Luka Doncic has returned this summer in impressive form, leading Slovenia in EuroBasket with a renewed rhythm on the court.
While his international profile shines brightly and his recent contract extension with the Lakers secures his NBA future, old tensions from his time with the Dallas Mavericks still linger.
The latest controversy arose when a promotional banner featuring Doncic for the video game Overwatch 2 was reportedly asked to be removed from near the American Airlines Center.
Fans saw the poster as a routine advertisement, but the Mavericks‘ decision to distance themselves from their former star hints at deeper unresolved issues.
Adding to this, Mavericks insider Kirk Henderson shared on Twitter that the team has banned Gatorade products from their facilities. This move is particularly notable given Doncic‘s reported ownership stake in PepsiCo, Gatorade’s parent company, which is valued at around $200 billion.
Doncic earned this stake through his growing global influence as an NBA star, and the ban appears to be a calculated step that goes beyond normal team policies.
This is not the first time Dallas has taken measures that seem aimed at sidelining Doncic‘s legacy. Shortly after his trade, a large banner featuring his image outside the arena was taken down.
Even fan tributes celebrating his impact were quickly removed by security. Together, these actions suggest the Mavericks are intent on distancing themselves from a player who once carried their championship hopes.
lakers affirm commitment to doncic’s journey
In stark contrast, the Los Angeles Lakers are showing unwavering support for Doncic as he competes internationally. Leading figures from the Lakers organization, including governor Jeanie Buss and president of basketball operations Rob Pelinka, traveled to Katowice, Poland, to attend Slovenia’s final practice before EuroBasket.
Pelinka dismissed concerns about a minor knee issue Doncic recently experienced, stating, “Zero problems. I mean, it’s just something that we believe in for the Lakers organization.”
This shows confidence in Doncic‘s dedication to representing his country without compromising his NBA commitments.
Doncic himself reaffirmed his pride in playing for Slovenia: “It’s an easy choice. I always want to represent my country. Always did. No matter what.”
Beyond the leadership team, others including Kurt and Linda Rambis and Dr. Leroy Sims also made the long journey to show support. Pelinka emphasized their intent, saying, “We just wanted to make a statement to Luka that we support what he does for his country.”
Doncic expressed gratitude for the Lakers‘ efforts. “It means a lot. 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.”
While the Mavericks appear determined to sever ties with Doncic, the Lakers are embracing him not only as a franchise cornerstone but also as a key figure for Slovenia on the global stage, reinforcing their relationship from the very start.
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