Today's Edition
ISIDORA CIRIC (ABU DHABI)
Dubai Basketball are making waves very early in their inaugural season in the Adriatic Basketball Association (ABA) League.
With two successive wins under their belt, starting with a nail-biting 86-84 upset over reigning ABA League champions Red Star Belgrade (RSB), the debutants have announced themselves as serious contenders on their European bow.
The team has been assembled with painstaking detail in a short time with eight nationalities represented in the squad of 12.
Serbia and United States get the most representation.
Aleksa Uskokovic, known for his sharp playmaking skills and court vision, is right at the centre of the action.
Now donning jersey No.4 as point guard, Uskokovic brings his experience from the Serbian powerhouse RSB, finding himself on the opposite side of the court in the very team where he made his mark.
Reflecting on his decision to join the newcomers, Uskokovic is clear that this was a move he had been eager to make.
“I didn’t even think about whether to accept the offer, I knew it was the right decision,” he said in an exclusive interview with Aletihad.
“This is a big challenge for me and I sincerely wanted to be part of a team with great ambitions and a huge perspective,” Uskokovic added.
The 25-year-old professional is no stranger to high-level basketball, having played in one of Europe’s most competitive basketball environments.
With the Belgrade outfit, he developed a reputation as a reliable floor general and a fierce competitor.
Drawing from his years of experience in high-stakes European competitions, including his leadership as captain of the Serbian Under-18 national team, Uskokovic’s versatile skills are a good fit for Dubai Basketball’s ambitious framework.
“I can bring aggression and speed in both directions,” he explained.
“We have a lot of players who have great quality and experience from the Euroleague, and it’s really a privilege for me to be part of this team.”
Among his accolades are the 2021 Adriatic League, Serbian League, and Serbian Cup championships.
His ability to perform under pressure was on full display during the 2020-2021 season, where he recorded a double-double in a dominant 111-75 win over FMP.
Strong Foundation is Focus
Preparation for Dubai Basketball’s inaugural season began early, with the team gathering in August to kickstart what would be an intense pre-season at their new home, the Coca-Cola Arena.
“We started very early, already on August 5, and the team gathered on the fly. We were complete for the first time after two weeks, and that’s when our preparations actually started. We have created a good base, and now the most important part starts, which is the competitive matches,” Uskokovic said.
He highlighted the importance of getting to know each other and developing chemistry as the season approached.
“The key is getting to know each other and spending time together, but that’s all normal for the stage we’re in. I wish all of us good health and happiness and hope for a successful season.”
Uskokovic’s ambitions for Dubai Basketball’s first season reflect both optimism and drive.
“My wish is that this first season as a club we will be interesting to watch, play fast and attractive basketball, have a permanent full arena and create a good foundation for the coming years,” Uskokovic said.
It seems like his expectations are coming to fruition with a strong start for the team in the ABA League.
After Red Star Belgrade, Dubai followed up with another impressive road win, this time against Slovenia’s Cedevita Olimpija, winning 92-84 on September 29.
Next up for the club is a showdown with Serbia’s Mega MIS. Despite being a newly forged entity, Dubai Basketball is quickly becoming one of the most talked-about sports teams in the region.
Uskokovic has already settled into the city, describing Dubai as “phenomenal, modern, and full of things to do. The conditions are great, we have everything we need. The Coca-Cola Arena is one of the best I’ve had the opportunity to be and play in.”
Though some might view this project as a big risk, Uskokovic sees only potential.
“It may seem like a risk to people who are not here, but if you had the opportunity to see how the first game we played was organised, then everything would be clear to you. The city has incredible potential,” he said.
Ambitions Beyond ABA
The team, founded by UAE businessman Abdulla Saeed Al Naboodah, has already set sights on competing with Europe’s best.
The ABA League serves as a stepping stone, a competition that qualifies teams for the prestigious Euroleague – the ultimate stage in European basketball.
“I have my role and I will do everything that is asked of me,” Uskokovic said.
The young player believes the city has the potential to establish itself as a major force in the sport.
He feels confident that the club is building a foundation that will soon see the team competing with some of Europe’s biggest names.
“The city has everything needed for Dubai Basketball to become a stable club that will compete with the best in Europe.”
