London Olympics: What to watch on Monday - Los Angeles Times
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London Olympics: What to watch on Monday

John Orozco is one of the stars of the U.S. men's gymnastics team.
(Andrew Gombert / EPA)
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LONDON — In the onslaught of competitions each day at the London Olympics, it can be easy to lose track of the marquee matchups. Here’s what to keep an eye out for Monday.

SWIMMING

You won’t be seeing Michael Phelps as he has no races, but Ryan Lochte will be trying to pick up his second gold in the 200-meter freestyle. It will also be Missy Franklin’s debut as she swims in the 100 backstroke. A medal would be her first in an individual event. And, Rebecca Soni will be going in the 100 breaststroke and has a shot at a gold medal.

MEN’S GYMNASTICS

The United States team hasn’t won gold since 1984, but that could all change Monday. The U.S. team enters the final competition as the highest qualifier over world champion Japan and Olympic champion China. But that doesn’t matter, as the scores do not carry over from qualifying. Each team puts three gymnasts on each of the apparatus to determine the final order.

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WOMEN’S BASKETBALL

Team USA looks to extend its 20-year, 34-game winning streak to 35 when it plays Angola. The team had a slow start in its 81-56 win over Croatia but was able to turn it on when needed. Coach Geno Auriemma of Connecticut has assembled a veteran squad that should not give in to pressure. In fact, if the team were to lose it might be the biggest upset of the Games.

WOMEN’S VOLLEYBALL

The top-ranked U.S. women’s team faces Brazil in a match that should be more difficult than its 3-1 win over South Korea in the tournament opener. The women are coached by Hugh McCutcheon, who led the men to a gold medal four years ago in Beijing. During those Games, McCutcheon’s father-in-law was murdered while visiting a historical landmark in Beijing.

For a full listing of today’s TV schedule, click here.

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