In a decisive CBA Playoffs victory, the top-seeded Shanghai Sharks rallied to defeat the Beijing Ducks 99-85, clinching their semifinal series 3-1 and securing a place in the CBA Finals for the first time in 24 years.  

Beijing started off strong, with JaVale McGee's emphatic dunk propelling them to a 16-10 lead. As the first quarter ticked down, Eugene German capped the period with a scoop shot off the glass, giving the Ducks a solid 23-15 advantage. Zhou Qi contributed three of his six points, helping Beijing extend their lead to as much as 16. However, Shanghai's Zhang Zhenlin made an impressive spin move in the paint, converting high off the glass to halt the Ducks' momentum.

Despite German's game-high 23 points, which included a crucial layup that left Beijing ahead 51-35 at halftime, the Sharks emerged determined after the break. Liu Zheng's corner three cut the deficit to nine, while Kenneth Lofton Jr., showcasing his prowess, nailed a three-pointer that levelled the score at 57 midway through the third quarter.

The turning point came during a remarkable 39-11 run by Shanghai that closed out the third quarter, with Brandon Goodwin contributing three of his 16 points. Lofton capped off the victory, adding two points to his team-high tally of 20, sealing the Sharks' surge to victory.

Eliminating Beijing has secured Shanghai a historic return to the championship series, a feat not achieved since they last won the title in 2002. The Sharks now await their finals opponent, either the Shenzhen Leopards or defending champions the Guangsha Lions, with the best-of-seven CBA Finals set to start on May 29.