As Dubai Basketball prepares for their landmark debut in Europe this weekend, the newly-formed professional franchise was officially unveiled on Tuesday, with the team aiming to deliver standout performances in their inaugural season. Fans can now purchase game tickets and season passes to catch the team in action at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai, with their first match scheduled for Sunday, September 22.
Founded in 2023 by UAE entrepreneur Abdulla Saeed Al Naboodah, Dubai Basketball is set to be the first team from the UAE to compete in Europe’s Adriatic Basketball Association (ABA) League. To mark their launch, a ceremony was held on Tuesday ahead of the start of their 2024/25 season. Among the attendees were Dejan Kamenjasevic, General Manager and Co-Founder, Jurica Golemac, head coach, club captain Klemen Prepelic, and Ali Omar Al Blooshi, Director of Sports Events Department at Dubai Sports Council.
The team boasts a formidable roster led by former NBA star Davis Bertans, featuring players from the Philippines, USA, Serbia, Croatia, Slovenia, Jordan, Turkey, and Latvia, many of whom have extensive experience in European and US leagues. Kamenjasevic shared the story of the club’s inception and their future aspirations. “Dubai is one of the best cities in the world, and to have built a brand-new basketball team from the ground up is a proud moment for us,” Kamenjasevic stated. “Our participation in the ABA League speaks volumes about our ambition as a club. We have assembled players who have competed at the highest levels, including the NBA. Attracting such talent is a significant achievement for our city and our club. We look forward to welcoming both expats and locals to support us, as their encouragement can inspire the team. Together, we have the opportunity to achieve something remarkable.”
Golemac, who has won the ABA League Second Division title in 2019 and the Slovenian League in 2019, 2021, and 2022, expressed his excitement for the upcoming season. “As the head coach of Dubai Basketball, I am eagerly anticipating the new season starting later this month. This marks a new chapter for the club, and after discussions with the management, I am eager to contribute to their ambitious plans. We are fortunate to have such a fantastic home facility as the Coca-Cola Arena,” Golemac said. “We recognize the challenges we will face in the ABA League, but we are committed to showcasing our best abilities throughout the season and proudly representing the UAE.”
Captain Prepelic, a multiple title winner including the Slovenian Basketball Cup, ABA League Second Division, and Slovenian League, spoke of his honor in leading the team. “It is an honor to be named captain of Dubai Basketball for its inaugural season. It is a significant responsibility, but one I am eager to undertake,” he said. “As professionals, we understand that there will be no easy games, but we have a strong team spirit and bond, which will be crucial in securing the victories we aim for. We will play to our strengths and do everything possible to bring success to Dubai Basketball. Dubai is a remarkable city with outstanding facilities, and we hope to make our fans and country proud.”
In preparation for the ABA League, Dubai Basketball conducted a successful training camp in Slovenia, where they played four friendly matches. Last week, they secured victories in both home friendlies against KK FMP and BC Nizhny Novgorod and participated in a pre-season tournament in Bosnia before their league opener against Serbia’s Red Star on Sunday. Tickets are now on sale to witness Dubai Basketball in action. Game tickets start at Dh75, while season passes begin at Dh1,750, which includes reserved seating for all 15 regular season home matches. Season passes also offer meet and greet opportunities with players, priority and fast track entry to the venue, and exclusive pre-sale access for live concerts at Coca-Cola Arena.
