Today’s best events

MEN’S BASKETBALL: After finishing third four years ago in Athens, the Redeem Team opens in Beijing against China. The Chinese have Yao Ming and the home-court advantage, but it probably won’t be enough to overcome Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, Carmelo Anthony, Dwyane Wade, etc., etc.

SWIMMING: Michael Phelps returns for Day 2, competing in two events, the 400-freestyle relay and semifinals in the 200 freestyle. Natalie Coughlin and Katie Hoff are other headliners back for another day in the pool.

GYMNASTICS: The United States was second in the men’s team competition four years ago in Athens behind Japan but is without the injured Hamm brothers, Paul and Morgan. China, the gold medalist in 2000, is favored to win again.