A thrilling match unfolded in the 27th round of the CBA, which was not only a basketball showdown but also resembled a dramatic movie that had all spectators holding their breath until the very last moment.
The protagonists were two strong teams - Shanxi and Xinjiang. Before the game, both teams had a record of 19 wins and 6 losses, ranking second and third in the league respectively. However, no one could have anticipated the incredible way this match would end.
From the start, Xinjiang quickly found their rhythm with Xierzati firing from outside, Li Yanzhe scoring under the basket, and Hegen stealing the ball for a counterattack layup. These smooth moves gave them a good start. Especially Ilyas Fu La Ti, who hit three consecutive three-pointers, helping Xinjiang quickly widen the score gap. At the end of the first quarter, Xinjiang was already leading 41 to 26.
At this point, Xinjiang seemed to have control of the game's pace, while Shanxi appeared somewhat caught off guard.
During halftime, the Shanxi coaching staff clearly made targeted adjustments to try to reverse the unfavorable situation. Despite this, Shanxi still faced significant challenges in the following period.
By the end of the third quarter, Xinjiang still maintained a huge advantage of 25 points. At this moment, for most viewers, the outcome of the game seemed to be a foregone conclusion; but for Shanxi, it was just the beginning of a new chapter.
However, the real miracle happened in the fourth quarter. When everyone thought victory would undoubtedly go to Xinjiang, Shanxi suddenly erupted.
Xinjiang missed all nine shots within nearly five minutes at the start of the final quarter, scoring no points. In contrast, Shanxi seized the opportunity to launch a 16-0 run, instantly reducing the point difference to single digits.
This series of quick scores completely changed the atmosphere on the court, making the seemingly unreachable victory now within grasp.
As the game neared its end, Zhang Ning stepped up, scoring 5 points through a three-pointer and free throws, leading the team to continue narrowing the gap.
Goodwin was not to be outdone, countering with a 2+1 layup, further closing the score. In the critical moments, although Xinjiang attempted to counterattack, Shanxi gradually took control of the situation with tenacious defense and efficient offense.
Ultimately, in the last few minutes, Shanxi unleashed an incredible 13-0 offensive wave, successfully turning the tide from a 25-point deficit to a lead, ultimately defeating their opponents 115-110.
Notably, in this epic comeback, the performance of the foreign players played a crucial role. Diyaluo scored 22 points, 9 rebounds, 3 assists, and 3 steals throughout the game, becoming one of Shanxi's most stable scoring points;
Jiels contributed 16 points, 7 rebounds, and 3 blocks, demonstrating his powerful inside dominance; Goodwin delivered a stat line of 20 points, 11 assists, and 7 rebounds, not only scoring himself but also effectively organizing the team's offense.
The outstanding performances of these three foreign players were undoubtedly one of the key factors in Shanxi's ability to complete the great comeback.
In addition to the foreign players, domestic players also rose to the occasion in critical moments. Zhang Ning scored 11 points alone in the final quarter, including several key three-pointers, injecting strong momentum into the team;
Liu Chuanxing not only contributed 12 points, 8 rebounds, and 5 blocks but also completed a buzzer-beating 2+1 shot in the final moments.
These young players proved their worth with their actions and injected more confidence into the entire team.
This victory is not only recognition of Shanxi's tactical level but also the best interpretation of their never-give-up spirit.
It tells us that in the world of sports competition, nothing is impossible. As long as you persist to the end, miracles can happen.
And for fans, such a game filled with passion and surprises is undoubtedly the most beautiful gift.