Dubai Basketball lose out to Cedevita Olimpija in final seconds

Dubai Basketball fell to Slovenian powerhouse Cedevita Olimpija 85-84 in an entertaining back and forth game at the Coca-Cola Arena on Sunday.

The final score was decided in the last five seconds when Cedevita Olimpija capitalised on a crucial free throw to claim victory.

Newest addition Jerry Boutsiele played at home for the first time since joining Dubai Basketball and delivered an outstanding performance, leading with 18 points and eight rebounds, while Davis Bertans matched his tally with 18 points and six rebounds.

Their efforts kept Dubai in the game until the very end but it was their uncharacteristic turnovers that allowed the game to slip away.

Head coach Jurica Golemac highlighted the challenges, particularly the team's struggles in the third quarter, where they conceded 32 points. "This is unacceptable for a team like us," Golemac said. "The 19 turnovers in the end cost us the win. We fought hard in the fourth quarter, but it wasn’t enough. It’s a [team] sport, and we need to keep working."

Cedevita Olimpija’s head coach, Zvezdan Mitrovic, praised his team’s composure and focus, despite their grueling schedule.

"This is our fourth game in one week, traveling from Bulgaria to Lithuania, and now Dubai. I want to congratulate my players for their effort and for enjoying the beautiful Coca-Cola Arena atmosphere," he said.

Dubai Basketball's Davis Bertans said, "There’s a lot to learn from every game. It’s a new team, and as long as we keep improving, the season is only going to get better."

Dubai Basketball will hit the road to face Mega MIS on January 27 before returning home to take on Borac Mozzart at Coca-Cola Arena on February 2.