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The 2016 Olympics are underway in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Despite fears of the Zika virus (and the flu), plumbing and electric problems, and poop filled water, the Olympics have moved forward as planned. Several NBA players decided not to make the trip. LeBron James decided to stay home and rest after bringing the Cleveland Cavaliers their first NBA Championship. MVP Stephen Curry cited ankle and knee injuries for his absence. Russell Westbrook withdrew from consideration based on things like, you know, the Zika virus, plumbing and electric problems, and poop filled water. Among the other players to pass include James Harden, Anthony Davis, Damian Lillard, and Kawhi Leonard.
Even without all those players, Kevin Durant and the rest of team USA kick off their gold medal journey tonight when they take on China. The two teams faced last month in an exhibition game, which USA won by a final score of 106-57. China will look for redemption in official play, led by former NBA player Yi Jianlian and recent Houston Rockets draft pick Zhou Qi.
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vs |  |
| August 6, 2016 @ 3pm PDT | ||
| Carioca Arena 1, Barra da Tijuca, Rio de Janeiro | ||
| NBC, NBC Sports app, nbcolympics.com | ||
| Kyrie Irving | PG | Zhao JiWei |
| Klay Thompson | SG | Ying Yanyuhang |
| Kevin Durant | SF | Zhou Peng |
| Draymond Green | PF | Yi Jianlian |
| DeMarcus Cousins | C | Zhou Qi |
| Kyle Lowry | PG | Liu Wei |
| Jimmy Butler | SG | Zhao TaiLong |
| Paul George | SF | Guo Ailen |
| Carmelo Anthony | PF | Wang Zhelin |
| DeAndre Jordan | C | Li Muhao |
| DeMar DeRozan | Zhai Xiaochuan | |
| Harrison Barnes | Li Gen | |