In an exhilarating match in the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA), the Xinjiang Flying Tigers narrowly defeated the Beikong Royal Fighters 114-111 at home, securing their third consecutive victory to open the new season.
The Flying Tigers soared ahead early, with American guard QJ Peterson hitting a deep three-pointer to contribute to a commanding 38-19 lead in the first quarter. Peterson continued his sharpshooting in the second quarter, helping Xinjiang extend their advantage to 21 points.
However, the Royal Fighters mounted a fierce comeback with an 11-2 run. Grant Riller’s basket brought Beikong within 11 points, but Xinjiang responded, pulling away to an 80-62 lead after Dedric Lawson nailed one of his three three-pointers, on his way to a game-high 34 points.
Undeterred, Beikong closed the gap again. Travis Trice’s jumper brought them within four points. In the fourth quarter, Xinjiang’s Jin Xin made it 100-92 with ten minutes remaining. Beikong’s Liao Sanning then sliced through the defense for a layup, tying the game at 105. Liao’s free throw gave the Royal Fighters a one-point lead with two minutes left.
Xinjiang regained the lead at 110-108. With just five seconds on the clock, Beikong’s Meng Zikai missed a potential game-tying three-pointer, allowing the Flying Tigers to hold on for a thrilling 114-111 win.
Elsewhere in the CBA, Beijing secured a 102-91 home victory over Sichuan. Veteran Fang Shuo embarked on his 16th season for Beijing, while Sichuan’s newly signed Edmund Sumner claimed a game-high 31 points. Beijing remains unbeaten after three rounds. Additionally, Nanjing triumphed over Ningbo, and Guangsha defeated Shandong.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com