“A 100-point Aquar, a premium setter, and a championship-winning master coach”: Samsung Fire’s 180-degree transformation was backed by well-founded confidence in “BACK TO THE TOP”

*This content was translated by AI.View Original

Daejeon Samsung Fire, aiming to wash away the regrets of last season and rebuild its status as a powerhouse, showcased significantly improved tenacity and destructive power from its first game of the 2026-2027 season, foreshadowing a potential surge this year.

Samsung Fire, now under the new leadership of Head Coach Tommy Tilikainen (39), defeated KB Insurance in the opening match held on the 1st at Pyeongtaek Ichung Cultural and Sports Center with a set score of 3-1 (26-24, 25-23, 36-38, 25-19).

While securing a valuable three away points was an excellent result in itself, the team’s strengthened teamwork, which refused to crumble under pressure, shone brightest.

After the match, Coach Tommy praised the players’ mental fortitude, stating, “The start wasn’t smooth, but we didn’t give up and fought until the end to secure the first set,” adding, “It was wonderful to see them regain their focus in the fourth set after losing the third due to errors.”

Despite losing the third set after a grueling deuce battle that reached 13 points, which could have derailed the team’s momentum, Samsung Fire demonstrated remarkable focus in the fourth set to clinch the victory—a testament to the team’s transformed resilience.

Samsung Fire’s most powerful weapon this season is undoubtedly Asian quota player Wang Bin (China). From the very first game, he wielded his central back attack with ease and racked up a team-high 35 points, including two service aces. He accounted for 44.44% of the team’s attacks, with a success rate reaching 63.46%.

Coach Tommy did not hide his strong expectations, saying, “I still don’t know how much better Wang Bin can perform; I haven’t seen his limits yet,” and added, “Personally, I have managed him as carefully as possible by scheduling his workload. There are many positive aspects, and since he is a smart player, if he adapts further to the team, he will be able to show an even better performance than now.”

The presence of returning veteran setter Yoo Gwang-woo, who skillfully utilized Wang Bin, Felipe Hoki (22 points), Kim Woo-jin (12 points), and Kim Jun-woo (10 points) at the right moments, also stood out. Regarding Yoo’s seasoned ball distribution, Coach Tommy called it “his own magic,” expressing unlimited trust by stating, “Each attacker has their own strengths and tendencies, and I think it would be good if Yoo uses that magic to maximize them.”

The only concern is stamina. Coach Tommy, who knows Yoo Gwang-woo better than anyone from their time together at Korean Air, mentioned the veteran’s overflowing passion, saying, “I am actually trying to stop him when he wants to keep training. I am managing him by occasionally giving him extra rest.”

Samsung Fire, which had fallen into the lower ranks after leaving behind its glorious past of championship titles, delivered a first game sufficient to instill expectations that this season will be different.

Wang Bin, who stood at the center of it all, said, “I can’t say I am at 100%, but I try my best in every match,” adding, “My goal is to aim for 100% and upgrade step by step with each game played,” leaving room for expectations of further development.

A master coach, a premium setter who follows him, and a 100-point Asian quota player. Samsung Fire’s season certainly gives the impression that it will be different. This is why their rallying cry for rebuilding the powerhouse, under the slogan “BACK TO THE TOP,” does not sound like an empty promise.

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*This content was translated by AI.View Original