The SBS variety show, which aired its first episode on July 5, successfully secured a spot on the Netflix Top 10 Series in South Korea. By carrying the excitement of its terrestrial broadcast directly over to the OTT platform after just one episode, the show is signaling a new wave of popularity for sports variety programs this summer.
From the very first episode, "Rising Eagles 2" dialed up the intensity on the court with a surprise 1-on-1 showdown between KBL legend Jeon Tae-pung and the newly joined coach Kim Tae-sul. Jeon Tae-pung proved his class, showcasing flashy crossover dribbles and unpredictable footwork that rivaled his professional playing days to secure the win. Although he was defeated, Kim Tae-sul, known as the Computer Guard, displayed his enduring intelligence and seasoned play, delivering a level of immersion that went beyond typical variety show entertainment.
The performance of the three new members was just as impressive as the legends' return match. In the subsequent 3-on-3 match, Julien Kang drew admiration by acting as a human wall, using his overwhelming physique to perfectly guard the paint. The surprise star of the episode was CHANYEOL of EXO. With his sharp shooting instincts, CHANYEOL successfully landed consecutive surprise shots, scoring three goals on his own. This performance earned him high praise from head coach Seo Jang-hoon, who remarked, He is a player with a natural shooting touch. Adding to the team's strength was Jo Jin-se, who acted as a vital spark plug, hustling all over the court.
With these powerful new additions joining existing core members such as SHINee's MINHO, Son Tae-jin, Moon Su-in, and Kim Taek, the Rising Eagles are now one step closer to their ultimate goal for this season: conquering the national championship.
The reaction on online communities and social media was immediate and enthusiastic. Viewers shared comments such as, I never expected to see a 1-on-1 between Jeon Tae-pung and Kim Tae-sul in the first episode, The lineup feels much more solid now with Julien Kang's height and CHANYEOL's shooting, and It feels less like a variety show and more like a documentary where you can feel the sincere sweat on the court.
The production team stated, We are grateful to the viewers for their passionate support, including helping us enter the Netflix Top 10 right from the premiere. Please look forward to the intense challenges and heart-pounding matches the Rising Eagles will face against the strongest amateur teams in the country.
"Rising Eagles 2", which has captured both viewership ratings and buzz in just one episode, signaling the return of a hit sports variety show, airs every Sunday at 11:05 PM.
(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Sun-ae)