The Beijing Ducks secured a 102-94 victory over the Shanxi Loongs in Game 1 of the CBA playoff semifinals, claiming a 1-0 series lead in a tense showdown at Shanxi Province's home court on Sunday. Chen Ying-Chun and Eugene German led the charge with 23 points each, while star center Zhou Qi marked his return from injury with 15 points and 10 rebounds.
Beijing overcame a slow start, trailing 27-23 after the first quarter, before unleashing a 19-2 run in the second period. Despite Shanxi’s third-quarter surge fueled by foreign players Brandon Goodwin and Trey Kell, the Ducks’ defensive resilience shone in the final stretch. Shanxi managed just one free throw in the last four minutes, sealing their fate.
With five players scoring double digits compared to Shanxi’s three, Beijing showcased balanced teamwork. Game 2 of the best-of-three series tips off Tuesday, with the Ducks aiming to capitalize on their hard-fought road win.
