'Fourth-round upset → runner-up': Coach Ha Sang-yun fought well, saying, "I think I have a lot to learn... I will try again" [Yongin on-site]

*This content was translated by AI.

Yongin Samsung Life's attempt to stage a comeback at home ended in a disappointing runner-up finish. Coach Ha Sang-yun of Samsung Life encouraged his players who never gave up until the end and looked forward to the next season.

On the afternoon of the 26th, Samsung Life lost 65-80 to Cheongju KB Stars in the third game of the BNK Financial 2025~2026 Women's Professional Basketball Championship Finals held at Yongin Indoor Gymnasium. With a series record of three losses, Samsung Life had to watch KB's championship ceremony in front of home fans.

On this day, Lee Hae-ran of Samsung Life scored 19 points and fought hard, with Nanami (11 points) and Kang Yu-rim (9 points) supporting her, but they could not control the powerful offense of KB Stars led by Kang Yi-seul and Heo Ye-eun. In particular, the opponents' long-range shots that erupted at critical moments were painful.

In a post-game interview, Coach Ha Sang-yun said, "There were many ups and downs in the early part of the season, including injured players. We came this far by joining forces when things were difficult." He added, "Although it is disappointing, I want to express my gratitude to the players who made it to the Championship Finals."

Samsung Life, which finished third in the regular season, achieved an upset by defeating second-place Bucheon Hana Bank in the fourth-round playoffs. Coach Ha Sang-yun said, "Some players, including Bae Hye-yoon, were not in good physical condition. I thought that if their conditions had been better, we could have been competitive." He continued, "I don't know the roster for next season yet, but if we prepare well, I think we can achieve good results. Since I was a coach, I haven't often spent a full season with the best five. I think we need to prepare well in that regard."

This season, Samsung Life faced variables such as Kianna's unexpected departure. Coach Ha Sang-yun noted, "Regardless of Kianna's return, we had to hold on in the first half with the current roster. (Kianna's absence) was not a big problem."

Regarding Lee Hae-ran's growth, he said, "She performed better than I expected. She is still young and has much to learn. We will try to diversify her offensive routes." He added, "She is already doing well, but I hope she grows like Woori Bank's Kim Dan-bi. If the players and coaching staff work together, she can become a solid center of the WKBL."

Additionally, Coach Ha Sang-yun said, "It seemed like the players' energy faded during the Championship Finals. As a coach, I should have handled it better." He concluded, "I think I also have a lot to learn. I will prepare well so that I can challenge again next season."

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*This content was translated by AI.