The Shenzhen Leopards beat defending CBA champions the Guangsha Lions 109-94 at home in Shenzhen, south China's Guangdong Province, on Thursday, extending their winning streak to eight games while snapping a seven-game run by the reigning titleholders.

Shenzhen built a commanding lead in the first half, outscoring Guangsha 75-47 with efficient shooting and strong ball movement. The Lions responded after the break with improved defensive intensity, limiting the Leopards to just 34 points in the second half. But the early deficit proved too much to overcome as the hosts held off the attempted comeback.

Wang Haoran led all scorers with 32 points, making five of seven attempts from three-point range. The 21-year-old power forward also added four rebounds, three assists and two steals.

Terquavion Smith provided strong support off the bench, contributing 29 points. He was aggressive in attacking the basket and went 12-of-15 from the free throw line.

Although He Xining struggled from beyond the arc, hitting just one of seven shots and finishing with a mere 11 points, he contributed to Shenzhen's win in other areas with 10 assists, four rebounds and three steals.

Guangsha's defensive efforts improved significantly in the second half, but the visitors lacked offensive balance. Only three players scored in double figures, with none exceeding 20 points.

Despite the loss, the Lions remain second in the standings with 27 wins, while the Leopards move up to fourth place with 22 wins.

In the evening's other game, the Ningbo Rockets edged the Nanjing Monkey Kings 89-86 on the road in Nanjing, east China's Jiangsu Province, claiming their 18th victory of the season.

Ningbo took control early, leading 24-13 after the first quarter, but the Monkey Kings responded with a 30-15 second period to lead at halftime. The Rockets regained their composure in the second half, maintaining steady scoring to close out the win.

Zavier Simpson recorded 25 points and 10 assists for Ningbo, while Tacko Fall added 18 points, 10 rebounds and four blocks.

Parker Jackson-Cartwright finished with 25 points and 15 assists for Nanjing, but his performance was not enough to keep the home side from coming up short.