The controversy ultimately led to disciplinary action. Former head coach Jeon Hee-cheol, who was at the center of allegations of "intentional losing," was fined.
The Korean Basketball League (KBL) held the 12th meeting of its 31st finance committee on the afternoon of the 10th and reviewed the controversy over unsportsmanlike play in the round 6 game between SK and Jung Kwan Jang held on the 8th of the 2025-2026 season at Anyang Jung Kwan Jang Arena. The result was clear. A fine of 5 million won was imposed on coach Jeon Hee-cheol, and the SK team received a warning.
The contentious moment came at the end of the game. With the score tied 65-65, SK's Kim Myung-jin was awarded two free throws. But he missed both. In particular, the second shot did not even touch the rim. Immediately after, Jung Kwan Jang's Joo Hyun-woo scored, deciding the outcome.
Suspicions arose around that scene. There were claims that SK deliberately lost to consider playoff matchups. At the time, SK would finish third if they won and fourth if they lost. As a result, SK ended up facing 5th-seeded Goyang Sono.
The numbers also added weight to the suspicions. SK held a 4-2 advantage over Sono. By contrast, they were 2-4 against KCC. Observers continued to suggest that SK chose the relatively favorable matchup.
Coach Jeon Hee-cheol bowed his head immediately after the controversy. He expressed an apology at the playoff media day. He also clearly said he would take responsibility for the controversy. He emphasized his intent to protect the players.
The finance committee likewise judged the matter severely. It saw it as an issue that could undermine the fairness of competition and the league's credibility. However, the disciplinary action weighed more on the coach's responsibility than on organizational involvement at the club level.
In the end, SK will face the playoffs under sanction. The mood is heavy. They must prepare for games amid the controversy. Their first opponent is Sono.
The first game of the six-team playoff between SK and Sono will be held on the 12th at Jamsil Students' Gymnasium in Seoul. Attention is focused not only on the game result but also on the team's reaction after the controversy.
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