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FOR THE MORNING

Avramović Reveals to Sportal How Dubai Claimed Their First Title: "Experience Was Key!"

The ABA League season concluded with a new champion. One of the heroes of the Middle Eastern team's title run was Serbian international Aleksa Avramović, who took time to speak with Sportal.
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Aleksa Avramović's season was a rollercoaster of highs and lows. Plagued by injuries for much of it, he returned just in time to help his team secure their first-ever club title.

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"It was a long season for me, a long season for the team. We traveled extensively, moved around a lot, and spent significant time away from our families. In the end, it was all worth it because we brought that title to Dubai." - Aleksa Avramović

With the season concluded, Avramović immediately headed to Čačak.

"Of course, I dedicate time to my family. I'm already in Čačak, that's no secret. Whenever I get free time, I spend it in my hometown. That's where I feel best, it's my comfort zone." - Aleksa Avramović
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When Dubai faced its toughest challenges, the player wearing number four stepped up.

"I played the ABA League final well, I'd say I performed my best when it mattered most, for the title. I had many injuries this year and a lot of fluctuations, as I couldn't find my rhythm. However, when it was truly crucial, I helped my team in the best possible way." - Aleksa Avramović

He revealed what made the difference in that decisive match.

"Regarding the ABA League final, I believe experience was the deciding factor. These are games that carry a special charm, a special significance. Those of us who have played these matches and know what it means to compete for medals and titles understand the energy required, the concentration needed, and what ultimately decides these games. Thank God, I was calm in that final and played in a way that helped the team win the title." - Aleksa Avramović

Avramović's two crucial free throws sealed the victory, and he spoke about that pivotal moment.

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"I was calm at the free-throw line. I just prayed, and as Anderson would say, it was just me, the ball, and the arena. But truly, I felt it was me, the ball, and my God. I was calm; nothing distracted me. I was simply focused on making those free throws, defending the next possession, and bringing home the title." - Aleksa Avramović

He once again referenced Justin Anderson's statement, crediting his faith for his composure in that moment.

"I think it's no secret, I've said it many times before. What Justin said, it's simply that. It's our guiding light, our safe harbor that leads us through life and brings us peace. There's not much more to say about it. I've said it many times, but of course, God rewards everyone in the end, and that's why He is the greatest for me." - Aleksa Avramović

Everything came down to the final 15 seconds of the game, with the defense ultimately securing the title for the Middle Eastern team.

"Defending the last possession... it's 15 seconds, you're playing for the title, you defend by any means necessary, just defend. That was the most important thing. McKinley played exceptional defense on Karlik, who tried a one-on-one to force overtime, but he wasn't precise, and that was it. It was incredibly difficult to beat Partizan in the Belgrade Arena because, as someone who has been in the ABA League for many years, I honestly know what home court advantage means. It was extremely tough to win, but in the end, we managed it." - Aleksa Avramović
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Finally, he touched upon the national team gathering, with the players convening at the "Crowne Plaza" hotel on Monday.

"I can't wait for us all to gather on Monday. It will be wonderful because every one of us loves returning to the national team. Some players won't be there due to their own issues, but I'd say some new, young, and fresh blood will come in to try and compensate for the absence of experienced players. We are all eager to return, play, and help our national team qualify for the World Cup. Of course, it always makes me happy; we constantly talk about it. Going to the national team always brings me great joy, and I'd say I love playing basketball most when I play for the national team. That's the goal for every basketball player, so I can't wait." - Aleksa Avramović

ABA League Playoffs

VIDEO: Serbia couldn't have asked for more: Eagles finish half with spectacular Avramović points!

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