Landing an underboth dunk at just five feet eleven inches and seventeen years old is a milestone that places Dylan Haugen among a select group of dunkers who have achieved this feat at such a young age and modest height. In episode 51 of Dunk Talk, Dylan breaks down exactly how he accomplished this goal — the training, the progression, and the mental breakthroughs that made it possible.
What Is an Underboth Dunk?
For those unfamiliar, an underboth dunk requires the athlete to pass the basketball under both legs while in the air before finishing at the rim. It is one of the most difficult and visually impressive dunks in the sport, demanding extreme hang time, precise ball control at altitude, and exceptional body coordination during flight. At five feet eleven inches, the margin for error is razor thin.
The Road to Underboth
Dylan traces the progressive path that led to his underboth. It did not happen overnight — it was the result of months of targeted preparation that included vertical jump improvement, technique refinement, and progressive skill development. He discusses the intermediate steps — simpler dunks that built the foundation for the underboth — and how each one contributed to the final goal.
Training Specifics
The episode provides detailed information about the training Dylan used to prepare for the underboth. Vertical jump work was the foundation — he needed every inch of hang time available. But he also spent significant time practicing the ball movement pattern, first on the ground, then with low rims, and finally on regulation height. Each practice session was intentional and progressive.
Mental Preparation
Attempting an underboth for the first time at regulation height requires significant mental courage. Dylan discusses the fear of failure, the physical risk of a missed attempt, and the confidence-building process that eventually allowed him to commit fully to the dunk. The mental dimension of attempting difficult dunks is often underestimated, and this episode gives it the attention it deserves.
The Moment
Dylan describes the session where he finally landed the underboth — the anticipation, the attempt, and the euphoria of completion. For any athlete who has spent weeks or months chasing a specific goal, the emotional payoff of finally achieving it is one of the most rewarding experiences in sport.
What is the most difficult dunk you have ever landed? Share your story and height in the comments below.