OK Savings Bank, a volleyball team that recently relocated its home base to Busan, faced a tough challenge in their first home game of the 2025-2026 V-League season. Despite losing the match against Korean Air with a final score of 1-3 (22-25, 20-25, 25-23, 22-25) at Gangseo Gymnasium on the 9th, the team managed to achieve a significant milestone: setting a new record for the highest attendance in a single game. With 4,200 spectators in attendance, this marked not only the largest crowd ever seen at an OK Savings Bank game but also the biggest audience in the men’s division this season.
The team, which was originally established in Ansan in 2013, made the move to Busan this year, signaling a major shift in their strategy and fan engagement. The enthusiastic support from the local community was evident throughout the match, with fans cheering loudly and creating a vibrant atmosphere despite the loss.
Challenges and Lessons Learned
Despite the victory, the game exposed several weaknesses in the team’s performance. The coordination between the setter and the striker was inconsistent, and the team struggled to maintain a consistent offensive rhythm. However, the players showed resilience through persistent defense and strong teamwork, especially during the third set when they managed to take an 11-7 lead with quick attacks and effective blocking.
Coach Shin Young-chul acknowledged the pressure of the occasion, stating, “There is a lot of pressure.” He added, “I think it’s the first time I’ve been as burdened as I am today while supervising.” The coach emphasized the importance of learning from the experience and improving for future matches.
Key Moments in the Match
In the third set, OK Savings Bank fought fiercely, pushing the game to the brink. They executed a variety of quick and rear attacks, and their blocking efforts helped them gain an early advantage. However, the momentum shifted in the fourth set when Dimitrov failed to make a back attack, allowing Korean Air to tie the game. This moment proved crucial, as Korean Air capitalized on the opportunity to take the lead.
In the final set, OK Savings Bank tried to stage a comeback, but the team’s errors in critical moments led to their downfall. At 19-19, Dimitrov committed a costly offense, and Korean Air took full advantage by blocking Jeon Kwang-in’s back attack. This decisive play sealed the victory for Korean Air.
A New Era for OK Savings Bank
While the result was disappointing, the team’s performance and the overwhelming support from the fans indicate a promising future. The high attendance numbers suggest that there is a strong fan base in Busan that is eager to support the team. As the team continues to adapt to their new home, they will need to focus on improving their organizational skills and building stronger chemistry among the players.
The game may have ended in defeat, but the experience has provided valuable lessons that will help OK Savings Bank grow and succeed in the upcoming seasons.
