The Trailblazing Career of Ha Seung-jin: South Korea's NBA Pioneer
In the world of professional basketball, few players command attention quite like Ha Seung-jin. Standing at a towering 7 ft 3 in (2.21 m), Ha made history as the first and only South Korean player to compete in the National Basketball Association (NBA). His journey from a high school standout in Suwon to the bright lights of the NBA and the Korean Basketball League (KBL) is a testament to his unique physical presence and dedication to the sport.
Ha's career is defined by his role as a center—a position typically occupied by the tallest players on the court responsible for rebounding and interior defense. Throughout his professional tenure, which spanned from 2004 to 2019, he became a household name in both American and South Korean basketball circles.
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Key Facts
- NBA History: The first and only South Korean player to play in the NBA.
- Physical Stature: Stands 7 ft 3 in (2.21 m) and weighs 305 lb (138 kg).
- NBA Draft: Selected 46th overall in the 2nd round of the 2004 NBA Draft by the Portland Trail Blazers.
- KBL Success: Two-time KBL Champion (2009, 2011) and 2011 KBL Playoffs MVP.
- National Pride: Represented South Korea in the 2010 Asian Games and the FIBA Asia Championships.
Early Life and Collegiate Foundation
Ha's basketball journey began at Samil Commercial High School in Suwon, Gyeonggi Province. Alongside his childhood friend Yang Hee-jong, Ha led the school's team to its first-ever national championship title. Following high school, he made the decision to play college basketball at Yonsei University, accepting an early offer that allowed him to join the team during his senior year of high school.
While at Yonsei, Ha played alongside notable contemporaries such as Yang Hee-jong and Kim Tae-sul. However, his collegiate career was brief; after playing only seven games, he departed for the United States to prepare for the 2004 NBA Draft.
Professional Journey: From the NBA to the KBL
The NBA and D-League Years (2004–2007)
Ha arrived in Los Angeles in 2004 to begin his professional ascent. He was drafted by the Portland Trail Blazers as the 46th overall pick. During his time in the NBA, he experienced the highs of professional competition, including a career-high 13 points scored against the Los Angeles Lakers on April 20, 2005.
His time in the United States also included stints in the NBA D-League (now known as the G League), the NBA's official minor league, where he played for the Fort Worth Flyers and the Anaheim Arsenal. After being traded to the Milwaukee Bucks in 2006, he was eventually waived, marking the end of his American professional chapter.
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Dominance in the Korean Basketball League (2008–2019)
Returning to South Korea, Ha joined the Jeonju KCC Egis in 2008, where he would cement his legacy. His tenure with the Egis was highly decorated, highlighted by KBL championships in 2009 and 2011. His individual excellence was recognized through multiple accolades, including:
- KBL Rookie of the Year (2009)
- KBL Playoffs MVP (2011)
- Three-time KBL Best 5 selection (2010, 2011, 2016)
- Two-time KBL All-Star (2010, 2011)
Ha officially retired from professional basketball following the 2018–19 season, choosing to step away from the court rather than re-sign with a team.
National Team and Post-Retirement Career
Beyond his club career, Ha was a vital asset to the South Korean national team. He represented his country in major international competitions, including the 2010 Asian Games in Guangzhou and the FIBA Asia Championships in 2009 and 2011.
Since retiring from active play, Ha has transitioned into sports media. In 2020, he began working as a commentator for KBS N Sports, focusing on the Women's Korean Basketball League (WKBL). He also served as a guest commentator during the 2020 Summer Olympics.
Career Summary
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Position | Center |
| Height / Weight | 7 ft 3 in (2.21 m) / 305 lb (138 kg) |
| NBA Draft | 2004, 2nd Round (46th overall) |
| Major Teams | Portland Trail Blazers, Jeonju KCC Egis |
| Major Honors | KBL Champion (2x), KBL Playoffs MVP, KBL Rookie of the Year |
Frequently Asked Questions
Was Ha Seung-jin the first South Korean in the NBA?
Yes, Ha Seung-jin is recognized as the first and only South Korean player to have played in the NBA.
What was Ha Seung-jin's highest scoring game in the NBA?
His career-high in the NBA was 13 points, achieved during a game against the Los Angeles Lakers on April 20, 2005.
Which team did Ha Seung-jin play for most of his career?
He spent the majority of his professional career in South Korea playing for the Jeonju KCC Egis between 2008 and 2019.
What does Ha Seung-jin do now that he has retired from basketball?
Ha currently works as a sports commentator for KBS N Sports, primarily covering the Women's Korean Basketball League (WKBL).
Is basketball a family tradition for Ha?
Yes. His father, Ha Dong-gi, was a former basketball player and coach, and his older sister, Ha Eun-joo, was also a professional basketball player who signed with the WNBA's Los Angeles Sparks.