Slovenian captain and Los Angeles Lakers star Luka Doncic avoided a major setback after a scare in Saturday’s exhibition game against Latvia. A teammate fell into his right leg during the third quarter, leading to a contusion that initially raised some concern.
Video of the play surfaced on social media, but reports quickly followed that the injury was not considered serious and would not affect Doncic’s availability for EuroBasket 2025, which begins later this month.
Slovenia’s basketball federation confirmed on Sunday that Doncic is scheduled to return to practice, ending speculation about his status. He is expected to be in u niform for Tuesday’s exhibition matchup against Great Britain.
Doncic, 26, has been in the spotlight all summer. Earlier this month, he signed a three-year maximum extension with the Lakers on the first day he was eligible. The contract includes a player option for the 2028-29 season.
Luka is COOKING. pic.twitter.com/daaxeCj95y
— Kevin Chouinard (@KLChouinard) August 16, 2025
A five-time All-NBA selection, Doncic has already built a résumé that includes Rookie of the Year honors in 2019. Last season he was slowed by a calf issue and appeared in just 50 games combined between Dallas and Los Angeles, the fewest of his career.
When healthy, he delivered at his usual elite level, averaging 28.2 points, 8.2 rebounds, 7.7 assists and 1.8 steals while shooting 45 percent from the field.
Slovenia, with Doncic leading the way, will be among the teams to watch when EuroBasket tips off in a few weeks.
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