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NCT member Johnny expressed his genuine emotions regarding his experience joining the basketball team as a “newcomer to basketball.”

On the 26th, the launch event for “Rising Eagles” took place at the SBS Broadcasting Center in Yangcheon-gu, Seoul. Attendees included director Seo Hyun-seok PD, TV host and former basketball player Seo Jang-hoon, Chon Tae-poong, Minho, singer Jung Jin-woon, Son Tae-jin, NCT member Johnny, actors Park Eun-seok, Oh Seung-hoon, Kim Taek, TV host Park Chan-woong, models Moon Soo-in and Lee Dae-hee, and influencer Jung Kyu-min, along with others.

Johnny mentioned the “SM Running Crew” that day, stating, “I joined this basketball team just concerned about Minho hyung,” which caused laughter. The “SM Running Crew” was established last June in London, UK, when Minho brought together members from different groups who had gathered in London for the “SMTOWN LIVE 2025” performance. Their morning runs were shared publicly on the official YouTube channel. At that time, Johnny seemed to have some difficulty keeping up with Minho’s intense enthusiasm, a point he later mentioned.

Johnny said, “But when I got there, I was surprised to discover that not only Minho but also the players and the coach were all truly enthusiastic about basketball.” He added, “It wasn’t easy to maintain that enthusiasm until the end,” and said, “I hope audiences can experience this passion by watching my journey.”

He said, “Even though it took some time to get used to, at a certain point I clearly felt like I was part of the team.” He continued, “The players all appeared intimidating,” he explained, “At first, I spent a lot of time on the bench, watching the players play. I didn’t realize it while I was just in the waiting room, but once the game began, even those who usually didn’t talk informally or use strong language started to do so.”

Concerning coach Seo Jang-hoon, Johnny stated, “He handles ‘factual bombs’ effectively,” and noted, “Everything he says makes sense when you listen.” He added, “It appears he tailors his comments to each player’s ability,” explaining, “As I’m a novice, he commended me, but for those with greater talent, he tells them, ‘You can’t do it.’”

He added, “Since I am an ‘T’ (ISTJ) personality type, I can use this as a reason to put in extra effort,” and continued, “I believe audiences will find it intriguing to watch the coach supporting the players.”

“Rising Eagles” showcases the Asian basketball challenge faced by the entertainment industry’s basketball team, the Rising Eagles. Renowned figures in Korean basketball, Seo Jang-hoon and Jeon Tae-phung, who have made a comeback to the court, are at the helm of the team. The first episode is scheduled to broadcast on Saturday, the 29th, at 5 p.m.