Pride of the Nation center Rafael Mineiro is doing well in the International Basketball Federation's online vote. This Wednesday (17), the red-and-black advanced another stage in the "Slam Dunk of the Decade" and secured a spot in the third round of the Americas. In the first round, he defeated American Jaylen Brown, a forward for the NBA franchise Boston Celtics, with 56% of the vote. In the second round, he defeated Colombian Braian Angola with 57%. 

Mineiro is the only Brazilian representative in the running for the best dunk of the decade. The play that put him in the running came during a performance for the Brazilian national team at the 2015 Copa América in Mexico, against the home team.

"At that moment, it was just another important point for the game. I never dreamed I could be in the running for such a cool award," the center commented.

Now, Rafael Mineiro faces Mexico's Juan Toscano in the Americas final. If they advance past this stage, the red-and-black team will face the winner of Asia and Oceania in the "Slam Dunk of the Decade" semifinal. The champion will be announced on June 28th. To vote, simply visit www.fiba.basketball/dunk-of-the-decade.