In a decisive Game 3 of the CBA playoffs against his former team, Guangdong, Zhou Qi delivered his most dominant performance of the postseason, recording 18 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 blocks to lead Beijing to a comeback victory and a series win. His efforts on both ends of the court suppressed Guangdong’s interior, making him a key figure in Beijing’s 2-1 series triumph.
After the first two games of the series, where Zhou Qi managed only 5 points and 11 rebounds, followed by 13 points and 8 rebounds, his performance fell short of expectations. However, in the pivotal Game 3, he played with relentless energy, attacking the rim and drawing fouls. In the first quarter alone, despite shooting 1-of-3 from the field, he earned four free throws and converted three of them, tallying 5 points and 4 rebounds (including two offensive boards).
In the second quarter, Zhou Qi made his only field goal attempt but continued to pressure the defense, going 3-of-6 from the charity stripe. By halftime, he led all scorers with 10 points and 5 rebounds, helping Beijing erase an early deficit with an 18-0 run.
In the second half, Zhou Qi added 8 points and 3 rebounds, but his impact was most felt on defense, where he recorded four blocks, three of which came in the final quarter. His rim protection stifled Guangdong’s offense and was instrumental in sealing Beijing’s victory, advancing them to the semifinals for the second consecutive year. Looking ahead to a matchup against Shanghai’s strong frontcourt, Beijing will rely on Zhou Qi’s continued excellence to challenge for a finals berth.
