Nikolai Khryapa, a former Ukrainian basketball player and champion, passed away at the age of 45, according to reports from "Saratov Aftodor" on Telegram. The exact cause of his death has not yet been disclosed.
Khryapa played for various Ukrainian teams including Odessa, Kiev, and Budyvelnyk, as well as for Russian teams like Avtodor from 1998 to 2001, and Ural Great and UNICS.
In 2004, he achieved international acclaim when he won the FIBA International Cup with UNICS, based in Kazan, Russia.
After retiring from professional basketball in 2007, Khryapa remained a prominent figure in the basketball community. He was known not only for his skills on the court but also as a beloved teammate and leader.
Nikolai Khryapa is the brother of Victor Khryapa, who achieved fame as a European champion with the Russian national basketball team in 2007. Born in Kiev, both brothers ultimately played for different national teams, showcasing their talent on the international stage.
Khryapa's sudden death has deeply saddened the basketball community, with tributes pouring in from fans, teammates, and sports enthusiasts worldwide. He leaves behind a legacy of sportsmanship and dedication that will be remembered fondly by all who knew him.
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