Wells explodes for 50 points to lead Liaoning to big win over Xinjiang

The Liaoning Flying Leopards cruised past the Xinjiang Flying Tigers 115-89 at home, in a thrilling Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) showdown on Saturday night.

Dez Wells delivered an extraordinary performance, scoring a season-high 50 points and becoming the first player to sink 11 three-pointers in a single game for the three-time defending champions, leading them to a third straight win.

Both teams were missing key players due to injuries, with Liaoning heading into the contest ranked sixth in the standings, and Xinjiang sitting in third place. They had previously met once this season, with Xinjiang claiming the win in Urumqi.

The return game in Shenyang tipped off with Liaoning's Wang Lanqin hitting a three-pointer, setting the stage for an intense showdown. Both teams fought fiercely, exchanging the lead several times, but the relentless scoring of Wells helped Liaoning end the first quarter with a 12-point lead.

In the second quarter, Wells continued his red-hot shooting, knocking down multiple three-pointers while Xinjiang struggled with fouls and turnovers, allowing Liaoning's lead to balloon to 21 points. Xinjiang tried to battle back behind rookie Yang Rui's three-pointers and explosive dunks, but Liaoning held a 15-point advantage at halftime, with Wells showcasing his exceptional scoring prowess, amassing 30 points by the break.

Liaoning extended its lead in the second half while Xinjiang continued to struggle to find its rhythm. Thanks to the stellar performances of Wang and Wells, Liaoning maintained its commanding advantage throughout the game, before celebrating a decisive 26-point victory. 

Along with his sensational 50 points, Wells contributed 2 rebounds and 6 assists. Wang added 20 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists, while Han Dejun chipped in with 11 points, 13 rebounds and 4 assists.

For Xinjiang, Dedric Lawson recorded 13 points and 12 rebounds, while Elfuratt Mohetaner contributed 13 points and 8 rebounds.