KBL Demonstration Games Return After 14 Years, But key Stars Will Sit Out
Seoul, South Korea – september 17, 2025 – Korean basketball fans are eagerly anticipating the return of pre-season demonstration games after a 14-year hiatus, a move spearheaded by the Korea basketball Federation (KBL) to boost fan engagement. However, the excitement is tempered by the confirmed absence of several high-profile players, including key members of the anticipated “Super Team” Busan KCC and reigning MVP Ahn Young-joon of the Seoul SK knights.
The KBL announced a series of exhibition matchups featuring all ten league teams, with games scheduled both at home and away venues. This marks a shift from previous pre-season formats, which typically involved a tournament held in a single location. The decision to revive the demonstration games comes after clubs proposed increased opportunities for fan interaction.
The Busan KCC, widely tipped as a championship contender, will showcase new additions to their roster, including 195cm Asian Quarter forward William Navarro (Philippines) and center Jang Jae-seok. Though, the team will be without Heo hoon, a key free-agent acquisition, who suffered a ruptured calf tendon during a recent practise game. Fans will also have to wait to see five-time MVP candidates Hur Woong, Heo Hoon’s brother Hun, Choi Joon-yong, Song Gyo-chang, and Sean Long in action.
adding to the disappointment, MVP Ahn Young-joon
