One of the newest sports teams in Dubai has a new home
Dubai Basketball will be using the iconic Coca-Cola Arena as its base for competing in one of Europe’s top leagues.
The city’s first sports franchise team, will play in the 15,000-capacity arena allowing fans to watch games against some of Europe’s best clubs from September 2024.
While the Dubai Basketball squad hasn’t been announced yet, some big names are expected to play for the team in the 16-team ABA League.
The ABA League features top clubs from Serbia, Croatia, Slovenia, North Macedonia, Montenegro and Bosnia and Herzegovina.
If Dubai Basketball does well in the league then it will be able to play at the highest level in in the Euro League, which features top clubs such as Real Madrid and Barcelona.
Abdulla Saeed Al Naboodah is the Chairman and Owner of Dubai Basketball and is hoping to make the sport popular in the city.
Dubai Basketball will play home matches at the Coca-Cola Arena over the nine month-long season, with away games in Europe. Fans can expect a minimum of 15 games to be played at the arena.
Mark Jan Kar, General Manager of Coca-Cola Arena, said: “The opportunity to build the ultimate home court for our players, our fans, and our incredible city is an absolute honour.
“Coca-Cola Arena’s integration with Dubai Basketball will change the game and Dubai’s sport culture in every sense.”
Salem bin Dasmal, President of Dubai Basketball, added: “This partnership allows us to create unforgettable experiences for our fans and showcase the best global basketball talent in a world-class facility.”
Basketball is becoming increasingly popular in the UAE and Abu Dhabi is also doing its bit for the sport, with the capital playing host to the NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2024 on 4 October and 6 October with the Boston Celtics taking on reigning champions, the Denver Nuggets.
A NBA Fan Appreciation Day will also take place on 5 October headlined by the legendary Shaquille O’Neal, a four-time NBA champion.
A full schedule of games will be announced later this month on www.coca-cola-arena.com
DSCVR: Dubai Basketball has a new home at Coca-Cola Arena @cocacolaarena
