KCC Head Coach Lee Sang-min, who shared news of Heo Woong's absence: "Pelvis and adductor pain; the next game will likely be difficult as well"

*This content was translated by AI.View Original

Busan KCC's main scorer Heo Woong (33) will also sit out the away game against Anyang Jeonggwangjo. This marks his third consecutive absence. As his recovery is slow, it remains uncertain whether he will be available for the next away game scheduled for the 21st against Seoul Samsung Thunders.

KCC will play in a Round 1 away game against Anyang Jeonggwangjo in the 2026-2027 KCC Pro Basketball League at Anyang Gymnasium on the 18th. Ahead of the match, Head Coach Lee Sang-min spoke with reporters on site about the condition of his ace, Heo Woong.

In response to a StarNews inquiry regarding Heo Woong's absence and the possibility of him playing in the next game, Head Coach Lee Sang-min shook his head, saying, "It seems it will not be easy for him to play in the next game either." He added, "He is receiving injections and continuing treatment, but pain in the adductor and pelvic areas persists," suggesting that it would take some time before he returns.

While dealing with Heo Woong's absence, the opposing Jeonggwangjo team has also undergone changes, including an injury to foreign player Rashon Thomas. Coach Lee diagnosed the Jeonggwangjo team, whom they are meeting for the first time this season, by stating, "Their style has not changed significantly, but as a team with height and speed, I think tempo battles and stopping transitions will be important." He further emphasized, "Since the opponent plays a fast-paced game rather than holding onto the ball for long periods, we need to focus on defending strongly from the start, organizing our defense, and securing rebounds."

He also spoke about the schedule involving both the East Asia Super League (EASL) and the domestic league. Head Coach Lee Sang-moon noted regarding the recent away trip to Nagasaki, Japan, "The travel itself was not too burdensome as it is relatively close, but with tight games overlapping immediately after returning—on the next day and the day after that—we must pay attention to managing the players' stamina and fatigue."

He further discussed the game plan, stating, "The key is the chemistry between foreign and domestic players, and organically utilizing the chances derived when our scorers have the ball." He added, "With the addition of foreign players, I hope that scoring is not concentrated on just one or two specific players, but that all players on the court contribute evenly to scoring."

As the absence of key perimeter player Heo Woong continues, KCC will challenge for a victory against Jeonggwangjo by leveraging the cohesive teamwork and offensive-defensive balance of their available resources.

<© STARNEWS. All rights reserved. No reproduction or redistribution allowed.>

*This content was translated by AI.View Original