Last Friday, December 12, the defending champs Guangsha Lions kicked off the 2025-26 CBA regular season with an 88-74 home victory over the Shanxi Loongs.
Moments before tip-off, the Lions celebrated in style: championship rings, a banner unveiling… hometown vibes! ✨🎖️
Rayjon Tucker, the former NBA guard who joined this offseason, led the charge with 16 points, while national team stars Hu Jinqiu (13) and Zhu Junlong (9) made key contributions. Barry Brown Jr., fresh off a new deal, chipped in 16 more.
Shanxi's iHamidou Diallo kept it close early, pouring in 17 points, and new signing Jaylen Nowell, a 2019 NBA second-round pick, added 15. Jiao Hailong also dropped 15.
"The new format of the competition really helps us get used to international play," said Zhu. "We'll do our best to defend our title." 💪🏆
Guangsha now holds a 34-18 all-time edge over Shanxi. Next up: a showdown with the Liaoning Flying Leopards. Stay tuned! 🐆🔥
The CBA regular season continues through April 24, 2026.
Reference(s):
Defending champions Guangsha roll past Shanxi in CBA season opener
cgtn.com
