A New Power Rises in the EuroLeague
Dubai Basketball Club is poised to make a significant impact as the newest member of the EuroLeague, with a landmark five-year agreement signed in 2025 that brings elite European basketball to the Middle East. The UAE-based club is leveraging its ambitious project to establish itself as a force in the continent’s top competition.
Founded just last year, Dubai BC wasted no time making waves, delivering a commendable debut season in the ABA League. Finishing third in the regular season—ahead of EuroLeague heavyweights Crvena Zvezda—highlighted their potential, though a semifinal loss to Partizan tempered their early success. Playing in the cutting-edge Coca-Cola Arena, which boasts a 17,000-seat capacity, Dubai BC showcased their ability to compete, notably defeating Crvena Zvezda twice and Partizan once at home. Their playoff run, including a 2-1 series win over Cedevita Olimpija, underscored a promising foundation, setting the stage for an aggressive transfer window.
Dubai BC current roster:
| Position | Player | Status |
|---|---|---|
| PG | Nate Mason | Signed until 2026 |
| PG | Isaiah Taylor | Signed until 2025 |
| PG | Thirdy Ravena | Signed until 2025 |
| SG | Klemen Prepelič | Signed until 2026 +1 |
| SG | Danilo Anđušić | Signed until 2026 |
| SG | Aleksa Uskoković | Signed until 2025 |
| SF | Awudu Abass | Signed until 2025 |
| SF | Nemanja Dangubić | Signed until 2025 |
| PF | Dāvis Bertāns | Signed until 2025 |
| PF | JaCorey Williams | Signed until 2025 |
| C | Jerry Boutsiele | Signed until 2025 |
| C | Leon Radošević | Signed until 2025 |
| C | Ahmet Duverioğlu | Signed until 2025 +1 |
Dubai BC projected 2025/26 roster:
| Position | Player | Status |
|---|---|---|
| PG | Aleksa Avramović | Pending (TBD) |
| PG | McKinley Wright IV | Pending (TBD) |
| PG | Nate Mason | Signed until 2026 |
| SG | Dzanan Musa | Pending (TBD) |
| SG | Klemen Prepelič | Signed until 2026 +1 |
| SG | Danilo Anđušić | Signed until 2026 |
| SG | Kosta Kondić | Pending (TBD) |
| SF | Justin Anderson | Pending (TBD) |
| SF | Dwayne Bacon | Pending (TBD) |
| SF | Awudu Abass | Signed until 2025 (uncertain) |
| PF | Dāvis Bertāns | Signed until 2027 |
| PF | ? | Target position (TBD) |
| PF | ? | Target position (TBD) |
| C | Mam Jaiteh | Pending (TBD) |
| C | Mfiondu Kabengele | Pending (TBD) |
| C | Kenan Kamenjas | Pending (TBD) |
Confirmed signings include Avramović, Wright, Musa, Anderson, Bacon, Jaiteh, Kabengele, Kamenjas and Kondić, with interest in Dario Šarić (Denver Nuggets) whose team option could bring him back to Europe, significantly boosting the frontcourt.
Coaching Continuity and Strategic Vision
Jurica Golemac, the mastermind behind Dubai’s promising debut, is expected to remain head coach, with contract extension talks nearing completion in June 2025. His tactical expertise, developed during stints at Partizan and Cedevita, has been pivotal in shaping a competitive team and leveraging the Coca-Cola Arena’s home advantage.
Golemac’s retention ensures stability as Dubai transitions to the EuroLeague’s 34-game regular season, but the challenge lies in integrating a diverse roster of new signings with returning stars like Bertāns and Prepelič. The club’s investment in modern facilities and the growing basketball culture in the UAE further supports his vision of a sustainable contender on the European stage.
Expectations and Potential for 2025-26
Armed with a revamped roster and Golemac’s leadership, Dubai BC is targeting a playoff spot in their EuroLeague debut. Their ABA League success—defeating top teams and reaching the semifinals—positions them as a potential dark horse. The addition of Musa’s scoring prowess, Jaiteh’s interior dominance, and the possible inclusion of Šarić could propel them toward a top-eight finish, with a Final Four run not entirely implausible.
However, challenges remain, including the integration of such a varied lineup and adapting to the EuroLeague’s demanding travel schedule. With financial backing and fervent home support, Dubai BC is poised to surprise, potentially challenging established powers and heralding a new era for Middle Eastern basketball in Europe.
Posted on: 15 June 2025, 13:18 CET
