The South Korean women's basketball team, aiming for their first gold medal in 12 years since the 2014 Incheon Games, achieved a resounding victory in their opening match of the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games.
Under the guidance of head coach Park Soo-ho, South Korea (ranked 14th by FIBA) defeated Malaysia (ranked 83rd) 106-40 in the first match of Group C at the Aichi International Arena in Nagoya on September 18.
Despite the absence of key players Park Ji-soo (Cheongju KB) and Park Ji-hyun (Los Angeles Sparks) due to injuries and WNBA commitments, South Korea fielded a roster of 11 players.
In the early stages of the game, the players appeared to struggle with their shooting, trailing 6-8 midway through the first quarter. However, Choi Yi-sam (Busan BNK) hit a three-pointer to turn the tide, leading to a 22-10 finish in the first quarter.
From the second quarter onward, South Korea showcased organized defense and effective outside shooting. Lee So-hee (BNK) and Kang Yu-rim (Yongin Samsung Life) contributed significantly, scoring a combined 37 points in the second quarter alone. South Korea ended the first half with a commanding 59-22 lead.
Continuing their strong performance in the second half, South Korea maintained pressure and quick transitions, finishing the third quarter at 81-32. In the fourth quarter, they extended their lead to over 60 points, comfortably managing the game.
All 10 players who took the court, excluding captain Kang Yi-seul (Asan Woori Bank), who was rested due to a foot issue, scored during the match. Lee So-hee led the team with 21 points, including five three-pointers, while Choi Yi-sam added 19 points and seven rebounds.
Additionally, Lee Hae-ran (Samsung Life) scored 12 points, Heo Ye-eun (KB) contributed 11 points and eight assists, Kang Yu-rim also scored 11 points, and Jeong Hyun (Bucheon Hana Bank) added 10 points, with a total of six players reaching double figures.
South Korea has won medals in every Asian Games they have participated in, except for the 2006 Doha Games, and they are looking to reclaim the title after 12 years. The women's basketball tournament features 11 teams divided into three groups, with the top two teams from each group and the two best third-place teams advancing to the quarterfinals.
Having successfully started their campaign, South Korea will face Mongolia in their second group stage match on September 21 at 1 PM at the same venue.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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