Yao Ming's team loses to Angola

Yao Ming earlier today got a taste of what's to come when the Beijing Games begin, as African champion Angola defeated China 72-71 in a Stankovic Cup game played in Hangzhou, China.

China scrambled back from a 14-point fourth-quarter deficit, but its hopes were dashed as time ran out and Yao was unable to grab a loose ball.

The Houston Rockets center played for a total of 20 minutes, scoring 16 points and grabbing seven rebounds. It was his second game since being sidelined by a broken foot in February.

Angola used speed and defense to counter China's height. Two of China's starters were held out of the game due to injuries.

Angola will be one of the opening-round opponents for China during the Beijing Games. The U.S. and Spain also will be in the same grouping.

-- Greg Johnson

Photo: Yao Ming reacts after missing a shot during today's game with Angola in the Stankovic Cup tournament in Hangzhou, China. Credit: Eugene Hoshiko/Associated Press