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9. 9. 2003

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Lions Insight by Justin Jones

The final round of the first half of the season matched Dornbirn against Graz. This time Graz had to make the long trip out west. Both teams in a 4 way tie for second place put added anticipation and excitement to the game.

The long awaited game began with two powerful offenses scoring bucket after bucket. Graz started out aggressive as Lanegger penetrated and dished to Goncalves for an easy 2. Dornbirn worked the ball around and Green found Tonkovich free under the hoop who drew the foul and hit both free throws. Graz came down and found Glanz for 3. The Lions answered right back as Tonkovich knocked down a jumper, 4-5. A turnover by Graz allowed Jones to come down and hit a 3, 7-5 for the Lions. The center from Graz, Brlobus who scored 21 on the night, snuck by Tonkovich and laid it in. But, Tonkovich made him pay as he drove right by him on the next play for a reverse lay up, 9-7. The intense start slowed, as both teams started to struggle from the field. Both teams would finally convert on free throws making the score11-9. Another turnover by Graz gave the Lions the chance to extend their lead as Green converted an "And 1", 14-9. On the next play Bautista made a nice steal and was grabbed by Lanegger who was called for the intentional foul. Bautista sank both, 16-9. Great team defense stopped the guests as Tonkovich added 2 and Jones 2, 20-9. Brlobus ended the drought with a short jumper, 20-11. The Lions needed to extend the gap but could not as Graz went on a run. In the final two minutes of the quarter Graz was able to close within three as Glanz drilled a 3 at the buzzer, 25-22.

Second quarter action left the packed house quiet. The Lions committed 8 turnovers and gave up some easy baskets. Both teams were up and down, hitting big shots, yet making unforced errors. Tonkovich and Green were tough to stop on the inside, they combined for 53 points on the night. Nekola came in and added some energy on "D". However, the Lions could not gain ground and at the break it was all even at 42.

The third quarter would prove to be the difference. The Lions came out rollin’. Tonkovich opened the scoring with an easy two, but Brlobus answered. Bautista would be next to attack as he slashed through for 2. Bautista sparked the Lions as he grabbed a board and took it coast to coast for another 2, 48-44. Glanz was the answer for Graz as he calmly knocked down a 3, finishing with 23 points. The Lions defense picked up as two steals produced 4 points to extend the lead out to 52-47. Glanz again would come right back, this time slashing through the lane with a runner. Another steal by Bautista and a nice assist to Taskapan made the score, 54-49. A stop by the Lions defense led to the play of the night as Bautista penetrated, drew 3 defenders, flipped it behind his back to Green who brought it home with a two hand slam. This woke the fans up and ignited the Lions to go on a 32-14 rally leaving Graz behind. The team finally played its "A" game for most of the quarter. By the end of the period Graz looked defeated and ready to head home.

The 4^th quarter showed no signs of anyone giving up. Graz still believed they could get back into this one. They attacked but on this night the Lions responded and held their ground. The final quarter was a battle of its own, which ended like the opening two quarters, extremely close. The final on this night would go to the Lions 95-76.

Again, solid inside play by Tonkovich and Green paralyzed the defense which opened up the perimeter for Jones and Taskapan. Bautista ran the point as he controlled the tempo and made some great decisions. The team is coming together as one at the right time. The fans were a huge help as they were rockin’ the house. We will need all of you Lions fans even more this Saturday as Linz comes to town.

Dornbirn traveled to the far southeast corner of Austria Saturday. The Eagles from Villach were waiting and ready to get their first win of the season. The gym was packed and the Eagles came out on fire. They had nothing to lose and played relaxed and confident knocking down 13 three pointers on the evening.

1^st quarter action began with Taskapan draining a 3 to give the Lions a quick lead. But the Eagles would answer right back with a 3 of their own. Dornbirn seemed a little lackadaisical and the Eagles took advantage scoring 5 straight points and taking the lead 3-8. Bautista broke the mini-run with a short jumper but Villach matched it. Jones was left open on the perimeter and Green spotted him for 3. The score would go back and forth as both teams stepped up the intensity. Voljevica who was playing his first game back from injury got hot and hit two straight 3’s giving the home team their biggest lead of the game 14-22. A wake up call during a Lion’s time out brought a determined defensive effort as Jones nailed a 3, and Stojilkovic cut through the lane to trim the lead, 19-22. Villach could only score 2 points in the final 3 minutes of the quarter as the Lions kicked into gear, 26-24 at the buzzer.

Jones opened the quarter with another long range bomb and Green powered in 2. This extended the lead for the Lions to 31-24. The rest of the quarter went back and forth neither team gained or lost ground. At the half time break the score stood 50-43. Schudeja scored his 4 points during this spell as he had a strong move and a nice dunk. Tonkovich warmed up as he scored 11 of his 23 points in the second period. Hunter an American forward took over for the Eagles as he finished the half with 16 points.

The 3^rd quarter began with the Lions defense taking over. Villach would score only 15 points in the quarter due to good team "D". The Lions scored 26 to open the game up to an 18 point advantage. Jones scored 10 of his game high 27 and Tonkovich added 9. Bautista and Green played solid giving up the ball to the open man. Green finished the game with 10 assists. The score at the end of the period read 76-58.

The Eagles did not throw in the towel. They fought for 40 minutes and played a great game. The Lions managed to stretch the lead out to 23 in the opening moments of the final quarter as Taskapan hit a 2 and Jones a 3. Stojilkovic played great as he scord 6 points and played solid defense. Nekola, Turk, and Nussbaumer all came in and played quality minutes. Villach rallied and closed the gap to within 17 with just 2 minutes to go. Dornbirn held on as the final buzzer sounded, 95-76.

Breakdown

Overall a good win for the Lions as the road in this league is always tough. The depth of the team is getting stronger and this will help as we have crucial games coming up. Dornbirn will face Graz this week at home as four teams are all 6-2 fighting for the spot to move up.

The Dornbirn Lions waited as the Gussing Knights made the long trip out west, and what a shoot out it would be. This fast paced run and gun style was one of the most exciting and entertaining games in years which brought enthusiastic fans to their feet for most of the game.

The first quarter began with the Lions jumping out to an 11-4 lead, triggered by Jones from the perimeter and Tonkovic and Green from the inside. The Knights fired right back taking an 13-22 lead with 2 minutes to play. The Knights have a well balanced attack with Ingram in the middle averaging 20 points and 20 rebounds per game. Bell a veteran who can score from anywhere on the court and Nelson an American point guard. They also have Mullner a young shooter that can hit from way outside. Tonkovich would pick up his 3^rd personal foul and head to the bench. It did not look good for the home team, but recent addition Stefan Schudeja stepped in and played great. The Lions were able to rally behind Green and cut the lead at the buzzer, 22-24.

The second period began with both teams hot. Nelson picking it up for the Knights and Green carrying the Lions. The score quickly went up to 29-31 before Gussing started to pull away. Consecutive 3 pointers by Muellner and Bell stretched the margin out to 8 points. The next time down the court Green finished with an "And 1" Slam!!! This launched an attack from the Lions that would be the difference in the game. The Lions held on the defensive end and Taskapan came down and drilled a 3, 35-37. The Knights came down, the shot was tipped, confusion by the refs, while the chaos continued the Knights Coach received a technical foul. Jones converted both free throws 37-37. Bautista came down, penetrated, took it up strong and finished the "And 1", 40-37. Stojilkovic and Schudeja played some huge minutes as Tonkovich sat the entire second quarter due to foul trouble. Bell scored for the Knights and Jones for the Lions as the gap stayed at 3. Defenses picked up and got stops for both teams, then Bell came up with a short jumper to cut it to 42-41. Bautista nailed a long range jumper for 3. Turnovers by both teams and a stop by the Lions defense gave the home team the ball. Bautista came up with an offensive board and put it in for another "And 1", 48-41. The Knights post up Ingram 6’8" 260 lbs, who is fouled and hits both free throws. Green answers with a left hand baby hook. A big defensive stop by the Lions leads to a Taskapan 3 from way downtown. Nelson would add a foul shot to make the half time score 53-44.

The second half was a tight battle. The Knights inching their way back into the game, stopped by a Taskapan 3 pointer. Time after time Gussing would get within 6 or 7 points and Taskapan would hit again. Taskapan finished the game connecting on 7 out of 8 bombs. He also hit 6 out of 6 free throws in the closing moments to help seal the game. Another big time performance was Nate Green, who was deadly from the perimeter knocking down 3 out of 3 medium range jumpers and finishing inside over Ingram. Bautista and Jones played solid games distributing the ball each ending with 10 assists. Tonkovich contributed on both ends of the court but was hampered by fouls. Again Schudeja and Stojilkovic came in and the intensity picked up a notch which has not been done from the bench this year. Overall, a fun and exciting win for the Lions. This win puts the Lions tied for 3^rd and only one game out of 1^st. Dornbirn will make a 10 hour trip to the southeastern border of Austria to take on the eagles from Villach.

LIONS BATTLE, 84-78 (November 2nd, 2003)

Box Score | Deutscher Bericht

Recap

Coming off a tough loss Friday to Linz in the Cup, the Lions had to regroup quickly and prepare for the Basket Clubs of Vienna on Sunday. It made a long weekend being on the road since early Friday morning and playing Sunday evening. The Lions had to dig down deep and find out what they were made of as this game would prove to be an all out battle.

Vienna, much stronger than they have been in the past, came out and took a 0-4 lead with 2 quick buckets by El Jibrini. Bautista came right back taking it coast to coast for an "And 1"making it 3-4. After 2 minutes of scoreless basketball due to sloppy play, Jackson from Vienna made a strong move and finished for 2. Jackson is 6’9" and about 260 pounds. Great post defense by Green and Tonkovich held him to 13 total points. The Lions came back with an assist from Tonkovich to Green who layed it up easily 5-6. A stop defensively for the Lions and 1of 2 from the line by Green tied it up at 6. Another stop by the Lions with Bautista ripping down a board, pushing it up the court hard and pulling up for a free throw line jumper, taking the lead 8-6. A forced turnover by Vienna and patient offense by the Lions gives Tonkovich the ball on the post and draws the foul. He sinks both, Lions take a 10-6 advantage. At this point it looks like the Lions are about to take control of the game, but it was not to be as Kovac caught fire and drilled two 3’s and a lay up scoring 8 unanswered points, 10-14. The Lions would finally answer with a Bautista jumper closing the gap to 12-14. Poor shot selection would prove costly as the Lions did not score again in the final 2 minutes of the period while the home team built their lead out to 12-19.

The Lions needed a strong 2^nd quarter to get back into the game. Playing in Vienna has never been friendly to Dornbirn and the Lions knew that had to step up or it would be too late! It did not look good for the Lions as Vienna came out with confidence taking a commanding 16-28 advantage. The Lions finally answered the call going on an 11-0 run closing the gap 27-28. Shot selection improved due to great penetration and passing by Bautista and Taskapan. The Lions showed their powerful offense, hitting jumpers and finishing shot after shot. The defense picked up and we came up with steals leading to fast break points. The score then went back and forth while both teams played solid, and with two minutes to go in the half it was tied 32-32. Then Bautista found Jones free on the wing, who knocked down the jumper for 3. Bautista would sink two free throws to stretch the lead out to 37-32 but Vienna would not go away hitting a 3, 37-35. The Lions finished the half strong holding the Basket Clubs to 1 point while scoring 6, 43-36 at the break.

The third quarter started out with strong defenses. Neither team able to score for the first two minutes. Then Bautista found the bottom of the net on a baseline jumper to extend the lead to 9. The Lions could not shake Vienna as Williams came right back with an "And 1", 45-39. Tonkovich crashed the offensive boards and was fouled on a put back, he sank both to give us the lead 47-39. The Lions picked up the pace and Jones hit a 3 on the break, 50-39. A big stop on "D" led to another break with Taskapan finishing with a baseline jumper 52-39. Tonkovich picked up his 4^th personal foul which hurt as he had to sit. Vienna would fight back scoring off of Lions turnovers and cutting the lead 54-48. Green then stepped up as he penetrated baseline and finished with a strong "And 1". The game again went back and forth Jones and Green scoring for the Lions and Jackson and Williams for the Basket Clubs. By the end of the period Vienna had clawed their way back only down 4, 61-57.

Vienna opened up the quarter strong scoring on their first two possessions evening it up at 61. 9 minutes to go Tonkovich entered back into the game. Jones answered with a strong move pulling up and knocking down a jumper for 2. El Jibrini hits a left hand hook to tie it at 63. Lions turn the ball over but come up with a steal and Jones knocks down a 3. El Jibrini answers 66-65. Jones comes down on the break and hits another 3, 69-65, 6 minutes to go. A Big stop by the Lions and a nice bucket by Green builds the lead to 6. A forced turnover by Vienna and an offensive put back by Tonkovich makes it 73-65. Another stop by the Lions "D" with a Bautista jumper on the other end extends the lead out to 75-65. Kovac who had been silented by the Lions defense nails a 3. Tonkovich comes right back with his strongest post move of the night, 77-68. Green takes one for the team as Jackson plows him over, offensive foul. Green then posts up hard and draws the foul on Jackson, his fifth. Green converts 1 of 2. Dornbirn’s "D" steps up again and Green pulls down a huge board. Patience on offense as the Lions run down the shot clock, Taskapan then penetrates and dishes to Tonkovich for an easy two. The score stands 80-68 with 2:30 to go. The Lions hit 4 out of 4 free throws down the stretch but committed four turnovers in the closing minutes allowing the Basket Clubs to close within 84-78 at the buzzer.

Breakdown

We came through with a great win on the road. Vienna was ready and they gave us a battle. There were no easy moments in the game, right down to the wire. We shot well from the field, hitting 59%. Also, hitting 18-21 free throws was huge. However, the biggest key was our "Defense". When we put all of our effort into coming up with stops it triggered our offense into easy baskets. All of our runs were caused by great team defense. Taskapan played through his injury, coming up with rebounds and playing tough "D". Tonkovich, Green, and Bautista all had solid games. Jones picking it up in the 4^th brought life to the Lions. Stojilkovic and Nekola are continuing to gain valuable game experience as every minute counts. Gussing at home this week will also be a challenge. Gross out and Taskapan questionable will test the Lions depth.  All Lions fans we will definitely need your help this Saturday at 6:30 . 

The Dornbirn Lions offense exploded Saturday night, as the Danube City Timberwolves came to town. Coming off a rough loss to St. Polten, the Lions took out their vengeance on the team from the Vienna area. The T’ Wolves have a young and energetic team. They are well coached and play hard. They took Graz and Linz to the wire and were close to Feldkirch in the 4^th quarter, so we really had to prepare for a tough game.

Tonkovich scored first on a put back to start the game for the Lions, then Bautista came up with a steal and took it coast to coast. However, the T’ Wolves stayed calm and hit back to back jumpers to even it up at 4. Jones was fouled on his way up, and sank both free throws. The T’ Wolves stayed hot and hit two more jumpers to take the lead 6-8. Tonkovich would then answer with 5 straight points to give the Lions the lead for good 11-8. The opponents were patient on offense setting good screens and getting open looks at the basket. They again hit a jumper to close the gap to 11-10. The Lions executed their offense the next time down the court and Jones nailed a 3. Taskapan knocked down a baseline jumper to extend the lead. 16-10. Strahberger would answer slashing to the basket and laying it in. Tonkovich continued taking it hard to the hole, the opponents had to foul, sending him to the line, which he converted into the Lions next 4 points. Bautista ran the point setting the shooters up and distributing the ball into the post. The next time down he found Jones for a 3. Jones added two free throws on the next possession. The T’Wolves could only manage a bucket during this 9-2 run as the advantage grew to 25-16. The visiting team did not back down and finished the quarter with 10-5 run of their own, making the score 30-26.

Strahberger, who finished with 22 on the night, converted an "And 1" cutting the margin to 30-29. The Lions began another spurt led by Tonkovich pounding it inside and Taskapan warming up from the outside. The Lions built their lead up to 40-31 with six minutes to go in the half. The T’ Wolves then scored, but Tonkovich matched it making it 42-33. Dornbirn caught fire knocking down 4 consecutive 3’s, one by Bautista and 3 by Taskapan. This run finally gave the home team some breathing room as the score stood 54-36. Green took over the scoring for the Lions has he slammed one, and hit two free throws. The scoring went back and forth, Jones and Nekola hitting 3’s for the Lions and Strahberger keeping the T’ Wolves within reach. The half ended, 64-47.

The T’ Wolves came out the 3^rd quarter hitting a 3 and closing to within 64-50. But that’s as close as they would get. The Lions found 5^th gear and went on a 21-3 run blowing the game open at 85-53. This 7 minute interval was fun and exciting basketball. Bautista running the court and finding the open man was a key, along with the defense picking up its intensity, contesting and blocking out. However, momentum quickly changed and the Lions went cold. The T’ Wolves continued to play hard and found themselves chipping away at the deficit. Turnover after Turnover by the Lions made it possible for the guests to finish the quarter with a 13-2 advantage, narrowing the lead back to 88-66.

The first 5 minutes of the 4^th quarter was a battle. The T’ Wolves not throwing in the towel and the Lions trying to finish them off, neither gaining much ground, 98-77. A Timeout by the Lions brought new life. The defense stepped up allowing only 2 points in the final 5 minutes. The offense slowed down and took care of the ball, working it around and getting good shots. As the final buzzer sounded the Lions had built their lead back up to 111-79.

We came out tonight and were focused. We played our "A Game" for a good number of minutes. We did have a big let down at the end of the 3^rd quarter when the lead slipped from 30 to 20. They shot well, but our defense needs to pick it up. We had a terrible night taking care of the ball, committing 25 turnovers. Lots of bright spots: Team free throws 22/24 (91%). Overall shooting on the night was excellent, Tonkovich 9/10 from the field, Taskapan 5/7 from downtown. 4 Monster Dunks (2 by each of our big men)!!! 28 total assists, 12 from Bautista. Nussbaumer, 4 rebounds, and Wohlgenannt a steal in his first Bundesliga game. Most important, no major foul trouble! The team is starting to gel. This week we have a tough one in Vienna.

Box Score | Deutscher Bericht

The Dornbirn Lions travelled east, 7 hours by train Saturday morning to take on St. Polten. The team from St. Polten is the league favorite and picked by most to win the division. It was their first home game of the season and they were ready to step up and play in front of their packed house.

First quarter action began with two turnovers by the Lions. Luckily, no damage done as St. Polten could not convert. The Lions struck first as Tonkovich grabbed an offensive board and layed it back in. Hogar their 7’3" center answered with a free throw line jumper that found nothing but net. Green found Tonkovich flashing through the key and was fouled, Tonkovich hit them both. Rinkevicius their Lithuanian point guard drills a 3 to take the lead. The Lions fail to score. Strobl scores an "And 1" on the low post. Green comes back with a strong move and he is fouled, he hits one of two free throws making it 8-5. The Lions hit a cold spell and can not buy a bucket. St. Polten took off. It was like they caught fire. Hitting 4 consecutive 3 pointers, a jumper, 1 free throw, and another 3 while the Lions managed only 4 points. This18-4 run basically paralyzed the Lions, as the score stood 26-9 for the home team. St. Polten stayed hot, scoring 9 more points on 4/5 shooting from the field. The Lions finally found the basket as Jones hit two jumpers and Green scored from the post making the score 34-15. St. Polten hit a blistering 7/9 from the 3 point line, while the Lions connected on only 5-20 from the field.

The second quarter found the Lions fighting for our lives. We stayed calm and relaxed a little bit, and our shots started to fall. However St. Polten would not give an inch. This phase saw some good basketball from both sides. The Lions showing our powerful offense as we scored 27 points but could only slow them down to 26. Going in at the break down 60-42 was discouraging but still we felt like we could make a run of our own and make it close.

The Lions defense came out strong to start the 3^rd period. With 3 seconds left on the shot clock a loose ball bounced right to a St. Polten player who layed it up and in. Green then posted hard and finished. The Lions defense held, and Jones came down and hit a jumper cutting the lead to 16. The Lions defense held again, but the Lions did not convert as Bautista was pushed, no call, turnover. St. Polten then scores an easy lay-up. Jones comes down is hacked, no call, turnover and St. Polten converts, advantage up to 20. Green is double teamed lots of contact, turnover, no call and St. Polten scores again. Tonkovich posts up hard, makes a great move, is clearly fouled, no call, missed shot, St. Polten scores and is up 24. Bautista misses a jumper, St. Polten scores and is fouled. Strobl misses the free throw, but St. Polten gets the board and puts it back in, lead extended to 28. Green fouls out and Tonkovich picks up his 4^th personal. The rest of the quarter was a hard fought game. Again, both sides making big plays. The Lions, playing through the contact and still scoring. When the buzzer sounded the score stood 91-63.

The final quarter saw the benches empty as younger players got their chance to play. St. Polten did not miss a beat as whoever stepped on the court knocked down the long range bombs. For the Lions, Nekola stepped up and hit some big shots, hitting two 3 pointers, and making some nice passes. Stojilkovic also played some good minutes, defending and rebounding. Gross grabbed 3 rebound before going out with a severely sprained ankle. He will be out at least 4-6 weeks. The Lions continued to battle but fell short as we could not cut into their lead.

You have to give St. Polten credit. They came out and played their "A game". Some of the bright spots: Nekola and Stojilkovic are gaining valuable game experience, they are playing more confident and are getting a feel for the game. We cut our turnovers down to only 9 this game, 3 of those came at a crucial time in the 3^rd due to a lot of contact. Green had 11 rebounds (5 offensive) before fouling out with 15 minutes to go. The other moments: Our shooting percentage was just 40%, we had averaged 55%. And most importantly we did not stop them. Our defense let down, and they picked us apart. We will regroup and we will be ready for the next one, which is Saturday at home against Danube City Timberwolves.

Box Score | Deutscher Bericht

Dornbirn made the 30 minute trip to our rivals Feldkirch on Sunday aftnoon. Both teams stacked with new players looking to make a run for the Title. The arena was packed and good for us, as the majority of the fans were screaming their hearts out for the Lions. The stage was set, ready for a great basketball game.

Opening minutes saw a determined Lions team come out making their presence known. Tonkovich was the man to be reckoned with as he came out and scored the Lions first 6 points, all buckets coming from nice assists and from different players as Green, Jones, and Taskapan gave it up to the big man. Feldkirch stayed close as they also concentrated inside, scoring 4 of their 10 (total post points) early. Thomas took it coast to coast and the Baskets tied it up at 6. Green came back with a nice post move and was fouled, he hit one of two. A crucial key in the game was the aggressive play by Tonkovich and Green. Bautista quickly picked up his second foul and had to sit down. Feldkirch’s weapons are their point guard Thomas and shooting guard Darden both averageing about 25 points per game. Darden got free on the next time down the court and drained a deep 3 taking the advantage 7-9. Defenses picked up and both teams went scoreless for the next 2 minutes. Tonkovich made a nice high to low pass to Green who powered it up for 2. Thomas matched it with a bucket of his own. Jones spotted Green open again who slashed through the lane for 2, 11-11. Feldkirch played a solid physical defense on the perimeter slowing down the Lions. They extended their lead out to 11-14 before Tonkovich grabbed an offensive board and put it back in, 13-14. Again defenses picked up and nobody could score. Then Green came up with a huge board as he ripped it from two opponents. Moments later he scored from an offensive board and was fouled, hitting 1 of 2 and tying the game. The Lions defense held and we ran the clock down for the last shot. Jones penetrated and found a wide open Nekola who calmly knocked down the rainbow 3, 14-17 Lions.

The Lions quickly jumped out to a 25-19 advantage early in the 2^nd period, due to great passing and team work. Turnovers by the Lions stopped all momentum and Thomas answered with a 3, 25-22. Jones came right back and hit a jumper from the baseline 27-22. Another dry spell by both teams, nobody finding the bottom of the net. Again credit to both defenses for causing turnovers and playing tough. Young Bertsch ended the spell by hitting a jumper and cutting the lead to 27-24. Wild play presumed with bodies flying and diving on the court, yet with no points being scored. Both team hustling and giving their all. Feldkirch connected on a 3 from Pichler tying it at 27. Taskapan was then tackled at midcourt, making 1 of 2 from the line, score 28-27 for the Lions. This time unforced turnovers by the Lions proved costly as two quick buckets by Feldkirch gave them the advantage. The Lions had one final chance at the buzzer as Jones hit from way down town to even it all up at 31.

The first 7 minutes of the 3^rd quarter saw the Lions dominate the game. Holding Thomas and Darden to 0 points and only allowing Feldkirch to 4 total. The Lions were patient on offense, pesky on D, slowly building a 48-35 lead. Taskapan started us off with a 3 and then Tonkovich took over scoring at will against the opponents, also hitting 4 of 4 from the line. Gross added 2 for 2 foul shots, and Green was found by Jones under the hoop for an "And 1". Our own mistakes stopped us from blowing the game wide open as we committed turnover after turnover. This allowed the Baskets to stay within reach, 50-44. Jones finished with a free throw line jumper at the buzzer to extend the lead back to 8, 52-44.

The 4^th quarter was rugged. Jones hit Tonkovich who drove the key and finished for 2. The Baskets answered. Bautista crossed over, penetrated and found Tonkovich for 2. Feldkirch would then go on a run, out scoring the Lions 12-2 and tying the score at 58-58 with just under 3 minutes to go. Thomas and Darden led the way, picking up steals and finishing easy lay-ups on the break. The Lions stayed poised, and Bautista dished off to Green for a monster slam. But Thomas slashed through the defense and found an open man for another easy basket, 60-60. Two huge offensive boards by Tonkovich and Green gave us 3 chances to score as Bautista knocked down a perimeter jumper to take the lead 62-60. Under 2 minutes to play, Darden launched a 3 which was closely contested by Jones and it came up short, Green pulled down the board. Lions ball, but unfortunately great defense by the Baskets force a wild shot as the 24 second shot clock expired. Feldkirch comes down and the Lions are called for a picky foul sending Thomas to the line who knocks them both down, 62-62. 1 minute 30 seconds to go, Jones comes down at the other end penetrates baseline, pulls up and hits a jumper, Lions up 64-62. Thomas again fouled for the Baskets on another questionable call, he hits the first, Pichler gets the offensive board and is fouled. Pichler connects on both and Feldkirch takes the lead 64-65. Just over 1 minute remaining, Dornbirn advances the ball up the court, great defensive effort and too much patience by the Lions cause a shot clock violation, Feldkirch ball. Thomas dribbles down guarded by Jones, penetrates right, Jones slapps it away off the leg of Thomas, Lions ball. 29 seconds to go, Dornbirn inbounds the ball to Jones who falls on a wet part of the court, Darden Jumps on him – Jump Ball! The ref tosses it up and somehow the Lions come out of the mix with the ball. 18 seconds left, Bautista hits Jones who is quickly double teamed. Jones passes to Stojilkovic in the corner all alone who penetrates and dishes to Green. Green powers it up with two guys hanging on him, no call by the refs, but the ball finds the rim and goes in. Lions up 66-65. Timeout Feldkirch. Thomas receives the inbounds pass and advances it quickly, penetrates left and tries to draw the foul, this time no call as he is blocked from the helpside by Tonkovich. Big stop by the Lions, but the ball went out with 3 seconds still to play. Feldkirch inbounds from the baseline out to Darden for a desperation 3 closely contested by Bautista and Tonkovich, it comes up short. Lions win!!!!!

Wow, what can you say? We had to dig down deep when it was do or die. Our big guys came through for us, they were the difference. Tonkovich played tremendous finishing with 19 boards and 22 points. Green had a solid game adding 16 points and 8 boards. Gross making both free throws and playing good D. Team turnovers for the night totaled at 23 (the reason we almost gave it away). But, we could rely on our defense which stepped up in the clutch. We contained Darden most of the game holding him to 18, 10 which came off of lay-ups from turnovers. We virtually stopped their inside game allowing only 10 total points. The "Lions Fans" were the best. They were so loud. It is a great feeling when you play a road game and your fans out number and are louder than the home team’s. We can celebrate this one, but quickly need to move on as St. Polten, the heavy favorite, is next.

Box Score | Deutscher Bericht

The second annual charity event was a huge success as close to 1500 fans showed up to watch the Dornbirn Lions take on the Innsbruck Pilots. The charity event is organized for a local orphanage and our own Mini Lions, each receiving half of the proceeds. Sponsors donate a certain amount of money per point that the Lions score. Last season Dornbirn presented the orphanage with a check for $6,000. This year’s event will be in the same vacinity.

First quarter action saw the injured Pilots hang tough. Sargent a 6’8" American , came out aggressive and hit the opening bucket. The Lions quickly came back to take the lead with a 3 from Jones. Tonkovich and Green hit the offensive boards hard early. Tonkovich was rewarded as he was fouled on a put back and sank one of two. Next time down the court Tonkovich posted up and finished with a strong move making the score 6-2. Sargent came right back for the Pilots hitting a 3 and closing the gap 6-5. Jones answered on a perimeter jumper which was set up by Taskapan making a nice assist. Both teams started to force it and the game began to get out of control. Tonkovich picked up a loose ball and finished under the basket giving the Lions the lead 10-5. Innsbruck came back scoring two baskets in a row, 10-9. Jones answered again connecting on consecutive 3’s taking back the lead for good 16-9. Both teams again struggled with turnovers ending with great hustle by Gross to Tonkovich for 2. Innsbruck then hit one of two free throws 18-10. Bautista grabbed the board and hit a streaking Stojilkovic for a nice 2. The Pilots stayed tough, Ortner hitting a deep 3 making it 20-13. Again the Lions tried to force the tempo too much as Bautista commited two consecutive turnovers so the Pilots took advantage and cut the lead to just 20-15. Green hit one of two from the line as he was fouled in a trap. Tonkovich then hit Green for an easy two stretching the lead out 23-15. Sargent made a nice move pulling up at the elbow and knocking it down with just one second left. The period ended 23-17 for the Lions.

Second quarter started with Innsbruck scoring first again. Green showed some spark as he plowed through two defenders and layed it up with the left hand for two, 25-19. On the persuing play, Green picked up his third personal and headed to the bench. This was a crucial point, as the Lions should have been able to build a clear advantage by the half. The action went back and forth with neither team playing their best, overall a very sloppy second quarter. Dornbirn slowly gaining the advantage 42-31.

The Lions came out roaring the 3^rd quarter after a wake up call at the intermission. Bautista connecting with Green on a fast break and then again with Tonkovich for a slam. The defense ignited and created many steals which led to a fastbreak style of run and gun offense. With all five players on the court contributing the Lions were hard to stop. When the buzzer sounded the Lions had scored 27 points while limiting the opponents to only 8. The Lions dominated this quarter extending the lead out to 69-39.

The final quarter started just as impressive as we were able to build the lead up to 82-41. Innsbruck stayed competitive as the Lions intensity dropped and the margin was cut to 87-54. The final minutes brought an attempt to hit 100 as each point was "money for the kids". The Lions came close ending 98-58.

Overall the charity event was a success giving kids a chance. The game itself had to many ups and downs. However, it was good to see a stretch of 15 minutes of our A game. The 3^rd quarter through the first part of the 4^th was fun exciting basketball to watch. Bautista coming up with 7 steals in the second half, Tonkovich 14 boards for the game, Jones keeping the Lions in the game scoring 20 in the first half, and Taskapan getting on fire and grabbing 7 boards were some of the bright spots. A few of the down moments which prevented us from totally dominating were obviously the turnovers. On the night the Lions committed 19. Another disappointing performance came from the free throw line – the team hitting just 11/18(61%). Still plenty of things to work on this week as we prepare for our rivals Feldkirch. All Lions fans we need your help, come out Sunday afternoon to yell for your Lions!!!!!

The Lions opened the season with a tough draw, at Linz. Both teams knew the importance of this game and were ready to battle it out. Dornbirn struck first as we came out in an aggressive man to man defense, contesting shots and grabbing boards. Bautista came up with a nice steal and before the home team knew it they were down 5-0. Linz stayed calm and picked up their defense, forcing several turnovers and taking a 7-14 advantage. The Lions scoring drought ended as Bautista hit a runner in the lane, making it 9-14. Later, Gross kicked the ball out to a wide open Nekola for 3, which brought us to within 3 at 13-16. Sloppy play prevented both teams from taking control of the game. As play went on, Green dished to Stojilkovic who made a tough shot over Johnson 16-18. Tonkovich controlled the boards the first quarter for the Lions. Jones hit a deep 3 with 5 seconds left to take the lead 19-18, but Linz came right back and hit a buzzer beater just inside the mid line to finish the quarter 19-21.

Taskapan started the 2^nd quarter off with a three giving the Lions the lead 22-21. We then hit another cold spell as Linz stretched the lead out to 22-30. Tonkovich and Jones finished some nice plays to gradually close the gap to one, 38-39 at the half.

The first 6 minutes of the third quarter was a see saw battle with the Lions slipping into the lead 52-49. Strong play inside by Green and good ball movement helped the Lions start to gain control. Bautista led the charge as he hit two free throws grabbed a defensive rebound and went coast to coast for a short jumper. Just like that the Lions went up 56-49. The Lions lost a golden opportunity with 5 seconds left as Tonkovich missed a short jumper and committed a foul with 1.3 seconds left allowing Linz to go to the free throw line. When the horn sounded it was 59-53.

A 3 point bomb by Taskapan and Jones connecting on a couple of jumpers stretched the lead to the biggest of the game at 66-58. Linz then went on another run closing to within a couple of points. Green fouled out with 4 minutes togo, and the Red Devils took advantage inside and on the offensive boards scoring easy. Schwarz and Danielson connected on 3’s for Linz, and we found ourselves down 73-75. Their defense seemed to pick up and ours let down. We could not get a bucket to fall, and could not get a stop. Linz hit 6 out of 8 free throws to seal the game as we were forced to foul. Game over, 77-85.

The Lions were ready and we saw many positive performances. The chemistry of the team is still not quite clicking. We had great spurts and then long spells with turnovers and poor shot selection. You can not shoot 44% from the line and expect to win, especially on the road against one of the top teams in the league. Linz out rebounded us on the offensive end 11-2. We had 18 turnovers most at crucial points in the game. Even with all of the let downs we had an eight point lead in the 4^th quarter, Green fouling out definatley hurt. We were down one with 1 minute to go. Dropping this game is a blow, but will motivate the Lions with an urgency to get things right – now!

Dornbirn 100 Karlsruhe 84 (20. Sept. 2003)

Saturday morning, the Lions traveled to Ulm, Germany. In our first game of the tournament we played Karlsruhe. They were a quick pesky team with no fear. We soon found out that they were deadly from the perimeter as 4 of the 5 players hit 3’s in the opening period and we found ourselves in a big hole, down 14-29. We quieted the storm as we came out on fire the second quarter connecting on nearly every shot and scoring 35 points in the 10 minute span. The half ended 49-47, and the momentum was all for the Lions.

In the 3^rd, the Lions tried to put Karlsruhe away. We mangaged to pick up our intensity on defense and got out on the break. But Karlsruhe hung in there as the lead was extended to just 7, 71-64. The final period we seemed to wear them down, we kept control of the tempo and worked on some set plays. The lead gradually stretched out to the final score of 100-84.

Jones scored 32, as Tonkovich played strong adding 26. Green Played solid putting in 18 and Bautista 12. To finish out the scoring Nekola hit two big 3’s, Taskapan had 4 points and Gross 2.

It was positive to see what happened in that second quarter. We reacted and got right back into the game. Again, we are improving but still have those wrinkles that need to be ironed out.

Dornbirn 102 – Neu Ulm 94 (20. Sept. 2003)

The Championship game of the tournament was another rematch, this time Neu Ulm. Ulm always plays us tough, it is a battle to the end, both teams not giving an inch. This experience is exactly what our team needs to prepare us for our league games. Ulm started off hot as they scored 28 points in the opening quarter. The Lions began rather sluggish putting in 21. Again a strong second quarter saved the Lions as we scored 30 and got back into contention, down by 2 at the half 51-53.

The second half brought an exciting uptempo style of play from both teams. We got out on the break and ran the floor well. Jones hit Green for a two handed slam that almost brought the whole basket down. Later Bautista connected with Tonkovich on another nice dunk. The team found its form and played solid basketball holding the opponent to 18 points for the quarter and taking the lead 74-71. In the 4^th we were able to keep the fast paced tempo and eventually wore the Ulm team down. Our bench came in and sparked us as they played good quality minutes. The final was 102-94.

Scoring for the Lions - Jones 28, Green 21, Bautista 19, Tonkovich 17, Taskapan 12, Gross 3, Nekola 2.

As the pre-season closes, I am pleased with the progress that we have made. The togetherness of the team is continuing to get stronger. The ingredients for a championship team are here. Time will tell as there are many hungry teams in the league this year.

Ehingen 88 Dornbirn 76 (18. Sept. 2003)

The Ehingen basketball team had 9 days to prepare for the revenge of their previous defeat to the Lions, and were they ever ready! You have to give their coach and players credit, they came out hungry. The Lions came into the game with the addition of Nate Green, fresh from the States and with 2 practices under his belt. The rhythm of the team was thrown off a bit, and to come home without a W was disappointing, but still I saw parts of the game that I was pleased with.

We started the game with Bautista, Taskapan, Jones, Tonkovich and Stojilkovic. The Ehingen team played with two new starters that missed the previous game, a point guard and power forward. The game began with a very aggressive Ehingen team and the officials let them play physical. It was a rough game, another excellent chance for us to gain experience for the season. The Lions seemed to back down from this aggression. Our lack of effort allowed Ehingen to gain control and more importantly confidence.

Green came in and sparked the Lions. Nate is very powerful and tough to stop on the low post. We got back into the game, the lead went back and forth and at the end of the first quarter Ehingen had a two point advantage 21-19. The second quarter remained physical. I was impressed that Nate and Paul could both finish with guys hanging on them. But just as the momentum was changing we had some unforced turnovers, which led to easy baskets for the opponent. The half ended with the Lions still down by two, 42-40.

In the 3^rd the Lions showed some fight. But this was matched by the opposing team. We executed the offense, we were strong with the ball and connected on some nice plays, but let down on the other end. The Germans stayed confident and hit some tough shots, they also crashed the boards hard and got some easy put backs. When the smoke cleared we were still down one, 61-60. In the final period Tonkovich, Bautista, and Green all picked up their fourth fouls. This led to a tentative Lions team which the opponents took advantage off. The lead gradually gew to 3 then 5. Our offense then sputtered as we took some quick ill advised shots. Ehingen played flawless the last 3 minutes, taking total control pulling the lead out to a final score of 88-76. Scoring for the Lions was lead by Jones with 22, Green 17, Tonkovich 13, Taskapan 12, Bautista 9, and Nussbaumer 3.

Although a very disappointing loss, the Lions still grew together. Through adversity we learn the most. We know exactly what we need to work on before the season opener. Time is ticking as we need to see a huge improvement in our final two pre-season games.

Dornbirn 108 Neu Ulm 103 (14. Sept. 2003)

Sunday afternoon, Neu Ulm entered the Gym with confidence. They looked tall and athletic, like ballers. The Lions walked in a little winded from the 4 day camp in Tschagguns. However, ready or not it was time to battle.

The game began with Jones hitting a 3, and Ulm coming right back with a nice high to low pass which they converted for an easy 2. This was a sign of what was to come, as Ulm pounded it inside and Dornbirn hit from the outside. The first half went back and forth, Ulm dominating the boards and scoring at will. We did not panic and hung in there as the lead changed numerous times. Tonkovich got into early foul trouble so it was really tough against the opposing team which had 3 players over 6’6". The first half ended 52-51.

The second half looked just like the first as both teams put up a lot of points. Neither team could pull away as the biggest advantage was 7 points. Tonkovich picked up his fourth foul in the 3^rd period, which gave the advantage to Ulm. We really had to dig down deep. It was great for our team to have to struggle with such a small line up in the game. The kids learned, and came away from this not only with a lot of bruises but with actual tough game experience.

Jones led the Lions with 35, while Tonkovich added 24 in limited action. Bautista and Taskapan remained consistant as both were in double figures again with 19 and 14 respectfully. Nekola hit two huge 3’s, and played solid defense. Gross put in some valuable minutes as he had a great pass and a nice left handed layup down the stretch. Stojilkovic struggled at times but stuck with it and hit some tough shots in with the big boys.

At the defensive end, especially rebounding was a big letdown as we gave up so many points. However, our offense came through in the clutch and pulled this one out with the narrow victory.

Dornbirn 97 Einingen 64 (9. Sept. 2003)

Tuesday evening brought an exciting Tip-Off for the Lions pre-season opener. We started with BunyaminTaskapan, Richard Bautista, and Justin Jones, all of whom are returning starters. Young Marko Stojilkovic started at the Forward spot, and our new professional from New Jersey, 6’10" Paul Tonkovich at Center.

We faced a team from Ehingen Germany. The Germans brought a young team that has played together for a few years. They had an American professional player who was tough with some excellent shooters.

The start of the game was very fast paced, both teams getting up and down the floor in a hurry. The Lions showed some great team work, as we were able to work it around and find the open man. Getting good open shots, that we could knock down, was a big key as we were able to gain control of the game right from the start. Point Guard Richard Bautista showed leadership as he ran the Lions offense.

We played an aggressive man to man defense and mixed it up with some zone which limited the opponent’s offense. They still hit some very tough shots. They also crashed the offensive boards hard and got some easy put backs.

Richie looked sharp tonight as he led us on the break and made some great passes. Richie chipped in 10 points as he dazzled the crowd with a few jumpers and hard takes to the basket. Paul Tonkovich sparked the Lions with a nice tip dunk as he put in 30 points and grabbed over 10 boards. We were patient on offense tonight and were able to get the ball into Paul, from there he did the rest. Paul has some solid post moves and is a great passer. Justin Jones was free on the perimeter as he knocked down the 3’s. The team looked for him and got him the ball at the right times. Jones finished with 23 points. Bunyamin Taskapan, played aggressive and was always in the mix. Buny added 14 points and hit a couple of big 3’s at crucial times that broke the Germans momentum. Marko scored 9 as he ran the floor well and finished on the break. He also connected one long range jumper. Wolfgang Nekola and Michael Gross came off the bench and helped the Lions. Wolfi played great defense and forced a couple of turnovers that led to easy baskets. Michi impressed me as he played hard and did not back down from the physical play. Tobias Nussbaumer also contributed as he grabbed some nice rebounds and played good defense.

We have some fine tuning to do as we had some rough spells. But that is what the pre-season is for, to get all of the kinks out. Overall, it was a great first step to where we are going to be.

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Reiner Janes
2001