Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade overturned a first-half deficit to defeat Dubai Basketball 88-74 on Tuesday at Belgrade Arena, using defensive intensity and efficient guard play to control the second half.
Dubai opened the game with pace and precision, scoring within 15 seconds and building a 6-0 lead early. The visitors maintained control throughout the first half and entered the break ahead 47-38, reflecting their offensive rhythm and spacing.
The game shifted immediately after halftime as Partizan responded with a 9-0 run in just over two minutes. Three consecutive three-pointers from Shake Milton, Isaac Bonga and Arijan Lakic tied the score and reset momentum.
Carlik Jones then gave the Serbian side its first lead, and Partizan maintained control for the remainder of the contest. A 10-2 run late in the fourth quarter sealed the victory and completed the turnaround.
Defense dictated the outcome after the break. Dubai was held scoreless for more than three minutes to start the third quarter and finished the second half with just 27 points. The visitors also committed 16 turnovers, disrupting their offensive flow.
Milton finished with 13 points, matching his personal best while converting 3 of 4 attempts from beyond the arc.
Jones led all scorers with 23 points on 7-of-9 shooting inside the arc, adding five assists and a performance index rating of 31. His return from injury has stabilized Partizan’s offense, particularly in half-court sets.
Partizan’s improved defensive coverage limited Dubai’s perimeter shooting. After going 5-of-10 from three-point range in the first half, the visitors managed just 1-of-10 after halftime.
Despite the win, Partizan remains outside the playoff race in the EuroLeague standings, while Dubai sits in contention for a play-in spot. Both teams return to action on March 19, with Partizan visiting Paris Basketball and Dubai traveling to FC Bayern Munich.
