The Liaoning Flying Leopards defeated the Sichuan Jinqiang Blue Whales 104-93 in Chinese Basketball Association play on Friday, October 23, 2026, using a deeper rotation and a decisive second-half run to secure the home win. Liaoning’s backcourt control and frontcourt efficiency proved too much for Sichuan down the stretch.

Match overview

Sichuan started brightly and kept the game close through the first quarter, attacking early and hitting contested shots. Liaoning gradually found rhythm behind Zhao Jiwei’s playmaking and Zhang Zhenlin’s two-way energy. The Flying Leopards led 55-49 at halftime, then created separation in the third quarter with a 12-2 run.

The quarter scores were 27-24, 55-49, 82-70 and 104-93, reflecting Liaoning’s increasing control after the break.

Key moments

The game shifted early in the third period when Liaoning forced consecutive misses and turned them into quick points. Zhao Jiwei found shooters in transition, Zhang Zhenlin attacked closeouts and Fu Hao punished smaller defenders inside. Sichuan answered with occasional three-pointers, but could not string together enough stops to threaten late.

A fourth-quarter push briefly cut the deficit, but Liaoning responded with a composed half-court possession and a defensive stop that ended the Blue Whales’ momentum.

Tactical story

Liaoning’s half-court offense was patient and difficult to guard. The Flying Leopards used high pick-and-rolls to force switches, then attacked the paint or kicked out to open shooters. Defensively, they limited Sichuan’s transition game and made the visitors work deep into the shot clock. Sichuan’s guards created some good looks, but Liaoning’s size and rebounding advantage told in the second half.

Standout players

• Zhang Zhenlin (Liaoning): 24 points, 6 rebounds and 2 steals, impacting the game at both ends.
• Zhao Jiwei (Liaoning): 19 points and 11 assists, controlling tempo and finding open teammates.
• Fu Hao (Liaoning): 18 points and 9 rebounds, giving the Flying Leopards a reliable interior presence.
• Sichuan’s backcourt: combined for 39 points but was forced into difficult shots late.

Season impact

Liaoning’s win strengthens its position among the early CBA contenders and shows the value of its depth when starters need support. Sichuan leaves with positives from its offensive execution but will focus on defensive rebounding and late-game discipline. Results like this often shape the CBA standings race, especially when home teams protect their court.