“We’re not greedy, but…”
Toyota Antelopes defeated Cheongju KB Stars 74-64 in the group stage of the 2024 Woori Bank Park Shinjha Cup at Asan Sunshin Gymnasium on Nov. 31.
Toyota Yasuma Shiori, the MVP of the last edition of the tournament, made his return to the Park Shinja Cup. She had another strong game, scoring 15 points, grabbing seven rebounds, 파워볼실시간 and dishing out four assists.
“I’m very happy to be able to participate in the tournament for the second year in a row. I’m excited too,” Yasuma said.
When asked about winning back-to-back MVP awards, Yasuma said, “I do have MVP greed. But I’m more concerned with the process of the team winning one game at a time. I think if I win in that process, I will have a chance to become MVP.”
While Yasuma is still around, Toyota’s roster has changed a lot from last year. Yasuma’s shoulders are also heavier.
“The team has changed a lot from last year, and there are a lot of younger members. I’m still making a lot of mistakes, but it feels good to win the first match. I want to show my growth through the Park Shinja Cup. Many of the players have only been on the team for one or two years. As a guard, I think I need to play with leadership,” he emphasized.
As for the secret to being good at basketball, he said, “I still want to get better. I like to watch good players and try to imitate them, and that’s one of my strengths. I think I’ll be able to play basketball with more excitement if I get better at it, so I want to grow even more in the future.”
Head coach Yuko Oga praised Yasuma’s physicality, saying she looks more like a 23-year-old.
“Physically, I’m the youngest player on the team,” Yasuma said. There are a lot of younger players, but I’m physically better. I have the best body in my basketball career. I think I’m 23 years old so I don’t lose to younger players. I don’t have any injuries and I think that’s why I’m young.”