The Shandong Kylins secured a commanding 115-105 victory over the Guangdong Southern Tigers in Jinan, east China’s Shandong Province, on Tuesday. This defeat dooms the 11-time former Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) champions to their worst season start in eight years, with two consecutive losses.
The game was characterized by sloppy ball handling from both teams, totaling 49 turnovers. Guangdong slightly edged Shandong in this unfortunate statistic, committing 28 turnovers to Shandong’s 21. These missteps allowed the Kylins to capitalize on multiple fastbreak opportunities, leading to easy points in transition.
Lindell Wigginton led Shandong’s offense with 26 points off the bench, contributing to the five Kylins players who scored in double figures. The home team’s defense was formidable, with starters Jarmar Gulley, Chen Peidong, and Gao Shiyan each recording four steals. Marquese Chriss added to the defensive stronghold with three blocks.
The Kylins set an aggressive tone from the outset, finishing the first quarter ahead 29-22 and extending their lead to double digits in the second quarter. Guangdong’s Hu Mingxuan stepped up to narrow the gap to 57-49 before halftime with consecutive baskets.
Guangdong faced further challenges in the third quarter when Xu Jie exited the game due to an ankle sprain. His absence plunged the team’s playmaking into disarray until his return post medical treatment. Shandong took advantage, stretching their lead to 86-73 by the end of the third quarter, signaling a potential rout.
Entering the final quarter with a 9-2 run, the Kylins continued to dominate. Although Xu Jie’s return bolstered Guangdong’s offense, the Southern Tigers struggled with poor shooting, missing several open jumpers. Shandong maintained their momentum to secure a 10-point victory, marking their first win of the new CBA season.
Reference(s):
Shandong doom Guangdong to worst start to a CBA season in eight years
cgtn.com
