Dubai is set to mark a major milestone in the world of basketball as it introduces its first-ever international sports franchise, Dubai Basketball, into one of Europe’s most prestigious leagues – the Adriatic League (ABA League). The excitement is building as the team prepares to take on reigning ABA champions Crvena Zvezda on Sunday, September 22, at the iconic Coca-Cola Arena.
A Groundbreaking Moment for Dubai Sports
Dubai Basketball is not just any team – it is the first international sports franchise team from Dubai, making this debut even more momentous. The team will be playing 15 home games at the Coca-Cola Arena during the ABA season, giving fans in the UAE a chance to witness world-class basketball in their backyard. With a 15,000-seat capacity, the arena is set to host fans from across the region, eager to support the team as they compete against some of the top basketball clubs in Europe.
A Star-Studded Roster
Dubai Basketball has assembled an elite roster of players hailing from basketball powerhouses such as the Philippines, USA, Serbia, Croatia, Slovenia, Jordan/Turkey, and Latvia. These players bring a wealth of experience from the EuroLeague, NBA, and other top-tier leagues worldwide.
Among the standout players is Ahmet Düverioğlu, a 7-foot center who has previously won the EuroLeague with Fenerbahçe. Other big names include Klemen Prepelič, who has played for Real Madrid and is the current team captain, and Awudu Abass, who brings his experience from playing for Virtus Bologna.
The full roster includes:
- Thirdy Ravena (Filipino shooting guard, ex-San-en NeoPhoenix in Japan)
- Nate Mason (American shooting guard, previously with Atléticos de San Germán)
- Nemanja Dangubić (Serbian small forward, ex-Peristeri in Greece)
- Leyton Hammonds (American small forward, ex-Dijon in France)
- Aleksa Uskoković (Serbian point guard, previously with Borac Čačak)
- JaCorey Williams (American power forward, ex-Hapoel Jerusalem)
- Danilo Anđušić (Serbian shooting guard, previously with Partizan)
- Dāvis Bertāns (Latvian power forward, ex-NBA player with the Charlotte Hornets)
- Leon Radošević (Croatian center, formerly with Derthona Basket in Italy)
With such an impressive lineup, Dubai Basketball is poised to make a strong impact in the ABA League this season.
Exciting Opening Day at Coca-Cola Arena
The opening day game against Crvena Zvezda promises to be a thrilling encounter. With tickets starting at just Dhs75, fans can still grab their chance to witness this historic moment live. However, with such high demand, tickets at this price point are selling fast, so fans are urged to act quickly.
In addition to single-game tickets, Dubai Basketball has also unveiled its Founding Season Pass, offering fans unparalleled access to the team’s inaugural season. Founding season pass holders will receive exclusive benefits such as:
- Priority reserved seating for all 15 home games
- Fast-track entry to the Coca-Cola Arena
- Discounts on official merchandise
- Meet-and-greet opportunities with the players throughout the season
The season passes are available in different tiers, ranging from floor seats to premium and grandstand options, with prices starting at Dhs1,750 for the entire season.
Dubai Basketball’s Journey in the ABA League
Dubai Basketball’s participation in the ABA League is a significant step forward for both the team and the region. The ABA League is known for featuring top clubs from Serbia, Croatia, Slovenia, North Macedonia, Montenegro, and Bosnia and Herzegovina. Competing in this league will provide Dubai Basketball with the opportunity to face off against some of Europe’s best teams, including Partizan and KK Crvena Zvezda.
For fans of basketball in Dubai, this is a unique opportunity to see top-tier European basketball right at home. Should Dubai Basketball perform well in the ABA League, they could earn the chance to compete in the EuroLeague, the pinnacle of European basketball, where giants like Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Panathinaikos regularly battle for supremacy.
Coaching and Leadership
At the helm of Dubai Basketball is Jurica Golemac, a seasoned coach and former Slovenian player who brings a wealth of experience to the team. Golemac is no stranger to success, having won three consecutive Slovenian League titles between 2019 and 2022. His leadership and expertise will be crucial as Dubai Basketball embarks on its debut season in one of Europe’s most competitive leagues.
In a recent statement, Golemac expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming season:
“As the head coach of Dubai Basketball, I am very much looking forward to the new season ahead later this month. This is a new chapter for the club, and having spoken to the management, they outlined ambitious plans for the future which I want to play a part in.”
The team’s captain, Klemen Prepelič, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the team’s determination to succeed and make Dubai proud. Prepelič, who has won multiple titles, including the ABA League Second Division and the Slovenian Basketball Cup, is excited to lead the team through this historic season.
He stated:
“As professionals, we know there will be no easy games, but we have a great team spirit and bond which will be crucial in delivering the wins that we want. We will play to our strengths and do everything we can to bring success to Dubai Basketball.”
The Road Ahead: What to Expect
Fans of Dubai Basketball can look forward to a minimum of 15 home games at the Coca-Cola Arena, including thrilling matchups against European heavyweights. The team’s journey in the ABA League will be filled with challenges, but with their talent, strong leadership, and the support of local fans, Dubai Basketball is determined to make its mark.
As the team gears up for its inaugural season, excitement is building in Dubai and across the UAE. The opportunity to witness a brand-new basketball franchise compete against some of Europe’s top clubs is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for sports fans in the region.
So, if you’re a basketball enthusiast, now is the time to secure your tickets, get behind the team, and be part of Dubai Basketball’s historic debut season.
