Stanley shines in his return

This archived news story is available only for your personal, non-commercial use. Information in the story may be outdated or superseded by additional information. Reading or replying the story in its archived form does not constitute a re-publiccation of the story.

SAN JOSE, Calif. (The Associated Press) -

Clay Stanley needed some time off following his professional club season, which came on the heels of his MVP performance in the U.S. men's volleyball run to the Olympic gold medal last August.

"It's become a year-round profession," Stanley said after making his debut with the team Friday. "There's no down time and it takes its toll. You try to fit in family and some relaxation."

Stanley, who last played competitively on May 5, was outstanding from the serve line as the Americans beat China 3-0 in a FIVB World League contest before a crowd of 4,315.

"Just a lucky night," he said, grinning. "It feels good to compete on the court again, and right now I'm just starting out."

The United States, playing its first match on American soil since winning the gold in an emotional Olympics, got strong all-around contributions to improve to 4-1 in Pool A.

Matt Anderson added 11 points on nine kills and two blocks.

Stanley, who practiced twice with the team before taking the court, played the final two sets in the 25-20, 25-19, 25-21 victory, getting three aces in the second set and scoring eight points overall. He also served the match winner.

"You saw what he did in Beijing," first-year U.S. coach Alan Knipe said. "He makes me a better coach. Clay is such an easy player for guys to play with. He's the same with the experienced players and the younger players. This is all new to him. Any time he goes behind the serve line there's a chance we can score."

China (1-4) was led by Chen Ping's 10 points.

Copyright 2009 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.