Dubai Basketball Closes Regular Season with Thrilling Comeback Victory
79-75 win marks 13th straight triumph, showcasing dominant momentum ahead of playoffs
DUBAI: Dubai Basketball delivered a dramatic finish to their regular season, securing their 13th consecutive victory with a comeback win over ABA League leaders Buducnost VOLI. The tightly contested clash concluded with a 79-75 scoreline at home, setting the stage for the team’s highly anticipated playoff run beginning on Sunday, May 11.
Widely regarded as the league’s strongest side, the visitors from Montenegro presented a stern challenge, but Dubai Basketball rose to the occasion. Under mounting pressure, they maintained their winning streak, igniting local fans ahead of the franchise’s historic playoff debut.
Head coach Jurica Golemac praised the squad’s resilience: “It was like a final. Congratulations to the players and congratulations to the fans. The focus was unbelievable in the second half — we allowed only 27 points. We controlled most of it and truly deserved this win.”
The momentum-shifting moment came in the final quarter when Awudu Abass intercepted a crucial pass and raced past the Buducnost defense for a thunderous fast-break dunk, earning a vital five-point lead to the delight of a 4,500-strong crowd at the Coca-Cola Arena.
With the game hanging in the balance, it was captain Klemen Prepelic who stepped up in the clutch, calmly converting a free throw to seal the victory and send the crowd into celebration. Dubai’s late-game heroics underscored their ability to perform when it matters the most.
The win guarantees a top-four finish for Dubai Basketball, ensuring the team will open their playoff campaign at home against Slovenia’s Cedevita Olimpija. This matchup will be a landmark moment for the club and its growing fanbase.
“We’re calling on all the fans to come next week — in seven days — for the first game of the playoffs,” said Golemac. “We are going to need their support more than ever. They are our sixth player.”
— V.2 Editorial Team
