In an electrifying showdown in Hangzhou, the Guangsha Lions stunned the Shanghai Sharks 114-101 to notch their record 35th win of the season in the Chinese Basketball Association! 🏀 With the crowd buzzing, Barry Brown shined bright by scoring a game-high 49 points, making an impressive 17-for-29 shot performance.
The game kicked off with both teams neck and neck at 23-23 in the first quarter. Then, James Nunnally, setting up for Zhu Junlong’s crucial triple, helped turn the tides, as the home side jumped ahead with a 34-26 lead. Early bursts from Nunnally and Brown set the stage for what would turn into a memorable night.
While Shanghai's Kenneth Lofton delivered a standout performance with 33 points, 23 rebounds, and nine assists, his efforts couldn’t overcome Guangsha’s determined play. In the second quarter, Lofton’s drives into the paint also freed Li Tianrong, whose open triples further boosted the home team's advantage to 66-56 at halftime.
The intensity ramped up in the third quarter with Shanghai trimming the gap, thanks to Yan Pengfei and sharp outside shooting from Lofton, D.J. Wilson, and Liu Lijia. Yet, a well-timed triple set up by Zhu for Nathan Knight pushed the Lions’ lead back up. In the final stretch, a 9-4 run briefly cut the deficit to just two points, but Lofton’s fifth foul curtailed his impact, paving the way for Brown and Hu to clinch the win with a decisive 15-point burst in the fourth quarter.
The action wasn’t limited to just one game. Other matchups provided plenty of excitement too: Beijing Ducks edged Tianjin Pioneers 113-101, Fujian Sturgeons outpaced Shanxi Loongs 120-112, Liaoning Flying Leopards overwhelmed Jilin Northeast Tigers 136-99, Qingdao Eagles triumphed 122-99 over Ningbo Rockets, Shandong Kylins secured a 106-98 win against Jiangsu Dragons, and Shenzhen Leopards defeated Beikong Royal Fighters 114-95.
This thrilling contest highlighted not only individual brilliance but also the vibrant team spirit that fuels the CBA, offering unforgettable moments for fans both on the court and online. It's a great reminder that passion and teamwork always bring the heat! 🔥
Reference(s):
Guangsha Lions defeat Shanghai Sharks for team record 35th win in CBA
cgtn.com
