TITLE: LeBron James Sends Congratulations to Luka Doncic After Birth of Second Daughter
SLUG: lebron-james-congratulates-luka-doncic-on-birth-of-daughter
CONTENT:
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James quickly offered his well-wishes after teammate Luka Doncic announced the arrival of his second child on Saturday, December 7, 2025.
Doncic had missed the Lakers’ last two games while listed out for personal reasons. Multiple reports later confirmed the 26-year-old guard traveled to his native Slovenia to be with fiancée Anamaria Goltes for the birth of their daughter, Olivia. The couple’s first daughter, Gabriela, was born earlier in their relationship.
In an Instagram post revealing Olivia’s birth, Doncic shared a family photo and brief message. James was among the first to respond, writing, “Congrats Brother!” in the comment section, according to the social media account Luka Updates on X.
Return to Lineup Expected Sunday
Doncic has already rejoined the Lakers and is expected to play on Sunday against the Philadelphia 76ers. During his absence, James and guard Austin Reaves led Los Angeles to one win and one loss. The first matchup ended in a victory, while the second, played without the 40-year-old James, resulted in defeat.
The quick congratulations from James counters early-season speculation about tension between the two stars. Rumors suggested James was unhappy with his role or contract status following the franchise’s acquisition of Doncic, though no evidence supported those claims.
James Highlights “Baby Lakers” Connection
James also made headlines this week for a late-game assist that sealed a win over the Toronto Raptors. Despite an off shooting night that snapped his historic double-digit scoring streak, he found forward Rui Hachimura in the corner for the game-winning three-pointer.
After the contest, James said the end of his streak carried no significance compared with securing the victory. He additionally praised Brandon Ingram—who scored 20 points for Toronto—and other one-time “Baby Lakers” with whom he shared the court during his early tenure in Los Angeles.
Doncic’s expected return Sunday gives the Lakers their full starting backcourt as they continue a crowded December schedule.
Source: LakersNation.com
