Dubai Basketball suffered a 70:84 defeat against Partizan in Game 3 of the 2026 ABA League Finals in Belgrade.

Despite the loss, our team still leads the best-of-five series 2-1 and remains just one victory away from securing the first ABA League title in club history.

The opening quarter proved to be decisive in determining the course of the game. Our boys struggled to find their offensive rhythm early on, scoring just 10 points in the first ten minutes, while the hosts used the opportunity to build a double-digit advantage and take a 23:10 lead after the opening period.

Dubai Basketball continued to battle throughout the remainder of the game and refused to surrender despite trailing for most of the evening. The team showed character and determination, repeatedly trying to mount a comeback. On several occasions, our boys managed to cut the deficit to single digits and put pressure on the hosts, but Partizan answered each challenge with timely baskets to maintain a comfortable cushion.

Mfiondu Kabengele was the standout performer for Dubai Basketball with 17 points and 9 rebounds. Davis Bertans also scored 17 points, while Džanan Musa and McKinley Wright IV added 11 points apiece.

The Finals series now continues with Game 4, which will again be played in Belgrade on Friday, June 12. Dubai Basketball will have another opportunity to claim the one victory needed to bring the ABA League trophy to Dubai and complete a historic season.

-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 Aleksander Sekulić. 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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