# The reversal of Sono's "Injured Ward"

Coach Kim Seung-ki (52) of Goyang Sono said, "Every day is a series of worries.

Sono's poor player base, which was re-established in July last year at Day One Sports, was hit harder by a series of injured players in the regular league race. Key player Jeon Sung-hyun, as well as captain Kim Kang-sun, Kim Jin-yu, and Choi Hyun-min, left the fourth round, the crisis of "Spring Basketball."

This is why head coach Kim sighs when he submits a list of 12 players every time he plays.

Coach Kim complained, "Sono is a team that can show better performance as long as the members are organized," adding, "This season is particularly difficult as there are line injuries."

Nevertheless, Sono's performance from the All-Star Game break with 3 wins and 2 losses is due to the performance of newcomers who exceeded expectations.

A case in point is Baek Ji-woong, a second-year shooter who Sono brought in after giving up point guard transition to the Seoul SK Wyverns. Baek Ji-woong, a Konkuk University graduate, couldn't play in even a single game when he was in the SK Wyverns, but he is in charge of some of Jeon's empty spots in Sono. At the game against Korea Gas Corporation on Friday, he scored three three three-point shots and became a leading player in his team's victory.

Baek Ji-woong said, "I know how precious the playing time given to Sono is," adding, "My parents came from far away from Ulsan and saw my performance for the first time, and I'm so happy to show you the same game today."

Sono's first drafts include Park Jong-ha and Min Gi-nam. Park Jong-ha is solidifying his position as a shooter who throws three points at a critical juncture like Baek Ji-woong, while Min Gi-nam is a housekeeper who combines persistent defense.

"(Park) Jong-ha will grow into a player who can be used as a backup for Jeon Sung-hyun next year," manager Kim said. "Min Ki-nam also did a good job in the game against LG in Changwon. I hope he can become a player who not only defends but also throws a single shot at the end."

Young players who have grown up in injury wards are fueling their competition to advance to the round of six playoff this season. Sono has 13 wins and 22 losses as of Tuesday. Although the game was 5.5 games ahead of sixth-ranked Ulsan Hyundai Mobis, the team has yet to give up. If young players grow up, they will be able to strengthen their off-season capabilities and raise hopes for the next season.

"If you give up, you will be in your right place. I am not satisfied with my performance, but I have the joy of finding a new player. I will make a team that is more anticipated next time than now," Kim said. [스포츠토토](https://www.sportstototv.com)