JD Cagulangan makes immediate impact for Suwon in KBL debut

Just days after arriving in Korean, JD Cagulangan makes his debut for Suwon KT Sonicboom in the KBL.

MANILA, Philippines —Just days after arriving in Korea, JD Cagulangan made an impressive debut in the Korean Basketball League (KBL) on Saturday.

But his first game efforts were spoiled after the Suwon KT Sonicboom fell to Justin Gutang and the Seoul Samsung Thunders, 78-64, at Suwon Arena.

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Cagulangan showed what he’s capable of with seven points, nine assists, five steals, and four rebounds in 22 minutes of action.

READ: JD Cagulangan arrives in Korea to join KBL team Suwon

“I love to pass and I love to win,” Cagulangan said in an interview upon joining the Sonicboom.

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And the University of the Philippines proved just that, finishing with a game-high in assists off the bench.

Sonicboom dropped to a 15-12 record in fourth place but despite the loss,  Cagulangan said he’s grateful to finally enter a new chapter in his basketball career.

“I’m very very grateful, especially for this kind of opportunity this is a once in a lifetime opportunity that KT gave me,” Cagulangan said.

READ: JD Cagulangan vows to live UP lessons

“Some of the Filipino guys are playing overseas and everyone is dreaming of playing overseas and I’m one of them. So it’s an unexpected blessing for Filipinos because now we have a lot of options, you can play abroad and stay in the Philippines. Options for overseas is way better,” he added.

The UAAP Season 87 Finals MVP admitted that he is still adjusting to the freezing weather in South Korea but he made sure to make preparations before flying out, resulting in a decent KBL debut.

“As long as I wanted to celebrate Christmas because Christmas in the Philippines is very happy and everyone is giving gifts but I have a duty after the season that’s why I need to train hard and continue my work. It’s my dream to be here so I need to prepare,” he said.

Chasing a championship

Suwon KT Sonicboom’s newest recruit JD Cagulangan joins his KBL team. –SUWON INSTAGRAM

Cagulangan also shared that his newest basketball club made a huge impact on UP’s basketball program when they faced each other two years ago. 

“I remember when we went here in Korea and we played against KT and we didn’t get a win. I talked to my teammates and [told them] let’s start a change. They became more focused and everyone was cheering for each other and then we got a win. Every time we face KT, we’re having a hard time,” he said.

Cagulangan led UP to its second title in four seasons, exacting a sweet revenge on La Salle in Finals Game 3.

After a losing debut, the two-time UAAP champion is locked in for his next goal, win a KBL title in his rookie year. 

“I want to win a championship especially it’s my first year. I’m very, very excited,” he said.

Gutang had 11 points, four assists, and two steals as Seoul rose to a 10-17 record upsetting Cagulangan and Sonicboom.