🔥🏀 What a game to kick off the CBA season! The Liaoning Flying Leopards, three-time defending champions, came from behind to defeat the Zhejiang Golden Bulls 123-112 in an electrifying season opener in Shenyang, Liaoning Province, on Saturday night.
Before the tip-off, the Flying Leopards received their well-deserved championship rings and raised their fourth banner, but the Golden Bulls came out swinging! Zhejiang nailed 6 out of 12 three-pointers in the first quarter, grabbing a 33-31 lead. They didn't stop there—aggressive plays and hot streaks saw them extend their advantage to 61-52 by halftime. 😱
Gabriel York and Yu Jiahao were on fire for Zhejiang, scoring double figures in the first half. But Liaoning wasn't backing down. Kyle Fogg and Marial Shayok combined for an impressive 37 points before the break, keeping the champs within striking distance.
The third quarter was a game-changer! Last season's Finals MVP Kyle Fogg went beast mode 💪, leading Liaoning to outscore Zhejiang 42-21. The Flying Leopards soared ahead, entering the final quarter with a 94-82 lead.
Early in the fourth, Liaoning unleashed an 11-0 run, widening the gap to 18 points at 107-89. The Golden Bulls tried to rally with Lu Wenbo sinking back-to-back threes and a late surge featuring Wu Qian and Paris Bass cutting the deficit to just seven points. But the champs held their ground!
After a strategic timeout, Zhao Jiwei and Fogg hit clutch three-pointers, sealing the deal for Liaoning. 🏆🎉
This epic comeback sets the tone for what promises to be an exciting season ahead! Who else is hyped for more CBA action? 🙌
Reference(s):
Defending champions Liaoning beat Zhejiang 123-112 to open CBA season
cgtn.com
