Slovenia's superstar Luka Doncic questioned why Vlatko Cancar and Josh Nebo were not allowed to play for the national team, saying that their club, Olimpia Milan, was the one that put the brakes on.
Los Angeles Lakers’ Slovenian superstar Luka Doncic is already with his national team preparing for EuroBasket 2025.
Luka Doncic
Luka Doncic
Position: PG, SG
Age: 26
Height: 201 cm
Weight: 104 kg
Birth place: Ljubljana, Slovenia
Although Doncic is with the team, Slovenia will miss two key star players from the roster for the tournament.
Olimpia Milan's center Josh Nebo and newcomer Vlatko Cancar will miss EuroBasket after injury-plagued 2024–25 seasons for both players.
Talking to Slovenian media on Thursday, Doncic took a subtle dig at Olimpia Milan for what he believes was their decision not to allow the players to participate in the tournament, saying it’s funny that a club like the Lakers allows him to go while Milan doesn’t.
Credit FIBA
"I don’t hold it against them at all. From what I understand, it was the club that put the brakes on," Doncic said. "It’s funny that a club like the Lakers allows me to play, but a club like Milan doesn’t."
"I’d rather not get involved in that, but I think in the end, it should be the player’s decision. That’s just my opinion, but those two really aren’t at fault here," he said.
Doncic also confirmed he has full freedom from his club to play with the national team.
"I don’t have any restrictions – the club gives me full freedom and supports me all the way," said the Lakers player.
Alen Omic will take the naturalized player spot from Josh Nebo for EuroBasket. Doncic believes he will take full advantage of his role.
"So far, everything’s going great. I’ve had two practices, but the atmosphere in the team is fantastic. Alen has adapted really well too, so I’m looking forward to playing with him," he noted.
Credit AFP – Scanpix
"I haven’t played with Alen before – he’s a bit of a different type of center than the ones I’ve played with up to now. I’ll have to adjust a bit too, but he’s doing a great job, and I think we’ll mesh really well," Doncic added.
You can find out everything you need to know about Slovenia's roster, schedule, results, exhibition games, and where to watch the action right here:
Subscribe to BN+ and get access to exclusive content.