Dallas Mavericks star Luka Doncic has nothing but love and  appreciation for his European basketball idols that recently retired from the game, and he made sure to give them a proper send-off and acknowledgement.

After leading Slovenia to an incredible 1118-68 win over Angola in their FIBA Olympic Qualifying game, the Mavs star spoke to the press about the influence of European legends Felipe Reyes and Vassilis Spanoulis in his game and career. Both Euro greats have already called it a career, but their legacy surely lives on with Doncic.

“Obviously, Felipe Reyes was my teammate, and he taught me well. He was the veteran over there, and he won almost everything. He was a really big time for my career,” the Mavs guard shared, via EuroHoops. “Spanoulis was my idol since I was little. I was watching him. It was kind of sad seeing him retiring. That’s why I wear No 7. I mean, I couldn’t wear No 7, cause it was already taken, so I took 77. He was really, really big time for me.”

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Felipe Reyes was Luka Doncic's teammate when he was with Real Madrid, so it is not surprising they share a strong bond. As for Vassilis Spanoulis, the Mavs playmaker has  actually repeatedly expressed his admiration to his “idol”–even mentioning how watching the legend has shaped up his game.

Moreover, when Spanoulis announced his retirement, Luka also showed him some love on social media and thanked the Greek legend for inspiring him with an iconic career.

With Luka building his own legacy in the NBA, fans surely wish he'll be able to create a  lasting and impactful legacy like his European idols.