Favourites Yugoslavia beat Russia in basketball

Sydney: Reigning world champions Yugoslavia beat a depleted Russian team 66-60 in a Group B Olympic preliminary round match on Sunday.

With five of Russia's regular national team members not playing due to injury, the Yugoslavs pounded the ball inside all game as centre Zeljko Rebraca poured in 18 points and added five rebounds.

Russia managed to claw their way back after going down by 10 points with five minutes to play, but their shooters went cold and the team gave up several easy baskets down low.

"We were lacking resources, especially at centre, and the last seven minutes led to the loss," said Russian coach Stanislav Eremine. "They took advantage of this, they stole a lot of offensive rebounds."

It was the first game for both teams.

Yugoslavia, a strong medal favourite, were also suffering from a rash of injuries and no shows for the Olympics.

Sacramento Kings forward Predrag Stojakovic did not suit up for the game because of an ankle injury and is listed as day-to-day.

His NBA teammate, centre Vlade Divac, declined an invitation to Sydney.



(c) Reuters Limited.