The CBA regular season's ninth round features a compelling matchup on January 2nd, 2026, at 19:35. Shanxi Loongs will host Guangzhou Loong Lions in a game both teams are eager to win. Historically, Shanxi Loongs holds a slight edge with 23 wins in their 44 meetings. They swept the series last season. Recently, Shanxi Loongs has suffered three consecutive losses, dropping them to 12th place. Guangzhou Loong Lions, with a 3-4 record, currently sits in 16th. Both teams are looking to reverse their fortunes in this game. A key player for Shanxi Loongs, Diallo, averages 18.5 points and 4.5 rebounds per game. Guangzhou Loong Lions must be wary of their away defense, conceding an average of 89.3 points on the road. From a tactical perspective, Shanxi Loongs will likely rely on their inside game and outside shooting, boasting a 38.5% three-point percentage at home. Guangzhou Loong Lions needs to secure rebounds, averaging a league-best 45.3 rebounds per game. Key matchups include the battle of the big men, Liu Chuanxing (2.25m) versus Xu Xin (2.26m), and the performance of Jia Mingru against his former team. Shanxi Loongs needs to control Guangzhou Loong Lions' fast breaks and minimize turnovers (Guangzhou Loong Lions averages 16.7 turnovers). If Shanxi Loongs can do this, they have a good chance of ending their losing streak. Conversely, if Guangzhou Loong Lions capitalizes on their rebounding advantage and generates second-chance opportunities, they could secure a road victory. The prediction is Shanxi Loongs to win by 9.5 points. (3 stars)