MATCH OF THE ROUND: More Than a Win: Partizan and Dubai Battle for Top 8 Pole Position

2025/26 AdmiralBet ABA League Group A Round 18, Monday, 9 February 2026:

PARTIZAN MOZZART BET - DUBAI BASKETBALL

Where? Belgrade Arena, Belgrade

When? 20:00

Story of the Game: Monday evening in Belgrade is reserved for the Match of the Round, as Partizan Mozzart Bet welcome Dubai Basketball in a clash that could define the entire Top 8 picture.

This is a direct battle for the top spot in Group A, but even more importantly, a head-to-head fight for the starting positions in the Top 8, with the overall record from the regular season being fully transferred to the next stage. Simply put - this one goes far beyond a regular-season win.

Partizan Mozzart Bet enter the game with a 14-1 record, their only defeat coming earlier this season in Dubai, where they fell 70:82. The equation for the Belgrade side is crystal clear: a win is crucial, but an ideal scenario would be a victory by 13 points or more, which would swing the head-to-head advantage in their favor ahead of the Top 8.

On the other side stands a team enjoying a truly historic campaign. Dubai Basketball remain the only undefeated team in the league, boasting a perfect 15-0 record. The squad coached by Jurica Golemac are flying high, further boosting their momentum with two EuroLeague wins last week. Their mission in Belgrade is straightforward - win again, protect the perfect record, and enter the Top 8 in pole position.

Match-up in focus: Picking a single duel is no easy task given the star power on both rosters, but the battle in the paint could have a decisive impact.

Bruno Fernando and Mfiondu Kabengele are among the most physically dominant centers in the league. Both have delivered multiple commanding performances this season, setting the tone with their strength, rebounding, and presence around the rim. Whichever big man manages to impose himself could significantly influence the final outcome.

Head-to-Head Score in ABA: In total 3:3; In Belgrade 3:0.