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๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท South Korea /Sports

South Korean basketball star Song Kyo-chang to play in Japan's B.League

From Hankyoreh · () Korean

Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Sources not specified New plan
  • Song Kyo-chang, a key player in KCC's championship win, will move to Japan's B.League, signing with Osaka Evessa through the 2026-2027 season.
  • KCC supported his international aspirations by allowing him to pursue overseas opportunities freely.
  • Song expressed gratitude to fans and KCC, vowing to grow as a player in a new environment and return stronger.

South Korean basketball player Song Kyo-chang is taking his talents to Japan's top professional league, the B.League. Osaka Evessa officially announced his signing on May 26, with the contract extending through the 2026-2027 season.

It was not an easy decision, but it was a decision made with the desire to learn many things in a new environment and grow further as a player.

โ€” Song Kyo-changSong Kyo-chang explaining his decision to move to Japan.

Song, instrumental in KCC's championship victory last season, had expressed his desire for international play. KCC facilitated his move by granting him an optional release, allowing him to negotiate with foreign clubs. While several B.League teams showed interest, Song ultimately chose Osaka.

I will do my best every moment in Japan and return as a stronger player, so that I can stand in the KCC uniform again someday.

โ€” Song Kyo-changSong Kyo-chang expressing his commitment to growth and future return to KCC.

Osaka, founded in 2004, has won three championships in its history but missed the playoffs last season. Song, a 2.01m tall player known for his speed, was the third overall pick in the 2015 KBL draft and became a prominent KBL player. His move fulfills a long-held dream of playing abroad.

The fans' affection and warm support have been my greatest strength and pride throughout my playing career.

โ€” Song Kyo-changSong Kyo-chang expressing gratitude to KCC fans.

In a message shared on KCC's social media, Song thanked his supporters, calling their affection and encouragement his greatest strength and pride. He described KCC as more than just a team, but a cherished home where he grew as a player and learned valuable life lessons. He vowed to give his all in Japan to become a stronger player and return to wear the KCC uniform again.

It was more than just a team; it was a precious home where I grew as a player and learned many values in life.

โ€” Song Kyo-changSong Kyo-chang reflecting on his time with KCC.
DistantNews Editorial

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