MATCH OF THE ROUND: Heavyweights Collide in Belgrade: Zvezda vs. Dubai
This week’s Match of the Round in the Top 8 stage brings us a blockbuster clash in Belgrade, where Crvena zvezda Meridianbet will host Dubai Basketball in what will already be their fourth meeting of the season across the AdmiralBet ABA League and the EuroLeague.
(Photo: Dubai Basketball)
2025/26 AdmiralBet ABA League Top 8 Round 5, Sunday, 30 March 2026:
CRVENA ZVEZDA MERIDIANBET - DUBAI BASKETBALL
Where? Aleksandar Nikolić Sports Hall, Belgrade
When? 19:00
Story of the Game: This week’s Match of the Round in the Top 8 stage brings us a blockbuster clash in Belgrade, where Crvena zvezda Meridianbet will host Dubai Basketball in what will already be their fourth meeting of the season across the AdmiralBet ABA League and the EuroLeague.
So far, Dubai Basketball hold the edge in the head-to-head series, leading 2:1. Their most recent encounter in the AdmiralBet ABA League was a dominant display, as the Dubai side outclassed Crvena zvezda Meridianbet 114:91 in a one-sided affair.
Crvena zvezda Meridianbet will now look to respond in front of their home crowd and show a completely different face compared to that heavy defeat. The Belgrade powerhouse know that a win in this matchup would not only bring them revenge, but also strengthen their position in the Top 8 race.
On the other side, Dubai Basketball arrive with confidence and clear ambitions - to stay at the very top of the standings. Another victory over Zvezda would further confirm their status as one of the leading teams this season and keep them firmly in control of their own destiny.
An important factor heading into this clash is the schedule. Both teams are coming off a demanding double-game week in the EuroLeague, which could play a major role in determining the outcome. Fatigue, rotation depth and energy levels might be just as crucial as tactics in what promises to be a high-intensity battle.
Match-up in focus: The spotlight will be on the backcourt duel between Codi Miller-McIntyre and McKinley Wright IV - two players who act as true leaders of their respective teams.
Miller-McIntyre has been the engine of Crvena zvezda Meridianbet, contributing across all aspects of the game with his scoring, playmaking and defensive presence. His ability to control the tempo and impact both ends of the floor makes him a key figure for the red-and-whites.
On the other side, McKinley Wright IV brings a similar all-around impact for Dubai Basketball. A dynamic guard capable of scoring in bunches, creating for his teammates and applying pressure on defense, Wright has been one of the driving forces behind Dubai’s strong season.
Head-to-Head Score in ABA: In total 0:3; In Belgrade 0:1.
