The seniors batch of 2021-22 — headlined by the likes of SJ Belangel, Dwight Ramos, Ricci Rivero, and Justine Baltazar — will have a new opportunity in front of them.
In an effort to revitalize the Korean Basketball League, league president Kim Heeok has made sweeping reforms through his Re:bound KBL agenda, which they will implement next season.
For its Asian Quota program, the KBL will look to open it to more players in the continent.
Initially, the KBL and the B.League forged a partnership that would allow players from both leagues to transfer.
Only availing of this program was Taichi Nakamura, who went to Wonju DB Promy.
And just like the B.League, the KBL will look to recruit players from the Philippines, Indonesia, and China.
Already in the B.League are Thirdy Ravena (San-En NeoPhoenix), Kiefer Ravena (Shiga Lakestars), Juan Gomez de Liaño (Earthfriends Tokyo Z), Bobby Ray Parks Jr. (Nagoya Diamond Dolphins), Javi Gomez de Liano (Ibaraki Robots), and Kemark Carino (Aomori Wat’s). One more player is expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
With regards to pay, the league is also planning on “adjusting the upper limit for foreign player’s salaries.”
Also part of Kim’s plans are to implement a draft system, improve refereeing, enhancing the marketing strategies, and expansion of international competitions.
He is doing this to actively prepare for the league’s post-coronavirus era.
There are 10 teams in the league, namely Anyang KGC, Changwon LG Sakers, Goyang Orion Orions, Incheon Electroland Elephants, Jeonju KCC Egis, Seoul Samsung Thunders, Seoul SK Knights, Suwon KT Sonicboom, Ulsan Hyundai Mobis Phoebus, and Wonju.
