Powerhouses ruled the night. Four of the top six teams overcame their respective opponents in 35th round of the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) league on Thursday, while teams clumping together in the middle of the table are in fierce competition for a berth in the playoff.

Darius Adams had 57 points and eight assists to lead Xinjiang past the visiting Zhejiang 118-116. With the home ace Abudushalamu absent, Adams didn't rest for a single minute facing Zhejiang Chouzhou, which was the last within the playoff hunt after 34 rounds. The guard saved his team with relentless steal, fast-breaks and three-pointers whenever Zhejiang was about to catch up.

"We prepared a lot in perimeter defense as their inside players are not as threatening as their shooters. They troubled us with several long-range shots, but we hold on to the end," said Adiljan, head coach of Xinjiang.

League leader Guangdong Southeast Tigers smashed Qingdao Eagles 129-108. Although Qingdao tied the game 32-32 when the first quarter ended, Guangdong soon took the reins in the second, which they won 44-20, and never gave their opponents any chances ever since.

Elsewhere, third-placed Shenzhen had a thrilling 121-114 victory over Shanxi Guotou Loongs. Guangsha, which was one game behind Shenzhen, breezed past Tianjin Gold Lion 124-109.

Shanghai Sharks is probably the biggest winner on Thursday. With Shanxi and Zhejiang defeated, Shanghai found its place at the tenth position on the table more secured after defeating Sichuan Blue Whale 106-94. 

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