Art Garcia of the Fort Worth Star Telegram reports that Dirk Nowitzki may be the best player at the World Championships? and China would probably agree. Nowitzki scored 30 popints to lead German over China 88-76.

Nowitzki hit 10 of 18 field goals, 9 of 9 from the free throw line and grabbed 9 rebounds as well. "To guard Dirk Nowitzki completely I don't think is realistic," China coach Wang Fei said. "But you hope when you are guarding him, you can limit his scoring chances."

Houston?s number one draft pick, China?s Yao Ming was hampered by foul trouble and Germany?s aggressive post play. He only played 17 minutes, but scored 16 points with 5 rebounds and 2 blocked shots.