The first basketball weekend of the Olympic Games has seen the USA teams get off to a great start, legitimizing their role as the big favorites for the gold medal. In the men's event, the USA secured an easy 98-71 victory against France with an excellent performance by Kevin Durant, best scorer with 22 points. Spain, considered by many as the number one opponents of the American team, won 97-81 against China, with a great performance by two NBA players: Pau Gasol and Ibaka. Another great start for Argentina which, led by Manu Ginobili, knocked off Lithuania 102-79. On the other hand, the audience's support wasn't enough for the host team Great Britain against Russia, won by the latter, 95-75. In the other matches, a hard-fought victory for Brazil against Australia (75-71) and success for Nigeria in the African derby against Tunisia (60-56). In the women's event, the USA team snatched their 34th victory in a row since 1992 beating Croatia 81-56. The Czech Republic's defeat against China, 66-57, was the only surprise of the weekend. Russia won a very balanced match against Canada (58-53). Great Britain lost, despite putting up a good fight against Australia (74-58). In the other matches, Turkey beat Angola, and France triumphed over Brazil.