The second round of the 2025-2026 CBA playoffs delivered two contrasting yet equally thrilling outcomes. Guangdong and Shanghai served up a dramatic finale and a commanding sweep, showcasing the full spectrum of postseason intensity.
In the Guangdong vs. Beijing showdown, both teams started tight, finishing the first quarter tied at 29. Beijing then surged with a 10-0 run in the second quarter to lead 52-43 at halftime. But Guangdong responded with a 13-0 burst after the break, flipping the script. Beijing held a slim 75-72 lead at the end of the third quarter. The fourth quarter was a nail-biter, with the game knotted at 91 after a clutch free throw by Quinn, forcing overtime. 
In overtime, McGee dominated inside, putting Beijing ahead. But then Xu Jie delivered a no-look assist to Zhang Haojia, who buried a corner three at the buzzer to seal a 102-99 victory. The home crowd erupted. 
Meanwhile, Shanghai took a completely different route. They built a comfortable lead in the second quarter and never looked back, crushing Shandong 96-68 to sweep the series 2-0 and advance to the semifinals. The inside-outside duo of Lovton and Wang Zhelin proved unstoppable, while Shandong struggled to find an answer, with only Chen Linjian scoring over 20 points. Shanghai’s overall efficiency and execution left Shandong helpless.
The contrast between the two games lies in execution. Guangdong’s accelerated tempo in the second half dismantled Beijing’s zone defense, while Shanghai’s balanced attack suffocated Shandong.
The new playoff rules have also been a talking point. Players and coaches are now required to channel any disputes through formal channels rather than confronting referees on the court. This shift toward greater discipline has improved game flow and reduced interruptions, which previously could halt play for nearly ten minutes due to heated arguments.
Shanghai, as the regular-season champion, now enjoys extra rest before the semifinals. This advantage underscores the importance of regular-season performance, where win percentage, head-to-head records, and point differential all matter. Shenzhen, for instance, secured home-court advantage by consistently winning and sweeping Zhejiang in their meetings.
Beyond the games, the league continues to emphasize sportsmanship. Fans are also expected to follow rules—no throwing objects onto the court, no personal attacks on opposing players. Previous incidents, like a home fan tossing a water bottle, led to fines and point deductions for the host team.
As Guangdong prepares for the decisive Game 3 against Beijing, head coach Du Feng has focused on adjusting the team’s outside shooting. The winner will face Shanghai in the semifinals, and with both teams hungry for the championship, fans can expect more electrifying basketball ahead.
