Shinhan Bank Roars Back: Hong Yu-sun’s Masterclass Fuels First Win Under New Coach Choi
Incheon, South Korea – October 21, 2024 – The Incheon Dowon Gymnasium was buzzing with renewed energy as the BNK Financial 2025-2026 women’s professional basketball regular league tipped off, and Shinhan Bank, under the guidance of their new head coach Yoon-ah Choi, secured their first victory of the season against Hana Bank. This win marks a important turning point for a Shinhan Bank squad that has missed the playoffs for two consecutive seasons, finishing a disappointing fifth last year.
The pressure was palpable for Shinhan Bank. After a tough opening loss to BNK Some,the team needed a strong performance to kickstart their campaign. enter Hong Yu-sun, the undisputed star of the day and the reigning WKBL Rookie of the Year. the first overall pick in last season’s draft didn’t just show up; she dominated, dropping a game-high 27 points, including a clutch 3-pointer that sealed the deal with just over two minutes remaining.Her offensive prowess was complemented by a stellar 12 rebounds, completing a crucial double-double that showcased her all-around impact.
“Hong Yu-sun is exactly the kind of player who can carry a team,” commented a seasoned scout observing the game.”She has that ‘it’ factor, the ability to take over when it matters most. We’re seeing shades of early Candace Parker in her game – that blend of scoring and rebounding that makes her a nightmare matchup.”
Shinhan Bank’s resurgence wasn’t a one-woman show. Shin Seul also delivered a vital double-double, contributing 11 points and a game-high 14 rebounds. This inside presence, combined with Hong Yu-sun’s dynamic play, proved too much for Hana Bank to handle.
The appointment of yoon-ah Choi as head coach signals a clear intent for Shinhan Bank to return to their championship-contending ways. Choi, a legendary figure in Korean women’s basketball, boasts an unparalleled resume as a player for shinhan bank.From 2004 to 2017, she was the cornerstone of the team, leading them to an astounding six regular-season championships and seven overall titles. Her transition to coaching is seen as a strategic move to instill that winning mentality back into the squad.
“Coach Choi’s experience is invaluable,” stated a Shinhan Bank insider. “She knows what it takes to win at this level, having been there as a player.Her understanding of the game and her connection with the club’s history are exactly what we need to rebuild and reclaim our spot at the top.”
The game itself was a testament to the new coaching philosophies on both sides. Hana Bank, also under new leadership with coach Lee sang-beom, had surprised many with a dominant 66-45 victory over Asan Woori Bank in their season opener. Lee Sang-beom, a respected figure in korean basketball, had clearly instilled a strong defensive identity in his team.
The opening quarter was a tight defensive affair, with both teams exchanging blows and ending the period knotted at 20-20. Hong Yu-sun and Hana Bank’s Saki Iijima were the early offensive sparks for their respective teams.
However, the second quarter saw Shinhan Bank begin to assert their dominance. A barrage of 11 unanswered points, fueled by sharp shooting from Shin Ji-hyeon from the perimeter and strong interior play from Shin seul and Hong Yu-sun, gave Shinhan Bank a crucial lead. Despite a wrist injury to Mitsuki Hirano late in the quarter, the team maintained their composure, heading into halftime with a 38-33 advantage.
The third quarter proved to be the decisive period. Shinhan Bank exploded offensively, extending their lead with timely three-pointers from Shin Ji-hyun, Kim Jin-young, and Hong Yu-sun. By the 1:55 mark of the third quarter, Shinhan Bank had built an insurmountable 60-38 lead, a testament to their offensive execution and defensive pressure.
While Hana Bank fought valiantly in the fourth quarter, with Park Jin-young and Jeong Hyun showing flashes of brilliance, they couldn’t overcome the significant deficit.Shinhan Bank held on, securing the 76-62 victory and their first win of the 2025-2026 season.
For Hana Bank, despite the loss, the performances of Saki Iijima (17 points), Jin-young Park (12 points), and So-hee Park (10 points) offer glimmers of hope. Their early season success against a strong Woori Bank side indicates they will be a competitive force throughout the league.
Looking Ahead:
This victory for Shinhan Bank is more than just an early-season win
