What happened?
Zhejiang Lions entered the crucial stage of the 2025-2026 CBA playoffs as Shanghai Sharks’ American center Hassan Niam Whiteside tested positive for oxandrolone metabolites and clomifene, prompting the China Anti‑Doping Agency to announce a two‑year ban. The test occurred during the May 6 home game against Shandong Hi‑Speed Kirin, and Whiteside waived his right to a B‑sample analysis. He still played the second quarter‑final game and the entire semi‑final series, but missed the finals against Zhejiang, where Shanghai ultimately won the championship 4‑1.
Why it matters for Zhejiang Lions
Zhejiang secured a 95‑88 win in Game 1 of the finals, and without Shanghai’s foreign big man, the Lions must re‑allocate rebounding and rim‑protection duties. Whiteside’s NBA averages of 10.2 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks illustrate his interior threat. His absence eases the pressure on Zhejiang’s paint defense, allowing the team to run more aggressive pick‑and‑rolls and push their 3‑point shooting to 38%. Coach Wang Shilong will likely give local center Liu Xiaoyu increased minutes to fill the gap.
What comes next?
The ban was confirmed on Friday, and Shanghai will retain the title but lose a key inside presence. Zhejiang now faces Guangdong Southern Tigers in the next playoff round, a squad with a strong frontcourt. If the Lions exploit the void left by Whiteside, maintaining high efficiency in the paint and fast‑break transitions, they could take an early series lead. The league says it will keep testing other players to ensure fair competition.
Season outlook
The CBA season remains tightly contested; Zhejiang posted a 48‑12 record, second only to Shanghai. The doping scandal adds a psychological and tactical layer. Should the Lions keep their field‑goal percentage above 45% in each quarter and generate double‑digit steals and blocks, they stand a solid chance of clinching their first championship this year.