Dubai Basketball take Game 1 of ABA League Finals

Dubai Basketball returned to Coca-Cola Arena for the 2025/26 ABA League Finals and made the first step towards the championship trophy, defeating Partizan 99:93 in Game 1 of the best-of-five series.

Backed by nearly 9,500 fans in the stands, Dubai Basketball spent almost the entire evening in front.

The hosts established control early and finished the opening quarter with a five-point advantage (29:24), before raising the level even further in the second period.

Led by excellent ball movement and efficient shooting, Dubai Basketball increased the gap to nine points by halftime (53:44).

The third quarter initially looked like it would be a comfortable ride for the home side. Midway through the period, Dubai Basketball built their biggest lead of the night at 69:51 and appeared firmly in control.

However, Partizan responded with their best stretch of the game, closing the quarter on a strong run to cut the deficit to just three points heading into the final ten minutes (69:66).

Despite the momentum swing, Dubai Basketball remained calm and composed, delivering exactly the response needed at the start of the fourth quarter, opening the period with a decisive 10:0 run to restore a double-digit advantage at 79:66.

From that point on, they never allowed the visitors to seriously threaten the lead.

Every time Partizan attempted to make another push, Dubai Basketball had an answer, controlling the final minutes and eventually securing a 99:93 victory.

Džanan Musa led the scoring effort with 22 points, continuing his outstanding postseason form.

Mfiondu Kabengele added 19 points and 8 rebounds, while McKinley Wright IV orchestrated the offence brilliantly with 19 points and 9 assists.

Game 2 will be played on Saturday, June 6, once again at Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai.

Home court defended in Game 1!#ABAPlayoffs pic.twitter.com/y7Najqe3Bu

— Dubai Basketball (@dubaibasket) June 4, 2026