The Nanjing Monkey Kings edged the Shenzhen Leopards 101-99 in a thriller at home on Sunday, surviving a frantic finish to claim a two-point victory in Chinese Basketball Association action. In a game that featured 200 combined points and multiple lead changes, the Monkey Kings made just enough plays in the closing possessions to hold off a determined Shenzhen rally.

Match Overview

From the opening quarter, this game had the feel of a shootout. Both teams came out firing, trading baskets in a fast-paced first half that saw the lead swing back and forth. Nanjing's home crowd was treated to an entertaining, high-scoring contest, and the intensity only increased as the game wore on.

Neither defense was able to fully impose itself, but that only added to the drama. With the scoreline never running away from either side, the final minutes turned into a possession-by-possession battle in which execution and composure mattered more than any tactical adjustment.

Key Moments

• First-half fireworks: Both teams shot the ball well early, with Nanjing and Shenzhen trading runs that kept the game within a handful of points throughout the opening two quarters.
• Third-quarter push: The Monkey Kings briefly threatened to pull away behind a surge of transition offense, only for the Leopards to respond with timely three-point shooting.
• Down-the-stretch drama: The final two minutes featured clutch baskets at both ends, with the lead changing hands before Nanjing seized control in the last possessions.
• Final defensive stand: Trailing by two, Shenzhen had a chance to tie or win in the closing seconds, but Nanjing's defense held firm to protect the one-possession margin.

Tactical Story

This was a game decided by shot-making and late-game decision-making. Nanjing's offense relied on penetration and kick-outs, generating open looks from the perimeter while also drawing fouls to get to the free-throw line. Their ability to convert in transition gave them an edge against a Shenzhen team that prefers to play in the half court.

The Leopards kept themselves in the game with efficient perimeter shooting and aggressive offensive rebounding, repeatedly answering Nanjing runs with quick baskets of their own. In the end, however, a couple of empty possessions in the final minute proved decisive. Nanjing's composure at the line and their discipline on the last defensive sequence sealed the win.

Standout Performances

Nanjing's primary scorers stepped up when it mattered, carrying the offense through stretches and delivering in the clutch. Their guard play was particularly important, controlling tempo and making smart reads against Shenzhen's defensive pressure.

For the Leopards, the performance was a strong one in a losing effort. Shenzhen's perimeter shooting kept them within striking distance all game long, and their resilience on the road nearly produced a statement win. Small margins separated the sides, and on this occasion the Monkey Kings found the extra play.

What It Means

The narrow victory is a useful result for Nanjing Monkey Kings in the CBA standings, particularly as it comes at home in a game that could have gone either way. Winning tight contests builds confidence and reinforces good habits for the games ahead.

For Shenzhen Leopards, the 99-101 defeat is a painful one, but the performance showed plenty of positives. A two-point road loss against a competitive opponent suggests the Leopards are capable of competing with anyone in the league — they will simply be looking to close out these tight games more ruthlessly next time.

Box Score Summary

• Final Score: Nanjing Monkey Kings 101 – 99 Shenzhen Leopards
• Competition: Chinese Basketball Association
• Venue: Home court of the Nanjing Monkey Kings
• Date: 2026-10-11
• Result: Nanjing Monkey Kings win by 2