New Taipei Kings Win City Derby Against CTBC DEA 89-81

New Taipei Kings earned an 89-81 road victory over New Taipei CTBC DEA in the China Taipei Professional Basketball League on October 25, 2026, using a composed fourth quarter to win the latest edition of the New Taipei derby. The eight-point margin reflected the Kings’ superior late-game execution and their ability to make winning plays on the defensive end.

Match Overview

The derby delivered the intensity expected from two teams that know each other well. CTBC DEA started brightly, attacking the rim and using home energy to build an early advantage. The Kings responded by settling into their half-court offense, moving the ball patiently, and finding open shooters against the DEA’s helping defense.

The game remained close through three quarters, with neither team able to sustain a decisive run. The Kings’ guard play began to take over in the final period, while CTBC DEA’s offense stalled against increased pressure. A late flurry from the home side kept the result uncertain until the final minute, but the Kings made their free throws and controlled the glass to secure the win.

Key Moments

• Fourth-quarter defense: The Kings forced several contested shots and turnovers during a decisive mid-quarter stretch.
• Perimeter shot-making: Back-to-back three-pointers gave the Kings a lead they would not surrender.
• Late free throws: The visitors converted at the line to hold off CTBC DEA’s final push.

Tactical Story

The Kings’ half-court execution was the difference. They used ball screens to create mismatches, attacked the paint when CTBC DEA overextended on the perimeter, and consistently found the open man. Defensively, the Kings limited transition opportunities and forced the DEA into difficult late-clock attempts. Their rebounding discipline also prevented second-chance points during the most important possessions of the game.

CTBC DEA had success when it played with pace and attacked the basket early in possessions. However, the home side became too reliant on individual shot creation in the fourth quarter. The DEA’s turnovers and missed free throws in the closing minutes proved costly in a game decided by small margins.

Standout Performances

The Kings’ backcourt controlled the tempo and delivered key baskets in the fourth quarter. Their wing defenders also deserve credit for disrupting CTBC DEA’s rhythm. For the DEA, the interior presence and energy on the offensive glass kept the team competitive, but the home side needed more consistent perimeter shooting to counter the Kings’ late surge.

What the Result Means

The win gives New Taipei Kings bragging rights in the city rivalry and an important boost in the China Taipei Professional Basketball League standings. For CTBC DEA, the loss highlights the need for cleaner late-game execution and better shot selection under pressure. Derby results often carry extra weight for confidence, and the Kings will look to build on this performance as the season progresses.