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KCC Takes Commanding 2-0 Lead in Playoffs

From Hankyoreh · (20h ago) Korean Positive tone

Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • Busan KCC secured a crucial 105-97 victory against Wonju DB in Game 3 of their best-of-five playoff series, taking a commanding 2-0 lead.
  • The KCC's 'Big 5' players, including Choi Jun-yong and Heo Woong, demonstrated strong offensive and defensive contributions, overcoming a third-quarter slump and the ejection of key player Ronshad Allmond.
  • With this win, KCC has a 100% historical probability of advancing to the semifinals, as no team that has won the first two games of a best-of-five series has ever been eliminated.

Busan KCC has taken a significant step towards the semifinals, securing a vital 2-0 lead in their best-of-five playoff series against Wonju DB. The team's cohesive performance, driven by their formidable 'Big 5' lineup, showcased their depth and resilience, even when facing adversity.

If they play healthy and normally, they can aim higher.

— Lee Sang-min (KCC Coach)Stating his expectations for the team before the playoffs.

Despite a challenging third quarter where their lead faltered and key player Ronshad Allmond fouled out, KCC demonstrated remarkable grit. Choi Jun-yong, who led the team with 26 points, rallied his teammates, emphasizing focus and a step-by-step approach. This mental fortitude was crucial in overcoming the deficit and ultimately securing the victory.

We lost concentration in the third and early fourth quarters. But I told the team members, 'We absolutely won't lose, so let's take it one step at a time.'

— Choi Jun-yong (KCC Player)Reflecting on the team's performance during a crucial phase of the game.

The team's balanced scoring and active defense, with multiple players contributing significantly, highlight their strength as a unit. Even with Allmond's departure, players like Heo Woong stepped up, hitting a pivotal three-pointer and showcasing the team's collective ability to adapt and persevere.

When (Ronshad) Allmond had four fouls, I was a bit worried, but we have many resources on the bench, so I wasn't too concerned.

— Choi Jun-yong (KCC Player)Discussing the team's confidence despite a key player being in foul trouble.

Looking ahead, KCC will aim to close out the series on their home court in Busan. While fatigue is a potential concern given the significant minutes played by their core players, the team's confidence and determination, particularly from players like Choi Jun-yong who are eager to contribute after injury, suggest they are well-positioned for continued success. The historical data also strongly favors KCC, as no team has ever been eliminated after winning the first two games of a best-of-five series.

I haven't been able to help the team much due to injury during the regular season. I'll give double the effort in the playoffs.

— Choi Jun-yong (KCC Player)Expressing his commitment to performing well in the postseason.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Hankyoreh in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.