Dubai Basketball take ABA League semi-final against Partizan to decider following OT win
Dubai Basketball kept their hopes of reaching the ABA League Finals alive with a dramatic 100-95 overtime victory against Partizan on Thursday to take the best-of-three semi-final down to a decider on Sunday.
Partizan led by six points with five minutes left and by four with 90 seconds remaining of regulation time. But after Carlik Jones missed a potential game-winner, Dubai clawed their way back to force the game into overtime. Klemen Prepelic, who led from the front with a game-high 30 points, nailed a free throw in OT as Dubai held on to take the series back to Belgrade.
An ecstatic Dubai head coach Jurica Golemac said: "I'm very proud. We didn't surrender, we didn't give up. We didn't want the season to end, and you could see that in the players – in their emotions and in their eyes.
'We played against an unbelievable opponent, a very good team. But the job is not done. We've got one more game to play. We need to rest, analyse, and move forward."
It was Dubai's second victory over Partizan at the Coca-Cola Arena having also beaten the Serbian team in Round 23 of the regular season. Golemac acknowledged the part the home fans played.
'Last but not least, the fans were unbelievable today – like every game – but tonight it felt like 10,000 people were inside, breathing and playing the game with us. I truly felt that they wanted to succeed just as much as we did.'
The game was a rollercoaster from the start. Partizan led in the opening minutes but it was the home side that finished the first quarter strong, taking a 29–23 lead after an excellent three-point shooting, hitting six of their first 10 attempts.
Prepelic led from the front with Nate Mason each contributing two triples in the early surge.
Despite struggling from deep, Partizan stayed competitive behind the efforts of Duane Washington and especially Frank Ntilikina, who hit three three-pointers without a miss in the second quarter.
However, Dubai hung on to a 50–47 lead at half time with Davis Bertans sinking three threes, including one at the buzzer.
Prepelic delivered a sterling performance, emerging as a constant offensive threat and one of the key reasons Dubai were able to even the series. The captain hit five shots from three, pulled down three rebounds and got two steals.
'In Game 1, we came in empty,' Golemac reflected on Monday's 102-72 defeat. 'The third game of the quarter-finals [ against Cedevita Olimpija ] was a must-win, and after we won it, we had a let-down [Partizan].
'We came into the first game with confidence, but we weren't ready – for the fight or for the battle.
'We gave Partizan too much space. We lacked aggressiveness and the energy we showed today. When Partizan gets hot, you can't stop them – they were scoring from all positions.
'We watched the video and analysed it. The good thing about the play-offs is you get another chance. We got ours at home, and in the end, it doesn't matter by how much you wini – t only matters that you put a point on the board and get the win.'
Golemac's men will have a massive task when they face seven-time ABA champions Partizan in front of their home crowd at Stark Arena.
'That's great. It's unbelievable. We deserve to play in a full gym, with great fans, against one of the best teams in Europe – for the finals,' Golemac added.
'All season long, our players have approached every game with the right mindset. I'm very proud of how they refuse to surrender. Playing in that kind of atmosphere is a reward for us.
'Motivation will be higher. They'll be under pressure, but we're going there to play the best game of our season.'
Partizan coach Zeljko Obradovic said the defeat felt like a lost opportunity but insists his side will be better prepared for the decider in Belgrade.
'We won by 30 points in the last game. This one was very tight. It's obvious they played much better today,' he said.
'We knew they would try to be aggressive here, and they were. In the first half, they scored a lot of three-point shots. In the second half, we tried to cover that, but there were situations where we committed fouls.
'They have great shooters, and they showed that tonight. That was the first difference. If you want to play well against Dubai, you need to defend their three-point shots very well.'
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Arabian Business
an hour ago
- Arabian Business
Dubai real estate: How to buy property for $545
Dubai is reshaping access to real estate with a new government-backed platform that lets investors own a slice of the city's booming property market for as little as AED 2,000. By turning property into digital tokens, the initiative introduces a new model of ownership that aims to make real estate investment faster, more flexible, and more accessible — all within a regulated blockchain ecosystem. But, what exactly is Dubai real estate tokenization and how does it actually work? How tokenized property investment works in Dubai Dubai's tokenised property system operates through platforms licensed by the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA). Investors must be UAE residents over 18 with a valid Emirates ID. After completing Know Your Customer (KYC) verification, they can browse a list of available properties and invest from as little as AED 2,000. Each property is split into digital tokens recorded on the XRP Ledger blockchain. The Dubai Land Department (DLD) issues Property Token Ownership Certificates, linking the digital shares to official land records and ensuring legal recognition. 'The process is surprisingly straightforward,' P.P. Varghese, Head of Professional Services at Cushman & Wakefield Core told Arabian Business. The process includes: Access the platform: Visit with a valid UAE ID Browse properties: Investors can access comprehensive property details, ranging from pricing, risk factors, and technical specifications to the minimum investment required Make investment: Purchase tokenized shares starting from just AED 2,000 ($545) Complete transaction: All transactions are carried out exclusively in UAE Dirhams, with no use of cryptocurrencies during the pilot phase Receive tokens: Title deeds are tokenized on the XRP Ledger network, with direct integration to Dubai's land registry However, ownership is recorded through two layers: blockchain-based digital wallets provided by the platform, and legal documentation issued by the DLD. 'Buyers hold their tokens in digital wallets provided by the licensed platform. At the same time, the DLD steps in to make the ownership official ensuring that ownership is both securely recorded online and legally protected offline,' Zacky Sajjad, Director of Business Development at Cavendish Maxwell said. This ensures that token holders' rights are enforceable under Dubai law, and that the digital record is always backed by a legally recognised title deed. Why was Dubai real estate tokenization launched? The initiative was developed by VARA, the DLD, the UAE Central Bank, and the Dubai Future Foundation. 'Dubai's launch of the first licensed tokenised real estate project in the MENA region marks a pivotal moment,' Adela Mues, Partner at Reed Smith said. 'This initiative is not simply a technological experiment; it is a comprehensive reimagining of how real estate can be accessed, traded, and governed.' VARA oversees all Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) across most of Dubai, excluding DIFC. These providers must comply with strict KYC and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) standards. 'VARA enforces a stringent compliance framework,' Sajjad explained, adding that licensed VASPs conduct due diligence, identify beneficial owners, monitor transactions, and report suspicious activity. VASPs must also retain transaction records for at least eight years, ensuring transparency and regulatory oversight, he said. However, the entry point is a key feature. 'In Dubai's expensive property market where average villa prices hit AED 6 million ($1.6 million), the AED 2,000 ($545) minimum investment represents a 99.97 per cent reduction in entry costs' Varghese said, adding that his opens premium real estate to investors previously priced out of the market. 'The structure appeals primarily to smaller retail investors,' he explained. 'Tokenization democratizes access, allowing middle-class or retail investors to own fractions of premium properties.' According to Sajjad, this model targets investors who are either unable or unwilling to purchase properties outright. Ownership per individual is capped at 20 per cent of any single property. Mues further outlined several advantages of tokenised investment compared to traditional buying. 'One of the most transformative benefits of tokenised real estate is the ability to split property into fractional shares, greatly improving liquidity in a traditionally illiquid market,' she said, adding that these tokens can be traded on secondary markets, offering flexibility in exiting positions. Additionally, lower capital requirements are another major advantage. This approach allow younger generations to 'get on the property ladder' in a very different and more accessible way than their parents, Mues said. Moreover, transaction speed is also improved. 'Smart contracts and digital workflows used on tokenised real estate platforms to automate verification and execution of deals do away with the need for involving numerous intermediaries in the real estate transaction process,' she noted. Another advantage is that transparency and security are built into the blockchain infrastructure. 'Every token transaction is recorded on an immutable distributed ledger, bringing a level of transparency and security to real estate deals that traditional methods have struggled to match,' Mues said, adding that blockchain's cryptographic protocols address fraud risks and create a single, verifiable 'source of truth.' How much does it cost to invest in tokenized Dubai property? Investing in tokenised property comes with defined costs. According to Sajjad, investors pay a 2 per cent fee on the amount invested, a 1 per cent exit fee when selling, and a 0.5 per cent annual management fee. If the property appreciates in value, a capital appreciation fee of up to 15 per cent may apply. Tokenised transactions also benefit from a reduced DLD fee — 2 per cent instead of the traditional 4 per cent. 'Automation reduces the need for middlemen,' Varghese said, adding fewer intermediaries means faster and more cost-effective deals. Dubai's real estate market recorded AED 66.8 billion in sales in May 2025, indicating strong investor confidence. 'The robust traditional sales activity creates ideal conditions for tokenization,' he explained, adding that this shows that the market can absorb this new method of investment without disruption. The DLD projects that tokenised assets could make up 7 per cent of the market by 2033 — equivalent to AED60 billion ($16 billion). What are some potential challenges that could arise with tokenized real estate? Despite the potential, challenges remain. Varghese cautioned that 'market liquidity issues remain a major concern even in Dubai. Early tokenized real estate platforms globally struggle with low trading volumes, wide bid-ask spreads, and limited secondary markets.' Mues also noted that investors give up some autonomy. 'since ownership is fractional and decisions like selling are often made by majority vote, investors must be willing to compromise on autonomy.' Although the system uses blockchain infrastructure, transactions currently take place in UAE Dirhams. 'At present, crypto purchases are pegged to fiat currencies, and fractional ownership is likely to become a growth segment within the residential sector within Dubai' Sajjad said, adding that as regulations evolve, crypto payments may be integrated. Token prices are set in AED or USD and pegged to real-time conversion rates, ensuring price stability even if crypto is introduced later. Currently focused on residential property, tokenization could soon extend to commercial and industrial sectors, according to Varghese. 'All three types of real estate will play a role in tokenization expansion,' he said, adding, the real 'game-changer' lies in capital-intensive projects such as infrastructure and data centres. 'This means tokenization could enable ownership of massive projects that traditionally required hundreds of millions or billions in capital—previously limiting participation to sovereign wealth funds, major developers, or large institutions.' Dubai's strategic positioning a major benefit for property tokenization Dubai's strategic position and development pipeline make it well suited for this kind of innovation, Varghese explained, adding that the emirate's infrastructure connects three continents and benefits from government backing.. However, he noted that mainstream adoption will depend on several factors such as liquidity infrastructure, regulatory clarity, market education, institutional adoption, and global platform integration. 'Dubai's pilot represents a critical first step, but mainstream adoption requires addressing the fundamental liquidity challenges that have plagued tokenized real estate platforms, alongside continued regulatory support, technological improvements, and broader market education globally,' he said. Mues believes the long-term implications could be far-reaching. 'Dubai is clearly positioning itself at the forefront of integrating crypto and blockchain technology into the real estate sector. It is not hard to imagine a future Dubai where the majority, If not all real estate transactions will occur on secure blockchain systems, involving the use of smart contracts and digital land registries, alongside tokenisation of title (whether fractionalised or not),' she said, adding that legal changes will likely define how smart contracts can constitute binding agreements. Echoing the sentiment, Sajjad said: 'Dubai and the UAE is always at the forefront of embracing cutting-edge technologies and with a dynamic, multinational and growing population, this is likely to be a significant segment of the market in the future.' 'While still in its early stages, Dubai's strategic positioning, openness to digital innovation, and investor-friendly climate suggest that real estate tokenistion has the potential to become a major investment channel in the region, for both local and international retail investors,' he concluded.
Arabian Business
an hour ago
- Arabian Business
IKEA UAE announces massive 50% off discount on storage solutions
IKEA has announced discounts of up to 50 per cent on storage solutions across its UAE stores and online platform, running until July 6. The promotion covers wardrobes, chests of drawers, and shoe cabinets, available through both physical stores and the company's online portal at The retailer has structured the offer as a limited-time IKEA Family promotion, targeting customers seeking home storage upgrades. View this post on Instagram A post shared by IKEA UAE (@ikeauae) Blue Rewards members receive extra 10% cashback on IKEA storage sale Blue Rewards members receive an additional 10 per cent cashback on items included in the sale, extending the value proposition for participating customers. The promotion targets customers looking to maximise space or update room aesthetics through storage solutions. All IKEA stores in the UAE will participate in the sale, alongside the online shopping platform. Customers can contact IKEA for further information through the toll-free number 800 IKEA (800 4532). The sale period spans 18 days, concluding on July 6. IKEA has positioned the promotion as an opportunity for customers to combine style and value in their home storage upgrades. The retailer operates both in-store and online channels for customer access to the discounted products.
The National
3 hours ago
- The National
Niko Volavola hat-trick seals historic win for UAE in South Korea to keep Rugby World Cup dream alive
The UAE maintained their hopes of a Rugby World Cup debut in 2027 as they claimed a stunning win in South Korea. Niko Volavola scored a hat-trick of tries as the national team completed a late comeback to win 38-36 in Incheon. The Koreans were favourites ahead of the game based on the fact they were ranked 33rd in the World Rugby standings, compared to the UAE, who are 50th. They also had home advantage, and were coming off a win in their Asia Rugby Championship (ARC) opener against Sri Lanka last week. The UAE, by contrast, had been under-par in losing on home soil to Hong Kong last weekend. The tourists were, though, buoyed by the knowledge they had beaten Korea for the first time in their history in the corresponding fixture last season. The win in 2024 arrived via a late comeback when the Koreans wilted in the heat of Dubai summer. Although the game panned out in much the same way this time around, a first away win in Korea will likely mean even more to the UAE this time around. The Koreans are the highest ranked opposition they have ever beaten, and it breathes life back into their hopes of qualifying for the World Cup in Australia in two year's time. The ARC carries with it one automatic qualifying place for the World Cup. After their comprehensive win in Dubai last week, Hong Kong appeared certainties to take that berth. But the second placed side in the four-team league will enter a system of repechage matches to decide the final qualifier for the World Cup. That will be decided by a four-team event to be played in Dubai in November. Jacques Benade, the UAE coach, had demanded improvement after the loss to Hong Kong. His players answered his call emphatically. It was clear they had a point to prove as they raced into a 14-0 lead in the first 20 minutes in Incheon, via a try from hooker Michael Sejean, then the first of Volavola's three. All their endeavour threatened to go unrewarded when – for the second week running – they gave up a penalty try for illegally hauling down a rolling maul. Riaan Barnard, the prop, was shown a yellow card for the indiscretion. By the time he re-entered the fray 10 minutes later, the UAE had gone from a 14-0 lead to a 21-14 deficit. They showed great heart not to subside, though. Jack Stapley, the Dubai-born centre who plays Championship rugby for Nottingham in the UK, crossed for a try that allowed the UAE to go into half-time all square. The Koreans asserted control with two tries within five minutes of the restart, but, even at 33-21 down, the UAE refused to yield. Brad Janes powered over for his second try in a week, before a Korean penalty extended their lead to 10 points. With 11 minutes to go, Volavola ran in his second of the game. Vitally, Max Johnson, the Doha-based fly-half who was outstanding from the kicking tee for the UAE, nailed the conversion from the touchline. It meant that, when Volavola touched down his third, with a brilliant finish in the right-hand corner, they had a two-point lead. They managed to hold onto that to give them a thrilling win. 'Our backs were against the wall for the last couple of minutes, but hats off to the boys,' Andrew Semple, the UAE captain, said. 'We just dug deep and managed to come away with the win. We always had belief from [beating South Korea in Dubai] last year, so going into the game we felt we could win. 'It was the same thing in the changing room at half-time. We felt that if we kept the ball and played our game, we would come out on top.' The UAE's final game in the ARC will be against Sri Lanka – who face Hong Kong on Sunday – in Colombo in two weeks' time. A win could send them through to the repechage play-off. '[Qualification for the World Cup] was always the dream coming in for all of us,' Semple said. 'This win keeps the dream alive. Going to Sri Lanka, we need to keep building for the next few weeks so we can power into that, and make those dreams come alive.'
