Exclusive interview with Tolegen Ismatov: 3x3 basketball superstar from Uzbekistan

Tolegen Ismatov is one of the most well-known young athletes in Uzbekistan. His career in basketball so far has been impressive – he’s ranked 4th in Uzbekistan, and 1st among players under 23 years old. Together with Bekmurod Valiyev and Marcel Khayrutdinov - all born in 2004 - he's considered part of the strongest young basketball team in the country. Tolegen has won the Winter Cup, the King of Court tournament, and was named the most valuable player at the Tashkent Open 2025.

In this interview, he talks about his journey into 3×3 basketball, his success, and his involvement in the upcoming Phygital Contenders Astana 2026, with his team UZBEK HYPER HOOPS. Tolegen answers short, quick questions exclusively for gofuture.games.

— Tolegen, you hold 1st place in the national U23 ranking in Uzbekistan. How did you come to 3×3 basketball and what captivated you about it?

I came to 3×3 basketball because of its fast and spectacular nature. I was immediately drawn to the speed, the emotions, and the responsibility for every moment on the court.

— You are called part of the "golden generation" of Uzbek basketball players, who were born in 2004, alongside Bekmurod Valiyev and Marcel Khayrutdinov. What makes your team special?

What unites us is one goal, discipline, and the desire to develop basketball in Uzbekistan. We always support each other and grow together.

— You have won a lot of Championships and got lots of titles. Which of these titles is most valuable to you and why?

For me, team success is always more important than individual awards, because without victories they don't mean much. I try to show that basketball is not just a game, it is a lifestyle, an opportunity and great motivation to work on myself every day.

— What does participation in Phygital Contenders Astana 2026 mean to you? How is phygital basketball different from 3×3 and what do you like most about it?

It is a great honor for me to participate in Phygital Contenders Astana 2026. Phygital Basketball is a new generation of sports that combines technology, speed, and thinking, which creates a true sporting excitement.

— You are one of the most media-visible young basketball players in Uzbekistan. Who is your main inspiration in sports and in life? And who is your harshest critic?

I am inspired by my family, coaches and athletes who achieve success through hard work and discipline. My harshest critic is myself, but my coaches and loved ones also always tell me the truth, regardless of wins and results.

— What do you do 30 minutes before stepping onto the court? Do you have any rituals or specific music?

I try to focus, listen to music, and mentally prepare myself for the match.

— What advice would you give to yourself at age 10, picking up a basketball for the first time?

I would tell myself at age 10: don't be afraid of mistakes, keep working on yourself, and believe in yourself, anything is possible.