“I think we won thanks to the support of my mother in heaven,” said Lee Kyu-tae, who led Yonsei to its first win over Korea since enrolling.
Yonsei University senior guard Lee Kyu-tae scored 11 points, including the game-winning two-pointer in the final minute, to help Yonsei win 57-54 against Korea University in the 2024 regular season at Sono Arena in Goyang on Sunday. Lee was in tears as he celebrated his first career win over 토토사이트 순위 KU.
The 22-year-old had never smiled against Korea University before this game. He had lost both regular season matches, the MBC Varsity and the University League, and had always seemed to shrink whenever he faced KU.
However, this day was different, as Lee showed off his high-sensitivity shooting from the outside and scored 11 points, including two three-pointers. He was not only dominant on offense but also on defense, dominating Lee Dong-geun, Yoo Min-soo, and Yang Jun. With both teams struggling with strong defense and stagnant offense, Yonsei was able to take advantage of Lee’s timely scoring to take the lead.
“I didn’t think we were outclassed in all 10 losses, but I think we were lacking in fighting spirit and fundamentals. Today (Nov. 27), we did that well, and we were able to win because the players worked hard together. I also thought it was good that we came to Yonsei,” said the team after the victory.
For the past two years, Lee Kyu-tae had been small whenever he faced Korea University, including the first half of the MBC and the second half of the league. However, in this regular season, the senior was the center of the team alongside Choi Hyung-chan. Since he will be eligible for the draft after his senior year, Lee will have to continue to battle KU as the oldest brother.
“I hope everyone on the team realizes the most important thing from this win. The basics are important, and we were complacent before. If we play solid defense, stick to the basics, and show fighting spirit like we did today, I think we will grow into a better team by the time we graduate.”
Heading into this season, Lee Kyu-tae faced some challenges. His mother passed away in January of this year after a long battle with cancer. Lee gritted his teeth and approached the season with a strong will, which eventually paid off with a regular-season victory.
“I was so disappointed that I never got to show her the victory over Goryeo. In fact, even today, I sent a letter to my mom while looking at her photo before the game. I think my mom was watching and cheering for me from above, and that’s why I was able to win without getting injured until the fourth quarter. I miss her so much, and I want to tell her that I love and appreciate her.”
Lee Kyu-tae dedicated the victory to his mother with a heartfelt voice. We look forward to seeing how Lee Kyu-tae will continue to grow stronger after this victory.
