Lakers Brass Flies to Poland to Support Luka Dončić in FIBA EuroBasket Clash
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Lakers owner Jeanie buss and general manager Rob Pelinka embarked on a 12-hour flight to Katowice, Poland, to support Luka Dončić.The dynamic guard was in action as the Slovenian national team faced off against Poland in a FIBA EuroBasket 2025 first-round game, a contest that ultimately saw Slovenia fall 105-95.
Strategic Support Across Continents
The journey by Lakers’ top brass underscores the organization’s dedication to Dončić,the face of their franchise. “We just wanted to make a statement to Luka that we support what he does for his country,” Pelinka stated before the game. “That’s really important to the Lakers when we have a player that’s the face of our franchise, just to show that support for him.And it’s just great to see him with his teammates, interacting, having fun.” This gesture highlights the deep investment the Lakers have in Dončić’s well-being and international endeavors.
Dončić Delivers Stellar, record-Setting Performance Despite Loss
Despite the team’s defeat, Dončić delivered a performance that etched his name in EuroBasket history. He led all scorers with a remarkable 34 points, including a scorching 14 points in the first quarter. his stat line was further bolstered by nine assists,five steals,and four rebounds. Notably, Dončić became the first player in EuroBasket history to achieve a game with over 30 points, five or more assists, and five or more steals. His 17 made free throws also marked the most by any player in the competition as 2005, when Juan Carlos Navarro hit 18.
A moment capturing attention on social media depicted Dončić receiving a technical foul after a lengthy, one-handed three-point attempt, a play that underscored his aggressive style of play.
Dončić’s Commitment to National Duty
Dončić, who joined the Lakers in a trade with the dallas Mavericks and recently signed a significant contract extension, remains unwavering in his commitment to representing Slovenia. “It’s an easy choice,” he commented. “I always want to represent my country. Always did. No matter what.” This dedication is further exemplified by his current physical conditioning; the 26-year-old spent his summer training rigorously twice daily in Croatia and adhering to a strict gluten-free, low-sugar, high-protein diet.
Pelinka echoed this sentiment, noting, “He is in great shape, really committed to working hard this summer, and to be able to watch that in person was worth flying over the ocean to come be with him.” Accompanying Pelinka and Buss on the trip were Kurt Rambis, Linda Rambis, and director of player performance and health Leroy Sims.
Slovenia’s Strengths and challenges
Poland,which notably upset Slovenia in the EuroBasket 2022 quarterfinals,boasts a strong core including Aleksander Balcerowski,Jordan Loyd,and Mateusz Posta. For Slovenia, the absence of key players such as Josh Sky, Vlatko Čančar, Jaka Blažič, and Zoran Dragić placed considerable pressure on Dončić to carry the team.
The FIBA EuroBasket tournament showcases Europe’s elite national teams, with other NBA stars like Kristaps Porziņģis, Nikola Jokic, and Alperen Şengün also participating.
This story was originally published by the Los Angeles Times.
Primary Keyword: Luka Dončić Poland
Related Keywords: FIBA EuroBasket, Los Angeles Lakers, slovenia, Jeanie Buss, Rob Pelinka
