@leahun_
What made you dream of becoming a professional basketball player for the first time?
Ever since I was a kid, basketball has been a regular part of my life. As I continued playing, I developed a strong conviction that I should pursue it all the way.
Becoming a professional player was truly a formidable challenge. The path for an athlete is never easy. But I think I was able to achieve it with the belief that I would go to a professional program once.
If regular basketball is long-distance, I think 3X3 basketball is short-distance. As a professional player, it must have been challenging to adapt. Did you have any difficulties?
When I first started playing 3-on-3 basketball, I struggled to adapt. The physicality of the game is no joke, and it's often referred to as a bullfight for a reason.The aggression can be intense, and the risk of injuries big.
One of the biggest challenges was getting used to the different court size and rules. Sure, 3-on-3 may sound like a shorter distance, but trust me, it's a whole different ball game. You have to maintain your peak performance for the entire 10 minutes of the game, which is no easy feat.
If you have a physical fight, you run out of energy in 3 minutes. In the end, it's all about how well you can organize your game plan
I think the charm of 3X3 is that you can play in various places like the beach. But I think it's going to have a big impact on the game. Isn't it?
If you come to 3X3, you can experience various experiences that 5:5 elite players have not encountered. It's a significant attraction for the audience. But it was challenging for me to adjust to outdoor games. I was influenced by the wind throughout the game.
There was even a player who fainted because it was so hot. I've seen that a lot.
When I played in Busan, the wind factor was particularly influential. But aside from the wind, there were other challenging elements to contend with. One memorable instance was when we competed in Haeundae and Gwangalli. While we were playing basketball, people were swimming nearby. The heat was sweltering, and as much as we wanted to join them in the water, we had to stay focused on the game. It definitely added an extra layer of difficulty, but hey, that's just part of the game. (laughs)
I think there will be a difference in recognition and size from professional basketball. How do you feel as a player?
Overall, of course, it's not as popular as professional basketball. However, in the realm of YouTube and social media, I've noticed a significant surge in the prominence of 3-on-3 basketball. It seems to be gaining more attention and traction in those platforms.
Ordinary students who like basketball know 3X3 players. However, the sport of basketball itself is not as popular as it used to be. Other sports are more popular. But it's a pity that basketball doesn't seem to grow that much.
You are teaching basketball along with your career. Is there anything that anyone who wants to learn basketball should know?
There are many cases where people come after watching the players play. But in basketball, you have to be competent at the most basic things. There's a big difference.
If you don't have the basics, it's challenging to progress or learn more advanced techniques. Of course, it may be boring but we still emphasize the basics.
There are people who are skilled at playing on the right side of the court but can't play on the left side at all. They become one-dimensional, constantly favoring their dominant side. However, to become a well-rounded player, it's essential to develop competence on both sides.
I think that's our role, so I'm focusing on the basics.
What was pleasant about wearing Wavewear?
Calf Sleeve C2 and leggings L20 were the most comfortable.
I always carry a full set of Wavewear top and bottom when I participate in 3X3. There was a time when I played in leggings.
Not only basketball, but I also play soccer often, so I wear them then. I think it's important to hold the muscles.
Since the three-to-three game is very intense, there are many cases of cramps after the game. There is a big difference between wearing calf sleeves and not wearing them.
I've tried a lot of other brands products, but Wavewear is really comfortable. Thats why I wore Wavewear in the final of the last competition.
Tell us about your future goals!
Personally, I hope we can continue to play basketball with good people without getting hurt and having fun like now. The goal is to make basketball get the attention of the whole nation like soccer and baseball.
This is what I felt while playing basketball as a job.
Honestly, I'm less interested in baseball or soccer. Thus, players salaries are much lower than their amount of work.
Lea-Hun Park - Favorite Products
