U.S. 97, Angola 76

BEIJING — Someone forgot to flip the switch.

The U.S. beat Angola 97-76 at the Beijing Olympic Basketball Gymnasium on Tuesday in a game that could only be described as a comedown from Sunday's electric opener against China.

It wasn't until a random group of fans op on the third level started chanting, "USA! USA! USA!" with the Americans up by 25 at the end of the third quarter that the building showed any life.

U.S. guard Dwyane Wade again led the U.S., which was outscored 23-16 in the final quarter, in scoring with 19 points. Dwight Howard added 14 and and LeBron James 12.

The Americans had put forth a distinct vibe, slightly programmed but amiable stars, during careful public comments their first days at the Beijing Olympics.

But they were lollygagging some while Angola, nine-time FIBA Africa champions since 1989, knocked down 3s and stuck around for a portion of the first half.

James eventually would key a 12-0 second-quarter surge that put the U.S. up 55-37 at the half, but it was how he started the run that finally gave the world a real taste of NBA attitude.

Before a 12-0 run, the U.S. led 39-32 and James was helping on defense when Angola forward Felizardo Ambrosio tried to go up for a short driving shot on the baseline.

James came flying over the top and swatted it from behind. James also then stood over Ambrosio for a few seconds so everyone knew what was going on.

The U.S. (2-0) will play Greece on Thursday at 8 a.m. ET. Greece is the only team to beat the U.S. since it changed its approach to international basketball after the 2004 Olympics.