Key dates: Quarterfinals and semifinals are Aug. 6 and 7. Final on Aug. 9.

Venue: Horse Guards Parade in central London

Big story: Todd Rogers and Phil Dalhausser (above) are trying to become the first men's team to repeat as gold medal winners. But it's a tough field.

Top U.S. prospects: Dalhausser says he likes playing in the rain, and he may get his wish. The second American team, Jake Gibb and Sean Rosenthal, has been on a hot streak with three finals appearances on the world tour.

Others to watch: Brazilian Emanuel Rego, the so-called Michael Jordan of beach volleyball, stands atop the Olympic rankings with partner Alison Cerutti. Germany will pin its hopes on third-ranked Julius Brink and Jonas Reckermann.

Little-known fact: The Americans trail the Brazilians, 9-7, in the all-time medal count. But the U.S. has won three of the four men's gold medals.