The Beikong Royal Fighters clinched a decisive 111-99 victory over the Sichuan Blue Whales in Chengdu, marking Sichuan's fourth consecutive loss in the 2024-25 Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) season.
Standout performance came from Jared Sullinger, who delivered a double-double with 32 points and 23 rebounds, both career highs for Beijing. Despite his impressive stats, Sullinger also recorded eight turnovers, the highest in the game. Zhang Fan and Grant Riller supported with 25 points each, contributing significantly to the victory.
In a strategic move, coach Min Lulei reinstated Liao Sanning into the starting lineup. Sanning responded admirably, adding 17 points and 14 assists while maintaining discipline with only three turnovers. Shen Zijie, despite limited playtime of 28 minutes due to foul trouble, made his presence felt with five blocks.
Beijing dominated early, leading by 19 points at 91-72 after three quarters. However, Sichuan mounted a comeback in the fourth quarter, with Zuo Zhenian sinking four three-pointers. Marcus Hunter and Hu Junlin also provided key exterior shooting, narrowing the gap to eight points with just 92 seconds remaining.
In the clutch moments, Shen Zijie played a crucial role by securing an offensive rebound and blocking Hunter's layup attempt, helping Beijing regain control and secure the win.
Sichuan now sits at 16th place with zero wins, alongside the Shanghai Sharks, Jiangsu Dragons, Fujian Sturgeons, and Guangzhou Loong Lions.
Reference(s):
Beikong Royal Fighters extend Sichuan's losing streak to four games
cgtn.com
