The Zhejiang Golden Bulls edged out the Shanghai Sharks 99-97 on Wednesday, ending the Sharks’ impressive 14-game home winning streak in the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA).
The game began with both teams neck and neck, concluding the first quarter at 30-25 in favor of Zhejiang. Gabe York and Liu Zeyi were instrumental in maintaining the Golden Bulls’ lead, combining for 26 points in the first half. Despite Shanghai’s Kenneth Lofton Jr. dominating the paint with 14 points, six rebounds, and three assists early on, Zhejiang held a slight advantage at halftime, leading 52-49.
Zhejiang surged ahead in the third quarter, igniting from beyond the arc with Cheng Shuaipeng, Wu Qian, and York sinking crucial three-pointers. They extended their lead to 15 points within four minutes. However, the momentum shifted when Wu Qian was ejected after receiving a second technical foul. Lofton capitalized on this, amassing 30 of his 40 points by the end of the third quarter, but the Golden Bulls still led 83-75.
The Sharks roared back in the fourth quarter, tying the game at 85-85 with a 10-2 run. Wang Zhelin joined Lofton in attacking the paint, keeping the pressure on Zhejiang. Yet, the Golden Bulls’ balanced offense, with five players scoring in double digits, kept them afloat. Cheng Shuaipeng’s clutch layup put Zhejiang ahead 97-95 with 33 seconds remaining. Despite missed free throws by Zhejiang’s York and Wang Yibo, Shanghai couldn’t seize the opportunity. Donovan Williams missed a potential game-winner at the buzzer, sealing the Sharks’ narrow defeat.
This victory is significant for Zhejiang as they disrupt Shanghai’s home dominance and gain momentum heading into the postseason.
Other CBA results:
Beijing Ducks 110-101 Qingdao Eagles
Fujian Sturgeons 116-111 Ningbo Rockets
Guangdong Southern Tigers 101-73 Sichuan Blue Whales
