The NBL serves as the second-tier competition below China’s professional Chinese Basketball Association.
The championship round is a best-of-five series, and Thursday’s opening game took place in Shanghai.
The Blackbird came out strong, carrying a 43-35 lead into halftime. However, the SAR rallied in the second half, opening with 11 consecutive points to swing the momentum.
The two teams battled fiercely, and with less than a minute remaining, the score was deadlocked at 76-76.
In a tense final second, Dong Jian buried a three-pointer to seal the win for Hong Kong.
The Bulls will enjoy a major boost for the next two matchups–both of which will be held at Kai Tak Arena, marking the first time the venue has ever hosted NBL finals games.
Should the series extend to a fourth or fifth game, Game 4 would be played away, with a potential decisive Game 5 taking place at Tsuen Wan Sports Centre.
