In a landmark sporting evening that blended competition with symbolism, Dubai Basketball Club secured a significant 100–94 victory over Baskonia Vitoria‑Gasteiz in Round 31 of the EuroLeague. The game, held at the iconic Zetra Arena in Sarajevo, marked the first time the Bosnian capital served as the official home court for the Emirati team. Players entered the arena proudly carrying the motto: “Playing for Dubai.”
Sarajevo Hosts Dubai for Two Consecutive Official Games
The decision to stage the match in Sarajevo was not a temporary workaround but a strategic choice reflecting the strong relationship between Dubai’s club management and Bosnia and Herzegovina. The presence of Bosnian national team stars Dzanan Musa and Kameron Kamingas in Dubai’s lineup further strengthened the connection.
Sarajevo embraced the occasion with remarkable enthusiasm. The city witnessed extensive preparations, including an official reception, a pre‑match press conference, and promotional displays across major streets—an atmosphere befitting a major European basketball event.
This match was the first of two Dubai fixtures to be hosted in Sarajevo. The city will also welcome Dubai’s upcoming Adriatic League clash against Crvena Zvezda (Red Star Belgrade) on 15 March.
Strong Fan Engagement in Dubai and a Message of Appreciation
Back home, thousands of supporters filled Coca‑Cola Arena in Dubai to watch the game on a giant screen installed by the club. The players sent a dedicated video message thanking the fans for their unwavering support, emphasizing that “Playing for Dubai” represents a genuine commitment rather than a slogan.
Pre‑Game Honors
Before tip‑off, Dubai guard McKinley Wright received the EuroLeague Player of the Month Award for October, adding a celebratory tone to the evening.
Game Summary
Dubai opened the game with authority, driven by the strong performances of Dwayne Bacon, Mfiondu Kabengele, and Dzanan Musa, closing the first quarter ahead 29–21.
The team maintained its momentum in the second quarter, delivering one of its most efficient halves of the season and entering the break with a 59–45 lead.
Baskonia responded in the third quarter, narrowing the gap to single digits. Dubai, however, quickly regained control through decisive offensive runs, restoring a comfortable advantage and ending the quarter ahead 83–67.
In the final period, Dubai extended the lead to nearly 20 points before Baskonia mounted a late surge, reducing the margin to five points in the final minute. Dubai remained composed in the closing possessions to secure the 100–94 victory.
Key Performers
- Dwayne Bacon – 23 points
- Mfiondu Kabengele – 17 points
- Dzanan Musa – 19 points, 7 rebounds, 3 assists
From Baskonia: - Mohamed Diakite – 27 points
- Jordan Omoruyi – 18 points
Post‑Game Remarks
Dubai’s head coach stated:
“I congratulate the players on the win. Our sincere thanks go to Sarajevo—the fans were exceptional and made us feel as if we were playing in Dubai. We controlled most of the game, though we must finish with greater focus. We wish Baskonia the best and now turn our attention to the next challenge.”
Next Fixture
Dubai will remain in Sarajevo to prepare for its upcoming Adriatic League match against Crvena Zvezda, before resuming EuroLeague action on the road against Partizan.
