Dubai, 20 January 2025: In an entertaining back & forth game at the Coca-Cola Arena, Dubai Basketball (12-5) fell to Slovenian powerhouse Cedevita Olimpija by a razor-thin margin of one point on Sunday. The final score, 85-84, was decided in the last five seconds following an intense battle that kept fans on the edge of their seats. The matchup saw both teams locked at 84-84 with just seconds remaining when Cedevita Olimpija capitalized on a crucial free throw to claim victory.

Newest addition Jerry Boutsiele, played at home for the first time since joining Dubai Basketball and delivered an outstanding performance, leading the team with 18 points and eight rebounds, while Davis Bertans matched his tally with 18 points and six rebounds. Their efforts, coupled with a relentless team spirit, kept Dubai in the game until the very end. However, it would be the team’s uncharacteristic turnovers that allowed the game to slip away.

Head coach Jurica Golemac highlighted the challenges faced during the game, particularly the team’s struggles in the third quarter, where they conceded 32 points. “This is unacceptable for a team like us,” Golemac said. “The 19 turnovers in the end cost us the win. We fought hard in the fourth quarter, but it wasn’t enough. It’s a [team] sport, and we need to keep working.”

Cedevita Olimpija’s head coach, Zvezdan Mitrovic, praised his team’s composure and focus, despite their grueling schedule. “This is our fourth game in one week, traveling from Bulgaria to Lithuania, and now Dubai. I want to congratulate my players for their effort and for enjoying the beautiful Coca-Cola Arena atmosphere,” he said. The game was not just about competition but also celebration.

Renowned Lebanese basketball icon, Fadi El Khatib, recently inducted into the FIBA Hall of Fame Class of 2025, was honored on court with a signed jersey, celebrating his immense contributions to the sport. The team also welcomed their honored guest, the President of Basketball Club Bosna Sarajevo, Dubravko Barbarić, a true ambassador of the sport and a strong supporter of Dubai Basketball.

Additionally, Antonello Riva, Italy’s all-time leading scorer, graced the game with his presence, adding to the star-studded atmosphere of sports legends. Fans were treated to a special performance by an award-winning dance duo, further elevating the event’s energy. While the game’s final outcome fell short, the electric energy and emotion of Dubai Basketball’s emerging fanbase was undeniable — with over 3,800 ticket holders on their feet in a deafening roar throughout the final minutes.

Bertans added: “There’s a lot to learn from every game. It’s a new team, and as long as we keep improving, the season is only going to get better.” Dubai Basketball will hit the road to face Mega MIS on 27 January before returning home to take on Borac Mozzart at Coca-Cola Arena on 2 February.

You can purchase your tickets here.

-ENDS-

About Dubai Basketball: 

Founded in 2023 by UAE’s Abdulla Saeed Al Naboodah, Dubai Basketball is a newly-established professional basketball franchise that plays in Europe’s – the Adriatic Basketball Association (ABA) League for the 2024/25 season. The franchise has assembled a strong roster of players with the team represented by countries including the Philippines, USA, Serbia, Croatia, Slovenia, Jordan, Turkey, Latvia, Italy, Bosnia, and France. The franchise plays their home games in the ABA League 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 its social media platforms:

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/dubaibasketballclub
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/dubaibasketballclub/
X – https://x.com/dubaibasket