Dubai Basketball Enters EuroLeague in 2025-26 Season
Virtus Bologna majority owner Massimo Zanetti has announced significant news regarding the future of European basketball. During a press conference, Zanetti confirmed that Dubai Basketball will join the EuroLeague starting from the 2025-26 season. This move marks a significant expansion for the EuroLeague and introduces a new team from the Middle East.
Current Status of Dubai Basketball
Currently, Dubai is competing in its debut season in the ABA League, where it holds a strong record of 20-5 and is ranked third among 16 teams. The team boasts a roster including notable players such as Davis Bertans, Klemen Prepelic, Awudu Abass, and Danilo Andjusic. Recently, Dubai extended the contract of its head coach, Jurica Golemac, securing his leadership for the upcoming season.
EuroLeague Expansion and Developments
The EuroLeague is contemplating expansion plans to include 20 teams for the 2025-26 season. This expansion will either maintain the current format with more games or adopt a new format with two conferences of ten teams each. The latter would reduce the number of double weeks, making the schedule more manageable but potentially leading to fewer home games and less revenue for some clubs[2][4].
Future of EuroLeague Events
Notably, the 2025 Final Four will be hosted in Abu Dhabi, marking a major event in the region. This decision highlights the growing significance of basketball in the Middle East, with Dubai Basketball's entry into the EuroLeague symbolizing further integration into European basketball's elite competition.
Virtus Bologna's Position
During the same press conference, Zanetti revealed that Virtus Segafredo Bologna has received a three-year wild card offer from the EuroLeague, alongside Partizan and Crvena Zvezda. Despite the high costs associated with this offer, Virtus is negotiating the terms. Additionally, Dusko Ivanovic will continue as Virtus' head coach for the next season.
Zanetti emphasized the importance of the EuroLeague, noting that despite the growing interest in the NBA, the EuroLeague remains a crucial competition with a large following. The inclusion of Dubai Basketball is seen as an opportunity to expand the league's reach and provide more opportunities for growth and success within European basketball.
