Kim Dong-hyun is preparing for the season with a different mindset.
The Busan KCC Aegis and the Seoul Samsung Thunders held a practice game at the KCC Gymnasium in Maebuk-dong, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do, on Sept. 29.
KCC started with the starting lineup of Kelvin Epistola, Kim Dong-hyun, Lee Geun-hwi, Choi Jun-yong, and Lee Seung-hyun. Kim Dong-hyun, who started the game, made a positive move. He scored back-to-back goals early in the game and had 메이저사이트 an impressive performance.
Kim, who tried out for the KBL in the early draft as a freshman at Yonsei University, was selected by KCC in the first round. The 2002-born prospect is a 6-foot-9 guard.
When asked about his recent progress, Kim said, “I think my physical condition is the best since I came to the league. In practice, the coach has given me a lot of opportunities, so I’m trying to play defense first.”Last season, Kim didn’t have a full offseason with the team because he was on the 3×3 national team. This season is different in that regard.
“I remember the first time I played so much in the off-season,” Kim said. But I think it’s important to play in practice games, and last year I was disappointed that I couldn’t do that because I was on the 3×3 national team, but I’m trying to make up for it this time.”
Last season, KCC played hot basketball in the playoffs and won the championship game. However, Kim didn’t get much playing time on the team’s deep roster. It was a time of mixed emotions for him.
“On the one hand, I felt great because the team won the championship, but I had a lot of regrets when I looked at myself, so I approached the off-season with the idea of working harder this season so I could play with my good brothers,” Kim emphasized.
In order to make life easier for Kim Dong-hyun in KCC’s potent lineup, he needs to step up his game and improve his defense. He is aware of these factors.
“It’s too late now (laughs), but the coach has been emphasizing defense since I first joined the team, and if I want to play in such a strong lineup, I think I need to be active and do the dirty work, jump in hard, and be a fighter so that I can play for an extra minute or two,” Kim said.
“Coach says I’ve gotten a lot better at one-on-one defense and rotating. But I think it’s just a matter of keeping my head when things get tough,” he added.
For Kim, mental strength was more important than technique. In the practice match, he didn’t seem to be outclassed by the other players in terms of technique.
“Mental strength is what I personally felt I lacked the most. I thought that I was not persistent and lacked mental strength, so I would break down at the slightest touch. I believe that if I make up for that and continue to work hard, I will have a chance,” he explained.
Regarding the team’s solid depth at the No. 2 position, he said, “I don’t think it’s a competition, but I’m younger than (Heo) Ungi and (Lee) Geun-hwi, and I’m confident in my body, so I think I can get a chance if I appeal to the coach with something big.”
KCC started to see the crowds from the practice match. Kim Dong-hyun thanked the fans for their continued support.
“It’s been a long time since we had spectators at a practice game. I’m grateful and encouraged by their continued support. I will do my best to be seen on the court more in the coming season,” he said.
