The first semifinal matchup of the CBA playoffs has been set, featuring a classic Beijing-Shanghai showdown. After top-seeded Shanghai easily defeated Shandong 2-1 in the quarterfinals, Beijing overcame Guangdong in a decisive Game 3, winning 2-1 to secure the final spot in the upper half. This marks the seventh playoff meeting between the two franchises and the first time in 25 years they clash in the semifinals, with a five-game series format.
Shanghai, the regular-season champion, displayed dominant form by sweeping Shandong in two straight games, showcasing their depth and power. Meanwhile, Beijing staged a comeback in the “Beijing-Guangdong” series, erasing a 10-point deficit in Game 3 with an 18-0 run before cruising to an 88-73 victory, booking their 12th trip to the semifinals and second consecutive appearance.
The “Beijing-Shanghai War” renews its postseason rivalry. Their playoff history includes:
– 1997-98 (Quarterfinals): Beijing 2-1 Shanghai
– 1999-00 (Quarterfinals): Shanghai 2-0 Beijing
– 2000-01 (Semifinals): Shanghai 3-0 Beijing
– 2017-18 (First Round): Beijing 2-1 Shanghai
– 2018-19 (First Round): Beijing 2-0 Shanghai
– 2023-24 (First Round): Shanghai 2-1 Beijing
– 2025-26 (Semifinals): Shanghai vs Beijing
The semifinal schedule (best-of-five) is as follows:
– May 15: Shanghai vs Beijing
– May 17: Shanghai vs Beijing
– May 20: Beijing vs Shanghai
– May 22: Beijing vs Shanghai (if necessary)
– May 25: Shanghai vs Beijing (if necessary)