LONDON — The US men's basketball team launched its Olympic title defense with a joyful display of high-flying skill fuelled by camaraderie, soaring past France 98-71 Sunday. No-look assists, alley-oop passes for thunderous dunks and sublime ball sharing drew oohs and ahs from a packed Olympic Basketball Arena crowd appreciative of their electric team play on the opening day of action in the men's basketball tournament. Kevin Durant led the way with 22 points, with Kevin Love coming off the bench to contribute 14 inside points. Ali Traore led France with 12 points, and Parker scored 10. Earlier Pau Gasol had 21 points and 11 rebounds to lead Spain to a 97-81 victory over China. Leandro Barbosa, meanwhile, scored 16 points as Brazil held on to beat Australia 75-71. US women struggle The US women struggled against Olympic newcomer Croatia before pulling away for a 81-56 victory Saturday to kick off its bid for a fifth straight gold medal. Earlier, Russia rallied for a 58-53 victory over Canada. In other matches, China beat the Czech Republic 66-57, Turkey routed Angola 72-50 and Australia won 74-58 over Britain. — Agencies
