The Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) playoffs kicked off with high-octane action this weekend, as the Guangdong Southern Tigers and Beijing Royal Fighters secured dramatic victories in their opening games. Here's the lowdown on the court battles that had fans on the edge of their seats!
Guangdong vs. Shanghai: A Nail-Biter Finale 💥
Hu Mingxuan became the night's hero, dropping 31 points including a game-winning 3-pointer with 12 seconds left to seal the Guangdong Southern Tigers' 102-98 win over the Shanghai Sharks. Troy Gillenwater added 28 points, while Shanghai's Wang Zhelin fought hard with 22 points. The game swung like a pendulum: Shanghai’s Tyler Harvey sank three 3-pointers in an 18-0 third-quarter rally, but Hu’s icy veins in the final moments stole the show. 🎯
"Away matches will be tougher – we need to stay sharp," warned Guangdong coach Du Feng post-game.
Beikong’s Royal Fighters Dominate Shandong 👑
Meanwhile, Grant Riller racked up a game-high 30 points as the Beijing Royal Fighters outplayed the Shandong Heroes 104-99. Former NBA forward Jared Sullinger shined with key 3-pointers, while Zhang Fan’s clutch corner three sealed the deal. Shandong’s Jarmar Gulley tried to rally late, but Beikong’s defense held firm. 💪
With playoff intensity dialed up to 11, all eyes are on the next round! 🔥
