Luka Doncic, Slovenia’s basketball superstar and Los Angeles Lakers standout, shared candid thoughts ahead of EuroBasket 2025. Speaking to Svet24, he addressed team changes and his excitement for the tournament.
Doncic showed no resentment toward Vlatko Cancar and Josh Nebo, who withdrew late from Slovenia’s roster due to their club, Olimpia Milano, denying their release. “I don’t hold anything against them,” Doncic said, emphasizing that players should have autonomy over such decisions.
The Lakers, unlike Milano, allowed Doncic to join Slovenia’s campaign. He expressed gratitude for their support, noting, “They encourage me and back me fully.”
Doncic is eager to team up with Alen Omic, Slovenia’s new center replacing Nebo. “Alen trains great, and I’m excited to play with him,” he said, acknowledging Omic’s unique style will require slight adjustments to his game.
Reflecting on his physical transformation after a demanding NBA season, Doncic credited a revised training plan and extra offseason time. “I had more time this year to prepare,” he explained, dismissing notions that his new physique drastically alters his playing style.
Slovenia faces Germany in a preparatory match on Friday, a clash Doncic sees as a learning opportunity rather than a definitive test. “They’re world champions, so it’ll be tough, but we’ll see where we stand,” he noted.
Doncic welcomed the packed schedule of warm-up games, stating, “You learn the most from games and film.” He remains unfazed by criticism directed at Slovenia’s coach Aleksander Sekulic or the federation, saying, “I just play basketball; criticism is part of the sport.”
As a leader among Slovenia’s younger roster, Doncic emphasized shared responsibility. “You need multiple leaders, not just one, to succeed,” he said, eyeing a medal as the team’s ultimate goal.
EuroBasket 2025, hosted across Cyprus, Finland, Poland, and Latvia, kicks off August 27. Slovenia, in Group D, faces Poland, France, Belgium, Iceland, and Israel in Katowice, starting August 28.
Doncic’s commitment to Slovenia remains unwavering. “If I can play, I’ll always play,” he affirmed, ready to lead his nation in pursuit of EuroBasket glory.
