On the first day of 2025 and his 30th birthday, Zhang Cairen delivered a stellar performance, scoring 27 points to lead the Beijing Ducks to a 105-90 victory over the reigning Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) champions, the Liaoning Flying Leopards, in Beijing on Wednesday night.
Zhang was unstoppable from beyond the arc, hitting 7-of-12 three-pointers. “This is New Year’s Day, as well as my birthday,” Zhang said after the game. “So this game is very meaningful, and I hope to continue the good momentum this year.”
The Ducks started strong with center Zhou Qi returning from injury to dominate the paint, helping Beijing take an early 10-4 lead. Liaoning’s Kyle Fogg responded with a series of jumpers to keep the game close, but Beijing led 21-17 at the end of the first quarter.
In the second quarter, Richard Solomon and Zhou Qi continued to attack inside, while Zhai Xiaochuan and Zeng Fanbo connected from downtown, extending the Ducks’ lead. Despite efforts from Fogg and Dez Wells, Liaoning trailed 50-41 at halftime.
The third quarter brought concern for Beijing when Chen Ying-Chun drained a three-pointer but suffered an ankle injury shortly after, leaving the game. Liaoning capitalized with a 10-3 run, narrowing the gap to 70-69. However, Zhou Qi drew two crucial fouls, and Zhang hit a key three-pointer to keep Beijing ahead 75-71 entering the final quarter.
Zhang continued his hot streak in the fourth quarter, sinking three more triples and boosting the Ducks’ lead to 98-78 with less than six minutes remaining. Liaoning, unable to mount a comeback, pulled their starters, and Beijing secured their 17th win in 24 games.
“I wish all of the fans a Happy New Year,” said team captain Zhai Xiaochuan. “May all your wishes come true, and you have good health, and be happy every day.”
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
