The CBA playoffs quarterfinal series has completed its first two games, with Shanghai and Shenzhen already advancing to the semifinals. The matchups between Guangdong and Beijing, as well as Guangsha and Shanxi, are tied 1-1, setting the stage for decisive third games where the winner advances. According to the schedule, the third game between Guangdong and Beijing is set for 7:35 PM on the 12th, broadcast live on CCTV5.
In the previous game, Guangdong edged Beijing with a clutch three-pointer from Zhang Haojia in the final seconds. Guangdong’s victory hinged on two key factors: offensive explosion from Quinn, who posted an efficient 39 points, 8 rebounds, 8 assists, and 3 steals, and solid defense that held Beijing’s overall shooting and three-point percentages below their own. Outplaying Beijing on both ends made the win well-deserved.
However, Quinn’s extended minutes reduced playing time for Salinger and Rakocevic, leading to a rebounding disadvantage (36-46) for Guangdong. In the decisive third game, Guangdong must maintain defensive intensity and offensive efficiency while improving interior protection to have a chance at a comeback and advance to the semifinals.
Beijing’s performance in the last game was respectable, scoring 99 points. Their issues were twofold: first, Zhao Rui and Zeng Fanbo struggled—especially Zeng, who dropped 23 points in Game 1 but managed only 3 points on 1-of-4 shooting in Game 2. Head coach Xu Limin failed to adjust rotations based on player form, giving Zeng 26 minutes despite his struggles. Second, Beijing’s perimeter defense lacked pressure on key scorers like Quinn and Hu Mingxuan.
Following the loss, Guangdong will likely focus on exploiting interior advantages, both offensively and on the boards, while implementing targeted defensive schemes against Quinn and Hu. Beijing needs Zeng Fanbo and Zhao Rui to rediscover their form, and Xu Limin must avoid rigid substitutions, allowing hot-handed players more time.
While Guangdong pulled one back, Beijing still holds the advantage due to superior depth. Quinn’s explosion may not be repeatable, but Guangdong has a path to victory. For both teams, the third game is a do-or-die scenario—losing means the season ends. Expect intense, physical play in every matchup.
After the loss, Xu Limin remarked that the defeat was not a bad thing but a good lesson. If Beijing falls again in the decider, it would be an embarrassing outcome for the coach. The winner will be determined on the evening of the 12th at 7:35 PM—stay tuned!