The Zhejiang Golden Bulls secured a 106-93 victory over the Shanghai Sharks in Jinhua, east China’s Zhejiang Province, on Monday, extending the Sharks’ losing streak to three games in the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA).
Despite missing their star guard Wu Qian due to injury, the Golden Bulls showcased depth in their roster. Cheng Shuaipeng stepped up off the bench, delivering a stellar performance with 22 points, including four three-pointers, and six assists. Paris Bass was instrumental for Zhejiang as well, recording a game-high 30 points on 12-of-24 shooting, along with 11 rebounds and six assists.
The Sharks started strong, leading 29-23 after the first quarter. Bass faced early foul trouble, limiting his playtime. However, upon his return in the second quarter, he ignited the court, scoring 23 points over the second and third quarters. His flawless shooting in the third quarter, going five-for-five with two three-pointers, kept the Sharks within reach.
Cheng continued to dominate in the third quarter, adding nine points to help the Golden Bulls establish an 84-73 lead heading into the final period. The Sharks battled fiercely in the fourth quarter, attempting a comeback, but Cheng’s two consecutive three-pointers late in the game secured the win for Zhejiang.
In another CBA matchup, the Qingdao Eagles defeated the defending champions, the Liaoning Flying Leopards, 96-79 in Qingdao, east China’s Shandong Province. The Eagles soared to an early lead, outscoring Liaoning 34-19 in the first quarter. Although the Flying Leopards narrowed the gap to 52-48 by halftime, their shooting struggles persisted.
The second half saw a tight contest, with Qingdao maintaining a narrow lead. Quinndary Weatherspoon emerged as the difference-maker for the Eagles in the fourth quarter, scoring 11 points in a three-minute span to fuel a decisive 12-0 run. With a lead of 87-72 and three minutes remaining, Qingdao held off Liaoning, handing them their second loss of the season.
Reference(s):
Zhejiang Golden Bulls give Shanghai Sharks third straight loss
cgtn.com
