KBL Rocked by Allegations of Intentional Loss
- Joanne Lee
- Apr 13
- 2 min read
Apr 13, 2026
Joanne Lee
On April 8, the Korean Basketball League (KBL) became embroiled in a controversy over an alleged lack of effort during a game. Jeon Hee-chul, head coach of Seoul SK Knights and a central figure in the incident, was fined 5 million won by the KBL Financial Committee.
The controversy began during the final regular-season game on April 8 between Anyang Jung Kwan Jang Red Boosters and Seoul SK Knights. This game not only marked the end of the regular season but also determined the matchups for the first round of the playoffs. In the six-team playoff format, the 3rd-ranked team faces the 6th-ranked team, while the 4th-ranked team plays against the 5th-ranked team. The Knights had two possible outcomes: if they won, they would finish 3rd and face Busan KCC Egis; if they lost, they would place 4th and face Goyang Sono.
The issue became most evident in the final moments of the fourth quarter. With the score tied at 65-65, a shocking scene unfolded with just 13 seconds remaining. SK Kim Myung-jin had two free throws. However, his first shot hit the backboard, and his second attempt failed to touch even the rim. While missed free throws are not unusual, such inaccurate attempts were enough to surprise many basketball fans. Shortly afterward, the team also made defensive errors, allowing their opponent to take the lead and win 67-65. As a result, they finished the season in 4th place.
Many observers raised suspicions that they may have intentionally played poorly to avoid facing Busan KCC Egis, a team that had performed strongly against them during the season. In response, the KBL Financial Committee imposed a fine of 5 million won. However, this decision has sparked further debate over whether such a penalty is sufficient to prevent similar incidents in the future.
