Luka Doncic admits that his complaining to refs must stop

Dallas Mavericks guard Luka Doncic (77) speaks with an official during the second quarter against the LA Clippers at American Airlines Center. Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

Mavericks star Luka Doncic acknowledges that his complaining to referees must stop

By Erin Walsh | Last updated 5/7/21

Dallas Mavericks star Luka Doncic is known both for his stellar play on the court and his berating of game officials.

It has caused him to accumulate 15 technical fouls this season, and he admitted after Thursday's 113-109 win over the Brooklyn Nets that he needs to work on containing his emotions, per ESPN's Tim MacMahon.

Luka Doncic on complaining to refs: "[It’s difficult] with all the emotions in games, but obviously I’ve got to stop. It’s just hard for me on the court with all the emotions, but I realize it and I’ve got to work on this."
— Tim MacMahon (@espn_macmahon) May 7, 2021

Doncic received 13 technical fouls during the 2019-20 season and made similar comments, saying, "I've just got to learn to calm myself down and go on to the next play," per MacMahon.

The 22-year-old's latest technical fouls came during Sunday's 111-99 loss to the Sacramento Kings. He said after the contest that fans shouldn't worry about him receiving another technical.

The Mavs are fifth in the Western Conference with a 38-28 record. With six games remaining in the regular season, and Dallas fighting to avoid the play-in tournament, Doncic will need to control his emotions to avoid a suspension at a critical point in the season.

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