RIO DE JANEIRO (Rio 2016 Olympic Games) - There have been some loud crowds in the Olympic basketball tournament during the first six days but what was most remarkable about the fans in the Carioca Arena 1 on Wednesday night for the game between the USA and Australia were the stunned looks.

For 40 minutes, the Boomers made life very uncomfortable for the two-time defending champions.

The game captured the imagination of the people here in Rio de Janeiro and also in the United States, where fans had to tune in to NBCSN. Even though the contest was shown on the American digital cable and satellite television channel, the numbers were very large. It has become the most watched Olympic game since 2008.

Australia's men, who have never claimed an Olympic medal, led the USA at half-time and were within striking distance until the end.

Professional basketball players were among those glued to their TV sets in America.

The game ended, 98-88, in favor of the USA.

FIBA