The newly established sports franchise, Dubai Basketball, has announced an exclusive partnership with Coca-Cola Arena, designating it as the team's home venue. This partnership aims to introduce international professional basketball to Dubai. Led by Chairman Abdulla Saeed Al Naboodah, Dubai Basketball plans to join the EuroLeague, a top-level competition. Initially, the team will compete in the 16-team ABA (Adriatic) League.
Though the team will play their ABA League away matches in Europe, Dubai will host top-class action during the home legs. All 15 other teams will come to Dubai, allowing fans to see some of Europe's best players in action at the Coca-Cola Arena during the nine-month season. Dubai Basketball will face top European clubs like Partizan and KK Crvena Zvezda, the recent league champions.
The ABA League season begins in September 2024, with a full schedule to be announced later this month on the Coca-Cola Arena website. More details about the team, tickets, and official merchandise will also be available soon.
Speaking about this association, Mark Jan Kar, General Manager of Coca-Cola Arena, said, “The opportunity to build the ultimate home court for our players, our fans, and our incredible city is an absolute honour. Coca-Cola Arena's integration with Dubai Basketball will change the game and Dubai’s sport culture in every sense.”
Dubai Basketball has named Jurica Golemac as their new head coach. Jurica Golemac, with extensive experience as both a player and coach, is expected to bring fresh ideas and energy to the team. This appointment is a major step forward for the club, showing their dedication to basketball excellence.
In addition to playing in international leagues, Dubai Basketball aims to grow the sport and its fan base in the region. The club wants to build a strong basketball culture in Dubai and attract a solid fan base. They also plan to develop a club structure, create youth teams, and build a state-of-the-art training facility.