FIBA president expects Yao-led China finish top four at Athens

The Chinese men's basketball team led by NBA star center Yao Ming had a chance to finish top four at the upcoming Athens Olympics, FIBA president Carl Men Ky Ching said on Tuesday.

"Yao Ming is very powerful. When he is in the paint, the only way to stop him is to foul," Carl told Xinhua.

"The other guys (in the Chinese team) are also good, the Chinese men's team has improved a lot recently," he added.

"If they play well, maybe they can cruise into the semi-finals.If not, a top eight finish will not be too difficult."

Carl predicted that the Dream Team of the United States consisted of NBA players would most likely have their unbeaten record snapped at Athens.

"They lost several games in the world championship two years ago," Card said. "It will not be surprising if they lose some more at Athens."

Although, Carl still put the United States among title favorites along with Serbia and Montenegro and Argentina.

"The United States, Serbia and Montenegro and Argentina are the top title contenders," he said.

Carl also expected the Chinese women, who finished second to Sydney silver medallists Australia at the Diamond Ball tournament last week, to enter the final at the Athens Olympics basketball."

"They will have a big chance," Card said.

"I saw them play last week and they played very well. They were able to beat Australia in the final, but they gave up the chance."