In an electrifying clash at Hangzhou's bustling arena, the Shanxi Loongs triumphed over the Guangsha Lions with a nail-biting score of 100-98. This victory marks the end of Guangsha's impressive 12-game winning streak and their 19-game undefeated home record in the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA).
The game kicked off with Yuan Shuai lighting up the scoreboard, sinking a shot from the top of the key to notch his 1,140th triple – a commendable achievement, placing him seventh in league history 🏀✨.
Guangsha started strong, building a 10-point lead midway through the first quarter, thanks to Barry Brown Jr. However, Zhang Ning of Shanxi responded fiercely, hitting crucial triples and drawing fouls to keep the game tight.
As the game progressed, the tension escalated. Early in the second quarter, Hu Jinqiu and Josh Carlton extended Guangsha's lead, but Shanxi wasn't backing down. A pivotal 9-2 run tied the game at 50-50, showcasing Shanxi's relentless drive.
The third quarter saw Shanxi seize control with an 11-0 run, pushing their advantage to 15 points. Despite Guangsha's comeback attempts, led by Ibrahima Faye and Sun Minghui, the gap narrowed to just 7 points by quarter's end.
The final quarter was a rollercoaster of emotions. Shanxi surged ahead early, but Guangsha fought back with a 14-1 run, making it a one-point game. In the last two minutes, Guangsha's Hu secured a crucial three-point play, giving them a 98-96 lead. Yet, Shanxi's Liu Chuanxing tied the game, sending it to a dramatic finish.
In the dying seconds, Shanxi's Zhang Ning delivered a buzzer-beating layup, sealing the 100-98 victory and ending Guangsha's remarkable streak. The crowd erupted as Shanxi celebrated this historic win! 🎉🏆
**Other Highlights of the Night:**
- 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