[Behind the Scenes] 'We couldn't even conduct 5-on-5 training...' Dongguk University, which captured Korea University for the first time in six years, had hidden support from professional seniors

*This content was translated by AI.

Dongguk University defeated Korea University for the first time in six years. It was a 20-point victory against a powerhouse in college basketball. More meaningful than the result was the process leading to the win. With many injured players, 5-on-5 training was not even feasible, but support from Dongguk University alumni now playing professionally became a great source of strength for their juniors.

On the 27th, Dongguk University defeated Korea University 64-44 in a home game at the Dongguk University gymnasium in Jung-gu, Seoul, during the 2026 KUSF University Basketball U-League. Dongguk University's basketball team has not defeated Korea University in six years.

Lee Ho-geun, Dongguk University head coach, viewed the victory as significant. In a phone interview with StarNews on the 28th, Lee said, "I think this is the first time I have defeated Korea University since becoming Dongguk University's head coach." He added, "After suffering a heavy defeat against Konkuk University in the previous game, the players seemed discouraged, but they appeared to have the will to bounce back themselves. Every player who stepped onto the court fulfilled their role sufficiently."

He continued, "Students from the first year through the fourth year have never beaten Korea University before. I believe this victory will significantly boost their confidence."

In fact, the process was not easy. There were many injuries. As many as eight players were injured, making even 5-on-5 training difficult. Despite these challenging circumstances, the team faced a crisis upon meeting the strong Korea University.

However, at that critical moment, seniors who had graduated from Dongguk University and were playing in the KBL came to provide support. Im Jeong-hyun (23, Changwon LG), Baek Seung-yeop (23, Wonju DB), and Lee Dae-gyun (25, Ulsan Hyundai Mobis) volunteered to serve as training partners. Thanks to them, Dongguk University was able to conduct 5-on-5 training and prepare for the match against Korea University. As a result, the juniors secured a meaningful victory over Korea University for the first time in six years.

Head coach Lee Ho-geun expressed his gratitude, stating, "Professional players came to the school and assisted with training. Thanks to them, we were able to conduct 5-on-5 training."

First, Im Jeong-hyun entered the professional league after being selected as the 5th pick in the 3rd round of the 2025 Rookie Draft by Changwon LG. His position is forward. Having made it to the professional level with difficulty, he is working hard to grow. He appeared in 11 games during the 2025 D-League and played in two regular-season games during the 2025-2026 season.

Guard Baek Seung-yeop also helped his juniors. Baek Seung-yeop joined Wonju DB after being selected as the 3rd pick in the 2nd round of the 2024 Rookie Draft.

Lee Dae-gyun, who was selected 5th overall in the 2024 Rookie Draft, is receiving more opportunities in the professional league. Playing for Ulsan Hyundai Mobis, Lee Dae-gyun appeared in 25 regular-season games during the 2025-2026 season, averaging 1.6 points and 1.0 rebounds.

While these players are now continuing their respective competitions as professionals, they willingly made time this time for their juniors at their alma mater. The background behind Dongguk University's ability to win despite difficult circumstances was this hidden support from their seniors.

Dongguk University, which faced difficulties early in the season, found an opportunity to rebound with this victory. Their season record is now 4 wins and 6 losses, placing them 7th in the league. They are in a position to fully aim for a mid-tier standing.

Head coach Lee Ho-geun said, "I hope we can maintain this momentum. Our next game is against Sungkyunkwan University, one of the strong teams. Since the players have already defeated Korea University, I hope they have confidence."

The goal is to reach the playoffs. Head coach Lee Ho-geun emphasized, "First, it is important to make it to the playoffs. Then we must create the right situation." He added, "We are now past the midpoint of the season. The upcoming games are quite important."

Meanwhile, Head coach Lee Ho-geun served on the selection committee for the Basketball Division of the 'Future Star Awards' hosted by StarNews in both 2024 and 2025. In 2024, Park Jeong-woong (20), who joined Anyang Jung-gwan with the 1st overall pick in the KBL Rookie Draft, won the award. In 2025, Eddie Daniel (19, Seoul SK), who is active with the Korean national basketball team, received the award. Additionally, Head coach Lee Ho-geun has served as the head coach at Incheon Electroland and Yongin Samsung Life, and has led Dongguk University since January 2021.

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*This content was translated by AI.