Fresh off a nationwide Jordan Brand promotional tour, Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic has traveled back to Europe to link up with the Slovenian national team as preparations begin for FIBA EuroBasket 2025.
The tournament, staged every four years, will feature several NBA standouts, including Nikola Jokic (Serbia), Alperen Sengun (Turkey) and Giannis Antetokounmpo (Greece). Despite the star-studded field, Slovenia’s hopes are expected to rest largely on Doncic’s production.
Medal the only acceptable outcome
Speaking at a pre-tournament press conference, the 26-year-old guard made it clear that Slovenia’s objectives are unchanged.
“Our goal is always a medal. But I am not the only leader. I feel others have a say as well. If you have only one leader, you won’t get anything done—you need several,” Doncic told reporters, according to Slovenian outlet Ekipa.
While Doncic headlines the roster, many of his teammates have spent years playing together in FIBA competitions, giving the squad additional experience and leadership beyond the NBA superstar.
Imagem: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images via lakersnation.com
Focus shifts after new Lakers deal
Doncic enters EuroBasket shortly after signing a three-year contract extension with the Lakers that runs through 2028. When that agreement expires, he will be eligible for a five-year deal projected to exceed $400 million, a pact that could also include a full no-trade clause.
With his NBA future secure, Doncic’s immediate attention turns to helping Slovenia climb the EuroBasket podium for the first time since its 2017 championship run.
Source: Lakers Nation
