Shanghai Sharks defeat Zhejiang Lions in CBA

ZHUJI, China -- The international duo Jimmer Fredette and Marcus Denmon had standout performances to fuel Shanghai Sharks past Zhejiang Lions 123-111 in the 2020-21 Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) here on Monday.

Shanghai led at the beginning of the first quarter, but after Liu Zheng's mistake, Zhejiang managed to slot two consecutive three-pointers to cut the deficit to 25-24.

Entering the second quarter 27-26, Zhejiang played tough defense but later loosened the reigns, gifting Shanghai a 62-54 advantage.

The third quarter witnessed Shanghai enlarge the gap to double digits thanks to Fredette's 3-pointers and captain Zhang Zhaoxu's scoring under the basket.

The 95-79 lead encouraged Shanghai to launch a bold attack in the final period. Denmon's breakthrough helped Shanghai widen the margin to a maximum of 20 points. The team dominated the game until the last minute.

Fredette notched 27 points, four rebounds, and five assists, while point guard Luo Hanchen added 23 points and five rebounds. Denmon contributed 20 points and six rebounds.

Zhejiang's Miroslav Radulica had a game-high 34 points and 19 rebounds.