Dubai Basketball lifted the 2025/26 ABA League trophy 16 hours ago. The win capped an eight‑month campaign that spanned two leagues, propelling the side from newcomers to champions in a remarkably short span.
Road to the title
The Dubai side beat Partizan 81:83 in Game 4 of the Finals, sealing the championship in a series that saw them take a 2‑1 lead before the decisive match in Belgrade. The decisive Game 4 took place in Belgrade, a city renowned for its basketball tradition, adding to the significance of the triumph. It was only their second season, yet the club finished the regular season at the top of the ABA League standings and posted an overall record of 29 wins from 33 games. Their home‑court advantage proved decisive, as they remained unbeaten at home throughout the campaign, turning their arena into a fortress.
Across the playoffs the team displayed consistency, winning the majority of their games and keeping the pressure on established European clubs. The Finals MVP award went to Mfiondu Kabengele, who averaged 15.75 points over the four‑game series. The victory marks the first time a team from Dubai and the wider UAE has captured a major international league title.
When we started this project, our ambition was never simply to build a basketball club.
— Abdulla Saeed Juma Al Naboodah, Founder and Chairman
Celebrations and impact
Head Coach Aleksander Sekulić said the title meant a lot for a club in only its second year of existence. He praised the players, coaches and staff for their collective effort and highlighted the support of fans who followed the team throughout the season. The club’s founding vision, articulated by Abdulla Saeed Juma Al Naboodah, was to build a platform that would represent Dubai internationally, a goal now realised through this title. Fans across the UAE tracked the journey, filling arenas and creating a vibrant community of supporters.
Beyond the trophy, the triumph is being hailed as a milestone for the growth of basketball in the UAE and the wider region. The championship has sparked excitement among basketball enthusiasts across the country and set a new benchmark for what Emirati sport can achieve on the global stage.
This title means a lot for a club that is only in its second year of existence.
— Aleksander Sekulić, Head Coach
Frequently asked questions
What was the final score when Dubai Basketball won the 2025/26 ABA League title?
Dubai Basketball defeated Partizan 81‑83 in Game 4 of the finals, securing the championship.
How many games did Dubai Basketball lose at home during their 2025/26 ABA League campaign?
They remained unbeaten at home, winning every home game throughout the season.
Who was named Finals MVP of the 2025/26 ABA League and what was his average points?
Mfiondu Kabengele earned Finals MVP, averaging 15.75 points over the four‑game series.
When did Dubai Basketball clinch their first major international league title?
The team lifted the ABA League trophy 16 hours ago, marking the first UAE club to win a major international league title.
