[FA Interview] Rejected coaching position, chose to continue playing... '41-year-old' Heo Il-young moves to Anyang Jungkwanjang: "Still worth competing against young players"

*This content was translated by AI.

Heo Il-young (41), the oldest active player in professional basketball, has chosen another challenge. Through a free agent (FA) transfer, he is leaving Changwon LG to continue his playing career with Anyang Jungkwanjang.

In a phone interview with StarNews on the 29th, Heo Il-young said, "I had a strong will to continue my playing career. Jungkwanjang reached out to me at the right time. Honestly, it is not easy to bring someone of my age. I am very grateful because they considered me and recognized my value."

On that day, Jungkwanjang officially announced the signing, stating, "We are starting a new journey with Heo Il-young through an FA contract." The contract is for two years with a total compensation of 120 million won.

Heo Il-young entered the professional stage as the second overall pick in the 2009 rookie draft and is currently the oldest active player in the KBL. Despite his age, he has demonstrated the presence of a veteran shooter by hitting outside shots at crucial moments. In the 2025-2026 regular season, he appeared in 44 games, averaging 12 minutes and 10 seconds per game, recording 3.6 points and 1.7 rebounds.

However, after the season ended, Heo Il-young, who gained FA eligibility, faced a time of decision. It was a moment where he had to ponder between retirement and extending his playing career. Yet, Heo Il-young once again chose to stand on the court.

Heo Il-young did not forget his gratitude toward LG. He said, "LG offered me a coaching position, but my will to continue my playing career was stronger. LG respected my wishes, and after having a good conversation, I left the team."

Jungkwanjang reached out to Heo Il-young more actively than any other team. For Heo Il-young, who placed greater weight on extending his playing career than on contract terms, it was a grateful offer. Heo Il-young stated, "Jungkwanjang created an unexpected connection. They told me to try well until the end, so I signed the contract in a good mood. I thought it was natural to go to a team that came looking for me."

Jungkwanjang also needed Heo Il-young's experience and shooting ability. Jungkwanjang head coach Yoo Do-hoon emphasized the importance of shooters several times during the previous season. During this off-season, 'Fire Shooter' Jeon Seong-hyun moved to Suwon KT, creating a need to reinforce outside resources. Jungkwanjang acquired veteran shooter Heo Il-young to add experience and outside options to their roster.

Heo Il-young was clear about the role he needed to fulfill at Jungkwanjang. He said, "I am not going to play 20 to 30 minutes at Jungkwanjang. I also spoke with Coach Yoo Do-hoon, and he said he would utilize me well when needed at the right time."

He continued, "He told me in a positive way that if my condition is good, I can play more, and if I perform well, I can get more opportunities. He has been watching me for a long time since I was with another team. I believe he will utilize me well. I will prepare hard to repay that trust."

He also has confidence. Heo Il-young said, "Actually, my initial goal was to play until I was 40. But every year, young players come in, and when I collide with them in practice games, I feel that I can still do it."

He further explained, "Of course, it is difficult to keep up with the speed of young players. However, I think the speed issue can be sufficiently covered with experience. I am not the type with a lot of activity or outstanding athletic ability. But I know the efficiency of moving when I need to move, and I know how to move, which is why I have been able to continue my playing career so far."

He did not forget to express gratitude to LG fans. Heo Il-young said, "I received a lot of love from LG fans over the past two years. I think I will never forget it even after retirement. I also won the first championship in LG's history with the club. Thanks to the fans' support, I was able to work hard. With this transfer, I feel very sorry. I hope they will welcome me warmly when we meet on the road."

Regarding Jungkwanjang fans, he promised, "I will work hard silently. If you support me, I will show you a good performance."

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*This content was translated by AI.