KB Stars claimed the top spot in the Women’s Korean Basketball League (WKBL) regular season, delivering their strongest showing in four years.
The team met fierce resistance in the playoffs from Hana One Bank, Samsung Life Bluwings, and Woori Bank Wibee. In three key series, KB Stars secured victories without sweeping opponents.
Kickoff Ceremony Insights
The BNK Financial 2025-2026 Women’s Pro League regular season launch occurred on June 6 at Seoul Dragon City Hotel. Managers from the four playoff semifinal teams attended alongside two key players each.
Semifinal matchups included No. 1 KB Stars versus No. 4 Woori Bank Wibee, and No. 2 Hana One Bank against No. 3 Samsung Life Bluwings. Winners advanced to the championship series.
Fan and Media Championship Picks
Event polls showed strong backing for KB Stars. Fans selected them at 66.4%, while media members overwhelmingly chose the team at 93.6%.
Coaches Weigh In on Postseason
KB Stars coach Kim Wan-su highlighted postseason dynamics: “Postseason play demands more from players than the regular season. Maximizing their skills meets fan expectations and clinches the title.” He added confidence: “Other teams compete well, but focused effort yields strong results regardless.”
Two years prior, KB Stars reached the finals from fourth place. This season’s extra selections boosted their edge. Kim noted: “This marks the highest postseason entry without burden in league history. We feel great momentum.” He emphasized: “Championship hunger drives us—even one win overall keeps PO alive and motivates the squad.”
Woori Bank Wibee coach Kim Dan-bi acknowledged: “Personal honors matter, but KB deserves credit for reaching playoffs. Still, we transform their talent into our strength and compete head-on.”
On expectations, Kim stated: “Fans predicted just 6.4% chance for our championship run, but current form proves otherwise.” She affirmed: “Predictions aside, numbers reveal the truth we see.” Kim reinforced: “Truly great rivals sharpen competition. We embrace that pressure to build winning habits.”
Samsung Life Bluwings coach Ha Sang-yoon reflected: “Three straight semifinals demand breakthroughs. With focused players, we target Hana One Bank’s vulnerabilities without mercy.” He expressed resolve: “Reaching finals means overcoming current top seed KB— that’s our goal.”
Upcoming Playoff Action
KB Stars face Woori Bank Wibee on the 8th in Cheongju. Hana One Bank meets Samsung Life Bluwings’ first round on the 9th in Bucheon. The championship series begins on the 22nd.
