Abando finally breaks slump to help Anyang tie KBL finals series vs Seoul

By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña

Young Filipino Asian hoops import Rhenz Abando finally regained his offensive touch after leading Anyang KGC to a convincing 81-67 win over the Seoul SK Knights to equalize their grand finals series in the Korean Basketball League (KBL) last April 27, 2023.

After a salty shooting performance during the past week, Abando erupted for 18 big points built from 2/4 shooting from the three-point area including four rebounds, three steals, and two assists.

The former Gilas Pilipinas national team young cadet bounced back from an unusual Game 1 outing when he only produced four points and two rebounds.

It was one of the most disappointing performances for Abando after finishing the Game inefficiently in 20 minutes of action.

However, in Game 2, Abando made sure to regain his coaches’ trust after shooting 61 % from the field in 27 minutes of playing time.

Abando immediately sought his shooting touch in the first quarter after Anyang drew the first two plays for him off a curl play in the left elbow.

Hoping that their Asian import will have a huge night, Abando didn’t mess around and proved to be the key to Anyang’s lopsided win in Game 2.

When Abando scored six quick markers, Anyang then took full control of the game and prevented Seoul from a comeback attempt late in the third quarter.

Oh Sekeun backstopped the Filipino swingman after putting up 21 points and nine rebounds while former NBA big man Omari Spellman contributed 13 markers.

Abando and the rest of the Anyang squad will look to take a 2-1 lead in Game 3 to clinch the much-needed momentum against the talented Seoul team.