Luka Dončić’s Love for Slovenia and the Lakers’ Challenge

Luka Dončić will showcase his talent in the 2025 EuroBasket — a tournament loaded with NBA stars, including Nikola Jokić, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Kristaps Porziņģis, and Lauri Markkanen. But, for the Los Angeles Lakers, Dončić’s devotion to Slovenia is both inspiring and risky. Dončić has been a fixture of the Slovenian national team since he was 18 and has never missed an opportunity to represent his country on the global stage. That consistency speaks volumes about his pride and love as a Slovenian — but it also poses a risk for his club, the Los Angeles Lakers.

Luka Dončić’s Love for Slovenia and the Lakers’ Challenge

Luka Dončić’s Unwavering Commitment to Slovenia

Since entering the NBA, Luka Dončić has been known as a man of few words in interviews. His answers are often short, professional, and carefully measured — rarely giving away too much. But when the topic shifts to his country, Slovenia, everything changes.

Luka has always been vocal about representing his homeland, insisting it is never a question or a doubt. He frequently talks about the passion Slovenians have for basketball and how much it means for such a small nation to compete on the global stage. For him, wearing the national jersey has never been optional — it has always been a priority.

The Lakers’ Dilemma: Luka Dončić and Slovenia

From the Lakers’ perspective, though, the priority is Luka himself — and everything that revolves around him, especially his health. General Manager Rob Pelinka and the ownership group have chosen Dončić as the face of the franchise for the next decade, or however long this partnership may last. Luka has already shown his commitment by signing a three-year extension with the Lakers. In return, the team’s top priority must be keeping him fresh and healthy for the long season ahead.