Former Samsung coach Lee Sang-min has made a triumphant return to his former team, KCC, after a 16-year absence. Lee, who was a legendary guard in professional basketball, has signed a two-year contract with KCC as a coach, not a manager. He will be assisting KCC coach Jeon Chang-jin starting from the 2023-23 season.
During his active career, Lee was a franchise star representing KCC. He won three championships and received immense love from Jeonju fans. However, after the 2006-2007 season, Lee left for Samsung as a compensation player in the process of recruiting free agent Seo Jang-hoon. He also made his leadership debut at Samsung.
Lee went on to coach Samsung from 2014 to last year, leading the team to the runner-up position in the championship match. However, he voluntarily resigned during the 2021-2022 season and has since been without a team. Now, he has returned to his home team as a coach and expressed his joy, saying, “I feel like I’m back home.”
In a recent Q&A session, Lee shared his thoughts on his return to KCC. When asked about the process, he revealed that coach Jeon Chang-jin called him last Friday and expressed his desire to meet and talk. Lee was grateful for the offer and mentioned that KCC feels like his hometown, so he was pleasantly surprised when the coach reached out to him.
Lee admitted that the unexpected offer was a surprise for him and those around him. He acknowledged that he had a different coaching style from Jeon Chang-jin but believed that there was a lot he could learn. After taking two days to think about it, he decided to accept the offer because he wanted to have fun and achieve good results as a coach.
For Lee, KCC holds a special meaning. He described it as his hometown, where he spent most of his professional career. Although he later moved to Samsung, he feels like he’s back home because KCC produced good results while he was a player.
When asked about KCC’s strength, Lee acknowledged that it wouldn’t be easy this year. However, with the addition of outside recruits like Choi Jun-yong and the return of Song Kyo-chang from military service, he believes KCC has the potential to improve greatly. He also mentioned that other teams like SK have recruited strong players, making the competition tough. Nevertheless, if the team can harmonize well, he believes there will be good results.
In closing, Lee had a message for Jeonju KCC fans. He expressed his gratitude for their support during his playing days and now hopes to work together with them on the bench as a coach. He aims to achieve good results with their support.
Lee Sang-min’s return to KCC has generated excitement among fans and the basketball community. With his experience and expertise, he is expected to contribute significantly to the team’s success in the upcoming season.
How did Lee Sang-min’s previous coaching experience at Samsung contribute to his return to KCC?
L like I am coming back home. KCC has always been a special place for me, and I am excited to be part of the team once again.”
Lee Sang-min’s return to KCC has been met with great enthusiasm from the fans and the basketball community. Known for his exceptional skills and leadership on the court, Lee’s presence will undoubtedly make a positive impact on the team’s performance.
His experience as a player and previous coaching success at Samsung will also be valuable assets for KCC. With his expertise, Lee will assist head coach Jeon Chang-jin in guiding the team to new heights in the upcoming season.
During his time at KCC, Lee was a beloved figure, winning three championships and earning the adoration of the Jeonju fans. His move to Samsung in 2006 surprised many, but it allowed him to further develop his leadership abilities as he took on a coaching role with the team.
Lee’s coaching tenure at Samsung was successful, with the team reaching the runner-up position in the championship match. However, the decision to resign last season left him without a team. Now, with his return to KCC, Lee is eager to reestablish himself as a coach and contribute to the team’s success.
The news of Lee Sang-min’s return to KCC has created a buzz of excitement and anticipation among fans and players alike. With his wealth of experience and passion for the game, Lee is poised to make a significant impact on his former team.
“Welcome back, Coach Lee Sang-min! It’s great to see a legendary guard like you returning to KCC after 16 years. Looking forward to seeing your expertise and leadership positively impact the team!”