A Euro-League wrap up from "PaulBall:" A Great 2009 is in the Books

EuroLeague Women signed off the calendar year with a real flourish and in perfect style as an array of majestic individual performances and sparkling team displays lit up Round 8 of the Qualifying Round. In one of the most enjoyable weeks of action to date, the competition further whetted the appetite for what we can expect to be served up in 2010. In fact top of my Christmas wish list is that we get more of the same next year and I can smile knowing that there is probably no need to send my note to Santa Claus. For one thing is absolutely certain, this tournament is only going to get even better as the big guns prepare to play each other in sudden death while if the level of play in Round 8 is anything to go by, we are in for a treat.

Devastating Diana
When it comes to licking our lips in anticipation of the second half of the season then what better place to start than with arguably the best player in the world? You see, I have written a couple of times about my concern that Spartak Vidnoje Coach Pokey Chatman has had to play the irrepressible Diana Taurasi a few too many minutes. But what happens? They both make a point as the WNBA MVP plays just 19 minutes against Fenerbahce but still breezes to 20 points. It really made me chuckle and hats off to Spartak who continue to look invincible after another dominant and classy [win?] would testify.