Dongguk University is formidable when guarded by Kim Myung-jin (200 cm, F/C).
Kim Myung-jin started the KUSF 2024 KU Basketball U-League away game against Kyung Hee University at Seonsung Hall on Kyung Hee University’s international campus on Friday and led the team to a 71-62 victory with 12 points, six rebounds, two assists, and 메이저사이트 three blocked shots in 30 minutes and 17 seconds of action.
After the game, Kim said, “This win puts us closer to being able to play the playoffs at home. I’m really happy that we were able to win such an important game.”Dongguk University has been on a tear this season, spurring a fierce mid-table battle. Led by captain Lee Dae-gyun, the team has been a dark horse, boasting a lineup of big men with a height advantage of more than two meters, including Kim Myung-jin and Woo Sung-hee.
“Actually, my personal goal this season was to finish third,” says Kim Myung-jin. I wanted to play the playoffs at home, and as a team, we were trying to get at least fourth place, so I’m happy that we’ve gotten a head start. It feels great to be one step closer to achieving our goal,” she said.
Kim Myung-jin also had three blocked shots on the day. At the center of the big men’s lineup, Kim has been doing her job on both offense and defense.
“I think my strengths are defense and quickness. I’m also confident in my blocked shots. Because I’m tall, I’ve been blocking shots since high school. It naturally became my strength. That’s why I feel good every time I block (laughs). I think I’m higher than my opponent, so every time I take a shot, my confidence increases,” she said.
Dongguk University, which finished ninth last season, secured the victory and tied for fourth place with Kyung Hee University with 8 wins and 5 losses. So, what is the secret behind Dongguk University’s surge?
“Last season, (Park) Seung-jae was unique in the team, so everyone on the team relied on him. I think that part didn’t bring the team together. This year, (Lee) Dae-gyun defends a lot, which gives me a lot of chances. I’ve been playing with a lot of enthusiasm, so the team atmosphere is running smoothly and organically.”
Dongguk University will play its final match against Myungji University on the first of next month. Starting with a win against Kyung Hee, Dongguk University has its sights set on a home playoff spot.
“I’ll try to do my part in Myeongji, too. If I push myself too hard, it could ruin the team’s play. I will start with the defense as I have been doing and confidently cook the opponent’s big men,” he said.
