Los Angeles Lakers GM Rob Pelinka showed his continuous support for his guard Luka Doncic ahead of EuroBasket 2025. Lakers controlling owner Jeanie Buss flew to Poland to support Doncic, as well as Pelinka, which Luka was very appreciative as he competes for Slovenia.
Pelinka explained why it was important for him to show Doncic support overseas, per The Athletic's Dan Wolke.
“We just wanted to make a statement to Luka that we support what he does for his country. That’s really important to the Lakers when we have a player that’s the face of our franchise, just to show that support for him,” Pelinka said. “And it’s just great to see him with his teammates, interacting, having fun. As you said, he is in great shape, really committed to working hard this summer, and to be able to watch that in person was worth flying over the ocean to come be with him.”
Watching prominent members of the Lakers make the trip meant a lot to Doncic, who addressed it during media availability on Wednesday, per Eurohoops.
“Means a lot, it’s a long flight, like 11–12 hours, means a lot for them to be here to support me. We had a great lunch today, it was great to see them,” Doncic said, via Eurohoops.
Pelinka was happy to support Doncic, making the trip to see the Solvenian national team in person, per Ekipa.
“We are happy to be here. It is great to be associated with the Slovenian national team. The entire Lakers franchise is extremely proud of everything Luka does with this team, everything they do together for this country,” Pelinka said. “We wanted to travel here to be here to show our support. We followed the national team’s training. It seems that they are completely focused on getting their first win in the tournament tomorrow against Poland.”
Lakers' Jeanie Buss, Rob Pelinka visit Luka Doncic overseas
Ahead of Doncic's first full season with the Lakers, GM Rob Pelinka and controlling owner Jeanie Buss wanted to show face to support Doncic. Pelinka and Buss weren't afraid to make the trip.
“Jeanie and I talked to Luka, and he realizes that he is the leader of this team. He quickly lets you know how much pride he feels in the national team jersey,” Pelinka said. “He is very close to his teammates. We are aware that he is the first star of this national team; we believe in that too. We have worked a lot with the national team.”
Slovenia will face Poland on Thursday.
