Defending champions Liaoning Flying Leopards kicked off their Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) playoff campaign with a dramatic 123-116 overtime victory against the Xinjiang Flying Tigers in Game 1 of their quarterfinal series Sunday. The electrifying clash in Shenyang saw both teams trade leads and clutch shots, highlighting the intensity of Asia’s premier basketball league.
A Nail-Biting Finish
With Xinjiang leading 109-106 in the final seconds of regulation, Liaoning’s Dez Wells drained a game-tying three-pointer off an inbound pass to force overtime. The Flying Leopards then dominated the extra period, fueled by Zhang Zhenlin’s critical three-pointer with 13 seconds left to seal the win.
Key Performances Shine
Liaoning guard Zhao Jiwei delivered a career-defining performance, scoring 33 points with eight three-pointers. Xinjiang’s Dedric Lawson countered with 32 points and 13 rebounds, while Abdusalam Abdurexit and Elfuratt Mohetaner combined for 46 points. The game featured 15 lead changes, underscoring its competitive edge.
Elsewhere, regular-season leaders Guangsha Lions rolled past Qingdao Eagles 110-93 behind Barry Brown’s 31 points. Game 2 for both series tips off Tuesday.
