Dubai Basketball Club has been selected to compete in the prestigious EuroLeague for the first time, after the organisers announced its expansion from 18 to 20 teams in late May.
In a landmark moment for sports in the UAE, Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the President of the UAE Olympic Committee and Chairman of the Dubai Sports Council, announced that the Dubai Basketball Club has earned its place in the esteemed EuroLeague. This expansion from 18 to 20 teams signifies not only a growth in the league but an acknowledgment of Dubai’s aspirations to become a global powerhouse in sports.
Founded in 2023, the Dubai Basketball Club has quickly carved out a reputation for itself, demonstrating an impressive capability to hold its ground against both local and international competitors. In a short period, the team has turned heads, showcasing a blend of skill, strategy, and team cohesion that rivals seasoned clubs. Sheikh Mansoor emphasized this sentiment, noting that Dubai Basketball Club’s entry into the EuroLeague is a testament to its rapid progress and a source of inspiration for athletes across the UAE.
The club’s inaugural season in the ABA League marks a crucial chapter in its journey. With an unexpected run to the playoff semi-finals, the team has not only made a significant impact but has also set the stage for ambitious plans ahead. Facing giants like Partizan, the defending champions, the club’s third-place finish transformed what many saw as a newcomer’s debut into a strong statement of intent. This initial success builds a solid foundation as the team prepares to take on the challenges of the EuroLeague.
Expressing gratitude for the support received, Abdulla Saeed Juma Al Naboodah, the Chairman and Founder of Dubai Basketball Club, acknowledged the unwavering backing from Dubai’s leadership and the Dubai Sports Council, which has been instrumental in propelling the club into the spotlight.
The roster of the Dubai Basketball Club is as eclectic as it is impressive. Coached by the skilled Jurica Golemac, the team features players hailing from diverse nations including the UAE, the Philippines, the US, Serbia, Croatia, Slovenia, Jordan, Turkey, Latvia, Italy, Bosnia, and France. This multicultural assembly not only brings a wealth of experience and varying playing styles to the team but also reflects Dubai’s multifaceted culture.
The team’s upcoming EuroLeague schedule will feature 38 regular-season games held at the iconic Coca-Cola Arena, running from September to June. This venue will become the battleground where Dubai Basketball Club will compete against European stalwarts such as Real Madrid, FC Barcelona, Olympiacos, and Fenerbahçe. Fans eagerly anticipating the thrilling matches can register online for the upcoming season on the Coca-Cola Arena’s official website.
