Dubai Basketball suffered a tough overtime defeat in Round 34 of the EuroLeague, as Maccabi Tel Aviv prevailed 104:100 in Belgrade after a dramatic 45-minute battle.

Our boys delivered another strong performance, especially through the opening three quarters, showing control, confidence and quality on both ends of the floor. Dubai Basketball even built a commanding 15-point lead midway through the third quarter, looking well on track to secure an important road win.

However, the hosts refused to back down. Maccabi Tel Aviv gradually chipped away at the deficit, finding their rhythm in the closing stages of the game. The comeback was completed in heartbreaking fashion, as the hosts knocked down a game-tying two-pointer with just one second remaining in regulation to make it 88:88 and force overtime.

Dubai Basketball responded well at the start of the extra period, once again taking control and opening up a 93:88 lead. Still, the hosts had another answer ready, putting together a decisive 7:0 run to swing the momentum back to their side.

In the final moments of overtime, Maccabi Tel Aviv capitalized on that momentum, hitting several key shots to seal the win and hand Dubai Basketball a painful defeat.

Mfiondu Kabengele had a dominant double-double of 24 points and 12 rebounds, while McKinley Wright IV added 26 points and 6 assists in today’s match.

After this game, Dubai Basketball now hold a 17-17 record in the EuroLeague standings.

-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

Media Enquiries:

David Jover

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or

Hanan Mohamed

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