Beijing Ducks even series with strong win over Shanghai Sharks in CBA Playoffs

In a compelling response to their earlier loss, the Beijing Ducks outclassed the Shanghai Sharks 99-88 on the road on Sunday, leveling their best-of-five semifinal series at 1-1 in the CBA Playoffs. The top-seeded Sharks had edged out the fourth-seeded Ducks 87-82 in the opening game on Friday.

The Ducks quickly found their rhythm, with Eugene German securing a loose ball and dishing it to Zhou Qi, who contributed a solid 11 points and 10 rebounds. The teams battled closely, with Zhao Rui assisting Zeng Fanbo for a corner three, leaving the score tied at 42 by halftime.

However, the second half featured a different intensity from Beijing. Chen Ying-Chun struck first with a deep three, giving the Ducks a four-point lead. Zhao then connected from beyond the arc, extending the gap to 64-56 as he racked up 15 points for the night. Chen followed with a well-placed mid-range jumper, propelling the Ducks to a 30-21 advantage in the third quarter.

Beijing maintained their momentum in the fourth, with German hitting a stylish step-back three to stretch the lead to 15. Xu Limin's team opened the final period with an explosive 11-2 run, establishing a comfortable 83-65 cushion after another triple from the unstoppable German. The American guard was a force, scoring 15 of his 22 points in the last ten minutes alone.

Chen ultimately sealed the victory with a trademark jumper, leading the Ducks with a team-high 26 points. The 11-point win has shifted the momentum back in Beijing's favor, setting the stage for an exciting Game 3, which will be contested in Beijing on Wednesday.