US women thrash below-par China

Thompson (right) was in red-hot form for the US

The United States women's basketball team thrashed hosts China 108-63 in their Group B clash at the Olympics.

China beat the US back in April, but there was little chance of a repeat as Tina Thompson led the way with 27 points in an outstanding display.

The US were 33-11 up by the end of the first quarter, as China - who went six-and-a-half minutes without scoring - struggled to cope.

Meanwhile, Russia saw off South Korea 77-72 and Spain beat New Zealand 85-62.

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The US have laid down a marker though, with their impressive display giving them their biggest ever Olympic win over China.

In addition to Thompson's points tally, Sylvia Fowles claimed 18 points, Candace Parker 12 and Lisa Leslie had 10 points and 10 rebounds.