Lakers Star Luka Dončić Cleared to Play for Slovenia After Injury Scare
Lakers star Luka Dončić has been cleared to play for Slovenia after a knee injury scare during an exhibition game, as the team prepares for EuroBasket 2025.
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Los Angeles Lakers superstar Luka Dončić has been cleared to return to action for Slovenia's national basketball team after suffering a knee injury during Saturday's exhibition game against Latvia.
The Injury Incident
The scare occurred when a teammate was pushed toward the ground and fell into Dončić's lower legs under the basket. The 26-year-old initially appeared to be in severe pain and limped off the court to the locker room. While he didn't return to play, Dončić was later seen on the bench with ice wrapped around his knee.
Quick Recovery
Despite the concerning nature of the collision, Dončić's injury turned out to be minor. He returned to practice on Monday and showed no lingering effects from the knee contusion, leading team medical staff to clear him for Slovenia's upcoming exhibition game against Great Britain on Tuesday.
A Pivotal Summer for Dončić
This summer represents a significant period for Dončić, who was acquired by the Lakers in a blockbuster trade with the Dallas Mavericks in February 2025. The move reunited him with his childhood idol, LeBron James, and he quickly signed a three-year, $165 million contract extension with his new team. Since joining the Lakers, Dončić has maintained his elite level of play, averaging 28.2 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.5 assists in 28 games following the trade.
EuroBasket 2025 Preparations
Slovenia is using these exhibition games to prepare for EuroBasket 2025, which officially begins on August 27th. Dončić previously helped Slovenia capture their first and only EuroBasket title in 2017, when he was just 18 years old, defeating Serbia in the final alongside veteran Goran Dragić. The tournament runs until September 13th, giving Dončić a couple of weeks to rest before Lakers training camp typically begins at the end of September.
Looking Ahead
With the injury scare behind him, Dončić can now focus on leading Slovenia in their quest for another EuroBasket medal while continuing his preparation for what promises to be an exciting 2025-26 NBA season with the Lakers.
