By Eurohoops team/ info@eurohoops.net
Fresh off signing a new three-year deal with the Los Angeles Lakers, Luka Dončić has rejoined the Slovenian national team and is set to take the floor Friday night in Ljubljana as preparations begin for the upcoming international campaign.
Despite a long NBA season and a whirlwind of travel, the Slovenian star showed no signs of hesitation when asked about representing his country this summer.
“I feel good. I still have some jet lag, but I think we’re training really well,” Dončić said on Thursday ahead of Slovenia’s practice session at Stožice Arena.
The 26-year-old arrived in Slovenia earlier this week, just days after finalizing his new contract in Los Angeles. His return has already energized the national team setup, with Dončić noting he has completed two full five-on-five sessions.
“I had some doubts, but in the end, everyone knows I’ll play if I’m healthy. That’s always been my stance — if I can play, I will,” he said.
One of the biggest stories surrounding Dončić this offseason has been his physical transformation. The All-NBA guard has dropped noticeable weight and arrived in camp in arguably the best shape of his career.
“There have always been questions about my fitness, but I thought I was playing great before too,” he said. “This year we approached things differently. Last summer was rough — I played until June and then jumped straight into Olympic qualifiers. This time, I had more time and a better plan.”
Dončić admitted that the early stages of reshaping his body were challenging, but once he settled into the routine, it got easier.
“It wasn’t easy at first, but then it becomes a habit. We’ll see how it translates to games — I haven’t played since the NBA season ended, and I’ve only just started scrimmaging again.”
Dončić also addressed the absence of two key teammates — Vlatko Čančar and Josh Nebo — whose clubs reportedly blocked their participation with the national team.
“I don’t hold anything against them. From what I understand, their club made the decision. It’s interesting — a club like the Lakers lets me play, but Milano doesn’t. In my opinion, it should always be the player’s decision, but they’re not to blame,” Dončić said and confirmed that he has no restrictions from the Lakers and receives full support in representing Slovenia.
When asked about Slovenia’s objectives this summer, Dončić didn’t mince words.
“Our goal is always a medal. I’m not the only leader on this team — the others also have their say. Because if there’s only one leader, you won’t get anything done,” he said. “In the end, everyone has to know their role, because only then can success follow.”
Slovenia’s first test comes Friday night against the reigning world champions, Germany. Dončić cautioned that the game will serve more as a gauge of progress than a definitive test.
“These early games are always tricky. We know Germany is a strong team, but right now it’s about finding rhythm. As for my minutes, we’ll see — I haven’t played five-on-five in a while.”
Still, he emphasized the value of getting into game action as soon as possible.
“You learn the most from playing, especially when you go back and analyze. That’s why I’m glad we have several games lined up — it’s important to see where we are and build chemistry.”