BNK’s Lee So-hee Ignites Busan to Crucial Win, Shifting WKBL Power Dynamics
Busan, South Korea – January 21, 2026 – In a nail-biting contest that went down to the wire, the Busan BNK women’s professional basketball team secured a hard-fought 65-63 victory over the Asan Woori Bank today at Sajik Gymnasium. This breaking news from the Women’s Korean Basketball League (WKBL) sees BNK climb closer to a coveted second-place spot, fueled by a stellar performance from guard Lee So-hee. This win is a significant boost for BNK’s playoff aspirations and a testament to their growing momentum. For those following Google News for sports updates, this is a game you won’t want to miss!
Lee So-hee’s Three-Point Barrage Propels BNK
Lee So-hee was the undisputed star of the show, racking up 19 points, including a remarkable five three-pointers. Her clutch shooting, particularly a series of three-pointers in the second and third quarters, proved pivotal in shifting the momentum in BNK’s favor. Ahn Hye-ji also contributed significantly with 13 points, 8 assists, and 5 rebounds, showcasing her all-around game. Sonia Kim added 12 points and 8 rebounds, solidifying BNK’s strong interior presence.
The game wasn’t without its drama. BNK initially surged ahead in the third quarter, building a 41-29 lead, but Woori Bank mounted a fierce comeback in the fourth, tying the game at 56-56 with just four minutes remaining. A back-and-forth battle ensued, with lead changes and tense moments until BNK ultimately held on for the win.
Woori Bank Fights Valiantly, But Falls Short
Despite the loss, Woori Bank demonstrated resilience. Ayano Onizuka led the team with 15 points, while Danbi Kim and Myungkwan Lee each added 14 points and 9 rebounds. However, their efforts weren’t enough to overcome BNK’s hot shooting and determined defense. This loss marks Woori Bank’s second consecutive defeat, following a previous setback against Bucheon Hana Bank.
WKBL Standings and Championship Implications
With this victory, BNK improves to 10 wins and 8 losses, positioning them in third place in the WKBL standings. They are now just 1.5 games behind second-place Cheongju KB (9 wins and 7 losses). Woori Bank, now at 8 wins and 9 losses, remains in fourth place. The tight competition at the top of the league underscores the importance of every game as teams vie for playoff positioning.
Evergreen Context: The Rise of Women’s Basketball in South Korea – The WKBL has seen a surge in popularity in recent years, attracting a growing fanbase and showcasing the incredible talent of South Korean female basketball players. This increased visibility is partly due to strategic SEO efforts by the league and media outlets, ensuring wider reach through platforms like Google News. The league’s commitment to developing young players and fostering a competitive environment is paying dividends, with games becoming increasingly exciting and attracting national attention. Understanding the nuances of Korean basketball – its unique strategies, player styles, and passionate fan base – is key to appreciating the significance of games like today’s BNK victory.
Looking Ahead: BNK’s Pursuit of Second Place
BNK’s next challenge will be to maintain this momentum and close the gap on Cheongju KB. Their success hinges on continuing to leverage Lee So-hee’s scoring prowess and the all-around contributions of players like Ahn Hye-ji and Sonia Kim. For Woori Bank, the focus will be on rebounding from this loss and regaining their form. The remainder of the WKBL regular season promises to be filled with thrilling matchups and intense competition as teams battle for playoff berths. Stay tuned to archyde.com for the latest updates and in-depth coverage of the WKBL and other sports news.
Image: Lee So-hee in action during the BNK vs. Woori Bank game. (Source: WKBL)