DUBAI: Dubai Basketball capped off an outstanding week on the road in Europe with two statement victories, ahead of their return home to Coca-Cola Arena on Dec. 23 for round 18 of the EuroLeague.
The team opened the weekend in Istanbul with a dramatic 76-80 EuroLeague win over Anadolu Efes on Friday night, before travelling to Podgorica to extend their unbeaten run in the ABA League with a composed 67-80 victory against SC Derby on Sunday.
The wins mark a defining moment in Dubai Basketball’s season, following their first home defeat against Maccabi Rapyd Tel Aviv.
Friday’s EuroLeague clash in Istanbul tested Dubai Basketball’s composure. After trailing by double digits in the third quarter, the team mounted a comeback, staying disciplined in a tense fourth quarter.
McKinley Wright delivered a standout performance, proving to be one of the team’s most pivotal players in just his first season. The victory marked Dubai’s second EuroLeague road win of the season, both achieved in Istanbul.
Just two days later, Dubai Basketball continued their perfect start to Group A with a ninth consecutive win. Against SC Derby, the visitors absorbed early pressure before gradually asserting control.
A decisive stretch after halftime created separation, allowing Dubai to manage the closing stages comfortably and preserve their record as the league’s only unbeaten team.
The successful road trip now sets the stage for a EuroLeague showdown on Tuesday against Italian giants EA7 Emporio Armani Milan at Coca-Cola Arena.