Dubai Basketball achieved their inaugural away triumph and secured their second successive victory in Europe's ABA League by defeating Slovenia's Cedevita Olimpija 92-84 on Sunday evening.
Dubai Basketball commenced their match at the Arena Stožice, aiming to capitalize on their exhilarating opening win against the reigning champions, Crvena Zvezda, from the previous weekend. The team delivered a cohesive performance, showcasing their prowess on the court.
In his home country of Slovenia, captain Klemen Prepelic spearheaded the team with 23 points, complemented by five rebounds, four assists, and two steals. The 'dynamic duo' of Nate Mason (20 points and 7 assists) and Isaiah Taylor (10 points) also contributed significantly by scoring in double figures.
Jacorey Williams was a force to be reckoned with in the paint, securing nine rebounds and six points, along with a remarkable defensive display that limited Cedevita Olimpija's star and NBA veteran, Devin Robinson, to just 14 points.
Prepelic initiated the game with a jump shot and followed it up with two free throws, giving Dubai an early advantage. Despite the hosts managing to level the score, Dubai's captain orchestrated a 7-4 run, subsequently taking full control of the game.
Cedevita Olimpija found themselves at a loss against Nate Mason, who accumulated eight points in the first quarter, extending the lead to 29-17. The momentum continued, with the visitors heading into halftime with a commanding 63-42 lead.
After scoring 20 points in the third quarter, Dubai Basketball maintained their composure to fend off Cedevita Olimpija. Prepelic and Williams further bolstered the team's score, ultimately securing the 92-84 victory. This result has left the league in awe of Dubai Basketball's remarkable start to their inaugural season.
Head coach Jurica Golemac expressed his utmost admiration for his players. 'It was a dominant game. We controlled it for 35 to 37 minutes, and the players adhered to everything we had planned. Cedevita Olimpija is a challenging opponent, so we knew we had to maintain high energy and intensity, which is arduous to sustain for 40 minutes,' Golemac remarked.
'Overall, I am content. When we reviewed the game schedule, everyone agreed to aim for wins in the first two games, which we have achieved. We aspire to be highly competitive and aggressive, never contemplating defeat.
We harbor lofty ambitions. I informed my players in the locker room that 'small games are the most significant games.' We have competed in these two games where we were not the favorites. Now, we face Mega and then Borac Čačak. We need to rest and prepare diligently for these upcoming matches.'
Dubai Basketball's next fixture will be a home game against Serbia's Mega MIS on Saturday, October 5, at the Coca-Cola Arena.
