China's national men's basketball team was beaten by the visiting US team in Game three of a series of friendly matches.   

It was the first loss for China under the management of Jonas Kazlauskas, who filled in the vacancy left by the ex-coach Del Harris in April.

The Chinese team led eight points during the third quarter.

However, they failed to keep the lead in the last time and were beaten 49-53.

Zhang Yunsong had nine points and two rebounds for China, while Zhang Jinsong and Wang Shipeng each scored eight.

Game four will be held in Jiyuan, Henan Province today.

(CRI June 28, 2005)