In a thrilling playoff display in Beijing, the Beikong Royal Fighters secured a 93-84 victory over the Shandong Kylins in Game Two of their best-of-three first round series. This win not only clinched the series 2-0 but also set the stage for an intense quarterfinal clash against their city rivals, the Beijing Ducks.
Grant Riller led the charge with an impressive 24 points and eight assists, while teammates Liao Sanning and Shen Zijie boosted the team’s inside presence with a combined 13 free throws, converting 12 of them. Jared Sullinger also made his impact felt by registering a double-double with 11 points and 14 rebounds, establishing dominance on the boards in a game that showcased both precision and grit.
Beikong built an early lead with 22-19 after the first quarter and stretched it to a 19-point advantage late in the third. Although a spirited rally by Shandong brought the score within five points in the dying seconds, a clutch jumper by Meng Zikai followed by essential free throws from Riller sealed the win for the home team.
Reflecting on the achievement, Riller emphasized the passion of high-stakes playoff basketball, remarking, "Just a big series, man, this is kind of what you dream of, what you sign up for." With Shandong's postseason losing streak extending to eight games, the stage is now set for a compelling duel in Beijing as the Royal Fighters march on.
Reference(s):
Beikong knocks out Shandong, advances to quarterfinals in CBA Playoffs
cgtn.com
