Luka Doncic was unstoppable. In one of the best performances of EuroBasket 2025 so far, Doncic dropped 42 points, 10 rebounds, and 3 steals to lead Slovenia past Italy in an 84-77 thriller. The win sends Slovenia into the Quarter-Finals, keeping their championship hopes alive.
For Doncic, this was more than just another great game. It was a reminder of his dominance on the international stage — and a preview of what Lakers fans hope is coming in his first full season alongside LeBron James in Los Angeles.
Slovenia vs Italy: A Hard-Fought Battle
Italy entered the matchup with momentum, but Doncic quickly stole the spotlight. The Lakers superstar scored from everywhere — step-back threes, crafty finishes inside, and relentless free-throw trips. His 42 points accounted for half of Slovenia’s offense, while his 10 rebounds controlled the glass against a tough Italian frontline.
Key moments included:
- A late third-quarter run sparked by Doncic’s back-to-back threes.
- A clutch steal and transition bucket in the fourth to keep Slovenia ahead.
- Ice-cold free throws in the final minute to seal the victory.
Slovenia’s supporting cast chipped in when it mattered most, but make no mistake — this was Luka’s masterpiece.
Slovenia’s EuroBasket Legacy
Slovenia has quietly become a powerhouse at EuroBasket. Their rise began with the 2017 EuroBasket title, where Goran Dragic and a young Luka Doncic stunned the basketball world. That championship set the tone for a golden era of Slovenian hoops, cementing them as more than just underdogs.
Since then, Slovenia has consistently punched above its weight, producing stars and competing with Europe’s elite. Now, with Doncic in his prime, Slovenia is no longer just a Cinderella story — they are a legitimate contender.
Luka Doncic’s Transformation: From Dallas to Los Angeles
This summer marked the biggest shift of Luka Doncic’s career. After years of carrying the Dallas Mavericks, Doncic made the blockbuster move to the Los Angeles Lakers, teaming up with LeBron James.
Fans were shocked not only by the trade, but by Luka’s transformation. Reports out of Lakers camp highlighted a noticeably leaner, quicker, and sharper Doncic, who entered the season in the best shape of his career.
The fit with the Lakers has already been electric:
- Playmaking: Doncic brings elite passing to a roster stacked with talent.
- Scoring: As shown against Italy, he remains one of the game’s best shot-creators.
- Defense: Slimmer and faster, Luka has been more active on the defensive end.
For the Lakers, it’s a dream scenario: Luka now looks like the future of the franchise, while LeBron enters what could be his final season.
LeBron’s Last Dance, Luka’s First Shot
The backdrop to Doncic’s EuroBasket heroics is his new NBA reality. This will be LeBron James’ possible farewell tour — his last chance at a championship, with his son Bronny now in the league. For Doncic, it’s the first time he’s been paired with a legend of LeBron’s stature, and the opportunity to learn while chasing a ring in purple and gold.
The Lakers are counting on Doncic to carry the torch. If his performance against Italy is any indication, he’s more than ready for that responsibility.
What’s Next for Slovenia at EuroBasket 2025?
Slovenia now advances to the Quarter-Finals, where the competition only gets tougher. Teams like France, Spain, and Serbia remain in the hunt, and every matchup will be a battle.
But with Doncic in peak form, Slovenia has the ultimate weapon. His ability to dominate offensively and take over in clutch moments makes them one of the most dangerous teams left in the tournament.
And for NBA fans, every EuroBasket game feels like a preview of what Luka will bring to Los Angeles this season.
Final Thoughts: Luka’s Statement Game
Against Italy, Luka Doncic reminded everyone why he’s one of the best players in the world. 42 points, 10 rebounds, 3 steals, and a ticket to the Quarter-Finals — it doesn’t get much better than that.
For Slovenia, it’s another chapter in their remarkable EuroBasket journey. For the Lakers, it’s reassurance that they’ve got the right superstar to guide the post-LeBron era.
Luka Doncic vs Italy wasn’t just a win — it was a statement. And if his current trajectory holds, both Slovenia and the Lakers could be on the verge of something special.
