29 NBA Teams Warned as Luka Doncic Makes Strong Statement in EuroBasket Opener vs Poland

Luka Doncic’s EuroBasket 2025 debut was more than just another international showcase — it was a declaration. Leaner, sharper, and visibly energized, the Los Angeles Lakers star erupted for 34 points, 9 rebounds, and 3 assists in Slovenia’s high-intensity opener against Poland, reminding the basketball world that his game has only leveled up.

Doncic attacked relentlessly, hitting 7-of-14 from the field and converting a staggering 17-of-18 free throws. His shot chart showed a classic Luka blueprint: bullying his way to the rim for efficient finishes while mixing in deep threes to stretch the floor. Though streaky from beyond the arc (3-of-9), his touch inside the paint proved nearly unstoppable.

The transformation fueling this dominance has been one of the summer’s biggest storylines. After dropping nearly 31 pounds through a strict diet and cardio-first regimen, Doncic is noticeably quicker on both ends. Lakers assistant coach Greg St. Jean, working with Slovenia’s staff, highlighted the improved conditioning as the foundation for a potentially career-best season. Teammates echoed the sentiment, with Edo Murić calling the results “clear as day.”

Poland battled back behind Jordan Loyd’s 32 points and Mateusz Ponitka’s 23, but Doncic’s control of tempo — getting to the line, collapsing defenses, and setting up teammates — kept Slovenia competitive until the final whistle. Even in a physical FIBA setting, where whistles are scarce and frustrations ran high, his composure and stamina stood out.

Fresh off signing a three-year, $165 million extension with the Lakers, Doncic looks committed to proving Dallas wrong and Los Angeles right. If his EuroBasket opener is any indication, the NBA’s other 29 teams should be on high alert: Luka Doncic has redefined his game, and the “revenge tour” has only just begun.

(hang tight this is a building story…)

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