In Game 3 of the CBA playoffs, Beijing hosted Guangdong in a thrilling matchup that kept the crowd on their feet. Early in the third quarter, Guangdong held a five-point lead, but Beijing’s Zeng Fanbo sparked an 18-0 run with a steal and a fast-break layup, followed by a three-pointer. The arena erupted as Beijing took control.
Guangdong started strong with Quinn and Hu Mingxuan leading the charge, while Beijing’s imports McKissic and Spellman struggled early. However, Beijing transformed in the second half. Zhou Qi dominated inside with 18 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 blocks, converting 8 of 12 free throws. Jemaine recorded a triple-double with 17 points, 11 rebounds, and 10 assists, anchoring both ends of the floor.
The free throw disparity drew significant attention: Beijing attempted 41 free throws (making 21) compared to Guangdong’s 21 (making 11). The whistle blew frequently, and Beijing’s physical play at home frustrated Guangdong, though fans praised the clean intensity of the game.
After the match, Coach Xu Lijian’s comments resonated deeply. When asked about the victory, he first noted the team’s determination after a last-game loss, then added, “Halfway through, everyone dropped the selfish ‘I want to win’ mindset. That’s when we truly won.”
This statement struck a chord. Despite stars like McKissic, Spellman, and others underperforming, Coach Xu emphasized teamwork throughout. When players like Zeng Fanbo, Zhou Qi, and Jemaine began sharing the ball, the team came alive.
Guangdong fought hard but fell short due to Beijing’s depth. Bench players Chen Yingjun and Zhu Songwei hit crucial shots, while Guangdong relied heavily on Hu Mingxuan without enough support.
Fans online praised Xu’s insight: “Basketball isn’t a star show; it’s a 12-player battle.” The win reflected a team putting aside individual glory, with Zhou Qi clapping after blocks rather than celebrating, and Jemaine smiling at teammates instead of calling for “MVP.”
Guangdong admitted they played hard but not smart enough. Beijing’s victory came from selflessness—when McKissic and Spellman struggled, Zhou Qi didn’t force shots, and the team found the right man. The 18-0 comeback wasn’t luck; it happened when everyone replaced “I” with “we.”
As the series moves forward, the question remains: Can Beijing sustain this unselfish play? Fans wait not just for the score, but for the spirit that drives champions.