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Lakers' Luka Doncic Announces Off-Court News on Friday
© Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic is having an excellent first year with the organization. The 26-year-old Slovenian superstar delivered an incredible performance on Thursday against the Utah Jazz, leading the Lakers to a 143–135 victory.

Doncic finished with a triple-double, totaling 45 points, 11 rebounds and 14 assists across 40 minutes of action. He also contributed on the defensive end with five steals and played efficiently on offense, committing just one turnover.

Doncic continues to be the driving force behind the Lakers’ offense and has shouldered part of teammate Austin Reaves’ scoring load while Reaves manages a calf injury. Through 20 games this season, Doncic has averaged an NBA-best 35.2 points, 8.8 rebounds and 9.1 assists while shooting 46.3% from the field, 32.4% from beyond the arc and 81.1% from the free-throw line.

Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77)© Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images

On Friday, Doncic shared uplifting news away from the basketball court. Throughout the NBA season he has remained actively involved in the Luka Doncic Foundation, which works to transform youth sports by making basketball and other activities more joyful, accessible and positive for kids worldwide.

Earlier in the week, the foundation brought holiday cheer to children in Slovenia, Doncic’s home country. “This Wednesday, Luka created a real magical atmosphere for the children in Šentvid pri Stični Hospital and surprised them with a festive party with pizzas and presents! Sending you all lots of love and joy this holiday season! ✨” the foundation wrote on Instagram.

Doncic also took to his Instagram story to highlight the gesture back home in Slovenia, sharing it with his supporters.

That same sense of responsibility and commitment that Doncic shows through his foundation has been evident in his play with the Lakers.

His ability to lift teammates, shoulder extra scoring duties and set the tone nightly mirrors the way he gives back off the court, making him not only the centerpiece of the Lakers’ offense but also a leader in every sense.

Doncic’s career already places him among the league’s brightest superstars. A five-time All-Star and five-time All-NBA selection, he has consistently proven himself as one of the game’s premier talents.

He captured the 2018–19 Rookie of the Year award and later claimed the 2023–24 scoring title, further cementing his status as an offensive force. Doncic has built a legacy defined by historic production and continues to elevate his place among basketball’s elite.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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