Dubai Basketball’s historic EuroLeague journey continued on Thursday night with a challenging road test in Monaco, where the newcomers showed flashes of resilience but ultimately fell 103–81 against one of Europe’s most established clubs. The result leaves both teams with a 1–1 record after the opening week of the season.

Dubai Basketball’s first EuroLeague appearance on French soil was another opportunity to prove their growing potential on Europe’s biggest stage. Against a seasoned Monaco squad, the newcomers battled with confidence and trailed by only four at halftime, 50–46.

Strong Early Push

Dubai opened the contest with energy, highlighted by Mfiondu Kabengele’s inside presence. The forward poured in 10 points in the first quarter, helping keep the visitors close. McKinley Wright was in attack mode in the final moments of the quarter, he drove to the paint and scored twice late in the quarter to narrow the deficit to 26–23.

The second frame saw contributions from across the roster. Kosta Kondić sparked the offense with a three-pointer and a transition layup, while Klemen Prepelič and Džanan Musa connected from deep to keep Monaco from pulling away. Dubai’s ability to respond each time the hosts tried to extend their lead was a testament to their cohesion and growing chemistry.

Turning Point After Halftime

The game shifted dramatically in the third quarter when Monaco strung together a 17–0 run. During that stretch, Dubai struggled to find open looks while the home side capitalized on every possession. Despite the gap, Filip Petrusev continued to battle inside, finishing with 12 points and 8 rebounds to underline his importance as a two-way presence. Unfortunately for Dubai Basketball, Monaco managed to hang on for the win, and Dubai Basketball looks forward as they turn to the AdmiralBet ABA League as they host Split. McKinley Wright led Dubai in scoring with 14 points, Džanan Musa chipped in 13 points, and Kabengele added 12 points.

-ENDS-

About Dubai Basketball: 

Founded in 2023, Dubai Basketball is a newly established professional basketball franchise that plays in Europe’s EuroLeague and Adriatic Basketball Association (ABA) League for the 2025/26 season. The franchise has assembled a strong roster of players led by Head Coach Jurica Golemac. The club plays their home games at Coca-Cola Arena.

Dubai Basketball stands as a testament to the power of passion and dedication in shaping the landscape of basketball in the UAE and beyond. Its foundation is built upon a diverse and talented team, consisting of FIBA-certified coaches, former professional players, business experts, and passionate enthusiasts.

Dubai Basketball is committed to catalysing positive social change, where dreams are not just envisioned but realised, talents are not merely found but nurtured, and aspirations are not only lived but fulfilled.

Keep up to date with the latest news on Dubai Basketball by visiting www.dubaibasketball.com or on social media platforms:

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YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@DubaiBasketball

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