Dubai Basketball is gearing up for a historic season as it prepares to compete in the Adriatic Basketball Association (ABA) League, marking the first time a UAE team has participated in this prestigious European league. The team, founded in 2023 by entrepreneur Abdulla Saeed Al Naboodah, aims to unite the UAE under the banner of basketball and foster inclusivity among fans.
Key Takeaways
- Inaugural Season: Dubai Basketball will play its first game on September 22, 2024.
- Diverse Roster: The team features players from various countries, including the USA, Serbia, and the Philippines.
- Strong Leadership: Head coach Jurica Golemac and captain Klemen Prepelic are set to lead the team.
- Community Engagement: The franchise aims to attract both local and expatriate fans.
A New Era For Basketball In Dubai
The official unveiling of Dubai Basketball took place on September 17, 2024, with a ceremony attended by key figures in the sports community, including General Manager Dejan Kamenjasevic and Director of Sports Events at Dubai Sports Council, Ali Omar Al Blooshi. The event highlighted the ambitious goals of the franchise and its commitment to elevating the sport in the region.
Kamenjasevic expressed pride in establishing a new basketball team from scratch, emphasizing the significance of competing in the ABA League. He stated, "The fact that we are playing in the ABA League tells you everything you need to know about how ambitious we are as a club."
Star-Studded Roster
The team boasts a strong lineup, including former NBA star Davis Bertans and players with extensive experience in European leagues. The diverse roster aims to bring a wealth of talent and experience to the court, enhancing the competitive edge of Dubai Basketball.
Coaching Vision
Jurica Golemac, the head coach, is eager to lead the team in its inaugural season. He has a proven track record, having won multiple titles in the ABA League and Slovenian League. Golemac stated, "We are under no illusions of the challenge that we will face in the ABA League, but we will do all we can to showcase our best abilities."
Captain’s Commitment
Klemen Prepelic, the team captain, expressed his excitement about leading the team. He acknowledged the responsibility that comes with the role and emphasized the importance of team spirit in achieving success. "We will play to our strengths and do everything we can to bring success to Dubai Basketball," he said.
Preparation For The Season
To prepare for the upcoming season, Dubai Basketball completed a successful training camp in Slovenia, where they played four friendly matches. The team won both home games against KK FMP and BC Nizhny Novgorod and participated in a pre-season tournament in Bosnia, building momentum ahead of their league opener against Serbia’s Red Star.
Ticket Information
Fans can now purchase tickets to witness Dubai Basketball in action at the Coca-Cola Arena. Game tickets start at Dh75, while season passes begin at Dh1,750, which includes reserved seating for all 15 regular-season home matches. Season pass holders will also enjoy exclusive benefits, including meet-and-greet opportunities with players and priority entry to events at the arena.
As Dubai Basketball embarks on this exciting journey, the team looks forward to uniting the community and making a mark in European basketball.
