Beijing defeated Guangdong 88-73 to clinch the series 2-1 and secure their spot in the CBA semifinals. Zhou Qi delivered a dominant performance with 18 points, 8 rebounds, 2 steals, and 4 blocks. Jemaine added a triple-double of 17 points, 11 rebounds, and 10 assists, while Chen Yingjun contributed 16 points and 2 rebounds. Zeng Fanbo also chipped in with 15 points and 3 rebounds.
This was a must-win game for Beijing, coming off a heartbreaking overtime loss in Game 2 that leveled the series. The pressure was immense, but the team responded with grit and determination. From the opening tip, the game was a physical grind. Zhou Qi was a force in the paint, battling multiple defenders and throwing down emphatic blocks. In the second quarter, one Beijing player was injured and left the court, but even in the huddle he remained with the team, showing unwavering spirit. His teammates raised their defensive intensity, and with both guards firing, Beijing went on an 18-0 run that electrified the home crowd.
The lead was never relinquished. Chuan’s relentless movement created openings, Williams and McGee connected for highlight-reel plays, and Chen Yingjun’s passionate roar ignited the arena. In the final moments, Chen and Jemaine calmly sank their free throws to seal the victory.
“This win belongs to every player who stepped on the floor,” said coach Xu after the game. “It was a true team effort.”
Now Beijing looks ahead to the semifinals, where they will face Shanghai in a best-of-five series. The first two games are on the road, before the series returns to Beijing on May 20. The team is riding high on the energy of over 30,000 fans who packed the arena across both home games, with online viewership in the millions and strong merchandise sales.
“This is the kind of passion that fuels our city,” added the coach. “We are ready for the next challenge.”
The roar of “Play for Beijing” will echo once again at the Wukesong Arena. The dream of a championship is still alive, and the team is determined to keep climbing.