Luka Dončić, the star guard for the Dallas Mavericks, is gearing up to represent Slovenia in the upcoming EuroBasket tournament. This highly anticipated event will see Dončić lead his national team as they compete against some of the best basketball squads in Europe, starting August 27, 2025.
Key Takeaways
- Luka Dončić will play for Slovenia at EuroBasket 2025.
- Slovenia is in Group D, facing teams like Poland, Iceland, Belgium, Israel, and France.
- The tournament runs from August 27 to September 13, 2025.
- Slovenia is the reigning EuroBasket champion, having won the title in 2017.
Luka Dončić’s Commitment to Slovenia
The decision for Dončić to join the Slovenian national team was widely expected, given his previous commitment to representing his country. He will be accompanied by his personal support team, including strength coach Anže Maček and physiotherapist Javier Barrio Calvo, ensuring he is in peak condition for the tournament.
EuroBasket Overview
EuroBasket is the premier basketball competition in Europe, akin to the UEFA European Championship in soccer. The tournament features:
- 24 Teams: Competing in four groups.
- Group Stage: Each team plays every other team in their group once.
- Knockout Rounds: The top four teams from each group advance to a single-elimination format.
Slovenia’s Group D Challenge
Slovenia has been placed in Group D, which includes:
- Poland
- Iceland
- Belgium
- Israel
- France
This group presents a mix of challenges, with France being a notable opponent, especially for Dončić, who will look to avenge past defeats against star player Rudy Gobert.
Slovenia’s Recent Success
Slovenia is not new to success in EuroBasket, having won the championship in 2017. Led by Goran Dragić and a young Luka Dončić, they triumphed over Serbia in the final, marking a historic moment for Slovenian basketball. This victory remains the only medal Slovenia has secured in the competition, adding to the pressure and excitement surrounding their participation this year.
Looking Ahead
EuroBasket 2025 will take place from August 27 to September 13, with the tournament concluding just weeks before the NBA season begins. This timing allows Dončić a brief respite before returning to the Mavericks for training camp at the end of September. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how he performs on the international stage and how it may impact his upcoming NBA season.
As the tournament approaches, anticipation builds for Dončić and the Slovenian team as they aim to reclaim their title and showcase their talent against Europe’s best.
Sources
- Luka Dončić expected to play for Slovenia at EuroBasket, Silver Screen and Roll.
