SBS is rolling out a new sports-reality series this November, and the roster is already making headlines. Titled 'Rising Eagles,' the show brings together celebrities and sports pros to form a single team, chronicling their grind, growth, and chemistry on and off the court.
Expect sweat, stakes and real camaraderie as stars from different backgrounds come together under one game plan. The season will also take the squad on the road to the Philippines, setting the stage for a dramatic test of their progress on international turf.
At the helm is Seo Jang-hoon, the former national-team legend and one of Korea’s most celebrated centers. As head coach, he’ll lean on his trademark charisma and leadership to push the team to play bigger and smarter.
Joining him on the bench is coach Jeon Tae-poong, a former pro guard known for sharp reads and no-nonsense intensity. His on-court IQ and high-energy drills are expected to lock the roster in as a true unit.
Of course, the real spotlight belongs to the celebrity players suiting up for 'Rising Eagles.' A cross-section of stars will showcase a whole new side of themselves once the whistle blows.
Leading the team as captain is MINHO of SHINee, a proven all-around athlete with the competitiveness and poise to run the floor and set the tone.
2AM’s Jeong Jin-woon once dreamed of going pro in middle school before an injury cut that path short. He never left the game, though, and is widely regarded as one of the entertainment industry’s best hoopers. Now he’s back to chase the unfinished dream.
NCT’s JOHNNY brings global-star energy to the court, matching an easygoing vibe with fierce competitiveness. Expect high-effort plays and a big lift to team morale.
Actor Oh Seung-hoon, a former school-team ace, injects grit and tenacity, keeping his longtime passion for the game front and center.
Model-turned-talent Moon Su-in, standing 189 cm, has even competed in a Philippine tournament, giving him a noteworthy edge on international courts. His size and presence should anchor the paint.
Singer Son Tae-jin translates musical finesse into smart, creative playmaking.
Actor Park Eun-seok, known for commanding screen roles, flips the script with upbeat, witty energy on the court―plus a laser focus on defense that could rattle opponents.
Actor Kim Taek is a bona fide basketball lifer, having starred for Whimoon High School before transitioning to acting―often in athlete roles. When he laces up, he’s all business.
Jung Kyu-min, the influencer who rose to fame on "EXchange 2," is a gym-trained hoops diehard with quick first steps and a deadly touch, shaping up to be the team’s dark horse.
Model-actor Lee Dae-hee, at 195 cm, is poised to control the glass and make his presence felt under the rim.
Shopping host Park Chan-woong―kid brother of pro guard Park Chan-hee―has basketball in his DNA. Look for aggressive drives and sneaky impact minutes.
'Rising Eagles' won’t stop at scrimmages. The team is headed to the Philippines for a country-vs-country exhibition against a local celebrity squad. In a nation where basketball is king, a showdown featuring Korean stars is sure to spark major buzz.
Producers say the series aims to capture the cast’s authentic effort and the pure appeal of the sport. With the international exhibition as a centerpiece, 'Rising Eagles' hopes to show global viewers a new side of Korea’s favorite stars.
(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Sun-ae)