Ukrainian Dunker Triumphs at FIBA’s First-Ever Show Contest in Warsaw

Dunk Mania Makes Its Debut in Warsaw

According to Главком: FIBA launched its inaugural dunk contest, Dunk Mania, during the 3x3 Basketball World Cup in Warsaw. The winner was Team Grabo, which included Ukrainian dunker Dmytro 'Smoove' Kryvenko. The event blended slam dunks, team rivalry, and entertainment into an exciting spectacle.

The final score between Team Grabo and Team Joel was 219:218. The first round ended 72:54 in favor of Team Grabo, with Kryvenko scoring 29 points. Team Joel took the second round 134:132 after Kryvenko failed to complete his attempt. The decisive Holy Trinity round gave Team Grabo 87 points, securing their overall victory. The next Dunk Mania is scheduled for 2027 in Singapore.

Ukraine’s National Team in World Cup Qualifiers

Ukraine’s national basketball team continues its campaign for the 2027 World Cup. In the fourth qualifying round, they lost to Spain 78:64. Spain controlled the game, winning all four quarters: 16:9, 12:12, 24:22, and 26:21.

In the third round, Ukraine suffered another defeat to Spain, this time 86:66. However, in the second round, Ukraine beat Denmark 88:71. Their first qualifying match was a success, with a 92:79 victory over Georgia. Oleksandr Kovliar led with 31 points in 37 minutes, while Viacheslav Bobrov recorded a double-double with 11 points and 15 rebounds.

Ukraine continues to fight for a World Cup spot, showing both wins and losses in their matches.

Kryvenko’s victory in the dunk contest highlights the growing appeal of 3x3 basketball in Ukraine and underscores the potential of Ukrainian athletes on the global stage.

As Ukraine's basketball scene continues to gain international recognition, the national team is set to showcase their talent at a significant upcoming event. The 10th FIBA 3x3 World Cup promises to be a pivotal moment for Ukrainian athletes, following Dmytro Kryvenko's recent triumph in the Dunk Mania contest. This participation could further elevate the profile of Ukrainian talent on the global stage.