In a thrilling encounter on Friday, the Beijing Ducks narrowly defeated the Liaoning Flying Leopards 106-105 on the road, handing the three-time defending Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) champions their third consecutive loss.
The game began with Liaoning’s Kyle Fogg sinking a three-pointer for the first basket. Fogg, despite missing his next attempt, was given a second chance thanks to Han Dejun’s rebound, and made no mistake to put the Flying Leopards ahead by six points.
Han Dejun later lost possession, allowing Eugene German to lead a fast break before setting up Zeng Fanbo for a dunk, bringing the Ducks within eight points at 51-43. German’s long pass found Richard Solomon, whose slam narrowed the margin even further.
The Ducks surged ahead with a 9-0 run at the start of the fourth quarter, and a three-pointer from Chen Ying-chun extended their lead to 95-87.
Liaoning fought back as Wang Lanqin hit a three-pointer to reduce the deficit to two points. Trailing by four with 39 seconds remaining, Fogg was fouled while making a jumper and converted the free throw, bringing the Flying Leopards within one point. Fogg finished with a game-high 45 points.
With just under nine seconds left, Fogg brought the ball up the court and attempted a potential game-winning three-pointer, but Zeng Fanbo managed a crucial block. The Ducks held on to secure a one-point victory, elevating them to third place in the standings, while Liaoning dropped to sixth after their third straight defeat.
Reference(s):
CBA: Beijing hands Liaoning third straight defeat by 106-105 margin
cgtn.com
