Slovenia’s Dunking Devils wow SIBF 2025 with acrobatic show

Leaping from giant trampolines, twin springboards, and a massive swing, the five-member troupe — Gal Banko, Martin Samec, Tomi Klemenc, Jan Žnidaršič, and Jaka Komlos — captivated spectators with their lively mix of acrobatics, comedy, and basketball showmanship. Inspired by the legendary Harlem Globetrotters, the Dunking Devils turned athletic skill into pure spectacle, finishing with a heart-stopping moment where they jumped over a “wall of kids,” earning loud cheers and applause.

“We absolutely loved the warmth and love we received from the crowd,” said Jan Žnidaršič, team leader, moments after their debut show. “We started nearly 15 years ago as basketball enthusiasts — not professional players — but today we consider ourselves acrobats, blending gymnastics with sport. Our performances focus on managing danger and sharing that adrenaline rush with the audience — safely.”

Young fans captivated by the spectacle

For many children present, the performance was an unforgettable introduction to the art of acrobatic basketball.

“I loved it when they jumped over the kids,” said 11-year-old Emirati student Sultan Badr, an LA Lakers fan who idolises basketball legend LeBron James. “It was crazy — they flew so high.”

His friend Khalifa Omar, 12, a dedicated Golden State Warriors supporter, said: “They made basketball look like magic. They were absolutely phenomenal. I haven’t seen anyone dunk like this before.”

The team’s lively, fast-paced performance smoothly blended humour, teamwork, and technical skill, demonstrating to young audiences how creativity and sport can unite as an art form.

Two-time world champions with a global following

The Dunking Devils — two-time World Champions and Guinness World Record holders — are hosting three shows during SIBF 2025, where they will perform for the first time in the UAE. Renowned worldwide for redefining sports entertainment, the troupe has performed in over 50 countries, thrilling millions with their precise timing, daring aerial routines, and inspiring message of teamwork and joy.

Their performance is part of SIBF’s 12-day cultural celebration, which includes over 1,200 artistic and cultural events, such as stage performances, workshops, and interactive sessions from 12 countries.

Organised by the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) under the theme ‘Between You and a Book’, the 44th edition of SIBF runs until 16 November at Expo Centre Sharjah, continuing its legacy as one of the world’s largest and most vibrant literary and cultural festivals.