(Xinhua)
Updated: 2007-08-03 08:39

Wang Zhizhi and Yi Jianlian, the powerful center duo, led the host China to a 82-67 victory over the U.S. NBA Development League Ambassadors at the Stankovic Continental Cup on Thursday.

China's Yi Jianlian (Top) goes up for a shot during a match against the NBA Development League at the Stankovic Continental Cup 2007 in Macao on Thursday August 2, 2007. China won the match 82-67. [AP]

The 20-year-old Yi Jianlian, who will likely start his first NBA season this summer, grasped the spotlight with 28 points and 15 rebounds.

Wang Zhizhi added 19 points and Sun Yue 12.

The 22-year-old Sun shined on court with 12 points in the third quarter, almost clinching the victory for the China national team.

China coach Jonas Kazlauskas expressed satisfaction with the team performance at the tournament in which the Chinese won three of their five games.

"We need victory to boost the young players' confidence, " said Kazlauskas.

He recognized that more training and matches are needed to improve the young players in team.