*This content was translated by AI.
Busan OK Savings Bank did not hesitate to use its first-round draft pick. The team selected Kyle Russell (33, USA).
OK Savings Bank head coach Shin Young-cheol selected Russell at the 2026-2027 Korea Volleyball Federation (KOVO) Men's Foreign Player Draft, held on the 10th (Korean time) at the Clarion Congress Hotel in Prague, Czech Republic, after securing the overall first-round pick.
The draft order was determined by a lottery. OK Savings Bank (30 marbles) won the overall first pick, surpassing Daejeon Samsung Fire & Marine Insurance (35 marbles), which held more marbles based on the reverse order of last season's final standings.
For Russell, leaving the Korean stage as things stood would have been regrettable. He had to pack his bags after being replaced by Jose Mazo (registered name: Mazo) of Korean Air following the end of the 2025-2026 regular season. Although Korean Air ultimately secured the overall championship, Russell could not celebrate.
And just two months later, he returned to the Korean stage. Having played for Suwon KEPCO, Daejeon Samsung Fire & Marine Insurance, and Korean Air, Russell will now continue his V-League career with OK Savings Bank.
Coach Shin Young-cheol said, "Last season, although we had the highest probability of securing the first pick, we were pushed down to fifth in the lottery, which was disappointing. Today, being selected first makes me very happy." He added, "Russell has a strong serve and good height, and his power is excellent. Handling difficult balls is also crucial, and I expect a lot from Russell."
Russell had also expressed concerns about physical burden. Nevertheless, Coach Shin stated, "The most important thing is Russell's mindset. We will communicate with Russell to identify any issues. Regarding his physical condition, as long as he stays healthy, I don't think there will be major problems." He continued, "The coach's goal is always to win the championship. Since we finished sixth last season, we must close the gap with the top teams. We need to reinvent ourselves to win the love of OK Savings Bank fans. With the increase in Busan home fans following the relocation, we must not disappoint them."
Russell said, "I am truly happy to return to the V-League. I believe the level of Korean volleyball and the passion of the fans are truly special. I am very excited to compete on this stage for another season. I am thrilled to have received a new opportunity."
Being selected first means his value has been recognized. Russell remarked, "This has great meaning. It shows that the team trusts and expects a lot from me, which is an honor. To repay that trust, I will work harder and do everything I can to contribute to the team's success."
Having played for many teams, it also means his utility has been recognized. Russell said, "It's already my fourth time wearing a Korean team jersey, which I find truly amazing. Each team and city offered different experiences and memories, and I am grateful for all that time. Now, starting a new chapter with OK, I am truly excited."
OK Savings Bank relocated to Busan and received the passionate support of Busan fans. Russell also said, "Last season, the support from Busan fans was truly amazing. Whether the team was doing well or in difficult moments, I always felt their energy. They were very passionate, loud, and made the game atmosphere enjoyable. Now, I look forward to becoming part of that support."
He could not share in last season's championship joy. Therefore, the biggest goal is naturally the championship. Russell pledged, "My biggest goal this season is to help the team secure as many wins as possible and challenge for the championship. Personally, I want to go through the season healthy, become a good leader for my teammates, and consistently deliver high-level performance in every game."
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*This content was translated by AI.
