Despite the controversies about their relationship, Luka Doncic has nothing but love and admiration for former Dallas Mavericks head coach Rick Carlisle.

Carlisle, who left the Mavs in the offseason and joined the Indiana Pacers to serve as their head coach, returned to Dallas for the first time since he left the team. Mark Cuban and co. made it extra special, playing a video tribute that sent the veteran tactician emotional.

After the gameā€“one that saw the Mavs win against the Pacers 132-105ā€“Luka Doncic spoke about Rick Carlisle and the impact he had in his career. There is no doubt Carlisle is a major factor in the Slovenian's quick ascension to superstardom after the coach gave him the keys to Dallas' offense right in his first year in the league.

ā€œIā€™ve been with him my first three years and learned a lot of things. He helped me in a way, too, so it was a special moment. The tribute was special to him. You could see it, and he deserves it,ā€ Doncic said, per Tim MacMahon of ESPN.

While Luka was all business in the game, recording 30 points, six rebounds and 12 assists plus a couple of verbal shots at Carlisle, it was clear that the 22-year-old has massive respect for his ex-coach. After their win, Doncic made sure to welcome back Carlisle and shared a moment with him.

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