What the Slovenian press said about Luka Doncic’s first game since LA Lakers playoff loss

Luka Doncic admitted before the game that he was not sure how many minutes he would be able to play and said he would listen to his body.

He ended up playing 24 minutes, scoring 19 points on 3-for-6 shooting from beyond the arc. He also added three rebounds and five assists.

Despite his efforts, Slovenia fell short in an 89-103 loss to Germany.

Doncic led all scorers, while Franz Wagner of the Orlando Magic and David Kramer of Real Madrid each put up 18 points for Germany.

How Luka Doncic’s return to the court was received

Luka Doncic is Slovenia’s biggest sports star, and interest in him always rises when he puts on the national team shirt. That attention only grew after his time away from the game.

Ekipa pointed out that Germany played with an edge, making the match anything but a typical exhibition, and noted that Doncic had his usual exchanges with officials.

The outlet wrote: “Luka had four personal fouls before the end of the first half. Of course, as a result, he played more reserved, especially in defense.”

Slovenian sports site 24ur.com wrote: “He looked very motivated and summery, controlling every attack of the Slovenian national team.”

They added: “Doncic was also very active on defense and stopped several of the opponents’ attacks. It was quickly clear that the Los Angeles Lakers basketball player is in good physical condition, even though this was his first game since May.”

SportKlub said Doncic looked fit and played with energy throughout, including getting into it with Moritz Wagner on Germany’s bench.

The report called it ‘a pleasing performance’, suggesting Doncic still had more to give if needed.

The two teams will meet again for another friendly on August 10 as they continue preparations for EuroBasket.