Dubai Basketball’s Thrilling Overtime Victory Against Partizan
Dubai Basketball displayed remarkable resilience and determination in a nail-biting overtime victory against Partizan, winning 100-95 on Thursday. This triumph not only kept their hopes alive in the ABA League semi-finals but also set the stage for a decisive game on Sunday, as the best-of-three series heads back to Belgrade.
Rollercoaster Match Highlights
The game began with Partizan taking an early lead, showcasing their prowess in the opening minutes. However, Dubai responded assertively, finishing the first quarter with a 29-23 lead, thanks to a stunning display of three-point shooting. The home team made six of their first ten attempts from beyond the arc, with Klemen Prepelic and Nate Mason contributing key triples.
As the match progressed, Partizan fought back, led by Duane Washington and Frank Ntilikina, who was instrumental in the second quarter, hitting three consecutive three-pointers. Despite this, Dubai managed to maintain a slight edge, leading 50-47 at halftime, highlighted by Davis Bertans’ buzzer-beater three.
The Turning Point
With less than five minutes remaining in regulation, Partizan held a six-point advantage, and the pressure mounted as Carlik Jones of Partizan missed a potential game-winner. Yet, in a stunning display of teamwork and tenacity, Dubai clawed back, ultimately tying the game and pushing it into overtime.
In the overtime period, Prepelic, who led all scorers with a dazzling 30 points, calmly sank a crucial free throw, helping his team secure the win. His relentless offensive threat was one of the pivotal factors in Dubai’s resurgence throughout the game.
Coach Golemac’s Reflections
Jurica Golemac, the head coach of Dubai Basketball, expressed immense pride in his team’s performance. “We didn’t surrender, we didn’t give up. We didn’t want the season to end, and you could see that in the players – in their emotions and in their eyes,” he stated. Golemac’s acknowledgment of the formidable challenge posed by Partizan underscored the expectations for the upcoming decider. He emphasized the need for rest, analysis, and moving forward with renewed focus.
The significance of the home crowd at the Coca-Cola Arena was also highlighted by Golemac. “The fans were unbelievable today – it felt like 10,000 people were inside, breathing and playing the game with us,” he remarked, acknowledging their influence in igniting the team’s fighting spirit.
Key Performances
Prepelic’s stellar performance was complemented by contributions from other players as well. The synergy between teammates nurtured a climate of trust and determination, which was noticeable through numerous plays. His five three-pointers were critical in keeping Dubai competitive, showcasing his ability to deliver under pressure.
Despite Partizan’s numerical advantage at times during the game, Dubai’s defensive strategies and relentless pursuit of excellence turned the tide. This victory marked Dubai’s second triumph over the Serbian powerhouse at home this season, a clear testament to their growth and evolution as a competitive squad in the league.
The Road Ahead
Looking ahead, Golemac and his team have a daunting task awaiting them in Game 3, as they face a formidable Partizan squad at Stark Arena. Golemac acknowledged the significance of the challenge, stating, "We’re going there to play the best game of our season."
On the other side, Partizan’s coach, Zeljko Obradovic, viewed the loss as a missed opportunity, ensuring his side would be better prepared for the decisive matchup. He recognized Dubai’s shooting prowess and emphasized the necessity of shutting down their three-point threats in future encounters.
As this dramatic semi-final unfolds, all eyes will be on the upcoming decider, where both teams will undoubtedly battle fiercely for a spot in the ABA League Finals—a game destined to be a gripping showdown filled with high stakes, intense rivalries, and the unyielding spirit of competitive basketball.
