Bottom-Ranked Shinhan Bank Prevails

Incheon Shinhan Bank, the lowest-ranked team in the league, delivered a stunning upset victory over top-ranked Bucheon Hana Bank on Wednesday, February 20th. Shinhan Bank defeated Hana Bank 52-37 in a game held at Bucheon Gymnasium as part of the BNK Financial 2025-2026 Women’s Professional Basketball Regular League.

Key Performances Drive Shinhan Bank Victory

Shin Seul led Shinhan Bank with a dominant performance, recording 19 points, 11 rebounds and 3 steals. Mima Rui contributed 10 points and 5 rebounds to the winning effort. Shinhan Bank’s defense proved crucial, holding Hana Bank to just 37 points.

A Defensive Battle

The game was characterized by tight defense from both sides. Shinhan Bank took an early lead in the first quarter, 9-6, and maintained a narrow advantage throughout the first half, ending with a score of 18-17. The combined 35 points scored by both teams in the first half marked the lowest combined first-half score in WKBL history, narrowly surpassing the previous record of 36 points set in a 2016 game between Kookmin Bank and Woori Bank.

The combined 35 points of both teams in the first half is the lowest combined score of both teams in the first half in WKBL history.

Second-Half Surge Seals the Win

Shinhan Bank extended their lead in the second half with a relentless defensive pressure. Contributions from Hong Yu-soon and Kim Ji-young helped maintain the gap, while guards Shin Seul, Kim Ji-young, and Shin Ji-hyeon pushed the score to 33-26. Strong shooting from Choi I-sam and Shin Ji-hyun in the fourth quarter solidified Shinhan Bank’s lead, ultimately securing the 52-37 victory.

Hana Bank Struggles

The loss leaves Hana Bank tied with Kookmin Bank (17 wins, 8 losses) for the league lead. Jinan recorded a double-double with 14 points and 10 rebounds, and Saki Iijima added 12 points and 6 rebounds, but Hana Bank’s offense struggled, with only 1 of 18 shots making it past Shinhan Bank’s defense.

Looking Ahead

Shinhan Bank finished the 5th round with their 5th win (20 losses) of the season. This victory demonstrates their potential for growth and competitiveness as the season progresses.