In Game 2 of the CBA quarterfinals, the Shanxi team suffered a narrow 81-86 defeat at home against the Guangsha Lions, losing by just five points. The series is now tied 1-1, with both teams set to play a decisive third game at Guangsha’s home court. The winner advances to the semifinals, while the loser is eliminated.
The first half was tightly contested, but Guangsha held a slight edge, leading by five points at the break. In the second half, both teams struggled offensively, keeping the score close. Ultimately, Guangsha’s superior execution in clutch moments allowed them to secure the win.
Why couldn’t Shanxi claim victory on their home floor and clinch a semifinal spot? The answer points to head coach Pan Jiang, whose three critical errors proved decisive.
1. Over-reliance on Nate: After a standout performance in Game 1, Nate struggled mightily in Game 2. He was ineffective on both ends of the floor, failing to score in the first three quarters. Despite this, Pan Jiang continued to play him in the fourth quarter. Nate finished with just 3 points, 3 rebounds, 3 turnovers, and 4 fouls on 0-for-3 shooting, becoming a liability for Shanxi.
2. Lack of hierarchy in foreign player rotation: Shanxi’s four foreign players each logged around 15–20 minutes, regardless of their form. Pan Jiang seemed determined to distribute minutes evenly, even though Diallo was in excellent rhythm. Diallo played only 19 minutes, and had he been given a larger role, Shanxi likely would have won.
3. Benching Liu Chuanxing in the fourth quarter: The 2.25-meter center provided a spark off the bench, scoring efficiently and anchoring the defense, making it difficult for Guangsha to attack the paint. However, just as Liu was playing his best basketball in the fourth quarter, Pan Jiang surprisingly pulled him from the game. Liu finished with 6 points and 2 rebounds on 3-for-3 shooting in just 7 minutes, posting a plus-minus of +4. Keeping him on the floor might have changed the outcome.
Pan Jiang’s decisions ultimately backfired, leaving Shanxi to rue what could have been. The series now shifts to Guangsha for the decisive Game 3.
