The Shanghai Sharks continued their impressive run in the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) by defeating the Beikong Royal Fighters 108-96 on Friday, marking their 10th consecutive victory.
The game started off tightly, with both teams exchanging leads multiple times in the first quarter. Beikong showed strong performance in the transition game during the final three minutes, finishing the quarter ahead with a 32-28 score.
In the second quarter, Jared Sullinger and Chen Guohao led Beikong's offensive efforts in the paint, pushing their team ahead to 49-41. However, Kenneth Lofton Jr. and Eric Bledsoe stepped up for Shanghai, igniting a 10-2 run that shifted the momentum back in their favor. Lofton's versatile playmaking and scoring helped the Sharks secure a 64-61 halftime lead.
The third quarter saw Beikong struggling to maintain their earlier intensity, while Shanghai's patient offensive strategy paid off. The Sharks outscored Beikong 28-14, widening the gap to 86-75 by the end of the period.
In the fourth quarter, the rivalry between Sullinger and Lofton intensified under the rim. Sullinger's experience and physicality made it challenging for Lofton to dominate in the paint. Nonetheless, Lofton showcased his versatility by sinking crucial jumpers and capitalizing on fastbreak opportunities, helping Shanghai maintain a comfortable lead. The game concluded with Shanghai securing a 108-96 victory, solidifying their position as a formidable force in the CBA.
Reference(s):
Unstoppable Shanghai defeats Beikong 108-96 for 10th consecutive win
cgtn.com
