. Elijah Millsap continued his strong play with 24 points, 15 rebounds and five steals.
</p>
\n
Charles Garcia and Casey Mitchell each scored 20 points and Anthony Mason, Jr. added 16. Greg Stiemsma had a solid game with nine points, 10 rebounds and five blocks in defeat.
</p>
\n
Los Angeles returns home to face Rio Grande Valley on Monday at 7 p.m. PT. Sioux Falls visits Iowa on Friday night at 7 p.m. CT.  
</p>]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[12/5/2011 19:33:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/20111203/LADSXF/gameinfo.html#nbaGIlive</guid>
</item>
<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Dakota Drills Idaho ]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/20111201/DAKIDA/gameinfo.html?ls=gt2hp2021100020#nbaGIlive</link>
	<description><![CDATA[
BOISE, Idaho -- Cheyne Gadson scored 20 points on 8-of-13 shooting, but it wasn't enough as the Dakota Wizards (2-1) beat the Idaho Stampede (0-3) 120-77 at CenturyLink Arena. The Wizards scored 27 or more points in each quarter and shot 58.0 percent from the field, made nine three-pointers and made 31 free throws, while out-rebounding the Stampede 53-38.
<br/><br/>
The Stampede went 28-of-85 from the field to shoot 32.9 percent, while the Wizards took 16 fewer shots, but made 12 more.
]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[12/2/2011 11:55:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/20111201/DAKIDA/gameinfo.html?ls=gt2hp2021100020#nbaGIlive</guid>
</item>
<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Energy Hand Vipers First Loss, 130-117 ]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/20111201/IWARGV/gameinfo.html?ls=gt2hp2021100019#nbaGIlive</link>
	<description><![CDATA[HIDALGO, Texas -- Moses Ehambe scored a game high 33 points to lead the Iowa Energy as they knocked off the Rio Grande Valley Vipers 130-117 Thursday night at the State Fame Arena. The loss if the first for the Vipers in the 2011-12 season falling to 3-1, as the Energy pick up their second win of the year improving to 2-2.
<br/><br/>
The Vipers struggled with their shooting on Thursday as they made just 13 of their 44 three-point attempts to the tune of 29.5%. The Energy in-turn shot 63% from the field for the game to keep the game out of reach for RGV.
]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[12/2/2011 11:54:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/20111201/IWARGV/gameinfo.html?ls=gt2hp2021100019#nbaGIlive</guid>
</item>
<item>
	<title><![CDATA[BayHawks Win Home Opener, 105-87 ]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/20111201/MNEERI/gameinfo.html?ls=gt2hp2021100018#nbaGIlive</link>
	<description><![CDATA[Erie, Pennsylvania -- The Erie BayHawks (1-2) overcame a rough start to capture their first win of the season in front of a home opener crowd of 4,526, prevailing 105-87 over the Maine Red Claws (0-2). Maine jumped out to an early 13-3 lead that included five points by Chris Wright, and Erie's early woes continued as Kyle Goldcamp picked up three fouls and they found themselves down 27-18 at the end of the frame.
<br/><br/>
But Erie had a stellar second quarter as they put together an 18-6 run, with Tirrell Baines and Mychel Thompson each connecting on 3-point shots. The BayHawks took the lead at 5:42 in the second quarter on another Thompson three-pointer and never looked back as the lead grew to 53-46 at the break.
]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[12/2/2011 11:40:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/20111201/MNEERI/gameinfo.html?ls=gt2hp2021100018#nbaGIlive</guid>
</item>
<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Vipers Unplug Energy in 134-108 Victory]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/20111130/IWARGV/gameinfo.html#nbaGIlive</link>
	<description><![CDATA[HIDALGO, Texas -- The Rio Grande Valley Vipers netted a season high 18 three-pointers on Wednesday morning en-route to a 134-108 matinee victory over the defending NBA Development League Champion Iowa Energy at State Farm Arena. The Vipers improve to 3-0 on the season while the Energy have now lost two straight to fall to 1-2 on the year.
<br/><br/>
The Vipers, who have been getting off to hot starts in every game of their season opening four game home-stand, did it again on Wednesday morning. A Terrell Harris trey capped a game opening 15-2 run for Rio Grande Valley. The Vipers outscored Iowa 38-24 in the first 12 minutes.]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[12/1/2011 15:59:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/20111130/IWARGV/gameinfo.html#nbaGIlive</guid>
</item>
<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Defense Leads Tulsa to Win Over Texas]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/20111130/TULTEX/gameinfo.html#nbaGIlive</link>
	<description><![CDATA[\nTULSA, Okla. -- Marcus Lewis scored a game-high 19 points, Dwight Buycks added 13 points and a team-high four assists and the Tulsa 66ers (3-0) held their third consecutive opponent to under 90 points in a 97-84 victory over the Texas Legends (0-2) Wednesday night inside Dr. Pepper Arena in Frisco.
</p>
\n
In the first of six matchups between the Western Conference foes this season, Tulsa led Texas by as many as 23 points on the evening.
</p>
\n
Also leading the 66ers in the scoring column was Jerome Dyson with 16 points and Brady Morningstar with a season-high 11 points.
</p>
\n
Defensively, Tulsa held Texas to 31-of-82 (.378) shooting overall, including 1-of-15 (.067) from beyond the arc. The 66ers also forced 19 Legends turnovers and recorded a season-high six blocked shots.
</p>
\n
Tulsa turned in a team effort on the boards, as Ben Colon (10), Ryan Reid (nine) and Lewis (eight) combined for 27 rebounds.
</p>
\n
Leading the Legends was Jamal Sampson with 14 points and 10 rebounds. Lawrence Hill also scored 14 and Matt Rogers posted a game-high 11 boards.
</p>
\n
The 66ers return to the floor Friday night, Dec. 2, when they travel to Austin to take on the Toros at 8 p.m. CT.
</p>
\n
For more information on the Tulsa 66ers, log onto Tulsa66ers.com. 
</p>]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[12/1/2011 15:57:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/20111130/TULTEX/gameinfo.html#nbaGIlive</guid>
</item>
<item>
	<title><![CDATA[D-Fenders Fall to Bighorns Despite Late Rally]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/20111130/RNOLAD/gameinfo.html#nbaGIlive</link>
	<description><![CDATA[\n
EL SEGUNDO, Calif. -- Despite a late-game scoring surge from Elijah Millsap, the Los Angeles D-Fenders were unable to complete the comeback and two-game sweep of the Reno Bighorns, falling 99-95 Wednesday night at Toyota Sports Center. The loss comes two days after the D-Fenders (2-2) set the team record for largest margin of victory (32 points) against the Bighorns.
</p>
\n
Trailing with under 30 seconds to play, Millsap drove the lane and flushed a two-handed dunk to score his seventh straight point for the D-Fenders and cut the deficit to one (95-96). Millsap, who was one of four D-Fenders in double figures, posted a game-high 23 points on 8-of-16 shooting to go with four rebounds and three steals in 36 minutes off the bench. His Bighorns (1-3) counterpart Zach Graham, who logged 39 minutes off the bench, totaled a team-high 22 points on 8-of-13 shooting and nine rebounds.
</p>
\n
Teammate Brian Hamilton finished the game with 21 points on 7-of-14 shooting, his second-straight 20-plus point game, and a team-high 15 rebounds (eight offensive) while Brian Costner (11 points, 4 rebounds) and Zach Andrews (10 points, 5 rebounds) rounded out the D-Fenders in double-figures.
</p>
\n
Blake Ahearn scored 19 points and handed out five assists, Taj McCullough registered 15 points, Doug Thomas logged 12 and Nick Fazekas added 11 points in the Bighorns victory. 
</p>]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[12/1/2011 15:56:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/games/20111130/RNOLAD/gameinfo.html#nbaGIlive</guid>
</item>
<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Season Preview: Eastern Conf., Pt. I]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/eastern_conference_preview_part1_2011_11_17.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[From now until the start of the 2011-12 NBA Development League regular season on Friday -- including a live broadcast on NBA TV (7:30 p.m. ET) of the Canton Charge's first-ever game, when the newcomers take on defending champ Iowa -- we'll look at the teams, players and storylines you should know as the NBA D-League preps for its most competitive season yet.
A breakdown of four teams from the Eastern Conference is up first, with the second half to follow on Wednesday. The first half of the Western Conference preview will be unveiled Tuesday. ]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[11/21/2011 13:22:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/eastern_conference_preview_part1_2011_11_17.html</guid>
</item>
<item>
	<title><![CDATA[15 Finalists Named to U.S. Men's Pan-American Games Team]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/15_finalists_pan_american_2011_10_17.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[Tulsa, OK -- Following five training sessions held between Oct. 14-16, 15 NBA Development League players were selected finalists for the 2011 USA Basketball Men's Pan American Games Team. The finalists will continue training in Tulsa through Oct. 22 and the USA's official 12-man USA team will be announced before the team departs Oct. 23 for the Pan American Games competition that is being held Oct. 26-30 in Guadalajara, Mexico.
Selected as a finalists for the U.S. squad were: Blake Ahearn (Erie BayHawks/Missouri State '07); Brian Butch (Injured for 2010-11 season/Wisconsin '08); Chris Daniels (KCC Egis, South Korea/Texas A&M-Corpus Christi '08); Justin Dentmon (Texas Legends/Washington '09); Jerome Dyson (Tulsa 66ers/Connecticut '10); Moses Ehambe (Iowa Energy/Oral Roberts '08); Ron Howard (Fort Wayne Mad Ants/Valparaiso '06); Marcus Lewis (Tulsa 66ers/Oral Roberts '09); Leo Lyons (Austin Toros/Missouri '09); Renaldo Major (Dakota Wizards/ Fresno State '04); Donald Sloan (Reno Bighorns/Texas A&M '10); Gregory Stiemsma (Sokhumi Tbilisi, Georgia/Wisconsin '09); Curtis Sumpter (Maroussi BC, Greece/Villanova '07): Lance Thomas (Austin Toros/Duke '10); and Luke Zeller (Bakersfield Jam/Notre Dame '09). ]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[10/17/2011 00:32:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/15_finalists_pan_american_2011_10_17.html</guid>
</item>
<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Charge! Canton Announces New Team Name]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/canton/charge_111013.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[CANTON, OH - The Cleveland Cavaliers today announced that their new NBA D-League team in Canton will be named the Canton Charge. At the same time, the team's colors, logo and court design were also debuted. The announcement and unveiling was led by Cavaliers President Len Komoroski and Cavaliers Chief Marketing Officer Tracy Marek, along with Canton Mayor William J. Healy II and Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce President Denny Saunier. The events took place at the Canton Memorial Civic Center, which will serve as home court for the Charge.]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[10/13/2011 00:28:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/canton/charge_111013.html</guid>
</item>
<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Jensen Named First Head Coach For Canton]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/alex_jensen__canton_first_head_coach_2011_10_11.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[CANTON â€" The Cleveland Cavaliers today announced that Alex Jensen has been named the first-ever head coach of their new NBA Development League franchise in Canton. Canton General Manager Wes Wilcox made the announcement. Per team and league policy, terms of the contract were not released.
"Alex is a great fit for our team and organization and what we want to develop and accomplish in Canton. He has a very successful and diverse background that is rooted in strong defensive principles and learned from one of the best coaches and basketball teachers in college basketball in Rick Majerus,â€ said Wilcox. â€œAlex is also a strong communicator, has natural coaching instincts and understands the importance of building a team with a strong defensive foundation. We are very excited for him to get started.â€ ]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[10/12/2011 00:30:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/alex_jensen__canton_first_head_coach_2011_10_11.html</guid>
</item>
<item>
	<title><![CDATA[D-Fenders To Pick First In 2011 NBA D-League Draft]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/dfenders_first_pick_draft_2011_10_12.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[NEW YORK, October 11, 2011 â€" The Los Angeles D-Fenders won the 2011 NBA Development Leagueâ€™s Draft Lottery and will have the first overall selection in the 2011 NBA D-League Draft. The lottery took place in Denver, CO today at the Leagueâ€™s annual coaches meetings. The NBA D-League Draft will be held Thursday, November 3.
The Austin Toros secured the second selection, while the Maine Red Claws, Sioux Falls Skyforce and Texas Legends round out the top five.
â€œThe Draft Lottery tips off the NBA D-Leagueâ€™s 11th season in which our regular season begins as planned November 25,â€ said NBA D-League President Dan Reed.
The NBA D-League Draft utilizes a â€œserpentineâ€ format, meaning the order will alternate in each of the eight rounds. For example, the team picking last in the first round will select first in the second round, giving them the 16th and 17th overall choices. ]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[10/12/2011 00:27:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/dfenders_first_pick_draft_2011_10_12.html</guid>
</item>
<item>
	<title><![CDATA[2011 NBA D-League Draft Order]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/2011_nba_dleague_draft_order.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[This is the complete list for the NBA D-League Draft, which will be held on Nov. 3.]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[10/17/2011 10:49:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/2011_nba_dleague_draft_order.html</guid>
</item>
<item>
	<title><![CDATA[NBA D-League Players Called to USA Men's Camp]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/usa_mens_camp_players_100411.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[USA Basketball announced today that 21 players who are under contract to play in the NBA D-League in 2011-12 have accepted invitations to the USA Men's Pan American Games team training camp Oct. 14-22 in Tulsa, OK.
Forward Moses Ehambe, who averaged 24.7 points per game in helping lead the Iowa Energy to the 2011 NBA D-League Finals title, and 2011 NBA D-League All-Star guard Walker Russell (Fort Wayne Mad Ants) headline a group of players vying for a slot on USA's 12-man roster that will compete in the 2011 Pan American Games on Oct. 26-30 in Guadalajara, Mexico. The team will be announced before departing for Mexico on Oct. 23.
"I think the overall depth of the 21 guys and the versatility they have to play multiple positions will be a great asset for the team," said Tulsa 66ers head coach Nate Tibbetts, who on July 27 was named by USA Basketball head coach of the USA Men's Pan American Games team. "Also, the wealth of experience these players have had both in the NBA D-League and overseas will be very beneficial. We are looking forward to getting training camp started in Tulsa to see these 21 players compete for roster spots." ]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[10/4/2011 15:22:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/usa_mens_camp_players_100411.html</guid>
</item>
<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Legends Name Harris Head Coach]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/texas/coach100411.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[1995 NBA Coach of the Year. NAIA Hall-of-Famer. Indiana Basketball Hall-of-Famer. Over 500 NBA wins in just 12 full seasons as head coach. Coached two World Championships, one Olympics, and other major FIBA tournaments with five different international teams, always finishing in the medal round with a gold and two bronze medals. In addition his Bayamon Puerto Rico Championship Club team won bronze and silver medals in the World Club Championships.
The Texas Legends announced today the hiring of Del Harris-the most decorated coach in NBA D-League history. Harris, who was the team's General Manager in its inaugural 2010-11 season, will maintain his General Manager role.
"It is with great pride that I am able to introduce to Legends Nation a true basketball legend as our head coach," Legends co-owner Donnie Nelson commented. "Del is one of the most accomplished coaches in the history of basketball - and to be able to have him as the head coach of the Legends is a great privilege." ]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[10/4/2011 15:25:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/texas/coach100411.html</guid>
</item>
<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Nurse Takes Over Vipers]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/coach_nurse_q_and_a_110919.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[On the day that he was named the new head coach of the Rio Grande Valley Vipers -- the NBADL affiliate of the Houston Rockets, and one of three D-League teams to use the hybrid model of ownership -- Nick Nurse sat down with D-League.com's Kevin Scheitrum to talk about what lured him to the team that he defeated in the D-League Finals last year, and what makes the Vipers and Rockets such a unique partnership. 
D-League.com: You've been the only coach in Iowa history, with your four years capped off with a D-League title - what made you leave?
Nick Nurse: Well, it was a combination of a lot of things. First of all, I'm from Iowa and absolutely loved coaching the Iowa Energy, but with the Houston Rockets people and the Rio Grande people, I just felt a good connection with them. I thought my future would be good for me down here, so I'm looking forward to learning from the Rockets, and kind of taking a small step forward in my coaching career.
D-League.com: With the success you had in Iowa, how tough was it saying goodbye to everybody up there?
Nick Nurse: It was very difficult. Winning that championship last year was really special. Every championship's special, but the way it unfolded with our community and our fans - the crowd sizes, the electricity in the arena - that's something I'll never forget. ]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[09/21/2011 18:08:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/coach_nurse_q_and_a_110919.html</guid>
</item>
<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Dakota Adds Potapenko to Staff]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/dakota/potapenko_named_assistant_coach.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[The Dakota Wizards have hired Vitaly (vee-TAH-lee) Potapenko (poe-TAH-pen-koe) as the team's assistant coach, the team announced today. Potapenko will serve under newly hired Head Coach Nate Bjorkgren for the 2011-12 season.
Potapenko brings two years of coaching experience to the Wizards, having most recently served as an assistant coach for the Indiana Pacers this past season. In Indiana, under Head Coach Jim O'Brien and Interim Head Coach Frank Vogel, Potapenko helped lead the Pacers to a 37-45 record and a trip to the 2011 NBA Playoffs.
Prior to joining the Pacers, Potapenko served as an assistant coach for the Fort Wayne Mad Ants of the NBA Development League under Head Coach Joey Meyer during the 2009-10 season. ]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[09/30/2011 17:29:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/dakota/potapenko_named_assistant_coach.html</guid>
</item>
<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Mokeski Hired to Coach Reno]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/reno/reno_bighorns_hire_paul_mokesk_2011_09_29.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[The Reno Bighorns have announced the hiring of Paul Mokeski for their head coach position. Mokeski brings over 30 years of experience in professional basketball to the Bighorns as a coach and a player. Mokeski comes over from the Rio Grand Valley Vipers where he was an assistant coach. He helped guide the Vipers to the NBA D-League Finals the past two seasons including winning the NBA D-League Championship in 2010. The Vipers eliminated the Bighorns from the playoffs in both seasons. "Coach Mokeski is the total package," said Reno Bighorns owner Herb Santos, Jr. "He had a great career in the NBA as a player, he has coached at the collegiate, Olympic, NBA and NBA D-League levels and throughout his career he has shown his commitment to giving back to the communities he has lived in. He meets all of my requirements." A second round draft pick of the Houston Rockets in the 1979 NBA Draft, Mokeski played 12 years in the NBA with Houston, Detroit, Milwaukee and Golden State. Prior to his NBA career, he was a high school All American in 1975 and played basketball at the University of Kansas, where he was a two time All-Big Eight selection.
"I am honored and excited to be the next head coach of the Reno Bighorns," said Mokeski. "I look forward to teaming up with the new local ownership group, led by Herb Santos Jr. and putting together a successful and entertaining team together both on and off the court." ]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[09/30/2011 17:20:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/reno/reno_bighorns_hire_paul_mokesk_2011_09_29.html</guid>
</item>
<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Red Claws Are A-Maze-Ing In Maine Cornfield]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/red_claws_corn_maze_110920.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[PORTLAND, MAINE - After packing the house for two straight seasons at the Portland Expo, Crustacean Nation has always thought that their hometown team was great. This autumn, they will have the chance to experience just how a-MAZE-ing they really are.
Pumpkin Valley Farm in Dayton, Maine has been creating a six-acre labyrinth of corn for 10 years. Working with the MAiZE Company, the world's largest cornfield maze consulting/design company, Pumpkin Valley Farm produces an intricate design each year. Past maze designs have included a Maine moose, American flag, and the mascot of the Portland Sea Dogs. This year's design of the Maine Red Claws court and logo is sure to be the most 'cornfusing' labyrinth yet.
"In sports, you get used to seeing your players and logo on things like trading cards, posters, bumper stickers, and it's always a cool thing to see," said Red Claws President and General Manager Jon Jennings. "This is a whole new level of cool though - who would've ever thought you would see kids running through an image of Crusher covering a six acre stretch?" ]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[09/21/2011 18:14:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/red_claws_corn_maze_110920.html</guid>
</item>
<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Get to Know Springfield Coach Bob McKinnon]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/coach_mackinnon_q_and_a_110914.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[Just after Bob MacKinnon, Jr. was introduced as the brand-new head coach of the NBADL's Springfield Armor on Wednesday, MacKinnon sat down with D-League.com's Kevin Scheitrum to talk about how he got here; where he, the Nets, the Armor and the D-League plan to be; and just about everything in-between.
D-League.com: At this point in your career, what made Springfield the right fit?
MacKinnon: I think the fact that they're a hybrid partner with the Nets makes it one of the most attractive -- if not the most attractive -- team in the D-League.
To have the opportunity not only work with people like [Nets GM] Billy King, [Nets coach] Avery Johnson, [GM of Minor League Operations] Milton Lee and [Nets assistant GM] Bobby Marks and the rest of the Nets franchise, along with the people in Springfield, that's what makes it really attractive.
What makes that hybrid model so attractive, as you say, more so than shared ownership?
Because you are one-on-one with an NBA team. You're gonna run their stuff, you're gonna be in their system. I'm a big believer in 'If it Ain't Broke, Don't Fix It." ]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[09/21/2011 18:10:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/coach_mackinnon_q_and_a_110914.html</guid>
</item>
<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Top 15 games to watch this season]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/schedule_games_to_watch_110831.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[On Monday, the NBA D-League released the schedule for its 11th season, an announcement that came on the heels of one of the most promising offseasons in the league history.
With more and more NBA teams opting for exclusive relationships with an NBA D-League affiliate - the number ballooned from four teams in 2010-11 to nine single-partner teams in 2011-12 - and two more teams (Springfield, Erie) adopting the hybrid model of ownership (in which the NBA partner runs Basketball Ops), optimism's running high from the Northern Atlantic to the Pacific Coast.
But it's a long season. And with each of the 16 teams playing a 50-game schedule - complete with 24 true home games, 24 away games and two at the D-League Showcase in January - we could all use some help in sorting out which games to circle on our e-calendars. ]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[09/1/2011 09:51:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/schedule_games_to_watch_110831.html</guid>
</item>
<item>
	<title><![CDATA[NBA D-League releases 2011-12 schedule]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/2011_12_schedule.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[The NBA Development League today released its schedule for the 2011-12 season, which includes the debut of the Cleveland Cavaliers-owned Canton franchise and the return of the Los Angeles Lakers-owned L.A. D-Fenders.
The 11th NBA D-League season tips off on Friday, Nov. 25, when the Maine Red Claws host the Sioux Falls Skyforce at 7 p.m. ET. Opening night continues when Canton, in its inaugural game, hosts the 2010-11 NBA D-League champion Iowa Energy at 7:30 p.m. ET in its inaugural game and L.A., under the helm of veteran NBA head coach Eric Musselman, visits the Golden State Warriors-owned Dakota Wizards at 8 p.m. ET in the D-Fenders' first game since the 2009-10 season.
Dec. 1 will feature the Energy visiting the Rio Grande Valley Vipers in a rematch of last year's Finals. Head coach Mo McHone returns for his sixth NBA D-League season with the Skyforce as they travel to Fort Wayne on Nov. 25 to play the Mad Ants. Nate Tibbetts, who will coach the 2011 USA Men's Pan American Games team with a roster of assistant coaches and players from the NBA D-League, will lead the Tulsa 66ers for an opening night matchup versus the Idaho Stampede.]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[08/30/2011 17:03:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/2011_12_schedule.html</guid>
</item>
<item>
	<title><![CDATA[New owners introduced in Reno]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/reno/reno_bighorns_announce_new_own_2011_08_30.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[ RENO, NEV.- The Reno Bighorns have announced that Bighorns Basketball, LLC, a local ownership group led by Herb Santos, Jr., Stephen Adams and Jeffrey Adams has purchased the team.
For the first time in its three-year history, the Bighorns will be locally owned.
"I am excited for this incredible opportunity and I look forward to the upcoming season," said Santos, Jr. "The quality of basketball will continue to amaze, astound and delight fans of all ages. We will continue to offer an alternative for a family outing which will not only provide wholesome entertainment but will also be affordable for all members of our community."
Santos, Jr. and Stephen Adams have been loyal season tickets holders since the Bighorns inaugural season in 2008. Santos, Jr., was part of the small local group of community leaders who were instrumental in the start up of the Bighorns in 2008.
"Herb Santos Jr. and Stephen and Jeffrey Adams have been tremendous supporters of the Bighorns since day one," said Dan Reed, NBA Development League President. "We are pleased to welcome them now as owners of the team, and excited for the future of the Bighorns under their leadership."
A focus for the new owners will be to increase the community involvement with positive leadership by the owners, players, coaches and front office staff.
"We want to be part of the community," said Santos, Jr. "We want to take part in local charity activities, church socials and other events. We want everyone to become part of the Reno Bighorns Family. We want the Reno Bighorns to be your team!" ]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[09/1/2011 09:50:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/reno/reno_bighorns_announce_new_own_2011_08_30.html</guid>
</item>
<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Local team tryout information]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/individual_team_tryout_2011.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[Below is a list of local NBA D-League team tryout dates and their respective locations. This list will continue to be updated as teams set-up locations and dates for their local tryouts. There will be more information about the NBA D-League's National Tryouts in the coming weeks. Please continue to check back for more information. ]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[08/25/2011 18:34:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/individual_team_tryout_2011.html</guid>
</item>
<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Musselman Named Head Coach of L.A. D-Fenders]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/lakers/newsnba/dfenders_info.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[EL SEGUNDO, August 18th, 2011 - The Los Angeles D-Fenders of the NBA D-League have hired Eric Musselman as head coach, it was announced today by team President Joey Buss.
"I'm excited to announce Eric Musselman as the Los Angeles D-Fenders head coach," said Buss. "He has vast experiences in both the NBA and NBA Development League and will be a great addition to our franchise. I look forward to working with Eric and having a successful season."
Musselman, who has over 20 years of coaching experience, most recently served as head coach for the Reno Bighorns of the NBA Development League. During his stint in Reno, he compiled a 34-16 record, second best in the league, while leading the team to the Western Conference regular season title and a semifinal berth in the NBA D-League playoffs.
"I'm extremely excited to be joining a first class organization like the D-Fenders," said Musselman. "Our staff will work hard to develop young players for the next level while at the same time being an extremely competitive team."
Before coaching in the NBA Development League, Musselman spent over ten years as a coach in the NBA. The Minneapolis native was an assistant coach for the Orlando Magic (1997-2000) and the Atlanta Hawks (2000-2002) before receiving his first head coaching job with the Golden State Warriors in 2002. During his two seasons with the Warriors, Musselman compiled a 75-89 record and was runner-up in votes for Coach of the Year in 2003. In 2004, Musselman joined the Memphis Grizzlies and spent two seasons (2004-06) as the top assistant under Coach Mike Fratello. In 2006, Musselman was named head coach of the Sacramento Kings where he coached for one season compiling a 33-49 record.
Prior to joining the coaching ranks in the NBA, Musselman was a head coach in the CBA. In 1989, he was named head coach of the Rapid City Thrillers at the age of 23, making him the youngest coach in CBA history. During his tenure in the CBA, Musselman posted a 270-122 record (.688), marking the second highest winning percentage in league history behind George Karl. He holds the honor of being the only person in CBA history to coach in five league All-Star Games (1990, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1997) and was the first coach in professional basketball history to win 100 games by the age of 28.
Musselman also spent two seasons in the USBL, where he led the Florida Sharks to back-to-back league titles. In two seasons, Musselman coached the Sharks to a combined 53-3 (.947) record. He holds the highest winning percentage in league history.
In between his coaching stints in the NBA and NBA Development league, Musselman served as a color commentator for Comcast and Versus during the 2009-10 season, calling West Coast Conference and NBA Development League games, respectively. Musselman also served as a guest columnist for The New York Times, The Sporting News, basketballnews.com and Winning Hoops from 2007-2009.
Musselman is a graduate of the University of San Diego, where he was a three-time West Coast Athletic Conference all-academic team selection and co-captain. While at USD, Musselman helped guide the Toreros to two NCAA Tournament appearances.
In 2006 the Los Angeles Lakers became the first NBA franchise in history to own an NBA Development League team when it formed the Los Angeles D-Fenders. After a one-year hiatus, the D-Fenders will return to the NBA Development League for the 2011-12 season. The Los Angeles D-Fenders, who will open up their season in November, will play their home games at the Toyota Sports Center in El Segundo, CA.]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[08/18/2011 17:14:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/lakers/newsnba/dfenders_info.html</guid>
</item>
<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Golden State Warriors To Play Preseason Game At Bismarck Civic Center]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/dakota/preseason_2011_08_15.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[The Golden State Warriors, the owners and parent club of the Dakota Wizards, will host a preseason game against the Utah Jazz at the Bismarck Civic Center on Tuesday, October 25, 2011 (7:00 p.m. tipoff), it was announced today. Tickets for the contest, which is the first game featuring two NBA squads to take place in Bismarck since Denver hosted Minnesota on October 19, 2008, will go on sale on August 25 at the Civic Center box office and Ticketmaster. 
"We're excited about the opportunity to bring preseason NBA basketball back to Bismarck," said Warriors' Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations Larry Riley. "The fans in the region have always supported basketball and this will provide them the opportunity to see an NBA game and become more familiar with their new parent club, the Warriors. Our new ownership, led by Joe Lacob and Peter Guber, have spent the last nine months instituting many positive changes, including the purchase of the D-League Wizards and the hiring of Head Coach Mark Jackson, and the fans in North Dakota will have an opportunity to sense some of the new excitement on October 25." 
The Warriors, led by Co-Executive Chairmen Joe Lacob and Peter Guber, purchased the Dakota Wizards NBA Development League franchise on June 28, 2011, forming a 'one-to-one' single-affiliate relationship between the two teams. The Warriors are currently one of five NBA teams to own and operate their own D-League team. 
In preparation for the game, the Warriors are finalizing plans to host a special event in Bismarck for the Wizards' season ticket holders and corporate sponsors. Tentative plans for the event, which will take place in October, include appearances by Warriors' Executive Board Member and NBA Hall of Famer Jerry West and new Wizards' Head Coach Nate Bjorkgren. Full details for the event will be released in the coming weeks. 
]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[08/15/2011 16:51:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/dakota/preseason_2011_08_15.html</guid>
</item>
<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Nate Bjorkgren Named Coach Of Dakota]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/dakota/wizards_201112_head_coach_2011_08_03.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[OAKLAND, CA  -  The Golden State Warriors, owners and parent club affiliate of the Dakota Wizards, have named Nate Bjorkgren (BEE-ork-Gren) as head coach of team's NBA D-League franchise, it was announced today. Per team policy, terms of the agreement were not announced. 
Bjorkgren becomes the ninth head coach in Dakota franchise history and replaces Rory White, who led the Wizards to a 19-31 record in 2010-11. 
Bjorkgren, 36, has spent the previous four seasons as an assistant coach - under head coach Nick Nurse - with the NBA D-League's Iowa Energy.  During his tenure in Iowa, the Energy posted a combined 124-76 record (.620), highlighted by last season's D-League Championship (2-1 over the Rio Grande Valley Vipers).  The Energy posted an all-time D-League-best 37-13 record each of the last two seasons and captured three consecutive Eastern Conference titles during Bjorkgren's final three campaigns in Iowa.  During the 2009-10 campaign, the Energy led the D-League in (lowest) Defensive Field Goal Percentage and the team has annually ranked among the top rebounding squads in the league.  
"We're really pleased with the selection of Nate as our head coach," said Warriors' Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations Larry Riley.  "We believe he is a quality young coach and the right individual to lead the Wizards and, most importantly, oversee the development of our team in Bismarck.  The tremendous success he enjoyed in Iowa and his overall knowledge of the D-League will be an added benefit and certainly aid him in this transition.  Our entire staff, including Mark Jackson, Bob Myers, Travis Schlenk, Kirk Lacob and myself, were impressed with his pedigree during the interview process and are confident he is the right fit.
Prior to joining the Energy in 2007-08, Bjorkgren began his coaching career at the high school level in Arizona, where he served as Head Coach of Cactus Shadows High School in Cave Creek for three seasons (2004-2007).  Bjorkgren, a native of Storm Lake, Iowa, was named the Arizona State High School Coach of the Year following the 2005-06 season and earned Regional Coach of the Year honors in both 2005 and 2006.  Cactus Shadows qualified for the Class 4A State Tournament each of his three seasons with the school.
"I'm really excited about this opportunity to lead the Wizards and provide the fans of Bismarck with a hard-working and exciting team," said Bjorkgren. "I have learned a lot during the last four years on the staff of the Iowa Energy and look forward to implementing my philosophy in this new position.  Additionally, I was very impressed with the vision and goals of the Warriors' staff during our meetings and I'm eager to work closely with them as we move forward."
A graduate of Buena Vista University in 1998 with a degree in Exercise Science, Bjorkgren played collegiate basketball for both the Beavers and the University of South Dakota, where he began his college career in 1994.
]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[08/8/2011 15:25:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/dakota/wizards_201112_head_coach_2011_08_03.html</guid>
</item>
<item>
	<title><![CDATA[McHone to Return as Head Coach in 2011-12]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/siouxfalls/mchone_110728.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[Sioux Falls, S.D. (July 28, 2011) - The Sioux Falls Skyforce announced today that Morris "Mo" McHone will return for his sixth season as head coach in 2011-12. McHone is the winningest coach in franchise history with a regular season record of 180-124 (.592). His teams made the postseason five times and he led the organization to a CBA Championship in 1996.
"Mo's success with our franchise is unmatched," said Skyforce owner/president Mike Heineman. "Having his experience and knowledge back on our sidelines will be a major benefit for us this upcoming season."
McHone replaced Tony Fritz as head coach last season after a 2-18 start and helped the team snap a franchise-record 13-game losing streak in his return to the sidelines. He held the position of director of basketball development for the Austin Toros for two seasons (2007-09) following one season as head coach of the Skyforce. Austin reached the postseason in each of his two seasons in the front office and advanced to the 2008 NBA D-League Finals. Sioux Falls posted a record of 30-20 (.600) in 2006-07 and advanced to the league semifinals before losing to eventual champion Dakota.
McHone's first stint with the Skyforce (1995-99) was highlighted by three appearances in the CBA Finals and a CBA Championship. He also coached one of the best teams in franchise history as the 1996-97 squad finished the regular season with a record of 47-9, the fourth-best mark in league history.
Prior to coaching in Sioux Falls, McHone was the head coach for the Birmingham Bandits (1991-92), Fort Wayne Fury (1992-93) and Yakima Sun Kings (1993-95). He has an all-time regular season record of 229-168 (.577) in eight CBA seasons and a postseason record of 40-29 (.580). He won back-to-back CBA Championships ('95, '96) and was a two-time winner ('95, '97) of the CBA's Coach of the Year award.
McHone worked in the NBA early in his coaching career as he was an assistant coach in San Antonio from 1980-83 and served as head coach of the Spurs for 31 games during the 1983-84 season. He was also an assistant coach with the Cleveland Cavaliers (1979-80, 1985-86), Detroit Pistons (1999-01) and Los Angeles Clippers (2001-03).
]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[08/8/2011 15:26:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/siouxfalls/mchone_110728.html</guid>
</item>
<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Tulsa 66ers Head Coach Nate Tibbetts To Lead 2011 USA Men's Pan American Games Team]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/tibbetts_usa_072611.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo.  (July 27, 201)  --With the 2011 Pan American Games less than three months off, USA Basketball and the NBA Development League today announced plans that call for the USA Men's Pan American Games Team roster to be comprised of coaches and players from the NBA Development League.  USA Basketball also announced that Tulsa 66ers head coach Nate Tibbetts has been selected to serve as the USA's head coach and that 66ers assistant coach Dale Osbourne will fill one of the team's two assistant coach positions. One additional assistant coach and the players who will contend for roster positions will be announced at a later date. 
The coaching selections were made by the USA Basketball Men's Pan American Games Committee, approved by USA Basketball's Board of Directors and are subject to final approval by the U.S. Olympic Committee Chief Executive Officer. The Pan American Games Committee, chaired by USA Basketball Men's National Team Director Sean Ford, is charged with the coach and player selections for the 2011 USA Pan American Games squad. 
"USA Basketball is excited to join forces with the NBA Development League to field the 2011 USA Pan American Games Men's basketball team," stated Ford. "Nate is one of the best coaches in the NBA D-League, he will bring great leadership and experience to the team. The fact that Nate and Dale already have a successful working relationship is a real benefit." 
"We're excited about the opportunity for players and coaches from the NBA Development League to represent their country on an international stage," said NBA D-League President Dan Reed. "This is another testament to the world-class basketball talent we're attracting and promoting to the NBA, and we're very pleased to partner with USA Basketball to go for the gold!" 
The Pan American Games, held every four years in the year prior to the Olympics, are being held Oct. 13-30 in Guadalajara, Mexico. The men's basketball competition, which features eight teams, is being conducted Oct. 26-30. 
The USA men were drawn into Group B for the Pan American Games and are joined by national teams from Brazil, Dominican Republic and Uruguay. Competing in Group A are Argentina, Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico. The men's basketball preliminary round play is scheduled for Oct. 26-28, semifinals action will be played Oct. 29, and the finals will be contested on Oct. 30. 
Training camp for the 2011 USA Basketball Men's Pan American Games Team will held Oct. 14-22 at a site TBA.  The 12-member USA Men's Pan American Games Team will be announced before the team departs for the competition in Mexico on Oct. 23.  The list of athletes participating in the USA Team training camp will be announced at a later date. 
USA Basketball also announced that two players from the 2011 USA Pan American Team will be selected to be part of USA Basketball's 2012 USA Select Team that will train against the U.S. National Team when it trains in the summer of 2012 for the '12 London Olympic Games. 
In addition to Ford, the 2011 USA Basketball Men's Pan American Games Committee is comprised of Tibbetts, 2000 Olympic gold medalist Steve Smith, NBA Development League Vice President of Basketball Operations & Player Personnel Chris Alpert, and NBA Development League consultant Gordon Chiesa.                 
Nate Tibbetts
"I feel very humbled and privileged to be selected to lead the United States in the 2011 Pan American Games.  Coach Dale Osbourne and I are excited to represent the Tulsa 66ers and Oklahoma City Thunder organizations in this journey to earn a gold medal for the United States.  We can't wait to get started and represent our great country," said Tibbetts. 
Tibbetts has led Tulsa to consecutive trips to the NBA Development League playoffs. In 2011, Tibbett's 66ers team set a club record with 33 regular-season wins, which resulted in a No. 4 seed in the playoffs and Tulsa advanced to the semifinals. Between Dec. 30 and Jan. 29, the 66ers reeled off 14 consecutive victories. Additionally, Tibbetts saw three of his players earn four total Gatorade Call-Ups during the season, the most ever in a season. 
For his success, Tibbetts was selected to lead the West team in the 2011 D-League All-Star Game. Tibbetts' 2011 Tulsa team specialized in defense, ranking second in the league in points allowed per game (98.8), third in turnovers forced (18.1) and fourth in steals (9.04). 
In his first season at the helm of Tulsa, Tibbetts guided the 66ers to their first ever playoff berth, leading them all the way to the finals. Tulsa's 27-23 record was a 12-win improvement from the previous season, and at the time,  a franchise record for wins. 
Prior to Tulsa, Tibbetts spent four seasons (2005-06 through 2008-09) with the Sioux Falls Skyforce, two as an assistant before being promoted to head coach prior to the 2007-08 season. In his two years at the helm of the Skyforce, Tibbetts guided Sioux Falls to a 53-47 record and a playoff berth. The seasoned coach also boasts of four years as an assistant coach at the University of Sioux Falls. In his four seasons, the Cougars posted a record of 92-44, earning two trips to the NAIA Division II National Tournament. 
As a student-athlete at the University of South Dakota, Tibbetts enjoyed a successful playing career. He ranked second all-time at USD in career assists (678) and steals (215), and was named to the All-North Central Conference (NCC) team in 2000-01. 
Dale Osbourne
"I am excited to join Coach Nate Tibbetts on the 2011 Pan American Games staff. There is no greater honor than to represent one's country. Coach Tibbetts and I greatly enjoy working in Tulsa and being a part of the Oklahoma City Thunder organization, and we feel very honored to be on the bench together helping lead the United States," said Osbourne. 
Osbourne will assist Tibbetts and owns more than 20 years of coaching experience that includes stints in the USBL, CBA, WNBA and D-League. Tibbetts and Osbourne are familiar with each other's coaching styles. After all, they've been working together with the NBA D-League's Tulsa 66ers for the past two seasons. 
Prior to his two seasons in Tulsa, Osbourne spent a total of three seasons with the Austin Toros and Utah Flash. From 2004-06 Osbourne was head coach of the United States Basketball League (USBL) Dodge City Legend, and also served as the team's general manager in 2005-06. He led Dodge City to consecutive regular season and division championships in 2004 and 2005, and was named the 2004 USBL Coach of the Year. The Legend won the USBL championship in 2004-05 and again reached the finals the next season. 
In seven years as an assistant at the University of South Alabama, Osbourne helped guide his alma mater to a pair of Sun Belt Conference titles. 
Pan American Games Team 
Event: 2011 Pan American Games
Dates: October 13-30, 2011
Men's Basketball Competition: October 26-30
Site: Guadalajara, Mexico
USA Basketball Pan American Games Team USA Team Training: Oct. 14-22, site TBA.
USA Head Coach: Nate Tibbetts (Tulsa 66ers)
USA Assistant Coach: Dale Osbourne (Tulsa 66ers), One TBA.
USA Team Members: The official 12 man roster for the 2011 USA Men's Pan American Games Team will be selected during the Oct. 14-22 USA team training.
Competition Format: The eight teams have been divided into two preliminary round groups consisting of four teams each. 
USA Men In The Pan American Games
The Pan American Games are organized by the Pan American Sports Organization (PASO) and are a multi-sport competition open to men and women representing countries from North, South and Central America and the Caribbean. The USA men in the 2007 Pan Ams dropped their first two games and then reeled off three consecutive wins to finish 3-2 and in fifth place.  The American men have earned a medal in 12 of their 15 Pan Am Games appearances, including a record eight golds, as well as three silvers and one bronze.  The U.S. men currently own an 84-13 (.866 winning percentage) all-time mark at the Pan Am Games. 
Held since 1951, the USA dominated the first five Pan Am Games, earning five consecutive golds. At the 1971 Pan Ams, despite a record of 2-1 in the preliminary round, the USA did not advance to the medal round and for the first time in Pan American history did not win the gold medal. However, the United States rebounded for a 26-0 record over the next three Pan Am Games and captured its last Pan Am gold in 1983. The gold medal has eluded U.S. teams the past six Pan American Games as the Americans have earned three silvers and a bronze medal. 
Many USA Basketball athletes who have been selected to a Pan American Games team have gone on to compete in the Olympic Games, while many others enjoyed stellar professional careers. In all, 34 Pan Am athletes have been a member of a U.S. Olympic squad, including Ernie Grunfeld, Grant Hill, Luscious Jackson, Michael Jordan, Christian Laettner, Danny Manning, Chris Mullin, Emeka Okafor, Sam Perkins, Oscar Robertson, David Robinson, Isiah Thomas, Jerry West and Jo Jo White. 
While the list of former Pan American Games players is impressive, the list of head coaches is even more striking.  The list of head coaches of USA Pan American Games teams includes Jay Wright (2007), Tom Izzo (2003), Mo McHone (1999); Mike Thibault (1995); Gene Keady (1991); Denny Crum (1987); Jack Hartman (1983); Bob Knight (1979); Marv Harshman (1975); Jim Gudger (1971) Hal Fischer (1967); Garland Pinholster (1963); Fred Schaus (1959); Lt. Norman Pilgrim (1955); and Hal Fischer and John Longfellow (1951). 
]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[08/8/2011 15:27:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/tibbetts_usa_072611.html</guid>
</item>
<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Maine Red Claws Name Dave Leitao Coach]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/leitao_072211.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[PORTLAND, ME - The Maine Red Claws, presented by Quirk Chevrolet, today introduced Dave Leitao as the team's head coach. The announcement was made today in front of an exuberant crowd of Boys and Girls Club members and reporters at the Boys and Girls Club located on Cumberland Avenue in Portland. The announcement comes exactly two years to the day of the naming of Austin Ainge as the team's first head coach; Ainge was recently named the Director of Player Personnel for the Boston Celtics, paving the way for Leitao to take the reins as the second head coach in Red Claws' history. 
"Dave Leitao has a tremendous resume of developing young talent and of getting the best out of his players," said Red Claws President and General Manager Jon Jennings. "Our players will benefit greatly from his experience and emphasis on defense and winning. "Dave as the head coach of the Maine Red Claws is a great addition for the franchise. This organization has enjoyed a great number of successes, on and off the court, and this day marks the beginning step to the next level for this franchise." 
Leitao, 51, brings a wealth of college experience to Maine, with a coaching career that has spanned 25 years at top college programs. The Massachusetts native is the former head coach of the University of Virginia where he was named the 2006-07 Atlantic Coast Conference Coach of the Year by the Associated Press as well as the 2007 National Association of Basketball Coaches District 5 Coach of the Year. Previously, he was head coach at Northeastern University and DePaul University and served lengthy stints as an assistant coach at Northeastern and the University of Connecticut. As the assistant coach at UConn, Leitao served under Hall-of-Fame head coach Jim Calhoun for whom he had also played at Northeastern University. 
"Dave is a special person and coach and is a part of my family and has been for 30 years," said Calhoun. "He is an outstanding hire, not only from a basketball standpoint, but also as a molder of young men. He knows what these players will need to do to get to the next level, as players and as people. I could not be more excited for him for this opportunity, and the Red Claws and the Portland community are fortunate to have him." 
A two-year captain at Northeastern from 1978-1982, the 6'7" forward helped the Huskies reach the NCAA Tournament in his final two years. At Calhoun's behest, Leitao entered the coaching ranks as Northeastern's assistant coach in 1984, following Calhoun to UConn in 1986. He took the reins of his own team in 1994, returning to his alma mater as head coach from 1994-96. Leitao returned to UConn as associate head coach in 1996, remaining for six years, including the Huskies National Championship season of 1999, before being named the head coach at DePaul in 2002. He oversaw the Blue Demons' transition from Conference USA to the Big East basketball conference, leading DePaul to two trips to the NIT and one to the NCAA Tournament before joining the University of Virginia as head coach in 2005. Most recently, Leitao worked as a consultant for the Next Level Talent Management Agency, a sports and entertainment management firm in Virginia Beach, VA. 
"I am a great believer in the 'defense first' philosophy and that defense wins games, "If you look at any sport at the highest level, defense is what wins championships and wins," said Leitao. "If you have good pitching and good fielding, you're going to win a lot of games in baseball. The greatest coaches in football have had great defenses. It's the same in basketball. It's what I learned, and it's what I believe in." 
"I have heard incredible things about the crowds at the Portland Expo and the dedication and knowledge of Crustacean Nation," Leitao continued. "I am looking forward to experiencing that first hand. This will be an exciting season of basketball in Maine, and I can't wait to get to the arena and get started." 
"I am incredibly excited about this upcoming season and the program we are building on and off the court," Jennings said. "With two seasons under our belt, we know what to expect and where we want to go. I can't wait for the season to begin." 
]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[08/8/2011 15:28:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/leitao_072211.html</guid>
</item>
<item>
	<title><![CDATA[NBA D-League Announces 2011-12 Affiliates]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/affiliates_110707.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[NEW YORK, July 7, 2011 - The National Basketball Association and the NBA Development League, the official minor league of the NBA, today announced the affiliation system for the 2011-12 season. An all-time high nine NBA teams will have single NBA D-League affiliates - more than double last season's total of four - including first-year partnerships between the Cleveland Cavaliers and Canton, the Golden State Warriors and Dakota Wizards, the New Jersey Nets and Springfield Armor and the New York Knicks and Erie BayHawks, along with the return of the Los Angeles D-Fenders, the Los Angeles Lakers' single affiliate. 
For the seventh consecutive year, each NBA team has one NBA D-League team to which it may assign players. During the 2010-11 season, the NBA D-League saw all-time highs in NBA player assignments (56), individual players assigned (39) and NBA teams assigning a player (25), while last season marked the first time every NBA D-League team was assigned an NBA player. 
"We're very excited that an all-time-high nine NBA teams will have exclusive, 'one-to-one' relationships with their NBA D-League affiliates this coming season," said NBA D-League President Dan Reed. "This clear trend of NBA teams buying into the NBA D-League is not only a testament to our past success, but also the sign of a very promising future." 
The NBA D-League will again have 16 teams playing in 2011-12, including Canton, which will play its first year in Canton, Ohio, under the ownership of the Cleveland Cavaliers, and the Los Angeles D-Fenders, who resume operation under the ownership of the Los Angeles Lakers after taking a one-year hiatus. 
Along with Canton and the D-Fenders, the Austin Toros (San Antonio Spurs), Dakota Wizards (Golden State Warriors) and Tulsa 66ers (Oklahoma City Thunder) are fully owned and operated by their NBA affiliates. The Rio Grande Valley Vipers (Houston Rockets), Springfield Armor (New Jersey Nets) and Erie BayHawks (New York Knicks) all have 'hybrid' single-affiliation partnerships, where the NBA teams control their NBA D-League affiliates' basketball operations. Meanwhile, the NBA Champion Dallas Mavericks remain solely affiliated with the Texas Legends. 
Seven NBA D-League teams will each have three NBA parent teams: the Bakersfield Jam (Los Angeles Clippers, Phoenix Suns, Toronto Raptors), Fort Wayne Mad Ants (Detroit Pistons, Indiana Pacers, Milwaukee Bucks), Idaho Stampede (Denver Nuggets, Portland Trail Blazers, Utah Jazz), Iowa Energy (Chicago Bulls, New Orleans Hornets, Washington Wizards), Maine Red Claws (Boston Celtics, Charlotte Bobcats, Philadelphia 76ers), Reno Bighorns (Atlanta Hawks, Memphis Grizzlies, Sacramento Kings) and Sioux Falls Skyforce (Miami Heat, Minnesota Timberwolves, Orlando Magic). Of those seven teams, only the Fort Wayne Mad Ants have the same three NBA affiliates as last season. 
The NBA D-League continues to be a launching pad for NBA talent - 23 percent of all NBA players on 2010-11 end-of-season rosters have played in the NBA D-League, while 27 of the 60 players selected in the 2010 NBA Draft played in the NBA D-League last season.
]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[07/7/2011 15:37:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/affiliates_110707.html</guid>
</item>
<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Cavaliers Bring NBA D-League Team To Canton]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/canton/cavaliers_canton_110707.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[NEW YORK, July 7, 2011 -- The Cleveland Cavaliers, the NBA Development League and the City of Canton, Ohio announced today that the Cavaliers have purchased the NBA D-League's New Mexico Thunderbirds and will relocate the team to Canton beginning with the 2011-12 season. The Cavaliers will fully control both the business and basketball operations of the team and will be its lone NBA affiliate, making Cleveland the fifth NBA team to own and operate its NBA D-League affiliate.
"We're very excited to welcome the Cleveland Cavaliers to a rapidly expanding group of NBA teams realizing the advantages of an exclusive relationship with their NBA D-League affiliate," said NBA D-League President Dan Reed. "The combination of supportive city leadership and an outstanding organization in the Cavs leads us to believe the future of the team in Canton is very bright. We thank Sam and Jackie Bregman, as well as the fans in New Mexico, for their support of the Thunderbirds organization during the team's six years in the Albuquerque area." 
The Cavaliers also become the ninth NBA team to have a 'one-to-one' affiliate in the NBA D-League, the NBA's official minor league. The Golden State Warriors (Dakota Wizards), Los Angeles Lakers (Los Angeles D-Fenders), Oklahoma City Thunder (Tulsa 66ers) and San Antonio Spurs (Austin Toros) also fully own and operate their NBA D-League affiliates. The Houston Rockets (Rio Grande Valley Vipers), New Jersey Nets (Springfield Armor) and New York Knicks (Erie BayHawks) have 'hybrid' partnerships with their affiliates, controlling those teams' basketball operations, while the NBA Champion Dallas Mavericks are solely affiliated with the Texas Legends. 
"Having the ability to own and operate a D-League franchise in Canton once again illustrates ownership's outstanding commitment to creating a culture of success," said Cavaliers General Manager Chris Grant. "Player development is at the core of our process and being able to operate our own franchise so close to home will place us in the most strategic position to take an active part in the player development process." 
The Cavaliers' new affiliate will play the 2011-12 season at the Canton Memorial Civic Center. Scott Woodruff, an experienced member of the Cavaliers and Quicken Loans Arena organization, was named the team's Chief Operating Officer. Woodruff spent the past two seasons as the Vice President of Ticket and Corporate Sales for the American Hockey League's Lake Erie Monsters, part of Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert's family of sports and entertainment interests. 
"We are very excited and looking forward to a great partnership with the City of Canton, fans and the surrounding community," said Cavaliers President Len Komoroski. "We have a strong connection with the Canton regional market and we are excited to further engage our fans with a first-class basketball and entertainment experience. We will be active in the community and will work hard to earn support from our fans here." 
The Cavaliers are inviting fans to submit their team name suggestions starting immediately at www.CantonNBA.com. Fans can also follow the new Canton franchise, @NBACanton, on Twitter at www.twitter.com/CantonNBA and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CantonNBA
]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[07/7/2011 15:36:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/canton/cavaliers_canton_110707.html</guid>
</item>
<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Golden State Warriors Purchase Dakota Wizards]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/warriors_wizards_110628.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[NEW YORK, June 28, 2011 -- The Dakota Wizards, Golden State Warriors and the NBA Development League announced today that the Warriors have purchased the NBA D-League's Wizards and will fully control the team's business and basketball operations beginning with the 2011-12 season. The Warriors will be the sole NBA affiliate of the Wizards and are now the fourth NBA team to own and operate its NBA D-League affiliate. 
The Warriors become the eighth NBA team to have a 'one-to-one' affiliate in the NBA D-League, the official minor league of the NBA. The Los Angeles Lakers (Los Angeles D-Fenders), Oklahoma City Thunder (Tulsa 66ers) and San Antonio Spurs (Austin Toros) also fully own and operate their NBA D-League affiliates. The Houston Rockets (Rio Grande Valley Vipers), New Jersey Nets (Springfield Armor) and New York Knicks (Erie BayHawks) have 'hybrid' partnerships with their affiliates, controlling those teams' basketball operations, while the NBA Champion Dallas Mavericks are solely affiliated with the Texas Legends. 
"We thank Steve and Karen McCormick, as well as Dawn Kopseng, for bringing the Dakota Wizards to the NBA D-League and their tremendous efforts on behalf of the team and the league," said NBA D-League President Dan Reed. "We're very excited to welcome the Golden State Warriors and their new ownership group, led by Joe Lacob and Peter Guber, to the NBA D-League. The Warriors have historically been ahead of the curve in utilizing the NBA D-League, so it's only natural that they become the latest team in a growing number of NBA teams to own and operate their NBA D-League affiliate." 
The Warriors have named Jim Weyermann, current President of the San Jose Giants, as their Vice President of New Franchise Development. He will oversee all operational aspects of the Wizards. 
"We're really excited about the opportunity to acquire an NBA D-League team and view it as a proactive decision," said Warriors' owner Joe Lacob. "As we have previously mentioned, one of our goals is to provide our organization with any elements that we think could provide us an advantage. The fact that we will now operate our own D-League team - complete with our coaches and organizational philosophy - will put us in a better position to evaluate and develop potential NBA players, including any of our first or second year players who may spend a stint in the D-League. Additionally, we'd like to thank Steve McCormick and the ownership group of the Dakota Wizards for their professionalism during this process." 
The Wizards were affiliated with the Memphis Grizzlies and Washington Wizards during the 2010-11 season. Their new NBA D-League affiliates will be announced at a later date. 
"We're extremely proud of the tremendous support shown to us from the Bismarck community, and for that we thank each and every one of our fans and supporters," said Dakota Wizards owner Steve McCormick. "We're now excited to welcome the Golden State Warriors to Dakota."
]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[06/28/2011 13:32:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/warriors_wizards_110628.html</guid>
</item>
<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Bakersfield's Maduabum Selected In NBA Draft]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/prospect_watch_nba_draft_110624.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[An NBA D-League player was selected in the NBA Draft for the third straight year on Thursday, although this selection verged a bit towards the unexepected. The Los Angeles Lakers drafted Bakersfield Jam forward Chukwudiebere Maduabum with the 56th selection in the draft. A 6-9 forward out of Nigeria, Maduabum joined the Jam late in the season and appeared in only three games. He averaged 0.7 points in 20 total minutes of game action, but did register one game with three blocked shots. Maduabum joins Mike Taylor (55th, 2008) and Latavious Williams (48th, 2010) as players taken in the NBA Draft after playing in the NBA D-League.
With such a small sample size of activity, it is hard to tell where Maduaum will fit in with the Lakers and what his strengths and weakness are as a player. One thing that seems likely is that he was drafted with the intent of assignment to the Los Angeles D-Fenders, who will return for the 2011-12 season as the Lakers' NBA affiliate. The Lakers were affiliated with Bakersfield last season so they almost certainly got some useful info on Maduabum from the Bakersfield coaching staff. Maduabum only turned 20 years old in March, so he has plenty of time to further develop in the NBA D-League before he can be called upon to contribute to the Lakers. He could also play for the D-Fenders as an allocation player if he does not make the Los Angeles roster.
In more disappointing developments for NBA D-League players on draft night, New Mexico Thunderbirds forward Jamine Peterson was not selected. Eligible for the draft after leaving Providence last season, Peterson joined New Mexico in January and went on to average 13.4 points and 5.9 rebounds in 36 games. Despite appearing on several draft boards and some promising workouts for NBA teams,. Peterson will have to look for a training camp invite or a return to the NBA D-League as he seeks to make an NBA roster. Peterson showed that he is capable of explosive offensive performances in his first season and would be a viable GATORADE Call-Up candidate if he reappears in the NBA D-League.
]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[06/24/2011 00:50:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/prospect_watch_nba_draft_110624.html</guid>
</item>
<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Los Angeles D-Fenders To Resume Play In 2011-12 Season]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/dfenders_110609.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[NEW YORK, June 9, 2011 - The Los Angeles D-Fenders announced today that the team will return to operation in the NBA Development League, the NBA's official minor league, for the 2011-2012 season after a one-season hiatus. The D-Fenders, owned and operated by the Los Angeles Lakers, will resume their single affiliation with the 2009-10 NBA Champions, and will play their home games at Toyota Sports Center in El Segundo, Calif. 
"We are excited to continue our investment in the NBA Development League as it continues to evolve into a basketball and business asset for NBA teams," said D-Fenders Chief Executive Joey Buss. 
"We're thrilled to welcome the Los Angeles D-Fenders back to the NBA Development League," said NBA D-League President Dan Reed. "The Lakers have been an outstanding partner with the NBA D-League for years, and their return further reinforces our growing significance to the NBA - especially considering they are now one of seven NBA teams with a 'one-to-one' affiliation. We're excited about the terrific fan experience they plan to provide at Toyota Sports Center." 
With the D-Fenders' return, the NBA Development League now features seven teams with lone NBA affiliates. Both the Oklahoma City Thunder and the San Antonio Spurs also fully own and operate their affiliates, the Tulsa 66ers and Austin Toros, respectively. The Houston Rockets, New Jersey Nets and New York Knicks have 'hybrid affiliations' with the Rio Grande Valley Vipers, Springfield Armor and Erie BayHawks, respectively, controlling the basketball operations of their NBA D-League affiliates, while the Dallas Mavericks are singly affiliated with the Texas Legends. 
For more information on the Los Angeles D-Fenders and the Los Angeles Lakers, log on to www.nba.com/dleague/dfenders and www.nba.com/lakers. 
]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[06/9/2011 15:22:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/dfenders_110609.html</guid>
</item>
<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Knicks, BayHawks Excited For Single-Affiliation Partnership]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/knicks_partnertship_110608.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[The New York Knicks became the latest team to begin a single-affiliate relationship with an NBA D-League team when they announced a partnership with the Erie BayHawks on Wednesday. Starting in the 2011-12 season, the Knicks will be the BayHawks' sole NBA affiliate and will have control over the team's basketball operations. The partnership, also referred to as the "hybrid affiliation," allows for NBA teams to secure control over and cover the expenses related to the basketball operations of an NBA D-League team, while partnering with existing ownership, which maintains responsibility for the team's off-the-court business operations.
A name familiar to NBA fans will play a key role in the partnership, with Knicks Assistant General Manager Allan Houston assuming the role of General Manager, Basketball Operations for the BayHawks. The two-time NBA All-Star addressed the media alongside BayHawks majority owner Steve Demetriou on Wednesday to talk about the new partnership between the teams.
"We got a chance to sit down with Steve and we had a great feeling about him and the BayHawks organization", said Houston about the new partnership. "It's a great partnership because it gives us a much better link to the D-League and to the scouting from the D-League to the NBA. 20 percent of NBA players are from the NBA D-League, and it has a growing presence. It's great for us because we may have not utilized it in the past, and now we are excited about the partnership."
Houston's role as the General Manager, Basketball Operations will give him a great deal of responsibilty over the BayHawks in terms of the team they put on the court. He feels that the relationship with Erie will be helpful to both the Knicks and the BayHawks in terms of improving their teams. Keeping a much closer eye on day-to-day happenings in the NBA D-League via control will give the Knicks a better chance of utilizing the talent that is potentially for the taking every year in the NBA's minor league. The Knicks did not sign any players to GATORADE Call-Ups in 2010-11, but have signed several players from the NBA D-League in past years including Earl Barron (2009-10) and Ime Udoka (2005-06).
"I'll be working with the coaching staff, controlling the basketball operations, whether it's acquiring players and finding the developmental tools to help both them and us," said Houston. "We are always seeing players that may not get the chance to be drafted but can play in the league. We want to make sure that we can capitilize on that and not miss out on opportunities."
Houston will be spending plenty of time on the road in his new role with Erie a bit further away from the Knicks' previous affiliate in Springfield. He's already met with BayHawks head coach Jay Larranaga, who will be starting his second season at the helm in Erie. Larranaga recently visited the Knicks to speak with Houston and head coach Mike D'Antoni about the relationship between the two teams moving forward. The Knicks have yet to assign a player to the NBA D-League since the assignment system began in 2005, but Houston seemed open to having players from the Knicks in Erie if the situation calls for it.
"I've been able to spend time with Jay about the players and the system, and he was up here to meet with myself and coach D'Antoni," said Houston. "We'll be in constant communication to see what's going to be best for everyone. I like Jay, he's like me, he's a coaches' son. We've been around the game for a long time, and we are like-minded in how we look at what makes the players in terms of their mindset. I'm looking forward to assisting him in any way because it's invaluable for us to be on the same page. If there are some guys we feel could come from our team and play in Erie, we can talk about the system we play in New York and some things we would like to see. We have to wait until we get to that point to see what position or role someone is going to play, but there's an advantage to that continuity." 
Now with his new role in place, Houston's next focus is on preparation for the 2011-12 NBA D-League season. The NBA D-League Draft and training camps are still a few months away, but the Knicks/BayHawks are already quite involved in keeping tabs on players who may be part of the league next season.
"We have a great scouting team, so we've already started to talk about players with Jay," said Houston. "We have two free agent mini-camps that we are holding which will give us an idea of how to prepare. The draft workouts are also helpful, this draft has some good players who might not get drafted. We've already started to catalog guys that we feel could be good for the team, and we'll take it as it goes as the summer moves forward. I'm looking forward to learning more about the D-League, and about developing the young prospects we know are going to be in the NBA at some point. It's about getting a landscape of scouting players who can potentially be in this league, and learning more about operating the team."
Demetriou echoed Houston's enthusiasm for the new relationship between the teams. The BayHawks are set to enter their fourth season in the NBA D-League and will look to build more momentum after winning a team-record 32 games during the 2010-11 season.
"When the league put the hybrid model in place we had the goal of a single-affiliate relationship, and we're extremely excited," said Demetriou. "We wanted a closer, more formal relationship that enabled us to learn from and use all the resources and talents the NBA team has. When the opportunity came up, mission accomplished. The main driver is sort of the strategic, long-term growth of the franchise. The Knicks are one of the legendary NBA teams and it's fantastic to associated with them in a business relationship. It's great for the fans with the momentum the Knicks have built over the past years and we're thrilled that the've chosen us to work with. It should be a win-win situation moving forward."
]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[06/8/2011 18:31:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/knicks_partnertship_110608.html</guid>
</item>
<item>
	<title><![CDATA[New York Knicks and Erie BayHawks to enter into single affiliation partnership beginning with 2011-12 season]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/knicks_erie_110608.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[NEW YORK, June 8, 2011 -- The Erie BayHawks, the New York Knicks and the NBA Development League announced today that the Knicks and BayHawks have entered into a single affiliation partnership beginning with the 2011-12 season. The Knicks will be the BayHawks' sole NBA affiliate and will have control over the team's basketball operations. 
In a model similar to other minor leagues, this partnership, also referred to as the "hybrid affiliation," allows for NBA teams to secure control over and cover the expenses related to the basketball operations of an NBA D-League team, while partnering with existing ownership, which maintains responsibility for the team's off-the-court business operations. 
The Knicks are the third NBA team to enter into a hybrid affiliation with an NBA D-League team, joining the Houston Rockets, with the Rio Grande Valley Vipers, and the New Jersey Nets, with the Springfield Armor. The other NBA teams with lone NBA D-League affiliates are the Oklahoma City Thunder and the San Antonio Spurs, who fully own and operate the Tulsa 66ers and Austin Toros, respectively, and the Dallas Mavericks with the Texas Legends. The Knicks' partnership with Erie comes on the heels of the NBA D-League's 10th and most successful season, while 23 percent of all NBA players have used the NBA D-League as a launching pad. 
"The New York Knicks' single affiliation partnership with the Erie BayHawks marks yet another positive step forward in the NBA D-League's continued evolution as the NBA's official minor league," said NBA D-League President Dan Reed. "We're very excited to have the Knicks join a growing number of NBA teams who are realizing the benefits of a one-to-one relationship with their NBA D-League affiliate." 
Knicks Assistant General Manager Allan Houston was appointed BayHawks General Manager, Basketball Operations by Knicks President, Basketball Operations Donnie Walsh. 
"The opportunity to have this new agreement with the Erie BayHawks and the NBA D-League is very exciting for the New York Knicks," Houston said. "The impact of the NBA D-League continues to grow, and we look forward to this partnership." 
The BayHawks were previously affiliated with the Cleveland Cavaliers and Toronto Raptors. Their new NBA D-League affiliates will be announced at a later date. 
"The entire Erie BayHawks organization appreciates all that the Cleveland Cavaliers and Toronto Raptors did to help us launch and become a successful NBA D-League team, and we are thrilled to begin a single affiliation with the New York Knicks," said Erie Majority Owner and Managing Partner Steve Demetriou. "This hybrid relationship will further strengthen our franchise as the Knicks focus on overseeing the basketball operations, while team president Matt Bresee and his talented staff continue to grow the business side of the Erie BayHawks." 
]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[06/8/2011 13:19:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/knicks_erie_110608.html</guid>
</item>
<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Vipers Guards Working Out For Timberwolves]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/riograndevalley/twolves060211.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[MCALLEN - The NBA Development League Rio Grande Valley Vipers announced Thursday that guards Jerel McNeal (6-3, 200, Marquette) and Matt Janning (6-4, 198, Northeastern) are attending free agent workouts with the Minnesota Timberwolves on Thursday and Friday. 
An All-NBA Development League Third Team selection, McNeal averaged 19.4 points, 3.9 rebounds, 4.4 assists and 1.3 steals while starting 47 games during the regular season. The only three games he missed came during a GATORADE Call-Up to the New Orleans Hornets. He did not see any action during his 10 days in the NBA. During the post-season McNeal averaged 27.6 points, 7.0 rebounds, 6.5 assists and 1.2 steals in eight games. 
Janning opened the season with the Phoenix Suns before joining the Maine Red Claws. The Vipers acquired him in a trade in January. Overall, Janning averaged 9.7 points, 3.7 rebounds and 2.7 assists while shooting 41.6% from behind the arc in 41 games (10 starts). During the post-season, Janning averaged 13.6 points, 5.6 rebounds and 2.6 assists while shooting 42.3% from behind the arc in eight games (seven starts). 
]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[06/2/2011 17:22:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/riograndevalley/twolves060211.html</guid>
</item>
<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Rio Grande Valley's Bert Garcia Named Team Executive Of The Year]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/garcia_110526.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[NEW YORK, May 26, 2011 - Rio Grande Valley Vipers President Bert Garcia is the recipient of the 2011 NBA Development League Team Executive of the Year Award, it was announced today by NBA Development League President Dan Reed. The NBA Development League Team Executive of the Year is determined by peer voting, teams are not allowed to vote for themselves. 
"The NBA D-League is pleased to recognize Bert Garcia with the Team Executive of the Year Award in honor of his extraordinary accomplishments this season," said Reed. "The Vipers set new heights in business performance and community involvement, and truly exemplified an innovative spirit." 
Under Garcia's leadership, the Vipers led the league in tickets sold, group ticket sales, and overall attendance. In addition to being the first team to have both an English and Spanish version of their website, the Vipers' marquee partnership with Lone Star National Bank was the first of three such deals in the league. The team advanced to the 2011 NBA D-League Finals for the second year in a row. 
"This is a tribute to our very supportive ownership and the best staff in the NBA D-League," said Garcia. "The tremendous support from our fans and the local community in the Valley continues to fuel our commitment to success on and off the court." 
Garcia, who is entering his fifth season with the Vipers and second season as Team President, is the NBA D-League's first Hispanic team president. Garcia joined the Vipers during the 2007-08 season, as a basketball operations volunteer for Coach Bob Hoffman, for whom he had worked for previously at the University of Texas Pan-American. He joined the Vipers' front office full-time during the February 2008 season as a corporate sales manager. Garcia was then promoted to Assistant General Manger of Corporate Sales before becoming Vice President of Operations. A native of Edinburg, Texas, he has two daughters. 
Jon Jennings was the inaugural winner of the 2010 NBA D-League Team Executive of the Year award. 
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	<pubDate><![CDATA[05/26/2011 00:39:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/garcia_110526.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Prospect Watch: GATORADE Call-Ups Review]]></title>
	<link>http://www.nba.com/dleague/prospect_watch_callup_110525.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[MAY 25: GATORADE Call-Ups: A LOOK BACK

This season, 21 different players earned 27 GATORADE Call-Ups to NBA rosters. Let's review the season of each player who got the call up to the next level.
Zabian Dowdell, Tulsa (Suns) - Dowdell, who played in training camp with the Suns, got the first call-up of the season in early January after averaging 14.5 points and 4.6 assists with the 66ers. Dowdell defied the odds and stuck with the Suns for the entire remainder of the season, appearing in 24 NBA games. The Virginia Tech product's best game of the year was a 14-point, five-assist outing against the Los Angeles Clippers on April 1.
Larry Owens, Tulsa (Spurs, Wizards) - Owens followed up on a solid debut year in Tulsa with a 2010-11 season that featured multiple call-ups to San Antonio and Washington. The 6-7 forward also earned an NBA D-League All-Star nod for the 66ers before finishing the year as a member of the Wizards. Overall Owens averaged 3.3 points in 12 games during his first NBA season. 
Mustafa Shakur, Tulsa (Wizards) - One of the league's top point guards, Shakur was dealt to Rio Grande Valley in the preseason and averaged 16.7 points and 5.0 assists in 23 games before joining the Washington Wizards. Shakur went on to finish the year with Washington, averaging 2.3 points in 22 games.
Chris Johnson, Dakota (Trail Blazers, Celtics) - The NBA D-League's Defensive Player of the Year, the lanky center from LSU earned call-ups to both the Trail Blazers and the Celtics during a very successful debut campaign in the NBA D-League. In between his NBA time, Johnson averaged 16.2 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 2.8 blocks for the Wizards after he was selected in the first round of the draft. After joining the Trail Blazers for the second time in March, Johnson went on to appear in four games during their playoff series against Dallas. He also posted a 13-rebound game in the regular season against Golden State on April 13.
Garrett Temple, Erie (Bucks, Bobcats) - Fresh off of three call-ups during the 2009-10 season, Temple returned to the NBA D-League and earned call-ups to Milwaukee and Charlotte after being traded to the Erie BayHawks. The former LSU star finished the year with the Bobcats, averaging 3.2 points in nine games. Temple posted a new career high with 17 points against Miami on April 8. After two years he's now appeared in a total of 51 NBA games with five different teams.
Trey Johnson, Bakersfield (Raptors, Lakers) - Johnson dominated the NBA D-League's scoring ranks in 2010-11, finishing way ahead of the competition with 25.5 points per game. The NBA took notice with call-ups to the Raptors and then during the NBA D-League postseason to the Lakers. He went on to appear in three playoff games for Los Angeles to finish the year. 
Orien Greene, Utah (Nets) - Greene earned a call-up to the NBA in his second NBA D-League season, playing a ten-day contract with the Nets in February. Greene appeared in three games for New Jersey before returning to Utah. He was an NBA D-League All-Star in 2010-11, averaging 16.7 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 2.0 steals for the Flash in 39 games.
Steve Novak, Reno (Spurs) - Novak made a brief cameo in the NBA D-League, joining the Reno Bighorns and playing in only two games before a call-up to San Antonio, where he finished the season. The five-year NBA veteran averaged 18.5 points in his two games as a Bighorn.
Jeff Adrien, Rio Grande Valley (Warriors) - Adrien dominated the NBA D-League after entering the scene in December, and might have been the league's MVP if he was not called up by Golden State in late February. He averaged 18.2 points and 11.4 rebounds over 27 games between Erie and Rio Grande Valley, earning the NBA D-League's Impact Player award. He also played in a total of 22 games with the Warriors, with whom he started and finished the season.
Othyus Jeffers, Iowa (Spurs, Wizards) - One of the league's top guards over the past three seasons, Jeffers was an MVP-candidate for Iowa, averaging 21.1 points and 9.1 rebounds before late-season call-ups to San Antonio and Washington. Jeffers saw a lot of playing time in Washington to finish the season, posting 5.7 points in 16 games to finish what became his second season as an NBA player. He was named second team All-NBA D-League and also earned first-team All-Defensive honors.
Jerel McNeal, Rio Grande Valley (Hornets) - McNeal was one of the NBA D-League's top scorers in 2010-11, posting 20.6 points while leading the Vipers to the Finals. McNeal earned a call-up to the New Orleans Hornets in March, but did not see any game action.
Marcus Cousin, Austin (Jazz, Rockets) - Cousin emerged as a top center prospect in the NBA D-League in 2010-11, earning two call-ups from the Austin Toros. He signed with Houston very late in the season and was assigned to the Vipers for the playoffs, but was shut down by an injury as the Vipers advanced to the Finals. He appeared in three games earlier in the year for the Utah Jazz before returning to Austin, where he averaged 14.9 points and 8.6 rebounds while earning second team All-NBA D-League honors. 
Danny Green, Reno (Spurs) - Green was immediately traded from Sioux Falls to Reno upon joining the NBA D-League, where he posted big numbers before a call-up returned him to the Spurs fold. Green averaged 20.1 points and 7.5 rebounds in Reno before playing nine games for San Antonio, including action in the playoffs. He was also assigned to Austin for one game, scoring 19 points in their season finale. 
Patrick Ewing Jr., Sioux Falls (Hornets) - Ewing had an excellent season in the NBA D-League split between the Reno Bighorns and Sioux Falls Skyforce. He was one of the league's top forwards with 17.7 points and 9.4 rebounds before earning his first career call-up from the New Orleans Hornets. He appeared in nine games with the Hornets to close out 2010-11, his second pro campaign.
Kyle Weaver, Toros (Jazz) - Weaver got off to a hot start with Iowa, but was sidelined with an injury before a trade to Austin in March. He played in only nine games for the Toros before a call-up to the Utah Jazz. The former second-round pick averaged 5.6 in five NBA games in April to finish his third pro season. Overall he averaged 15.6 points in the NBA D-League in 2010-11, earning honorable mention All-League honors.
Mario West, Maine (Nets) - The NBA veteran guard earned a call-up from the Red Claws for the second straight year, signing with the New Jersey Nets to finish the season. West, who earned second team All-Defense honors in the NBA D-League, closed out the year by playing in six games for the Nets. He averaged 13.7 points and 5.2 rebounds for Maine over 42 NBA D-League games.
Antonio Daniels, Texas (76ers) - One of the most NBA-experienced players to join an NBA D-League team, Daniels put together a solid season for the Texas Legends. It paid off with a late-season call-up to the Philadelphia 76ers, where he played in four games to close out the regular season. Daniels, who helped the Legends reach the playoffs in their first year, ranked second in the NBA D-League with 8.5 assists and was named third team All NBA D-League.
Robert Vaden, Tulsa (Thunder) - A first-round pick by Rio Grande Valley in the draft before being traded to Tulsa, Vaden spent the whole year as a 66er before the Thunder signed him to a call-up during the NBA D-League playoffs. Vaden was immediately assigned back to Tulsa until they were eliminated from the playoffs. He has been inactive for the Thunder during their playoff run after averaging 10.4 points for Tulsa in 2010-11.
Magnum Rolle, Maine (Hawks) - Rolle was taken third overall by Maine in the NBA D-League Draft, but an injury sidelined him until March. A healty Rolle went on to average 14.1 points and 5.5 rebounds for the Red Claws before he signed with the Hawks in April. Rolle did not see any action for Atlanta to close out his rookie season.
Marqus Blakely, Iowa (Rockets) - The explosive Blakely was traded from Bakersfield to Iowa in March and emerged as a top performer for the league's best team. Blakely was signed to the final call-up of the season when he joined the Rockets on the last day of the NBA's regular season. He was named second team All NBA D-League after averaging 15.0 points and 6.3 rebounds as a rookie.
]]></description>
	<pubDate><![CDATA[05/25/2011 17:04:00 ET]]></pubDate>
	<guid>http://www.nba.com/dleague/prospect_watch_callup_110525.html</guid>
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