SHANGHAI: Shanghai Sharks small forward Li Hongquan and Qingdao Eagles shooting guard Quinndary Weatherspoon have been named the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) league’s Players of the Week for games held between the 24th and 26th rounds, according to an announcement by the league’s governing body on Sunday.
According to Namibia Press Agency, Li was instrumental in Shanghai’s two victories over the past week, averaging 25.5 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game, with an average playing time of 41 minutes. His proficiency from beyond the arc was notable, as he made an average of 6.5 three-point shots per game with a shooting percentage of 54.2%. These performances have contributed to Shanghai’s 12-game winning streak, propelling the team from the bottom to the 12th position in the 20-team CBA standings, boasting a 13-10 record.
Weatherspoon’s performance was equally impressive, as he averaged 34.0 points, 8.0 assists, and 1.7 steals while aiding Qingdao in securing two wins out of three matches this week. The 28-year-old showcased remarkable shooting accuracy with a 62.7% field goal percentage, 90.9% from the free-throw line, and 50% on three-pointers, achieving a combined shooting percentage exceeding 200%. Notably, in Friday’s victory over the top-four team Shanxi Loongs, Weatherspoon scored 39 points and provided eight assists in 45 minutes of action, including 13 critical points in the fourth quarter.
After 26 rounds, Qingdao holds the eighth position in the CBA standings with a win-loss record of 17-9, reflecting the significant impact of Weatherspoon’s contributions to the team’s success.