Dubai has confirmed that an agreement has been reached with Olympiacos, making one of the Old Continent’s top defenders, Thomas Walkup, the new playmaker for the ambitious club after signing a multi-year deal ahead of the 2026/27 season.
This development puts an end to a marquee transfer saga that shook European basketball for months, officially launching a new chapter in the career of the naturalized Greek point guard.
Summer drama
The saga surrounding Walkup defined the entire basketball summer. For weeks, rumors circulated regarding a lucrative offer from the Middle East, while Red-and-White fans from Piraeus watched the situation unfold in disbelief, well aware of how much the American-born Greek passport holder meant to their team’s defensive identity and system.
Tensions reached a boiling point during a recent preseason tournament in Crete, when Olympiacos head coach Georgios Bartzokas sharply dismissed media questions regarding his reliable longtime point guard’s status, declaring that he was “not interested in those who are not here.” Now, it is clear why the Greek tactician was so tense, negotiations were already in their final stages, making the move to the United Arab Emirates inevitable.
Welcome to Dubai, Thomas Walkup. 🇦🇪
— Dubai Basketball (@dubaibasket) September 7, 2026
Elite defense, high-level playmaking and toughness on every possession. Ready to make an impact in Dubai. 🔥
Read more: https://t.co/cSOaZ73NoZ pic.twitter.com/SMZrEt35r2
Gratitude to Piraeus and Kamenjasevic’s statement
In its official statement, Dubai expressed deep gratitude to the Olympiacos leadership for their constructive approach and professionalism throughout complex negotiations. The club emphasized that securing a player of such caliber, who brings invaluable experience, leadership qualities, and a winning mentality from one of Europe’s most prestigious clubs, represents a massive step forward for their project.
Dubai General Manager Dejan Kamenjasevic did not hide his satisfaction regarding this blockbuster acquisition:
“Thomas is an exceptionally important addition for Dubai and represents another major step forward in the direction we want to move as a club. His basketball IQ, incredible competitive spirit, and ability to make those around him better will be invaluable for our team. I would also like to personally thank the management of Olympiacos for the way discussions were handled and for helping us reach an agreement that allows Thomas to begin this new chapter with us.”
Dubai plays in the EuroLeague now, which puts a home side on every major sportsbook board. Where those prices are cheapest is in my guide to betting sites in the UAE.
