Basketball
The Rising Star: DJ Burns Shines in Korean Basketball League
2025-01-10
After a standout collegiate career at NC State, DJ Burns is making waves in the Korean Basketball League. His recent performances hint at a promising future in professional basketball.

Discover How DJ Burns Is Transforming into a Dominant Force Overseas

Emerging Potential in Korea

DJ Burns, the 24-year-old forward from Rock Hill, South Carolina, has quickly become an integral part of the Goyang Sono Skygunners in the Korean Basketball League (KBL). Despite the team's current standing at eighth place with a 9-17 record, Burns' contributions have steadily grown. Initially averaging only 8.6 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 1.5 assists across his first 26 games, Burns faced challenges adjusting to the league's pace. However, his resilience and adaptability have led to a significant uptick in performance.In recent weeks, Burns has seen his playing time increase dramatically. Over the past six games, he has averaged 25.7 minutes per contest, nearly tripling his initial average of 9.3 minutes in the season's opening 10 games. This newfound court time has translated into improved statistics, with Burns now scoring an average of 13.5 points and grabbing 5.5 rebounds per game while shooting an impressive 57.1% from the field. The transformation underscores Burns' potential as a key player for the Skygunners.

A Legacy Built on Hard Work

Burns' journey to the KBL is rooted in his remarkable college career at NC State. After transferring from Winthrop University, he became a pivotal figure for the Wolfpack during the 2023-24 season. Standing at 6-foot-9 and weighing 275 pounds, Burns provided a formidable presence both offensively and defensively. His contributions were instrumental in helping NC State secure its first ACC Tournament championship in over four decades and reach the Final Four for the first time since 1983.The experience gained during this historic run has undoubtedly prepared Burns for the rigors of professional play. His ability to thrive under pressure and deliver when it matters most has been evident in his performances for the Skygunners. Fans and analysts alike are optimistic about Burns' prospects, believing that his skills could eventually lead to opportunities in higher-profile leagues, including the NBA.

Looking Ahead: A Bright Future Awaits

While Burns continues to make strides in the KBL, speculation about his future remains a topic of interest. There is a possibility that he could receive an Exhibit 10 contract, which would provide him with another chance to showcase his talents in the NBA Summer League or preseason. Such an opportunity could be a stepping stone toward a more permanent role in one of the world's premier basketball leagues.For now, Burns remains focused on his immediate goals with the Skygunners. His dedication and hard work have not gone unnoticed, and many believe that his best days are still ahead. As he continues to develop and refine his game, the basketball world watches with anticipation, eager to see where this rising star's journey will take him next.
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