Sunday, September 15, 2024 | Nara, Japan

Sweat dripped all over me as my son and I stepped foot into the Nara Rohto Arena. I did not care at all how disheveled I looked, I was just excited to go in and watch a pre-season match between DB Promy of the Korean Basketball League and Japan’s B.League Bambitious Nara.

As an usher led us to our seats located behind DB Promy’s bench, my eyes scanned to locate one of the newest members of the team: Lee Gwanhee, the person I came to watch.

After being traded in June by the LG Sakers, curiosity had me wonder how Gwanhee was doing with his new team, his third in his 13-year KBL career. Is he getting along with everyone? How was the team chemistry both on and off the court? DB had lost two previous matches coming into this one, and I wondered if they’ll bounce back or continue the losing streak.

The team was warming up when we got seated and was transitioning into doing stretches. Lee Gwanhee was right by the bench, with his back facing us.

After about five minutes or so, Gwanhee finally saw me. He had that typical surprised “ooh” look of his and then smiled.  He said hello and asked when I arrived. I told him that I had come with my son, Nate, who is currently stationed in Japan at a U.S. Marine base. Gwanhee asked how old he was, and when I said he was turning 21 in a few days, it elicited a surprised reaction; either I looked too young to have a 21-year-old son, or my son looked too young to be 21. Probably the latter. Lol.

After stretching, Gwanhee gave my son and I Pocari Sweat drinks. This reminded me of when I received the same drink after meeting him for the first time in Goyang back in January of this year. After exchanging further pleasantries, I then wished him well in the game.

It initially felt odd seeing Lee Gwanhee in his green DB uniform. Even as he was doing his usual pre-game routines, the color of his uniform stood out and was a clear reminder that he was no longer an LG Saker. It may take my heart a while to get used to.

And that reality saddened me. But that melancholic feeling was quickly replaced by a wave of happiness as DB came from behind to win over Nara 79-73. Gwanhee played a good three-quarters of the game, scoring 18 points to lead the team; his best stats so far this pre season.

Honestly, based on my personal observations from this game, DB Promy seems to be a good fit for Lee Gwanhee. LG Sakers had/has many shooters who started and came off the bench that Gwanhee wasn’t used to his maximum capabilities; he was limited, both in role and playing time.

With DB, I believe Gwanhee would have more time and opportunities just like he’s had the past few practice matches. His recent on-the-court performances certainly prove he can still play. Do not count out the 36-year-old veteran just yet. Lee Gwanhee plays with a lot of heart and still has a lot of value to give to any team. The green and black are blessed to have him on their team.

After the game, I was able to have another conversation with Gwanhee before he boarded the bus. I told him he played well, but he quickly reminded me that the team also dealt with recent losses prior to the win. But in my mind, it doesn’t matter, as long as there’s improvement and he continues to build chemistry with his new team.

Gwanhee also asked me where my son and I were headed next and where we were staying, etc, and I unfortunately couldn’t disclose information. And he understood.

“He (Lee Gwanhee) could be a North Korean spy,” my son said afterward. He said this in a serious tone. I looked at him, and I couldn’t help but laugh. My son has dry humor! 

But this was the logical reason behind why we could not disclose. It was military protocol. And so, I let it be.

Soon after, a small group of local Japanese fans approached him for a picture. Apparently, his world stardom is still intact. It may not be as strong as it was before, but Lee Gwanhee is still generating interest.

To conclude, this past weekend was amazing! It was awesome seeing Lee Gwanhee again in his basketball element. And what endeared me to him even more was that he had been wearing the Oakland A’s hat that I had gifted him. That meant the world to me. The last several months have been very hard for me, emotionally and mentally, as my most favorite baseball team of almost 40 years prepares to play their very last game ever in Oakland next week. Seeing Lee Gwanhee wear the hat provided comfort and consolation in a way. And I was grateful.

I was also extremely glad I was able to celebrate my son’s 21st birthday in Japan. I introduced him to his first professional basketball game in Asia, and he got to meet Lee Gwanhee. I asked Nate if he was a fanboy now, and he couldn’t help but laugh. He said the fanboy life is not for him.

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