Changwon LG’s Asem Marei (202 cm, C) has made a difference.
LG defeated Busan KCC 85-81 in a tightly contested second-round game of the 2023-2024 Korean Basketball League at Changwon Gymnasium on Sunday. LG, which capitalized on its opponent’s sluggishness in the third quarter, won its fourth straight game and seventh straight at home to move into sole possession of second place. They narrowed their lead over first-place 안전카지노사이트 Wonju DB to two games.
The team also smiled as they boasted an impressive winning percentage of 8 wins in the second round after 23 seasons. Along with Yang Hong-seok, Asem Marei was the main contributor to the victory.
Playing over 38 minutes (11 seconds) in the absence of Dante Cunningham (203 cm, C), Marei finished with 22 points, 20 rebounds, six assists, and three steals to lead his team to victory.
“Against a very good team in KCC, our players really came together. We had a tough game when they pulled away, but I think we fought back and played a fun game. It feels good to win against a team with so many star players.”
Cunningham’s extended absence has put a lot of pressure on Maray’s fitness. Head coach Cho Sang-hyun also cited Maray’s injury as a concern.
“We had a tough schedule in the second round, which put a lot of pressure on my stamina, but the trainers have been taking care of my body, so I was able to maintain a good performance. Today’s game was just as difficult as the one against KT because we were without Dante Cunningham. I hope Dante will be back soon,” he said.
“I’m sleeping well, eating well, taking vitamins, and trying to get back into shape. The trainers are doing a great job with him, and being active on his days off, including light weight training, seems to be helping him recover.”
Showing off his dominance under the basket, Marei became the first player in KBL history to record 150 points, 150 rebounds, and 50 assists in a single round.
“It’s nice to have the record, but I’m more excited about the team’s performance in the second round,” he said.
For the season, Marais is shooting 58.5 percent from the free throw line. However, this night was different. He shot 100% (8-of-8) from the free throw line, more than compensating for his weakness.
“I’ve been battling hard under the basket, so I’ve been shooting free throws when I’m excited. But today, I tried to stay calm. I got into a good rhythm early and it paid off at the end. I thought, ‘I might miss a free throw,’ so I just trusted myself and shot it, and I think it worked,” he said, explaining the difference in his performance from the free throw line.
Meanwhile, LG, which has won four consecutive games, will welcome Suwon KT home on Nov. 9.
