Luka Doncic had his first televised game of basketball since headlines flooded about his remarkable body transformation in Slovenia's tune-up match against Germany ahead of EuroBasket 2025. The version of Doncic that was on that court should have the Los Angeles Lakers watering at the mouth.
Not only was the patented brand of Luka magic on display with the production itself. So was the killer mentality that fans have grown to love over the years.
Luka magic is back ๐ธ๐ฎ๐ช#EuroBasket pic.twitter.com/YA6Nfu8wOD
โ FIBA EuroBasket (@EuroBasket) August 8, 2025
Doncic was firing from deep with comfort, hitting circus layups, diming up his teammates, and looking very fluid with a lot of his on-court motions. The five-time All-NBA member was also letting those around him absolutely hear about it.
Marc Stein pointed out on Twitter/X, "Isaac Bonga has shadowed Luka from the jump and Doncic has answered with 15 points and 5 assists, some trash talk for Bonga after one stepback and lots of jawing with Germanyโs Spanish coach Alex Mumbru."
Luka Doncic has his swagger back โ and the NBA should be terrified
It is always worth a reminder that last time Doncic participated in an international competition during the summer, his team made the NBA Finals in the following season. The Lakers have to love their chances of history repeating itself having tuned in at any point of this game.
One of the concerns that floated over Doncic's head during his initial run with the Lakers was the lack of rim pressure on display from a superstar that everyone is accustomed to seeing it from. Now, it feels more apparent than ever that was due to the injuries that plagued Luka before his arrival.
Luka in prime #EuroBasket form already! ๐ธ๐ฎโจ pic.twitter.com/759S8sQm4f
โ FIBA EuroBasket (@EuroBasket) August 8, 2025
Doncic has looked comfortable getting into his shots from deep as well. The Lakers superstar had a strong first half from beyond the arc, knocking down 3-of-4.
However, it is that fiery competitive spirit that catches the eye more than anything, as Stein pointed out. Doncic has looked every bit like a player ready for his revenge tour against the NBA.
Luka Doncic getting in Issac Bonga face ๐ pic.twitter.com/R4E0HBCMSL
โ Fullcourtpass (@Fullcourtpass) August 8, 2025
Bringing that swagger and contagious energy back to Los Angeles after the conclusion of EuroBasket 2025 should allow the Lakers to follow their leader with confidence. The demoralization that Doncic can bring to his opponents will be marvelous.
Luka has always been one of the best trash talkers in the NBA. When this version of Doncic returns to North America, there will be plenty of ammunition in the tank for his verbal warfare.