The Liaoning Flying Leopards showcased a stellar performance on Wednesday, securing a commanding 116-76 victory over the Fujian Sturgeons in Shenyang, northeast China’s Liaoning Province. This marks their second consecutive win, emphasizing their strong start to the season.
The game took a decisive turn in the first quarter as Liaoning outscored Fujian 41-21. The trio of Zhao Jiwei, Marial Shayok, and Jo Lual-Acuil effortlessly dismantled Fujian’s defense, creating opportunities and scoring with ease. Despite Fujian introducing former NBA guard Joseph Young to bolster their offense, the move yielded little success against Liaoning’s relentless play.
Three minutes into the second quarter, Liaoning intensified their defensive pressure, launching a 9-0 run that extended their lead. They surged ahead by 30 points, leading 63-33 with five minutes remaining in the half. While Young endeavored to spark Fujian’s offense, the team trailed 71-46 at halftime.
In the third quarter, both teams exhibited a more relaxed defensive approach. However, Liaoning maintained a consistent 30-point advantage, courtesy of their superior firepower. The substantial lead allowed both teams to rotate in their younger players as the game transitioned into garbage time.
Liaoning’s balanced attack featured six players scoring in double figures. Jo Lual-Acuil notched a double-double with 17 points and 12 rebounds, while both Marial Shayok and Zhao Jiwei contributed six assists each. Yan Shouqi was a defensive standout, recording five steals.
For Fujian, no Chinese player reached double digits in scoring. Frank Mason led the team with 19 points and five assists, and Baylee Steele added a double-double of 12 points and 10 rebounds. Joseph Young contributed 12 points off the bench.
In other action on the same day, the Zhejiang Golden Bulls defeated the Jilin Northeast Tigers 121-113 on the road, despite a valiant effort from Jilin’s Dominique Jones, who scored 46 points and dished out 11 assists. Meanwhile, the Qingdao Eagles edged out the Shanghai Sharks 101-97, successfully thwarting a 17-point comeback attempt by the home team.
Reference(s):
Liaoning Flying Leopards smash Fujian Sturgeons by 40 points
cgtn.com
