Justin Gutang Signs One-Year KBL Extension with Seoul Samsung

Justin Gutang is staying in South Korea.

The multi-dimensional guard-wing has signed a one-year contract extension with the Seoul Samsung Thunders, ending speculation about his next move and keeping him in the Korean Basketball League as an incoming fifth year professional import.

Gutang confirmed the development himself, making it clear that the outside noise around his future did not match the truth of his situation.

“I’m still HERE,” Gutang said in an exclusive with ALL-STAR. “All these rumors and fake reporters that be posting about me and all these other players don’t phase me anymore this my incoming fifth year. I’m still gonna be unnoticed and still work hard and I’m still gonna be me. My advice lang sa lahat ng kababayans ko is don’t believe in everything you see on the internet without knowing the truth.”

The extension gives Samsung continuity with one of its more versatile perimeter players. Gutang has built his KBL career through activity, athleticism, defense, playmaking and a willingness to take on different roles. He is not always the loudest name among the league’s Filipino standouts, but his production and staying power have made him one of the more reliable Asian-quota players in South Korea.

Gutang joined the KBL in 2022 with the Changwon LG Sakers, where he gradually worked his way into a bigger role. After his stint with Changwon, he moved to the Seoul Samsung Thunders, giving the rebuilding club another athletic wing who could defend, attack in transition and create for others.

His latest extension keeps him with Samsung after a season in which he continued to show his all-around value.

Before his KBL career, Gutang was already familiar to Filipino basketball fans. He played college basketball in the Philippines for College of Saint Benilde, where he became known for his athleticism and high-energy style. He also played in the Philippine semi-pro circuit, including stints with Nueva Ecija and San Juan-Go for Gold, before earning his opportunity overseas.

Last season, he averaged 8.6 points and 4.2 rebounds a game in the KBL.

For Samsung, keeping Gutang gives the team an experienced Asian-quota player who already understands the league, the system and the physical demands of KBL basketball. For Gutang, the deal gives him another year to build on a career that has lasted through different teams, changing roles and constant competition for roster spots.

The extension also reinforces his place among the growing group of Filipino players who have made the KBL a legitimate long-term destination. Players such as SJ Belangel, Ethan Alvano, Rhenz Abando, Carl Tamayo, Kevin Quiambao and others have helped raise the profile of Filipino talent in Korea.

Now entering another year with Samsung, Gutang’s focus remains the same: keep working, keep improving and keep proving his value on the court.