[KBL 컵] ‘Frustration in the quarterfinals’ KT coach Seo Dong-cheol “I want to make a team that is good at defense”

“I asked the players to hear that the defense is a stable team this year.”

Suwon KT Sonic Boom lost 78-83 to Seoul SK Knights in the semifinals of the 2021 MG Saemaul Geumgo KBL Cup Cup held at Sangju Indoor Gymnasium on the 17th, and their progress to the cup final was frustrated.

KT coach Seo Dong-cheol said, “I tested the composition of players until the 3rd quarter today, and decided to win in the 4th quarter, but it didn’t go well. I felt that there were still many things that were lacking. On the other hand, I also had the confidence that I could become a stronger team unlike last year. The result was disappointing, but there was also a lot of income. We will prepare a little better and prepare ourselves for the regular season by preparing well.”

Coach Seo continued, “It was a game that raised questions. There were times when it was good, but there were parts that were lacking from moment to moment, such as being able to defend well and not being able to rebound. I told the defense players that we should get an evaluation that our defense is stable this year. At the end of the 4th quarter, Younghwan (Kim), Dongwook (Kim), and Hoon (Heo) played together to attack, but it was disappointing in defense. We have to work with the players to figure out how to respond to this part,” he added.

On this day, foreign players caddy Laren and Mike Myers scored 8 points and 6 points, respectively, showing a poor performance following the previous game.

Coach Seo said, “I didn’t match Laren a lot and went to the cup tournament, but I didn’t score much because I was only focused on training to match hands and feet, such as a 2v2 situation that takes a lot of weight in the attack. Next time, I will have to focus on attacking under the goal and order a play that takes advantage of my strengths. I think this is the stage where you learn the characteristics and tricks of Korean basketball. He is sometimes embarrassed by his fast and organized play. Except for that part, I’m satisfied, so I think it might be a good idea to put my hands and feet together a little more.”

Regarding Yang Hong-seok’s physical condition, who missed the cup due to an injury, manager Seo said, “It’s not a major injury because of muscle inflammation. However, since it is a sensitive area, I try to get enough rest before joining the training. I’m glad it wasn’t that serious of an injury.”

Photo: Courtesy of KBL