Dubai Basketball delivered another spirited preseason performance but came up short against Turkish side Besiktas, falling 89:97 in Dubai. Despite a strong start and a standout scoring display from Džanan Musa, the visitors controlled the decisive fourth quarter to secure the win.

First half: Strong opening anda halftime lead

Dubai Basketball took command early, dictating the tempo in the first quarter. Musa, making his debut, chipped in 5 quick points as the hosts built a 19:13 cushion. Besiktas trimmed the gap late, but Dubai Basketball carried a 21:17 lead into the second period.

The momentum briefly swung in Besiktas’s favor midway through the second quarter as they strung together an 11:0 run to move ahead, 30:40. However, Dubai Basketball responded with resilience, closing the half on a 15:4 surge. McKinley Wright and Dwayne Bacon each hit double figures before the break, powering their team to a slim 45:44 halftime lead.

Third quarter: Trading blows

Dubai Basketball continued to battle in the third quarter, stretching their advantage to 58:53 midway through the period. Yet Besiktas refused to fade, clawing their way back into the game. By the end of the quarter, the visitors had edged in front 65:67, setting up a tense final 10 minutes.

Fourth quarter: Besiktas pulls away late

In the decisive stretch, Besiktas capitalized on their momentum. In the quarter they went on an 8:3 run to push the margin to 77:84. Dubai Basketball fought to stay within reach, but the Turkish side held them at arm’s length. Despite late efforts to close the gap, Besiktas maintained control and secured the 97:89 victory.

Key performers: Musa shines in debut

Džanan Musa led Dubai Basketball with 21 points, adding 3 assists, 2 rebounds, and 1 steal in an impressive first outing. McKinley Wright delivered a complete performance with 17 points on 6/11 shooting, alongside 5 rebounds and 6 assists.

-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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Hanan Mohamed

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