By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
The dynamic has changed, and Luka Doncic is firmly establishing his imprint on the Los Angeles Lakers. In a 24-minute vlog on his official YouTube channel, the playmaker documented bringing his squad to his home country for a minicamp to help a fresh roster bond before the 2026–27 NBA Regular Season begins.
His leadership style was on full display during a no-dribbling game with a massive fitness ball, where he playfully asserted his hometown status. “Y’all better be getting me the ball because I run this f—ing country,” he told his teammates.
Beyond the gym banter, Doncic had a clear vision for bringing the squad across the Atlantic. “Obviously, see Slovenia first,” he explained. “We spend so much time together in the season. There are so many new guys. Get to know each other to see what everybody likes and then just play basketball, play some golf, visit around Slovenia.”
The trip went well beyond basic gym workouts. The players raced professional rowing boats and rode bikes through the capital.
However, hosting a full NBA team in your hometown brings pressure. “I honestly didn’t know what to expect,” the Ljubljana native confessed. “When you’re hosting, you’re kind of nervous a little bit, but everything went smoothly. So, I was really happy with it.”
The initiative seems to have paid off. With training camp around the corner, the Lakers head toward their regular-season opener against the Golden State Warriors in crypto.com Arena on October 21. Their chemistry is already building.
Doncic also reflected on how he has grown over the last half-decade. “Five years ago I was in my second or third year in the league. I wasn’t the leader,” he admitted. “I think leadership is an important part in my case now.”
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