The Shanghai Sharks have clinched the inaugural CBA Club Cup championship, defeating the Xinjiang Flying Tigers in a thrilling matchup in Xi’an, northwest China’s Shaanxi Province.
The tournament, introduced as an independent cup competition during the breaks of the 2024-2025 CBA season, offered fans intense basketball action that didn’t affect regular season standings but was no less competitive.
Both teams entered the final undefeated, setting the stage for an epic showdown. The first quarter was a defensive battle, with the Sharks managing just one field goal from open play. Despite Kenneth Lofton’s flawless performance at the free-throw line, Shanghai trailed 13-16 at the end of the first period.
In the second quarter, the pace picked up as both teams found their rhythm. Led by D.J. Wilson and Wang Zhelin, the Sharks launched a 13-3 run to seize the lead. However, the Flying Tigers fought back, edging ahead 42-38 by halftime.
The second half belonged to former NBA guard Eric Bledsoe. Exploding for 15 points in the third quarter, Bledsoe showcased his scoring prowess. He continued his onslaught in the final period, adding 16 more points. Despite a spirited effort from Xinjiang’s star player, Abudushalamu Abudurexiti, the Sharks maintained their lead, thanks to clutch free throws from Bledsoe and Lofton.
As the final buzzer sounded, the Shanghai Sharks celebrated a well-earned nine-point victory, securing the championship title. Bledsoe finished with an impressive 31 points, earning the MVP honors for his outstanding performance.
“Both teams played incredibly hard today, keeping the suspense alive until the very end,” the 35-year-old Bledsoe reflected after the game. “The coach placed a lot of trust in me during critical moments, and I seized the opportunity to achieve this victory alongside my teammates.”
