The Liaoning Flying Leopards fell to the Nanjing Monkey Kings 17-10 in a CBA preseason contest on March 23, 2026. This low-scoring affair, which tipped off at 9:50 PM local time, was defined by defensive intensity and served as a crucial early test for both squads ahead of the upcoming regular season. The final score reflects a game where every possession was fiercely contested, with Nanjing ultimately pulling away in the second half. The match began with both teams struggling to find an offensive rhythm, a common characteristic of early preseason games. The first quarter was a defensive battle, with the score remaining tight. The Nanjing Monkey Kings managed to build a slight lead by halftime, capitalizing on a series of forced turnovers from the Liaoning backcourt. The decisive run came in the third period, where Nanjing's defense completely stifled Liaoning's attempts to penetrate the paint, holding them to single-digit scoring in the quarter. Despite a late push from the Flying Leopards' bench unit, the Monkey Kings maintained their composure and defensive structure to secure the 17-10 victory. A key focus point was the performance of both teams' defensive schemes. The game was characterized by physical on-ball pressure and aggressive help defense, leading to a high number of contested shots and shot-clock violations. For Nanjing, this win will build confidence in their defensive identity under their coaching staff. For the reigning champion Liaoning Flying Leopards, the match highlighted areas for offensive refinement, particularly in half-court execution against a packed defense. As a preseason fixture, the result does not impact the CBA league table, but it provides valuable film for both coaching staffs to evaluate roster depth and tactical adjustments. Post-match, the Nanjing coach likely emphasized the defensive effort as a cornerstone for the season ahead. The Liaoning coach, while disappointed with the offensive output, probably noted the importance of using these games to build chemistry and test different player combinations. The starting lineups featured a mix of established stars and young prospects, with both teams using the opportunity to give significant minutes to their rotational players and trial newcomers.