Lakers, Pelinka and Buss Fly to Katowice for Luka Doncic: “He’s in Great Shape”

Just days before the start of EuroBasket 2025, Slovenian superstar Luka Doncic received a special visit: Los Angeles Lakers GM Rob Pelinka and team president Jeanie Buss flew all the way to Europe, landing in Katowice, Poland—where Slovenia will begin the group stage—to watch him up close. “He’s in great shape, really committed to working hard this summer,” Pelinka told reporters. “And being able to see that in person was worth flying across the ocean to be with him.” Doncic, noticeably leaner thanks to a new training and nutrition program, downplayed the changes: “Honestly, nothing different. Just probably less tired, a little bit quicker. Nothing specific. At the end of the day, I want to win games and help my team achieve more.”

Slovenia, with a determined and sharp-looking Doncic, will tip off on August 28 against Poland at the Spodek Arena in Katowice. Off the court, Doncic has also had a big summer, signing a new three-year, $165 million contract with the Lakers. It’s a major investment for Los Angeles, which is now building its future around him after making the bold decision to part ways with Anthony Davis in a blockbuster trade with the Dallas Mavericks earlier this season.