'Rising Eagles' is making a comeback with Season 2, bringing in new members including EXO’s Chanyeol and comedian Jo Jin Se.
Led by head coach Seo Jang Hoon, known as the “National Treasure Center,” and coach Jeon Tae Poong, nicknamed the “Fire Guard,” the show debuted in November last year. During its debut season, it garnered steady attention from both basketball fans and general audiences.
Last season, the 'Rising Eagles' achieved a thrilling and dominant victory against the Philippines, a basketball powerhouse, as part of their goal to conquer Asia. In Season 2, the team aims to continue that momentum while also launching a more advanced basketball entertainment format by hosting a domestic amateur league featuring top-tier teams from across the country.
The “National Championship,” organized as part of the Rising Eagles’ league, will feature eight teams—including Seo Jang Hoon’s squad—competing for the title of Korea’s strongest amateur team. Representing different regions, the teams will battle fiercely, putting their pride and reputation on the line.
Season 2 also introduces significant changes to the roster. New additions include competitive powerhouse and former special forces member Chanyeol of EXO, physically dominant center Julien Kang, comedian Jo Jin Se with experience in a university basketball program and second-tier league, and Jin Hyuk of idol group NOWZ.
Jin Hyuk, who built a strong athletic foundation through Taekwondo in his youth, will take on basketball for the first time as a rookie trainee. Armed with the passion and perseverance he developed during eight years as an idol trainee, he is expected to shine as a “baby eagle” chasing his debut on the court.
The coaching staff has also been strengthened with the addition of KBL legend guard Kim Tae Sool, known as the “Magic Kid.” Together with Seo Jang Hoon and Jeon Tae Poong, the team now boasts a national-level coaching lineup, raising expectations for the Rising Eagles’ performance. Sandara Park, who joined as a manager in the latter half of Season 1, will return as well, bringing her signature bright energy to boost team morale.
The Rising Eagles will continue their journey toward Asian dominance. Following their first matchup against the Philippines, their next opponent will be Taiwan, a central force in Asian basketball. The game is set to take place at Taipei Arena, which holds approximately 15,000 spectators, making the outcome of this international clash another key highlight of Season 2.
Having redefined the landscape of basketball variety shows with its first season, 'Rising Eagles' returns with a larger scale, stronger lineup, and more intense competition. With both domestic league play and international challenges ahead, anticipation is high for the new stories and memorable moments the show will deliver.
Meanwhile, all domestic league matches will be held as live, in-person events, allowing fans to experience the excitement firsthand as the Rising Eagles pursue their championship goal.
Tickets for the domestic games will go on sale on March 31 via YES24. 'Rising Eagles' Season 2 is set to air in the second half of the year on SBS and Netflix.
SEE ALSO: EXO’s reality show 'EXO’s Travel the World on a Ladder Season 5' premieres on March 4
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