Historic First Victory for Ukraine’s Basketball Team in 2027 World Cup Qualifiers
The Ukrainian national basketball team achieved a long-awaited milestone by securing their first victory in the qualification rounds for the 2027 World Cup.
This victory marks an important step forward for Ukrainian sports, demonstrating the team’s growing skill level and fighting spirit as they strive to earn their place among the world’s best.In a tense game against Slovakia held in Riga, Ukrainian players showcased exceptional talent and resilience.
The first half concluded with a seven-point lead in favor of Ukraine — 24:17.
Despite a challenging second half, where their opponents caught up and even overtook the score (21:14 in the third quarter), the Ukrainians managed to remain calm and retain their advantage during the crucial final minutes.The standout player was 23-year-old Issuf Sanon, who scored a game-high 23 points, along with six assists and five steals.
His performance was a testament to his high skill level and leadership qualities, guiding the team toward future successes.Other key contributors included Kovyliar with 14 points and five assists, Tkachенко with six rebounds, and Voynalovich with six points.
The team continues to prepare diligently for upcoming fixtures, including their match against Switzerland scheduled for August 16 in Riga.This win was a significant achievement for Ukrainian basketball after their initial loss to Switzerland with a score of 64:66.
With this momentum, the players aim to advance to the next qualification round, where two out of three teams in their group will earn the right to compete at the World Cup.It’s also noteworthy that the team’s captain recently joined the Ukrainian Armed Forces, emphasizing the patriotic engagement of athletes amid ongoing national struggles.
In contrast to some NBA players denying their call to serve, Ukrainian players demonstrate deep patriotism and unwavering commitment to their country’s victory and sovereignty.