Beijing Royal Fighters claimed a 99-97 road win over Shandong Hi-Speed Kirin in Chinese Basketball Association play on November 2, 2026, surviving a tense final minute to secure a two-point victory. The Royal Fighters’ late poise and half-court execution proved enough to overcome a determined Shandong side that fought back throughout the night.
Match overview
The contest was closely fought from start to finish, with both teams trading runs and neither able to build a lasting advantage. Shandong Hi-Speed Kirin used their home energy to stay aggressive on the offensive glass, while Beijing Royal Fighters relied on perimeter shooting and disciplined half-court sets. The score remained tight entering the fourth quarter, and the final minutes turned into a possession-by-possession battle.
With the game on the line, Beijing’s ability to create a clean look and protect the lead made the difference. Shandong had a chance to answer late, but the Royal Fighters forced a difficult final attempt.
Key moments
- Shandong erased a small fourth-quarter deficit with offensive rebounds and second-chance points.
- Beijing responded with a composed half-court possession to retake the lead in the final minute.
- A late defensive stop and free-throw conversion gave the Royal Fighters enough cushion to hold on.
The decisive sequence came in the closing seconds. Beijing managed the clock well, forced Shandong to foul, and converted at the line. Shandong’s final shot attempt missed, allowing the Royal Fighters to escape with the win.
Tactical story
Beijing’s half-court offense was patient and efficient. The Royal Fighters used ball screens to create mismatches and moved the ball until they found open shooters. Defensively, they were willing to concede some offensive rebounds in order to contest Shandong’s perimeter looks. That trade-off worked just enough in the final minutes.
Shandong’s strength came from their activity around the rim. The Hi-Speed Kirin generated extra possessions and kept the game close with physical play. However, their inability to convert a late free throw and a contested final shot cost them. In a two-point game, those small misses were decisive.
Standout performers
Beijing’s guards controlled the tempo in the fourth quarter and made key decisions under pressure. The Royal Fighters’ frontcourt also contributed important rebounds and interior defense. Shandong’s leading scorers kept the hosts in the game with aggressive drives and second-chance finishes, but the team could not complete the comeback. Beijing’s bench provided timely minutes, helping the visitors maintain energy in a tight road environment.
What it means
The 99-97 win gives Beijing Royal Fighters a valuable road result in the CBA standings and reinforces their ability to close tight games. For Shandong Hi-Speed Kirin, the loss is a narrow setback that will sting, especially after fighting back in the fourth quarter. The game served as another reminder that in the Chinese Basketball Association, late-game execution and free-throw accuracy can decide the outcome even when both teams score near 100 points.


