Luka Doncic addressed reporters Sunday night after Team World was eliminated from the 2026 NBA All-Star Game at Intuit Dome, offering candid insight into his health, the new format and the international fan support he continues to receive.
The 75th edition of the All-Star Game featured a USA vs. World mini-tournament, with Team USA Stars ultimately defeating Team USA Stripes 47–21 in the championship. Team World was eliminated after a 48–45 loss to USA Stripes in Game 3.
Asked about having the top-selling jersey in the Philippines, Doncic pointed to his past visit there.
“Oh yeah. I mean it’s amazing. I happened to be in Philippines I think three years ago, the amount of love that was there it was unbelievable to see honestly,” he said.
The Slovenian guard played limited minutes as he continues to manage a hamstring issue and was asked how it felt.
“It was good. Obviously I wanted to go out there. The fans voted me to be in this game, so I wanted to be there. A part of a little bit. But it felt good,” Doncic said.
In Game 1 against USA Stars, he logged five minutes and finished with two points and two assists. In the semifinal against USA Stripes, he did not play as Team World leaned on Victor Wembanyama, who scored 33 total points across two games.
The All-Star appearance marked his first in Los Angeles since his trade, and he described the week as demanding but positive.
“It was great. A lot of love from the city and obviously it was very busy but I was glad to do all this stuff. Just probably help. We’ve been dealing with injuries a lot so I would say help,” he said.
On the new tournament-style format, Doncic acknowledged a different level of intensity.
“Yeah, I think it was good. As you see, it was a little bit better. I think the game this year, obviously they got one more game, but we didn’t make it and we had some injuries on our team again, so we’ll be better next year, hopefully,” he said.
When asked if he expects to be ready for Friday, he kept it brief.
“We’ll see,” Doncic said.
With Los Angeles set to host multiple global events in the coming years, including the Olympics, he reflected on the city’s appeal.
“First of all, it’s amazing city. Everybody want to come out here. The weather’s great, you have the beach. But many big events happening here. So I’ll be attending some of them for sure,” he said.
Looking ahead to his team’s future, Doncic emphasized health and lineup continuity.
“It’s big potential. I think with us three on the floor together, like I said, we need to be healthy. It’s a big potential for us,” he said.
He also addressed Victor Wembanyama’s competitiveness during the event.
“Yeah, I mean he was definitely into it. I think everybody was into it and yeah, meeting him with that silver and I think everybody was a little better this year,” Doncic said.
