Chen Linjian (R2) of the South and Zeng Fanbo of the North contend for a loose ball during the 2023 CBA All-Star Game in Xiamen, southeast China's Fujian Province on March 26, 2023. (Xinhua/Meng Yongmin)
The North won the 2023 CBA All-Star Game as Abdusalam Abdurexit was awarded the MVP.
XIAMEN, March 26 (Xinhua) -- Six players scored in double digits to help the North beat the South 117-113 in the 2023 CBA All-Star Game here on Sunday, with Abdusalam Abdurexit from the Xinjiang Flying Tigers awarded the game's MVP.
Veteran star Yi Jianlian led the South to a 28-18 advantage in the first period, while the North fought back in the second quarter, with Guo Ailun and Tao Hanlin contributing on the offensive end and helping the North outscore their opponents by 12 points in the single quarter.
The two sides staged a close game in the second half. Tied at 106-106 at the end of the fourth quarter, the game went into overtime.
North forwards Abdusalam and Zhang Zhenlin continued their good performances on the 3-point line, as Zhang buried a key shot with less than one minute left to seal the victory for the North.
Abdusalam had 20 points, eight rebounds and six assists for the North. Guo had 15 points and 14 assists. Zeng Fanbo and Tao scored 18 and 16 points respectively.
Abdusalam Abdurexit (R) goes for a layup during the 2023 CBA All-Star Game in Xiamen, southeast China's Fujian Province on March 26, 2023. (Xinhua/Meng Yongmin)
"I'm so happy to win the MVP honor," said Abdusalam. "We all want to prove ourselves and I love the fans here in Xiamen."
Guangdong Southern Tigers guard Hu Mingxuan had a game-high 24 points for the South. Shanghai Sharks center Wang Zhelin added 23.
Guangdong guard Xu Jie outplayed Shanxi Loongs forward Zhang Ning to win the Skill Challenge Contest.
Wang Ruize was crowned in the Three-Point Shooting Contest with 20 points, beating Zhou Qimo and Yuan Shuai during the process.
Wildcard player Yang Hao outscored Zhang Zhenlin and rookie star Zeng Fanbo to win the Slam Dunk Contest. ■
