Dubai Basketball tipped off their campaign with a competitive outing against Türk Telekom in Antalya. Our guys came up just short with a final score of 72-67, but gave the fans a flavour of what to expect this coming season.

With rotation places up for grabs, both sets of players competed with a level of intensity above what some might expect in a friendly game albeit with some of the usual signs that both teams are early in their preparations for the campaign. Dubai were without key returning players Dzanan Musa, Davis Bertans and Mfiondu Kabengele and fans will have to wait to get their first look at new signings Jaron Blossomgame and Elie Okobo. Despite the absences, Dubai were competitive throughout.

New signings Davion Mintz and Tornike Shengelia started alongside familiar faces Wright, Bacon and Petrušev.

In the early stages, Dubai were aggressive on defense and looked to initiate early offense wherever possible. They found success attacking the low post in the half-court, a 2-6 start forcing an early timeout for the Turkish side. Dubai maintained the lead for much of the first quarter, but the bench struggled to find their rhythm on offense and the side from Ankara took a 18-16 lead into the first interval.

Dubai’s defensive intensity drew a number of quick whistles early in the 2nd quarter, the resulting free throws allowing Türk Telekom to open up a 22-16 gap. Dubai regained the lead on the back of 9-0 scoring run, with aggressive drives from Bacon and a huge dunk from Kamenjaš after combining with Wright on the pick-and-roll. Dubai took a 29-37 lead into the break largely due to points in the paint (12-22) and second chance points (6-11).

Head coach Xavi Pascual tried a different line-up to start the second half, Abass, Diakite and Anderson joining Wright and Bacon. Türk Telekom started the half strong, a big dunk from Bankston tying the score at 42 and drawing a timeout from the Dubai coach. Out of the huddle, Dubai went repeatedly to Petrušev who continued to exploit mismatches down low, and strong dribble penetration from guards Kondic and Mintz resulted in efficient points from the free throw line.

But the story of the second half was the performance by opposition guard Jerrick Harding, who showed the talent that made him the top scorer in the Spanish ACB league in 24-25. After going 3/6 for 6 points in the first half, the former Weber State standout finished 12/17 for 36 points in a little under 30 minutes. Harding’s hot streak opened up a nine point lead and though Dubai tried to claw their way back through active defense, Harding put the result beyond doubt with a pair of free throws to make the score 72-64 with just over a minute left.

The game finished 72-67, Petrušev top scoring for Dubai with 21 points on 9/10 shooting, and adding six rebounds.

-ENDS-

About Dubai Basketball: 

Founded in 2023, Dubai Basketball is a professional basketball club competing in the EuroLeague and the Adriatic Basketball Association (ABA) League in the 2026/27 season. Following a historic 2025/26 campaign, the club enters the new season as the reigning ABA League champion under the leadership of Head Coach Xavi Pascual. Dubai Basketball plays its 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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Media Enquiries:

David Jover

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