Even the reigning champion couldn't stop Seoul Samsung's 23-year first

One win can be a fluke. Six straight wins to begin the season, including one over the defending champions, demand a closer look. For long-suffering Samsung fans, the standings suddenly look unfamiliar.

At Jamsil Students' Gymnasium on October 21, Samsung led 30–21 after the first quarter and 53–49 at halftime. It held KCC to 13 third-quarter points to take a 75–62 lead, eventually winning 97–86. Kanter scored 30, Lee Kwan-hee 17 and Lee Gyu-tae 15.

The key stretch was the third quarter, when a four-point halftime advantage grew to 13. Kanter's inside scoring, Lee Kwan-hee's perimeter play and contributions from Lee Gyu-tae and Chris McCullough proved important. KCC suffered its fourth consecutive loss, but one game cannot decide the season.

Reports described the crowd responding enthusiastically to Justin Gutang's dunks. Sports coverage has focused on Samsung's cohesion, while KCC faces the stark contrast of four straight defeats after a title-winning season. The next result now carries extra suspense.

Coverage has noted improved chance creation and rebounding under coach Kim Sang-sik. A 6–0 start is an achievement, not a guarantee over a long season. Sustaining that teamwork is the next test.

KCC's official box score confirms Samsung 97, KCC 86. Samsung's six opening wins tie its 2003–04 franchise record. Kanter scored 30, Lee Kwan-hee 17, Lee Gyu-tae 15 and KCC's Louis King 21. Those numbers describe results through October 21 only.

Samsung is scheduled to play Ulsan Hyundai Mobis at Ulsan Dongcheon Gymnasium at 4:30 p.m. KST on Saturday, October 24. A win would mean a club-record 7–0 start; it remains a possibility, not a result.