Dmytro Kryvenko Triumphs at FIBA 3x3 World Tour
Ukrainian dunker Dmytro Kryvenko, known as Smoove, claimed victory in the slam dunk contest at the FIBA 3x3 World Tour Utsunomiya Opener 2026, held in Utsunomiya, Japan. A two-time world champion, Kryvenko delivered a series of jaw-dropping performances that impressed both the judges and the crowd.
Semi-Final and Final Highlights
Kryvenko’s semi-final showing was nothing short of spectacular. His first dunk—a self-alley-oop with a 360-degree spin—underscored his elite skills. On his second attempt, he executed a trick that had earned him gold at the 2016 World Championship, scoring 28 out of 30 points. His third dunk, assisted by a bounce off his own shoulder, earned a perfect 10. With a total of 58 points, Kryvenko advanced to the final in first place.
The final round began with Kryvenko facing off against Britain’s Jeremiah Walker. His first dunk—a behind-the-back, between-the-legs move—highlighted his exceptional execution. The second featured a behind-the-back finish following a bounce off the backboard. Kryvenko earned a flawless 60 out of 60 points in the final round, cementing his reputation as a world-class dunker.
This victory reaffirms Kryvenko’s status as one of the globe’s premier dunkers and adds another milestone to his athletic career.
Kryvenko’s success at the FIBA 3x3 World Tour event underscores the growing prominence of slam dunks in modern basketball, showcasing not just technical prowess but also crowd appeal. His win in Utsunomiya could inspire further achievements by Ukrainian athletes on the international stage and boost interest in basketball back home.
As Ukrainian basketball continues to gain recognition on the global stage, recent events have highlighted the country’s rising talents. Notably, Dirk Nowitzki's induction into the FIBA Hall of Fame serves as a reminder of the impact of Ukrainian athletes and the importance of their contributions to the sport, especially during critical moments like the ongoing World Cup qualifying campaign.