Six new students entered Gunsan High School, which had a shortage of available students.
KBL and WKBL are in the middle of the season, but amateur players, who can be said to be the roots of KBL and WKBL, are quenching for a new season.
The same goes for Gunsan High School. Although we had a rough time last year due to the lack of available staff, this time is different. It’s because six new students came in.
Choi Myeong-do, coach of Gunsan High School, who recalled the past year, said, “Last year, we played with five players. So, if even one player was fouled out, we played with four. Still, the players did their best until the end and finished the fall competition well. However, if there were more people available, we would have played more fun basketball.”
“But this time is different. Six freshmen came in. All of them have short skills and are still lacking, but they have potential. Above all, with more players, we can press more aggressively in defense. This time we will play faster and stronger basketball.”
When asked about the characteristics of freshmen, Coach Choi said, “Not all of them have a sense of power right away. Due to the team situation, one inevitably has to be the starting player, but everyone is lacking.” “Middle school basketball and high school basketball are different. The pressure is stronger and there is a difference in strength. Everyone doesn’t have much competition experience because of Corona. But with time, everyone will get better.”
Also, “For this, I am practicing mainly on basic skills. And practice matches are running at the same time. Currently, they are actively developing practice matches with other schools to develop their sense of practice.”
Gunsan High School has one third grader. This is Mt. Igang. Coach Choi paid attention to Lee Kang-san. “(Lee) Kangsan has to play a lot of roles. You have to be centered in the team. He’s good at shooting and has good 1-on-1 ability. He doesn’t have long pitches, but he has to lead the guys underneath. The biggest advantage is versatility.” 메이저놀이터
Continuing, “Not only Kang San-i, but the second graders also have to do their best. You have to do your part and lead the juniors. That is our team’s biggest homework,” he said, conveying his expectations for the sophomores.
He continued, “The most important thing is that they have fun playing basketball. To do that, we have to play basketball together. Even if it is difficult, we have to go one step further and help each other.”
When asked about his goal for this year, Coach Choi said, “To be honest, there are many juniors and my skills are short. So, first of all, I want to pass the preliminary round. And I want to win and set the quarterfinals or other goals,” he said. Our team will do well. Not only that, but first graders have to grow. That way, next year can be better.”
Lastly, “I intend to underestimate Gunsan High School and then hurt my nose. (Laughter) It won’t be lighthearted. I will persevere even if I lose when I lose,” he concluded the interview with the determination.