The USA’s men’s Basketball team, dubbed the dream team part 2, have beaten France in their opening Group A match at the London Olympics.

They comfortably defeated a spirited French side led by San Antonio’s Tony Parker, 98 to 71. The Americans are favourites to defend the gold medal they won in Beijing four years ago. The US roster features a number of NBA superstars, including LeBron James and Kobe Bryant.

Meanwhile, China is opening up their 2012 Olympic campaign against Group B opponents Spain. The Chinese team are led by Yi Jianlian who now plays for the Dallas Mavericks.