Can Dubai Basketball bounce back or will Partizan Mozzart Bet punch their ticket for the Finals?
The 2025 AdmiralBet ABA League Playoffs are coming back to Coca-Cola Arena, Dubai as Dubai Basketball will host Partizan Mozzart Bet in Game 2 of the Semi-Finals.
(Photo: ABA League j.t.d./Dragana Stjepanovic)
2024/25 AdmiralBet ABA League Semifinals Round 2, Thursday, 29 May 2025:
DUBAI BASKETBALL - PARTIZAN MOZZART BET
Where? Coca-Cola Arena, Dubai
When? 17:30
Story of the game: The 2025 AdmiralBet ABA League Playoffs are coming back to Coca-Cola Arena, Dubai as Dubai Basketball will host Partizan Mozzart Bet in Game 2 of the Semi-Finals.
After a one-sided Game 1 in Belgrade that saw Partizan Mozzart Bet cruise to a 102:72 victory, the pressure has now shifted to the home team. Dubai Basketball were simply outplayed in every segment of the game and must now regroup quickly to avoid elimination. With their season on the line, Dubai Basketball will turn to their home fans and the familiarity of the Coca-Cola Arena in hopes of forcing a decisive Game 3.
The good news for Dubai? They already know they can beat Partizan Mozzart Bet on their home floor - they proved it during the regular season with a notable 80:72 win. The bad news? They'll need a near-perfect performance to repeat that feat against a Partizan Mozzart Bet team that looks focused, deep, and deadly in transition.
For Partizan Mozzart Bet, the mission is simple - win and book a ticket for the 2025 AdmiralBet ABA League Finals. The Belgrade squad will aim to ride the wave of momentum from their dominant Game 1 display, where their defense, ball movement, and bench production were all clicking at the highest level.
Match-up in focus: Klemen Prepelič (Dubai Basketball) vs. Duane Washington Jr. (Partizan Mozzart Bet).
With everything on the line, Klemen Prepelič will need to deliver one of his signature clutch performances. The experienced guard has a well-documented history of hitting big shots against Partizan Mozzart Bet and remains Dubai Basketball’s top offensive weapon. His leadership and shooting touch will be essential if Dubai Basketball are to extend their season.
Meanwhile, Duane Washington was one of the standout performers in Game 1. He exploded for 19 points, showing off his scoring versatility and composure under pressure. Washington brings energy and offensive balance to Partizan Mozzart Bet’s backcourt - and if he shines again, the black-and-whites might be packing for the Finals.
Head-to-head score in the regional league: In total 1:2; In Dubai 1:0.
