Nanjing Monkey Kings 97-106 Shandong Hi-Speed Kirin: Shandong Close Strong on the Road

The Shandong Hi-Speed Kirin earned a 106-97 road win over the Nanjing Monkey Kings in Chinese Basketball Association play on October 23, 2026, finishing the game with better execution in the fourth quarter. Shandong’s balanced scoring and poise under pressure overcame a spirited Nanjing effort that kept the contest close for long stretches.

Match overview

Nanjing came out with intent, using home-court energy to attack early and push the tempo. The Monkey Kings found success driving into the lane and kicking out to shooters, while their defensive pressure disrupted Shandong’s initial rhythm. Shandong responded by settling into its half-court offense, using screen actions to create mismatches and gradually finding cleaner looks near the basket.

The game remained tightly contested through the middle periods. Neither team could build a significant lead, and the lead changed hands multiple times as both sides traded runs. Shandong’s advantage came from its ability to score inside and draw fouls, while Nanjing stayed alive with three-point shooting and aggressive transition attacks. The final quarter, however, belonged to the visitors.

Key moments

With the game hanging in the balance early in the fourth, Shandong produced the decisive stretch. The Hi-Speed Kirin tightened their defense, forced Nanjing into contested shots and converted turnovers into quick points at the other end. A corner three followed by a strong drive-and-finish pushed the lead to a comfortable margin and forced Nanjing to chase the game.

Nanjing made a late run behind back-to-back perimeter baskets, but Shandong’s free-throw shooting and half-court execution kept the Monkey Kings at bay. A crucial offensive rebound in the final two minutes extended a Shandong possession and effectively ended Nanjing’s comeback hopes.

Tactical story

Shandong’s win was built on inside-out basketball. The Hi-Speed Kirin consistently looked to establish position in the paint, drawing help defenders and creating open catch-and-shoot opportunities on the perimeter. When Nanjing adjusted, Shandong’s guards attacked closeouts and got to the free-throw line. That multi-layered attack made the visitors difficult to guard over 40 minutes.

Nanjing’s effort was impressive, particularly on the offensive glass and in transition. The Monkey Kings generated extra possessions and kept the pressure on Shandong with quick pushes after misses. The difference was efficiency in the half-court during the closing minutes. Nanjing’s shot selection became more difficult as Shandong’s defense tightened, and the home side was unable to match Shandong’s composure at the free-throw line.

Standout performers

Shandong’s primary playmaker was central to the win, controlling pace and finding teammates in both transition and half-court sets. The Hi-Speed Kirin’s interior players also delivered important minutes, finishing through contact and controlling the defensive glass late. Nanjing’s guards provided the offensive spark, hitting difficult shots and keeping the Monkey Kings within range, while the team’s forwards battled on the boards.

Season impact

The 106-97 result is a meaningful road win for Shandong and a tough home loss for Nanjing. Shandong showed the kind of late-game discipline that translates well across a CBA season, while Nanjing demonstrated that it can compete with strong opposition but must sharpen its execution in clutch moments. The Monkey Kings will focus on defensive stops and shot quality down the stretch, while the Hi-Speed Kirin can build on a professional closing performance.