Luka Dončić playing at EuroBasket 2025 is going to be one of the most anticipated events of the summer. The Lakers star returns leaner and sharper than ever after signing a three-year, $165 million maximum contract extension.
After a rollercoaster of a season, where Dončić became the main character of the biggest trade in NBA history, he settled into the center of spotlight in Los Angeles. The Lakers suffered a first-round playoff exit, which pushed him to set one clear goal — transform himself. He showed his commitment to conditioning by featuring in Men’s Health magazine, displaying a remarkable change in his physique. This transformation has sparked excitement among fans. Luka heads into EuroBasket with a new body, fresh off signing an extension with the Lakers, and ready to lead the Slovenian national team.
His History with Slovenia
Luka first introduced himself to the international stage in 2017. That year, he partnered with Goran Dragić in the backcourt to lead Slovenia to a historic gold medal in the EuroBasket. He showed the basketball world why he was considered the best young talent at the time. Playing like a seasoned veteran on Europe’s biggest stage, he played a crucial role in delivering the country’s greatest basketball achievement.
Fast forward to the present. Dončić has featured in the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, EuroBasket 2022, and the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023. While none of those appearances matched the heights of EuroBasket 2017, he continued to shine. In his Olympic debut, he scored 48 points, grabbed 11 rebounds, and dished 5 assists against Argentina. He followed it with a triple-double of 16 points, 10 rebounds, and 18 assists versus France in the semifinals. At EuroBasket 2022, he scored 47 points, with 7 rebounds and 5 assists, in a group-stage win over France. That was the second-highest single-game scoring total in tournament history. It also secured Slovenia the top spot in Group B. Beyond the numbers, Dončić has made it clear that representing his country is a top priority. He has confirmed his commitment to compete in this year’s EuroBasket.
What to Expect from Luka This EuroBasket
Luka Dončić enters EuroBasket 2025 with a noticeable body transformation. After appearing on the cover of Men’s Health, he showed his dedication to improving his conditioning. In a recent exhibition game against Germany, Dončić looked slimmer and moved quicker. His game appeared to be in mid-season form. He displayed his trademark step-back three, crafty finishes through contact, and supreme passing vision. All of this came at a faster pace. Fans can expect the same complete offensive game this summer. The difference might be on the defensive end, where better conditioning could make him more impactful.
Beyond his skillset, Dončić will be the leader of Slovenia. He is one of the most experienced players on the roster alongside Klemen Prepelič, following Goran Dragić’s retirement from international basketball. This year’s roster blends first-time call-ups with veterans like Prepelič and Zoran Dragić. Slovenia may not be considered a top contender compared to Europe’s heavyweights. However, a team with Luka Dončić can never be underestimated. After a summer of physical and mental transformation, expect him to produce the kind of magic that can light up Europe.
Why This Summer Matters
EuroBasket 2025 will be an important tournament for Luka Dončić. This is his opportunity to showcase his new outlook and his leadership skills. Although Slovenia will compete against teams that are overall better, with Dončić at the helm, anything is possible.
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