The Busan KCC narrowly avoided an upset loss too the Daegu Korea Gas Corporation on Monday, November 18th, securing a 94-93 overtime victory in the 2025-26 LG Electronics Professional Basketball League. Guard Heo Hoon spearheaded the KCC’s comeback, finishing with 28 points and 7 assists and proving crucial in a game where Busan trailed for the majority of regulation. The win comes as the KCC, currently navigating the second round of play, attempt to solidify their position in a highly competitive league following a preseason impacted by key player injuries.
A clutch performance from guard Heo Hoon lifted the Busan KCC to a thrilling 94-93 victory over the Daegu Korea Gas Corporation on November 18th, rescuing them from a potential upset in the 2025-26 LG Electronics Professional Basketball League. Heo Hoon finished the game with 28 points and 7 assists.
The KCC found themselves trailing for much of the contest against the league’s bottom-dwelling Korea Gas Corporation. They ended the first half down 33-40, and despite a third-quarter push, still faced a 52-61 deficit heading into the final frame.
But the KCC mounted a dramatic comeback in the fourth quarter. Starting with four consecutive free throws from Heo Hoon and Choi Junyong, they began to chip away at the lead, closing the gap to 74-78 with 27.5 seconds remaining. A late basket by Choi Junyong brought them within striking distance at 77-79 with just 14.1 seconds on the clock. Then, with 9.8 seconds left, after Korea Gas Corporation secured a rebound, a relentless defensive effort forced a turnover, setting the stage for Heo Hoon to drive to the basket and tie the game at 79-79 with only 2 seconds left.
The intensity continued into overtime, but Heo Hoon ultimately proved to be the difference-maker. With the KCC trailing 92-93, Heo Hoon was fouled by Nick Perkins of Korea Gas Corporation while driving to the basket with 3.2 seconds remaining. He calmly sank both free throws to secure the hard-fought win.
Heo Hoon joined the KCC as a free agent prior to this season, but a calf injury sustained during pre-season practice delayed his debut. He finally took to the court on November 8th in a game against the Suwon KT Sonicboom. Since his return, the KCC have gone 3-1, demonstrating a clear upward trend.
The KCC showcased a strong defensive presence in the first round, allowing an average of just 71.8 points per game (third-best in the league) despite several key players sidelined with injuries. However, with Choi Junyong, Song Gyo-chang, and Heo Hoon now back in the lineup for the second round, their defense has become more vulnerable, conceding an average of 77.1 points per game. They even suffered a 100-point loss to the Seoul Samsung Thunders on November 1st.
The KCC struggled defensively early against Korea Gas Corporation, falling behind early in the game. But Heo Hoon’s late-game heroics and his 11 points in overtime proved to be the key to overcoming those early struggles and securing the victory. The win is a significant boost for the KCC as they navigate a competitive season.
이은경 기자 kyong@edaily.co.kr
