Player Profile: Sviatoslav Mykhailiuk
Sviatoslav Mykhailiuk is a Ukrainian professional basketball player for the Toronto Raptors of the National Basketball Association (NBA). Standing at 6 ft 8 in (2.03 m) and weighing 205 lb (93 kg), he primarily plays the shooting guard position but can also play as a small forward.
Mykhailiuk was born on June 10, 1997, in Cherkasy, Ukraine. He began playing basketball at a young age and quickly rose through the ranks of Ukrainian youth basketball. In 2014, he joined the junior team of BC Kyiv and helped them win the Ukrainian Junior League championship.
Professional Career
Mykhailiuk’s professional career began in 2015 when he signed with BC Kyiv of the Ukrainian Basketball SuperLeague. He quickly became a key player for the team, averaging 11.5 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game in his first season.
In 2016, Mykhailiuk was selected by the Los Angeles Lakers with the 47th overall pick in the 2016 NBA draft. He spent the next two seasons with the Lakers’ G League affiliate, the South Bay Lakers, before making his NBA debut in the 2018-19 season.
Mykhailiuk has since played for the Detroit Pistons, Oklahoma City Thunder, and Toronto Raptors. He has established himself as a reliable three-point shooter and a solid defender, averaging 9.0 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game in his NBA career.
NBA Career
Sviatoslav Mykhailiuk embarked on his NBA journey in 2018, showcasing his sharpshooting abilities and versatility. Throughout his career, he has made significant contributions to multiple teams, leaving a lasting impact on the court.
Mykhailiuk’s NBA statistics paint a picture of a consistent scorer with a knack for three-point shooting. He averages 8.6 points per game, shooting 40.6% from the field and 37.7% from beyond the arc. His ability to stretch the defense and create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates has been a valuable asset.
Los Angeles Lakers
Mykhailiuk’s NBA debut came with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2018-19. Despite limited playing time, he showcased his shooting prowess, averaging 7.3 points per game on 42.3% shooting from three-point range. His contributions helped the Lakers secure a playoff berth that season.
Detroit Pistons
In 2019, Mykhailiuk joined the Detroit Pistons, where he emerged as a key rotation player. He averaged 9.3 points per game in his first season with the team, shooting 40.4% from the field and 36.4% from three-point range. Mykhailiuk’s ability to create his own shot and knock down open looks made him a valuable offensive weapon.
Oklahoma City Thunder
Mykhailiuk was traded to the Oklahoma City Thunder in 2021. In Oklahoma City, he continued to showcase his shooting abilities, averaging 10.3 points per game on 41.4% shooting from the field and 34.8% from three-point range. His contributions helped the Thunder develop a young and promising roster.
Toronto Raptors
In 2022, Mykhailiuk signed with the Toronto Raptors. With the Raptors, he has continued to be a reliable scorer and three-point threat. His ability to play both shooting guard and small forward has added versatility to the Raptors’ lineup.
International Career
Sviatoslav Mykhailiuk has represented Ukraine on the international stage, showcasing his exceptional talent and contributing to the development of Ukrainian basketball.
As a key member of the Ukrainian national team, Mykhailiuk has played a pivotal role in several major tournaments, including the EuroBasket championships and the FIBA World Cup. His versatility and offensive prowess have made him a formidable force on the court.
EuroBasket Performance
Mykhailiuk’s contributions to the Ukrainian national team have been particularly evident in the EuroBasket championships. In the 2017 EuroBasket, he averaged 13.9 points per game, helping Ukraine reach the Round of 16. His consistent shooting and ability to create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates proved invaluable to the team’s success.
In the 2022 EuroBasket, Mykhailiuk played a crucial role in Ukraine’s historic run to the quarterfinals. He led the team in scoring, averaging 20.0 points per game, and showcased his improved all-around game with impressive rebounding and assist numbers. His performances in these tournaments have solidified his status as one of the top players in European basketball.
Playing Style
Sviatoslav Mykhailiuk is a skilled wing with a versatile playing style that combines athleticism, shooting prowess, and defensive tenacity. His unique skillset allows him to impact the game in multiple ways.
Offensively, Mykhailiuk is a dangerous shooter with a quick release and a smooth stroke. He possesses a wide shooting range, capable of knocking down shots from deep and mid-range. His ability to create his own shot and hit contested jumpers makes him a valuable scoring threat.
Ball-Handling and Playmaking, Sviatoslav mykhailiuk
Mykhailiuk’s ball-handling skills are solid, allowing him to create scoring opportunities for himself and others. He has good court vision and can make quick decisions in transition. While not a primary playmaker, he can contribute with occasional assists and help facilitate the offense.
Defensive Capabilities
On the defensive end, Mykhailiuk is an active and physical defender. He uses his length and athleticism to disrupt passing lanes, contest shots, and rebound effectively. His defensive versatility allows him to guard multiple positions, adding to his value on the court.
Mykhailiuk’s strengths lie in his shooting ability, athleticism, and defensive intensity. However, he can improve his consistency as a shooter, particularly from beyond the arc. Additionally, his decision-making can sometimes be questionable, leading to turnovers or poor shot selection.
Off-Court Impact
Sviatoslav Mykhailiuk’s influence extends beyond the basketball court. Off the court, he actively engages in charitable work, utilizes his social media platform for positive causes, and serves as an ambassador for Ukrainian basketball.
Philanthropy
Mykhailiuk has a deep commitment to giving back to his community. He regularly participates in charity events and supports organizations that promote education, health, and social well-being. Through his own foundation, he provides financial assistance to underprivileged children in Ukraine.
