Luka Doncic and the Slovenia national team exposed Thursday against powerhouse Serbia – lead by MVP Nikola Jokic – 106-72 before FIBA EuroBasket 2025.
The Denver Nuggets All-Star center finished with 10 points, as well as eight rebounds and four assists to lead his country to victory.
Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Lakers superstar had 17 points, seven rebounds and four assists, but he had a hard time scoring. Doncic also turned the ball three times, as he couldn’t help Slovenia overcome a juggernaut like Serbia in preparation for the big European tournament.
Luka Doncic gets upset at teammate
Luka Doncic, starring for Slovenia in a EuroBasket preparation game against Great Britain, was visibly upset at teammate Gregor Hrovat after a heated exchange on the bench. The Lakers franchise player was not happy and he definitely had no time for games.
The tension quickly de-escalated, and both players seemed to understand it was in their best interest to keep things from boiling over, with Slovenia in the middle of their pre-tournament run. And after Thursday’s loss to Serbia, the players have to focus.
Despite the moment, Doncic lit up the scoreboard with 28 points, including a perfect 10-for-10 from the free throw line against Great Britain. The performance reassured fans after concerns about a knee injury just days earlier.
The Lakers and Luka get ready for the season
The Los Angeles Lakers will tip off its 78th season of basketball on NBA Opening Night, Oct. 21, when it hosts the Golden State Warriors at Crypto .com Arena. The Purple and Gold will be showcased on national television 34 times during the upcoming campaign.
The Lakers will be featured on Christmas Day for the 27th consecutive year and the 52nd time overall when they host the Houston Rockets. The 25 all-time Christmas Day victories for the Lakers are tied for the most in NBA history.
Also, Los Angeles will compete in West Group B as part of the 2025 NBA Cup. Group Play for the Lakers will begin Oct. 31, at Memphis, followed by a road game in New Orleans Friday, Nov. 14.
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