EL: Dubai Basketball Starts Strong but Unable to Sustain Pace in Athens
Dubai Basketball delivered a strong opening on the road in Athens but couldn’t maintain its early momentum, falling to Panathinaikos 103–82 despite a competitive first half and standout interior play.
(Photo: ABA League j.t.d./Dragana Stjepanovic)
Dubai Basketball opened confidently in Athens, controlling long stretches of the first half through energetic play in the paint and disciplined defense. Mfiondu Kabengele set the early tone with 18 points and a steady presence around the rim, while Boogie Ellis added 15 to help Dubai reach halftime with a 48–45 lead.
The turning point came midway through the third quarter. As Panathinaikos tightened its interior coverage and increased pressure on the ball, Dubai’s offense lost rhythm, allowing the hosts to string together a 16–1 run that shifted the momentum for good. With perimeter shots not falling — Dubai hit just four three-pointers — the team struggled to keep pace down the stretch.
Dubai also faced setbacks with Dwayne Bacon unavailable due to injury and Aleksa Avramović exiting in the second quarter after a hard collision.
Despite the final score, Dubai once again showed stretches of composed, physical basketball and will look to build on its strong opening half as it prepares for upcoming challenges.
2025/26 EuroLeague, Regular Season, Round 12, Thursday, November 20, 2025:
PANATHINAIKOS – Dubai Basketball 103:82 (25:24, 20:24, 30:14, 28:20)
Nunn 22, Grant 15 | Kabengele 18, Ellis 15.
