China Loves Redeem Team

Crazy scene at halftime of the U.S. women's basketball game on Saturday as thousands of mostly Chinese fans crowded around the section where the 10 of the 12 members of the U.S. men's team were seated. (Deron Williams was the only player not in attendance and Kobe Bryant had yet to arrive).

Hundreds of fans with cameras rushed to get close to them before volunteers created a human wall along the aisle to keep fans at bay while they took pictures. Fans started begging the players to acknowledge them, calling out some by name.

Carmelo Anthony was the first player to stand. Each player stood up and waved to crowd, eliciting loud cheers. Carlos Boozer waved an American flag. Finally, LeBron James stood up and waved, garnering the loudest response. After James sat, the crowd got even louder as Bryant made his entry.

Bryant pushed his way down the aisle, slicing through a thick crowd, before sitting next to Dwyane Wade. Fans continued to scream and take pictures and until Bryant sat down. Bryant eventually was shown on the Jumbotron, leading more fans to cheer.

By the way, President Bush is attendance. Not that any of the fans seemed to know or care. The arena officials eventually roped off the players' section and placed security guards at different posts to protect them as they watched the second half in peace.

By Michael Lee  |  August 9, 2008; 9:10 AM ET  | Category:  Basketball
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