The 2026 CBA Finals kicked off with high energy on Tuesday, as the Shanghai Sharks secured a commanding 101-90 victory over the Guangsha Lions. Playing in front of a passionate home crowd, the Sharks have taken an early 1-0 lead in the best-of-seven championship series.
The star of the opening game was former NBA guard Brandon Goodwin, who delivered a masterclass in all-around play. Goodwin powered the Sharks' offense, finishing the night with a dominant 34 points, seven rebounds, and 12 assists, proving to be the decisive factor in Shanghai's success.
The game began as a tightly contested battle, with both teams trading baskets in a high-intensity opening quarter. Shanghai managed to edge ahead with a narrow 29-27 lead after the first 12 minutes. Maintaining their offensive momentum into the second quarter, the Sharks gradually expanded their advantage, heading into the halftime break with a 54-48 lead.
The third quarter saw Shanghai break the game open. A decisive scoring run pushed the lead into double digits, forcing the Guangsha Lions to call a timeout to regroup. While the visitors showed resilience by chipping away at the deficit before the end of the period, the Sharks remained in control, leading 79-72 entering the final frame.
Guangsha attempted a spirited comeback in the fourth quarter, leading to an intense exchange of blows. However, the Lions struggled to maintain their offensive efficiency in the closing minutes. Shanghai expertly controlled the tempo to seal the 11-point win.
Supporting Goodwin's effort, Li Tianrong contributed 16 points, while Li Hongquan added 12 points and five rebounds. Chinese national team forward Zhang Zhenlin also played a pivotal role, making key contributions on both ends of the floor to ensure the victory.
For the Guangsha Lions, Barry Brown led the effort with 23 points and seven assists, supported by Hu Jinqiu's 18 points and seven rebounds, and Rayjon Tucker's 15 points and six rebounds.
The series continues in Shanghai, with Game 2 scheduled for Thursday.
Reference(s):
Brandon Goodwin powers Sharks past Lions in Game 1 of CBA Finals
cgtn.com
