In a nail-biting encounter on Wednesday, the Shanxi Loongs triumphed over the Guangsha Lions with a final score of 100-98, bringing an end to Guangsha's impressive 12-game winning streak and their 19-game undefeated record at home in the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA).
The game kicked off with Yuan Shuai setting the tone for Shanxi, sinking a crucial field goal from the top of the key. This shot marked the 1,140th triple of his career, positioning him as the seventh most prolific scorer in league history.
Guangsha initially took control, building a 10-point lead thanks to Barry Brown Jr.'s four consecutive points. However, Shanxi's Zhang Ning responded swiftly, hitting a three-pointer and drawing a foul that narrowed the deficit to just three points by the end of the first quarter.
The second quarter saw Hu Jinqiu and Josh Carlton extend Guangsha's lead to 40-33 with a series of jump shots. Shanxi countered with a robust 9-2 run, evening the score at 50-50. Despite Guangsha maintaining a slim lead of 55-53 at halftime, the game was far from over.
Entering the third quarter, Shanxi seized the opportunity as Guangsha experienced a three-and-a-half-minute scoring drought. An 11-0 run propelled Shanxi ahead, and Ibrahima Faye's relentless drives further extended their lead to 77-62. Guangsha fought back, though, reducing Shanxi's advantage to seven points by the end of the quarter.
The fourth quarter was a rollercoaster of emotions. Shanxi built an early lead of 89-77, but Guangsha's 14-1 run brought the teams neck and neck. In the final minutes, Hu Jinqiu's crucial three-point play gave Guangsha a slight edge at 98-96. However, Liu Chuanxing's two free throws tied the score, pushing the game into its final moments.
Displaying remarkable defensive prowess, Shanxi forced Guangsha into turnovers and missed shots. In the game's decisive seconds, Zhang Ning delivered a buzzer-beating layup, securing a dramatic victory for the Shanxi Loongs.
Other Tonight's CBA Highlights:
- Beijing Ducks 103-94 Shandong Kirin
- Xinjiang Flying Tigers 110-103 Ningbo Rockets
- Fujian Sturgeons 122-113 Nanjing Monkey Mings
- Guangdong Southern Tigers 127-83 Liaoning Flying Leopards
- Jilin Northeast Tigers 118-102 Sichuan Blue Whales
- Qingdao Eagles 126-80 Guangzhou Loong Lions
- Shanghai Sharks 126-113 Tianjin Pioneers
Reference(s):
Shanxi end Guangsha's 12-game winning streak in CBA's top battle
cgtn.com
