Dubai Basketball will take another major step onto the international stage as its U18 Elite Team prepares to compete in the 2026 Adidas NextGen EuroLeague Qualifying Tournament, set to take place in Abu Dhabi from February 27 to March 1, 2026.

The prestigious tournament will bring together 28 of Europe’s top under-18 teams, competing across four qualification events for a place in the season-ending Adidas NextGen EuroLeague Finals, held alongside the EuroLeague Final Four.

The Abu Dhabi qualifier will feature an elite lineup of clubs from across Europe and beyond, including:

• Aris Thessaloniki
• AS Monaco
• Dubai Basketball
• NextGen Team Abu Dhabi
• London Lions
• Real Madrid
• Valencia Basket
• Žalgiris Kaunas

Dubai Basketball’s inclusion marks another significant milestone in the club’s youth development journey, as it continues to build a pathway for elite talent in the region to compete on the global stage.

Speaking ahead of the tournament, Irhad Tinjak Head Coach of Dubai Basketball’s U18 Elite Team highlighted the importance of the opportunity, “Playing in this tournament is a great opportunity for us to put Dubai Basketball on the world basketball map. We’re playing against the best teams in Europe, but we’re confident we can compete and really see where our true level lies.”

“This year, we’ll be playing with our own team that has been training and competing in the UAE since August. We’re probably the youngest team in the tournament, with six players born in 2010, but we’re confident we can compete at a high level against everyone.” Tinjak added.

The Abu Dhabi qualifier will also spotlight the region’s growing presence on the European basketball landscape, as local talent goes head-to-head with some of the continent’s most established youth programs.

-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:

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/dubaibasketballclub
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/dubaibasketballclub/
X – https://x.com/dubaibasket
YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@DubaiBasketball

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David Jover

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Hanan Mohamed

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