Dnipro strikes first in playoff championship series
Dnipro secured a 78–70 victory over Kyiv-Basket in the opening game of the Ukrainian Championship playoff finals for the 2025/26 season, taking a 1–0 lead in the series. The finals are contested under a best-of-three format, meaning two wins are required to claim the title.
Previous meetings between the teams
The two sides faced each other four times during the regular season. Dnipro won two of those matchups, while Kyiv-Basket claimed one victory. However, Kyiv-Basket got the better of Dnipro in the semifinals of the Ukrainian Cup, eventually lifting that trophy.
In this final matchup, Dnipro came out strong, winning the first quarter 25–16. Kyiv-Basket fought back in the second quarter, edging it 22–19 to cut into the deficit. The third quarter saw both teams score 15 points apiece. Dnipro regained control in the final quarter, outscoring Kyiv-Basket 19–17 to seal the win.
Yegor Sushkin was the game's top scorer with 18 points, adding 3 rebounds and 7 assists. Mykhailo Horobchenko made the biggest impact for Dnipro, contributing 17 points, 3 rebounds, and 5 assists.
- The Super League Finals are a best-of-three series.
- Game 2 between Dnipro and Kyiv-Basket is scheduled for April 30 at 6:15 PM local time.
- Dnipro swept both Cherkaski Mavpy and BC Rivne 2–0 in the earlier playoff rounds.
- Kyiv-Basket eliminated BC Zaporizhzhia 2–0 in the quarterfinals and then defeated Kharkivski Sokoly 2–1 in the semifinals.
This win puts Dnipro one step closer to the championship, as the two teams battle for supremacy in Ukrainian basketball. The next game gives Kyiv-Basket a chance to even the series, with Dnipro needing just one more victory to claim the title. Success in finals often hinges on mental toughness, and both teams have shown resilience in their past encounters, making the outcome far from decided.
As Dnipro looks to maintain its momentum in the finals, it's worth reflecting on how Kyiv-Basket reached this stage. Their decisive victory over the Kharkiv Falcons in the semifinals showcased their strength and determination, setting the stage for a thrilling championship series. The upcoming game will be crucial for both teams as they vie for the title.