Dubai Basketball kept their dream alive in their debut ABA League season by winning a crucial quarter-final match against Cedevita Olimpija. The team secured a 85-76 victory on Tuesday at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai, completing the best-of-three series 2-1 and advancing to the semi-finals.
Dubai controlled the game from the start and never lost the lead. This win means they will face Serbian club Partizan Belgrade next. Partizan won their quarter-final series against Spartak Office Shoes 2-0. The first semi-final game will take place on May 26 in Belgrade, with the return game in Dubai on May 29. In the other semi-final, Crvena Zvezda and Buducnost VOLI will meet after their respective quarter-final wins.
Despite some missed free throws and few three-pointers made, Dubai showed strong defense and teamwork throughout the entire match. The fans played an important role by supporting the team and helping lift their spirits when the players were tired. The team worked hard after a tough loss in the second game against Cedevita Olimpija in Slovenia and prepared well for the deciding match.
Awudu Abass led Dubai with 17 points and six rebounds. Nate Mason scored 18 points, and NBA veteran Davis Bertans added 12 points to the team’s total. The team’s effort and coordination improved, showing clear signs of progress since the start of the season.
Cedevita Olimpija faced difficulties with player injuries during the game, including the absence of key player Devin Robinson in the second half. This affected their performance and helped Dubai take control of the match.
Dubai Basketball’s next challenge is to compete against Partizan, a strong and experienced team. The semi-finals will test Dubai’s ability to go further in the competition. This season has already been impressive for Dubai as a newcomer in the ABA League.
