China's young guns locked and loaded

Host's hoopsters raring to do nation proud as World Cup readies for tip-off

With just five days to go until the FIBA World Cup tips off, anticipation and excitement levels have reached fever pitch for Team China's young hoopsters.

The eight host cities are abuzz, the venues are sold out and the stars are lacing up as the squad enters its final tune-up for the 32-nation tournament, formerly the world championships, which will run from Aug 31-Spet 15.