Luka Doncic gets heartfelt surprise from Jeanie Buss and Rob Pelinka ahead of his EuroBasket game | NBA News
Luka Doncic is preparing for another international test, but this time he won’t be doing it without strong backing from Los Angeles. On Wednesday, Lakers governor Jeanie Buss and general manager Rob Pelinka flew to Poland to attend Slovenia’s final practice before EuroBasket begins. The surprise visit was a clear signal that the Lakers are fully invested in Doncic’s present and future as the franchise centerpiece.
Jeanie Buss and Rob Pelinka stand behind Luka Doncic in Poland
Luka Doncic has had a whirlwind year. He signed a three-year, $165 million extension with the Lakers this summer, securing his position as the team’s next leader after LeBron James eventually steps away. Buss and Pelinka showing up in Poland shows that Doncic will be the next big leader for the franchise.“We just wanted to make a statement to Luka that we support what he does for his country. That’s really important to the Lakers when we have a player that’s the face of our franchise, just to show that support for him,” Pelinka told The Athletic. “And it’s just great to see him with his teammates, interacting, having fun. As you said, he is in great shape, really committed to working hard this summer, and to be able to watch that in person was worth flying over the ocean to come be with him.”The Lakers’ decision to support Doncic’s EuroBasket journey is notable given the risks. In mid-August, he limped off the court in an exhibition game against Great Britain after a scary fall, later diagnosed as a knee contusion. Yet Buss and Pelinka revealed that they trust him to compete and return sharp for training camp. “We want him to be a hundred percent, be able to play for his country with pride, and he’ll turn his attention to the Lakers as soon as this tournament ends,” Pelinka added.Doncic honored the gesture, “It means a lot,” he said. “It’s a long flight. I think it’s like 11, 12 hours, so it means a lot for them just to be here to support me.”
Luka Doncic is on his A-game in EuroBasket
Doncic arrives at EuroBasket with momentum. Reports indicate he dropped close to 30 pounds since last summer thanks to a stricter diet and conditioning program, and his leaner frame has already been on display. In exhibition play against Latvia, he poured in 26 first-half points, flashing improved speed and endurance. His Slovenian teammates have praised not only his fitness but also his heightened leadership.Also Read: Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton almost made WWE SummerSlam cameo carrying NBA trophy during John Cena entranceSlovenia opens group play against host Poland on Thursday. While the roster lacks NBA names, Doncic’s presence immediately elevates Slovenia into contention. Other superstars such as Nikola Jokic, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Kristaps Porzingis headline rival squads, setting the stage for a fiercely competitive tournament.
