Dubai, UAE – February 5, 2025 – Dubai, renowned for its economic power, financial growth, and global connectivity, continues to push boundaries with the launch of Dubai Basketball. The club has quickly positioned itself as a game-changer in the sports landscape, marking a bold step forward for the UAE’s sports ambitions. Already competing in the competitive ABA League, Dubai Basketball is on track to enter EuroLeague competitions next season—making history as the first franchise from the UAE to compete in a pan-European club tournament. This will mark a revolutionary shift in the European sports landscape, with Dubai Basketball poised to redefine the traditional model for sports clubs in the region.
The UAE's commitment to becoming a global basketball hub is exemplified by the upcoming EuroLeague Final Four in Abu Dhabi, set for May 23-25, 2025, at the Etihad Arena. This historic event will be the first EuroLeague Final Four held outside of Europe, solidifying the UAE's growing influence in the world of international basketball.
The EuroLeague is widely regarded as the world’s best basketball league, aside from the NBA. While discussions surrounding potential partnerships between FIBA and the NBA, as well as the possibility of a competing league to the NBA, have sparked global interest, the spotlight is now on the emerging success of European basketball. Big names like LeBron James, Nikola Jokić, Luka Dončić, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Domantas Sabonis, Victor Wembanyama, Kevin Durant, and Stephen Curry dominate the NBA, while European clubs continue to build their legacy and commercial potential.
Now in its 25th season, the EuroLeague is a well-established private super league featuring top-tier teams like Real Madrid, Barcelona, Panathinaikos, and Olympiakos, making it an exceptional platform for brands and business. New franchises like Paris Basketball are already beginning to reap the rewards of the EuroLeague’s success.
However, the EuroLeague has historically struggled with financial sustainability, particularly for clubs that lack a football counterpart to subsidize their budgets. Despite passionate fanbases, high-quality teams, and rich traditions, many European basketball clubs have faced challenges in turning a profit. Dubai Basketball may have found the missing piece to this puzzle, with its innovative approach to business and sport that could see it dominate the global basketball landscape for years to come. NBA teams have already taken notice of Dubai Basketball’s promising rise.
Athlete+ is proud to announce a strategic collaboration with Dubai Basketball, offering brands and partners the opportunity to align with one of the most unique and exciting franchises in global sports. This partnership focuses on cultivating meaningful connections between brands and Dubai Basketball’s growing fanbase, while tapping into the UAE’s vibrant cultural and economic landscape. It also provides an early entry into a franchise with legendary aspirations, one that aims to shape the future of global basketball for generations to come.
The sports industry in the UAE is projected to grow exponentially in the next five years, outpacing global growth during the same period. This expansion is driven by the UAE’s strategic investments in sports infrastructure and major international events, positioning the country as a central hub for top-tier sports worldwide.
“We are thrilled to partner with Dubai Basketball, a team that embodies limitless ambition, luxury, and innovation,” said Juanjo Marquez, Founder of Athlete+. “Our goal is to bridge the gap between global brands and the success story unfolding in basketball. We see Dubai Basketball as a major player on the world stage.”
“We are excited to join forces with Athlete+,” said Dejan Kamenjasevic, General Manager of Dubai Basketball. “This collaboration is about building a community of brands that share our vision of growth and success. Together, we will redefine what it means to be a global basketball franchise.”
As Dubai Basketball continues to grow and establish itself as a powerhouse, Athlete+ remains committed to shaping the future of sports partnerships in the region. The collaboration between Dubai Basketball and Athlete+ is set to redefine how brands engage with sports audiences, leveraging the UAE’s unique position as a global hub for business, culture, and innovation.
About Dubai Basketball
Founded in 2023 by UAE’s Abdulla Saeed Al Naboodah, Dubai Basketball is a newly-established professional basketball franchise that plays in Europe’s – the Adriatic Basketball Association (ABA) League for the 2024/25 season. The franchise has assembled a strong roster of players with the team represented by countries including the Philippines, USA, Serbia, Croatia, Slovenia, Jordan, Turkey, Latvia, Italy and France. The franchise plays their home games in the ABA League at Coca-Cola Arena.
Dubai Basketball stands as a testament to the power of passion and dedication in shaping the landscape of basketball in the UAE and beyond. Its foundation is built upon a diverse and talented team, consisting of FIBA-certified coaches, former professional players, business experts, and passionate enthusiasts.
Dubai Basketball is committed to catalysing positive social change, where dreams are not just envisioned but realised, talents are not merely found but nurtured, and aspirations are not only lived but fulfilled.
Keep up to date with the latest news on Dubai Basketball by visiting www.dubaibasketball.com or on its social media platforms:
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/dubaibasketballclub