EuroLeague Basketball expanded to 20 teams for the 2025–26 season, opening the door for Dubai Basketball to make history as one of the first clubs based outside traditional European markets to join the competition. The move is both strategic and symbolic. It extends the league’s footprint into the Gulf, adds a high-ambition project in a global city, and strengthens a basketball narrative that has been building across the UAE for several years. This milestone marks the beginning of Dubai Basketball’s EuroLeague journey.
The Big Picture: Why Dubai, Why Now
Dubai’s inclusion fits a wider regional strategy. The UAE has invested heavily in high-level basketball events, including the EuroLeague Final Four in Abu Dhabi in May 2025 and multiple NBA pre-season showcases. The 2025–26 EuroLeague calendar placed Dubai Basketball’s opening game at home, showing just how central the new market has become.
The introduction of Dubai Basketball’s EuroLeague participation reflects the growing popularity and investment in basketball throughout the region.
This expansion is also backed by a commercial vision. Partnerships with organisations such as Experience Abu Dhabi and Etihad Airways highlight how tourism, hospitality, and elite sport are being woven together across the Gulf.
EuroLeague CEO Paulius Motiejūnas put it succinctly:
“We look forward to growth, stability, and purpose … we announced that we’re going to 20 teams next season, which is a huge, big step … it’s geographical expansion.”
The Coach: Jurica Golemac and a Grounded Start
Leading the charge is head coach Jurica Golemac, a former EuroLeague forward who has made a name for himself developing cohesive, competitive squads. He previously coached Cedevita Olimpija Ljubljana and was brought in for his ability to guide new teams through complex transitions.
Before the season began, Golemac reflected on the magnitude of the challenge:
“You prepare, you compete, you analyse – that part doesn’t change. But with this travel and schedule, nobody has done it before. We are pioneers. It won’t be easy, but we won’t complain about how tough it is. Instead, we’ll enjoy the work and stay focused.”
He also praised the club’s long-term approach:
“I’m very thankful to the club for the trust and confidence they’ve shown in me. We’re building something special here – a team that competes at the highest level and makes our fans proud every single day.”
After the landmark home win over Barcelona, Golemac underlined his team’s mentality:
“On days like this, you need to show character and mental strength. We showed the IQ to make the right decisions and managed to win the game. Congratulations to the players and big thanks to the fans. They were here for us when we felt exhausted – they lifted us up.”
Building the Roster: Balance, Depth, and Identity
Dubai Basketball’s debut roster blends European experience with athleticism and playmaking depth.
- Aleksa Avramović brings intensity and defensive pressure at the guard position.
- Klemen Prepelič provides three-point shooting and off-ball movement.
- Nate Mason and Boogie Ellis offer slashing ability and playmaking.
- Filip Petrušev, a former EuroLeague champion, anchors the frontcourt.
Speaking on opening night, Petrušev captured the mood:
“It’s a big day for Dubai Basketball and for us. It’s the start of something new, and I think we have a great chance to make something great this year. It all starts with this game.”
He added,
“If we stay healthy, we can do great things here. I’m sure we have a quality team; we just need to stay healthy, work together, and be the best when the time comes.”
The First Test and Season Goals
The schedule writers ensured a fitting introduction: Round 1 at the Coca-Cola Arena against Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade. On 30 September 2025, Dubai Basketball made a confident debut with an 89–76 victory in front of a vibrant home crowd.
That momentum was challenged early. Dubai lost back-to-back games away to AS Monaco (81–103) and Olympiacos (67–86) before bouncing back with a sensational 93–69 win in Istanbul over Fenerbahçe. That result was followed by a gritty 83–78 home victory over FC Barcelona, confirming their ability to close against elite competition. Most recently, Dubai were edged out 85–79 by LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne in Round 6.
The goal for year one is clear: reach the play-in positions under the expanded league format. As Golemac put it,
We’ll fight like there’s no tomorrow.”
The team’s early signs suggest that this ambition is realistic. They have shown they can compete – and beat – some of Europe’s most respected sides.
Season So Far (as of 27 October 2025)
- Round 1 (30 Sep)
vs Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade – Home – Win 89–76
- Round 2 (3 Oct)
vs AS Monaco – Away – Loss 81–103
- Round 3 (10 Oct)
vs Olympiacos Piraeus – Away – Loss 67–86
- Round 4 (14 Oct)
vs Fenerbahçe Beko Istanbul – Away – Win 93–69
- Round 5 (16 Oct)
vs FC Barcelona – Home – Win 83–78
- Round 6 (23 Oct)
vs LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne – Away – Loss 79–85
Current record: 3 wins – 3 losses
What This Means for the Region
Dubai Basketball’s presence reshapes the sporting map of the Middle East. No longer is the region simply hosting exhibitions and tournaments. Now, it fields a competitor. EuroLeague clubs such as Real Madrid, Panathinaikos, Fenerbahçe, and Olympiacos will visit the Coca-Cola Arena as part of the regular season.
This new era also fuels the domestic game. Youth players across the Gulf gain a clearer pathway to the top. Coaches and administrators benefit from exposure to world-class systems and standards. And the region’s reputation as a global sports hub deepens even further.
How Dubai Can Win
Tactically, Golemac’s team relies on structure, movement, and team-first execution. Avramović brings defensive toughness, Prepelič pulls defenders wide, while Mason and Ellis give pace and control. Petrušev is the glue in the middle — rebounding, screening, and finishing.
Their best performances — notably against Fenerbahçe and Barcelona — show how they can match elite teams through discipline, ball movement, and fourth-quarter calm. Their challenge now is consistency, especially on the road.
Travelling to See Dubai Basketball
For supporters planning a basketball trip this season, Dubai offers a rare mix of elite sport, five-star hospitality, and destination experience. The Coca-Cola Arena is centrally located with luxury hotels, fine dining, and entertainment options all within reach.
To make the most of it, ES Sport offers exclusive EuroLeague packages — including premium seating, VIP lounge access, concierge support, and group experiences for fans and corporate guests. Whether you’re entertaining clients or chasing the perfect matchday, ES Sport ensures a seamless experience.
Dubai Basketball Has Arrived
With three wins from their first six games — including scalps like Fenerbahçe and Barcelona — they’ve already proven they belong. The next step is to build, game by game, towards something bigger.
