Guangdong Hongyuan has arrived in Beijing ahead of schedule to prepare for the do-or-die Game 3 of the CBA playoffs against Beijing, scheduled for May 12. Team owner Chen has accompanied the squad and promised to increase the win bonus for Game 3. If the team advances to the semifinals, the bonus will be further raised.
Chen, known for his deep passion for basketball and the team, was seen jumping out of his seat in celebration after Zhang Haojia’s clutch three-pointer sealed the victory in Game 2. He had already pledged a bonus for that win, and now he has doubled down ahead of the critical Game 3. This bonus comes from Chen personally, separate from the incentives offered by sponsor Dongyang Group.
Meanwhile, guard Xu Jie is set to become eligible for a max contract when his current deal expires next summer. Guangdong currently has only one max slot used—by Hu Mingxuan—leaving two available, which are widely expected to be reserved for Xu and Cui Yongxi. Given Xu’s impact, many believe he deserves a max deal comparable to Hu’s.
The series is now evenly poised after Guangdong’s dramatic Game 2 win, but the team still faces an uphill battle in terms of depth and overall strength. Hu Mingxuan and Quinn Cook stepped up in the last game, but they will likely face tighter defense in Game 3. Coach Du Feng will need Xu Jie, Cui Yongxi, and the remaining imports to contribute heavily, especially from beyond the arc. The team’s determination and execution will be key to securing a victory on the road.
