DUBAI: Dubai Basketball’s latest signing Wael Arakji is proud of becoming the team’s first Lebanese player.
The 30-year-old is the reigning Basketball Champions League Asia MVP after helping Al-Riyadi to championship glory in 2024 and now has his sights set on a new chapter in his career.
Dubai Basketball is currently second in Europe’s ABA League in its inaugural season. “I’m most excited to be part of a club with such big ambitions,” he said.
“Dubai Basketball is building something special, and I’m eager to contribute to the team’s success. They’re blending international standards with their vision for growth, and I’m excited to be part of that process.”
Arakji will make his Dubai Basketball debut when they take on Mornar at the Coca-Cola Arena on Sunday, Dec. 15.
“It’s also exciting to play in a league like the ABA, where the competition is high, and I can test myself against some of the best,” he said.
With championships in Lebanon, Qatar and Tunisia under his belt, Arakji wants to add Dubai to that list.
He has two Asia Champions League winners’ medals to his name and spent a summer with the NBA’s Dallas Mavericks, further reinforcing his on-court credentials.
“My ambition is to help Dubai Basketball compete at the highest level and push for championships. I want to continue improving my game, building chemistry with my teammates, and making a significant impact on both ends of the court.”
Not only is Arakji Dubai Basketball’s first Lebanese player, but he will also be the first from his nation to compete in the ABA League.
“It’s an incredible honor to be the first Lebanese player to join Dubai Basketball and the ABA League,” he said. “I’m proud to represent my country and take this step forward in my career.
“This is not just about me; it’s about opening doors for other Lebanese talents and proving that we can compete on some of the biggest regional stages.”
An icon in his homeland, Arakji helped his country to the 2022 Arab Basketball Championship, and finished runner-up in the 2022 FIBA Asia Cup. He was named MVP in both tournaments.
“Representing Lebanon has always been a great honor and responsibility. Every time I step on the court, I carry the pride and passion of my country with me. Moving to Dubai, I want to continue that legacy, making my country proud.”
With an 8-3 record for the season, the team has built an excellent platform, and Arakji is excited at the prospect of competing. “I’ve had the chance to meet some of the guys, and I’m impressed.
“There’s a strong mix of talent, work ethic, and camaraderie within the group. Everyone’s focused on the same goal: winning. I’m looking forward to building that connection further.”
