Dez Wells delivered an unforgettable performance on Saturday night, scoring a staggering 50 points to lead the Liaoning Flying Leopards to a resounding 115-89 victory over the Xinjiang Flying Tigers in the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA).
In front of the home crowd, Wells became the first player to sink 11 three-pointers in a single game for the three-time defending champions. His explosive scoring not only set a personal season high but also propelled Liaoning to their third consecutive win.
Despite both teams missing key players due to injuries, the matchup was highly anticipated. Liaoning entered the contest ranked sixth in the standings, while Xinjiang held the third spot. Earlier this season, Xinjiang edged out Liaoning in Urumqi, adding extra stakes to this rematch.
The game tipped off with Liaoning’s Wang Lanqin draining a three-pointer, setting an intense tone. The teams exchanged leads in a fierce first quarter, but Wells’ relentless scoring helped Liaoning establish a 12-point advantage by the end of the period.
Wells continued his hot streak into the second quarter, knocking down multiple three-pointers. Xinjiang struggled with fouls and turnovers, allowing Liaoning’s lead to expand to 21 points. Rookie Yang Rui injected energy for Xinjiang with impressive three-pointers and dunks, but Liaoning maintained a 15-point lead at halftime, with Wells amassing 30 points.
In the second half, Liaoning extended their dominance. Stellar performances from Wells and Wang Lanqin kept Xinjiang at bay, sealing a decisive 26-point victory. Wells rounded off the night with 50 points, 2 rebounds, and 6 assists. Wang contributed 20 points, 7 rebounds, and 4 assists, while Han Dejun added 11 points, 13 rebounds, and 4 assists.
For Xinjiang, Dedric Lawson recorded 13 points and 12 rebounds, while Elfuratt Mohetaner contributed 13 points and 8 rebounds.
Liaoning’s commanding win not only strengthens their position in the standings but also sends a message to the rest of the league as they eye another championship run.
Reference(s):
Wells explodes for 50 points to lead Liaoning to big win over Xinjiang
cgtn.com
