Guo Ailun delivered a season-high 40 points, but the Guangzhou Loong Lions couldn’t secure a victory, falling 116-113 to the Beikong Royal Fighters on Wednesday. The intense matchup took place in Guangzhou, south China’s Guangdong Province, marking the home team’s sixth consecutive loss in the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA).
The game kicked off with Guangzhou taking an early 11-6 lead. However, Beikong quickly responded with an 8-2 run, ending the first quarter ahead 28-27 after Grant Riller nailed a jumper in the final seconds.
Beikong extended their momentum into the second quarter, launching a 15-6 run to establish a 43-33 advantage. Guo stepped up for the Loong Lions, pouring in eight straight points. Teammate Liu Yancheng sank back-to-back three-pointers, leveling the score at 49-49. Despite their efforts, Beikong’s Jared Sullinger and Zhu Songwei powered through, pushing the Royal Fighters to a 68-59 lead by halftime.
In the third quarter, Guo continued to shine, adding 14 points and draining two triples. His performance narrowed the gap, with Guangzhou trailing just 94-91 heading into the final quarter.
Guangzhou’s rally persisted as Guo orchestrated plays, assisting Li Xiangbo and Tahjere McCall on key layups. The Loong Lions surged ahead 111-104 with under five minutes remaining. However, Beikong’s Zhang Fan and Zhu ignited a crucial 10-0 run, reclaiming the lead at 114-111.
Guo’s relentless drives earned him two free throws, which he confidently sunk, keeping Guangzhou in contention. Yet, after Zhang added two points for Beikong, the Loong Lions found themselves trailing 116-113. With three seconds on the clock, McCall attempted a game-tying three-pointer, but his shot missed the mark, sealing the win for the Royal Fighters—their fourth straight victory.
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Guangzhou lose to Beikong despite Guo Ailun's season-high 40 points
cgtn.com
