By Sportswriter Shan Lei

It was not just a game of basketball. It was a contest of determination and belief.

Billions of fans watched China's 101-70 loss to the United States in the men's basketball competitions of the Beijing Olympic Games at the Wukesong Stadium on Sunday night.

Nevertheless, China were fired up to have the battle with one of the world best teams, impressing the world with their fighting spirit while the U.S. showcased the brilliance of dunking skills.

Dwayne Wade was perfect in the field (7-7) and on the foul line (7-7) to score 19 points while LeBron James added 18 points to the U.S..

Yao Ming scored 13 points, grabbed 10 rebounds and gave out three blocks for China. He received a full-house applause when he was taken off the court with 4:41 minutes left.

Kobe Bryant (C) of USA dribbles in during Men's Preliminary Round Group B game 12 between USA and China of Beijing 2008 Olympic Games basketball event at the Beijing Olympic Basketball Gymnasium in Beijing, China, Aug. 10, 2008. (Xinhua/Meng Yongmin)

The Houston Rockets' center was determined to produce one of the best games in the Olympic history after Chinese Prime Minister Wen Jiabao paid an unprecedented visit to the national team before the Games and gave his personal concern on Yao's foot injury.

"Everyone is proud. I felt great with all the flags and cheerings. It's a great game, great atmosphere," Yao said.

On the other hand, with U.S. President George W. Bush on the standings, the U.S. ran a fluid game to entertain the over-packed 18,000-capacity stadium. They finished almost every fast break with a dunk.