Los Angeles Lakers owner Jeanie Buss and general manager Rob Pelinka have traveled to Katowice, Poland, ahead of Luka Doncic’s first EuroBasket 2025 game with Slovenia.
The high-profile presence underscores the Lakers’ commitment to supporting their new franchise cornerstone, who was traded to Los Angeles in February in a blockbuster deal with the Dallas Mavericks.
Slovenia begins Group D play on August 28 against host nation Poland, marking Doncic’s first major international appearance since joining the Lakers. The matchup is set to take place in a sold-out Spodek Arena.
For Los Angeles, Doncic’s participation in EuroBasket is closely monitored after he signed a three-year, $165 million extension earlier this summer. Buss and Pelinka being on-site signals the organization’s investment in his long-term health and success.
Doncic, a five-time All-Star, averaged 28.2 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.5 assists in his first half-season with the Lakers. He delivered standout performances, including a 45-point game in his return to Dallas and a 37-point outing in his playoff debut for Los Angeles.
Now, his focus shifts to leading Slovenia in one of the most competitive groups of EuroBasket 2025. Group D features France, Belgium, Israel, Iceland, and Poland. The top four teams will advance to the knockout stage.
For Slovenia, expectations remain high, as Doncic’s playmaking and scoring give them a clear advantage. His presence will also test Poland’s defense, which faces one of the toughest assignments of the tournament in its opener.
Slovenia’s opening game against Poland tips off on August 28, followed by a crucial clash with France on August 30.
