New Lakers Owner Surprises Luka Doncic With Backstreet Boys Concert After $165 Million Extension

The evening was designed not just as a celebration of a financial milestone, but as a gesture of appreciation for the Slovenian star’s trust and loyalty.

Doncic had hinted in interviews that a surprise event was planned, but admitted he had no idea what was coming. The moment he walked into the venue and saw his childhood idols on stage, the grin on his face said it all. 

Accompanied by head coach JJ Redick, GM Rob Pelinka, and teammates including Gabe Vincent, Rui Hachimura, Maxi Kleber, and Jarred Vanderbilt, Luka was front and center enjoying every second. 

A backstage meeting with the band took the moment to another level, highlighted by a viral clip of Brian Littrell standing on a table just to meet Luka at eye level, which the Backstreet Boys humorously captioned on Instagram.

This celebration was more than just fanfare. It was a symbolic welcome from a franchise that sees Luka not just as the present, but as the future. After being traded to the Lakers earlier this year in a blockbuster move, Doncic quickly embraced the culture, fans, and vision of the team. 

His extension effectively removes him from the 2026 free agency pool and sets him up for a potential five-year, $417 million supermax deal in 2028, the richest in NBA history.

The concert outing underscores the Lakers' commitment to building an environment that nurtures loyalty and long-term vision. For a team entering a transitional era with LeBron James likely nearing the end of his career, securing Doncic’s services long-term was paramount.

In turn, Doncic has already taken the reins of leadership, recruiting Deandre Ayton and Marcus Smart this offseason while transforming his body in the gym, all signs that he’s locked in on Banner No. 18.

With a rejuvenated roster, a superstar in his prime, and a new ownership group willing to go the extra mile, the Lakers have positioned themselves to make a serious championship run. Doncic’s extension wasn’t just a deal; it was a statement. 

And the Backstreet Boys concert? The perfect harmony to begin a new championship chorus in Los Angeles.