Luka Doncic will be taking a break from his NBA duties to represent Slovenia at EuroBasket 2025, following a dramatic season marked by an unexpected trade and injury struggles, per Dave McMenamin of ESPN.
After a tough exit in the 2024–25 NBA playoffs, Doncic will join the Slovenian national team for the prestigious tournament, scheduled from August 27 to September 14, 2025, co-hosted by Cyprus, Finland, Poland, and Latvia.
Doncic’s decision to play for Slovenia comes after what one source described as “the most unexpected year of Luka’s life.” The 26-year-old guard was traded midseason from the Dallas Mavericks to the Los Angeles Lakers, a move that shocked the basketball world and left Doncic blindsided. Despite the abrupt trade, Doncic quickly adjusted, playing 28 games for the Lakers and averaging 28.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 7.6 assists per game.
Though he faced injury setbacks, including a calf strain that sidelined him earlier in the season, Doncic’s impact with the Lakers was undeniable. However, despite his personal success, the Lakers were eliminated from the playoffs in the first round by the Minnesota Timberwolves, which added to the unexpected nature of his season.
Slovenia is set to compete in Group D (Katowice, Poland) alongside Belgium, France, Poland, Iceland and Israel.
Alongside Doncic, Slovenian national team strength coach Anze Macek and physiotherapist Javier Barrio Calvo will travel with him throughout the offseason to ensure that he is fully prepared for the tournament.
