Kim Jong-kyu (33, 207cm) led Wonju DB to the final of the cup competition.
DB beat Ulsan Hyundai Mobis 81-75 in the semifinal match of the 2024-25 KBL (Korea Basketball Federation) Cup at Jecheon Gymnasium in North Chungcheong Province on Oct. 12.
Kim Jong-kyu had 16 points and eight rebounds while playing in the court for 30 minutes and 9 seconds. It was the DB's highest score ever. Kim also thoroughly boxed out, rebounded, and defended, taking the lead in winning the team. Here is Kim Jong-kyu's story.
Q. DB has advanced to the final of the cup competition.
There are players in rehabilitation due to injuries. They couldn't play with perfect power. The players did their best in the current situation. They were determined to win from the preparation process. I think the strong collision from the beginning is the factor in advancing to the finals.
Q. I met Kim Si-rae again after the days of Changwon LG.
That's great. One thing I'm sad about is what it would have been like to have our reunion come earlier. I just imagine what it would have been like to be younger and healthier than now (laughs). Still, I'm glad to see him again when I can run.
Q. I was reunited with Onuaku, too. How is your breathing.
I worked with Onuaku in the 2019-20 season. It was my first season in the DB. We met again after that, but he became more experienced than before. Onuaku has grown into a better player and returned. There are many things in common. It seems to fit well.
Q. The criteria for judging have changed this season. 스포츠토토
There is something I keep practicing from the offseason. Whether it's offense or defense, it means "let's do it until the end." We have to stop thinking, "There will be a foul." What we need to know for sure is that stronger physical fights are allowed than before. It's not about hitting hard and hitting lightly. It's a foul if you hit it now or before. We will continue to prepare well.
Q. Lee Kwan-hee and Robert Carter played well.
(Lee) Kwan-hee is definitely seasoned. He is quickly melting into the team. Carter was amazing. He impressed every minute he came out. Both scoring and defense were good. Carter clearly knows what he should do on the court.
Q. DB is rated as 'stronger than last season'.
Coach Kim Joo-sung always emphasizes something. Rebound and defense are the most important. The opening is just around the corner. It is not the time to prepare for new things. We will continue our preparation as we have done so far. We need to adjust our physical condition to the opening game of the season. We need to be more careful not to get injured by overexertion. We will prepare well to enter the new season with confidence.