'A stunning 17-point comeback' Coach Kang Hyuk aims for a second consecutive win against KT: "If the gap widens again..." [Suwon on-site]

*This content was translated by AI.View Original

Coach Kang Hyuk of the Daegu Korean Gas Corporation repeatedly emphasized the importance of team play and fundamentals ahead of their away matchup.

The Korean Gas Corporation and Suwon KT faced off at 4:30 p.m. on the 7th at the Suwon KT Sonic Boom Arena in Round 2 of the 2026~2027 KCC Pro Basketball League.

After ending their losing streak early by defeating Seoul SK on the 4th and restoring balance to a 6-6 record, the Korean Gas Corporation is aiming for consecutive wins.

Speaking before the game, Coach Kang Hyuk reflected on the previous match against SK, first praising the atmosphere in the bench area. "There had been a trend where we were particularly weak against SK, but the players focused more and luck was on our side," Coach Kang said. "Even with injured players, I am most grateful for and proud of the team atmosphere where the bench breathes together as if they are playing themselves, which is the best among the 10th teams."

In their previous meeting in Round 1, they had achieved a dramatic comeback victory by overcoming a 17-point deficit. "At that time, we were lucky, and there was an aspect where KT became lax and self-destructed," Coach Kang noted. "If the gap widens like that today, it will be difficult to turn it around." He added, "We must show the defensive focus and energy displayed in the third and fourth quarters from the start of the first quarter. Since we have no answer if we are pushed out in the paint against a team ranked first in rebounds, I strictly instructed them to guard rebounds and prevent turnovers."

They will also re-activate the defensive plan that had limited KT's main scorer Paris Bass to a 30% field goal percentage at the time. "Kim Min-gyu followed him tenaciously and harassed him, and the timing was good when Kevon Alluma provided help defense on drives," Coach Kang explained. "We induced forced shots, resulting in blocks and rebound opportunities." He continued, "Today as well, Kim Min-gyu will handle the matchup, but we practiced the same routine: Alluma's help defense on drives and covering the perimeter that opens up as a result."

He clearly expressed his determination to overcome the limitations of their roster depth through teamwork. "Everyone knows that the Korean Gas Corporation has thin depth," Coach Kang said. "It is difficult to surpass opponents with one-on-one individual abilities, so we must fight as a team." He emphasized, "Without being elated or depressed by other teams' situations, if we steadily play our own game, a timing will come when we can compete for the win."

On offense, he urged his foreign players to strive harder. Specifically sharing details of an interview with Alluma, who tends to hold the ball for long periods, he said, "Perhaps due to not being in peak condition, Alluma has a tendency to hold the ball for too long. If he delays and passes at the last moment, it ultimately leads to forced shots, fast breaks, or turnovers." He added, "I asked him to shoot immediately and concisely without hesitation when an opportunity arises. I instructed him to reduce turnovers, as his shooting will eventually come around."

He did not spare affectionate advice for Kim Min-gyu and Yang Woo-hyuk, young players who have recently emerged as key contributors. Regarding concerns about a cold circulating within the team, he said, "Min-gyu has almost shaken off the cold." He added, "Seeing 20-year-old Woo-hyuk and Min-gyu grow is truly fulfilling for me as a coach. However, if they chase only flashy plays just because they are getting some attention, they will collapse quickly."

He continued, "I instruct Min-gyu to solidify his fundamentals and become a player that every coach covets. Woo-hyuk is also moving away from playing solo basketball, broadening his vision, and learning the feel of passing. His defense has improved remarkably. At their young age, they must develop calluses through being broken down and stepped on before they can advance to the bigger stage they dream of."

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*This content was translated by AI.View Original