Luka Doncic’s offseason activities are once again in the limelight. And this time around, he was spotted in green shorts and a black tank while donning a hat and some sunglasses. Okay, fine! We’ll spill the tea. So, the Lakers’ Wonder Boy was recently spotted vacationing! And the photos have lit up our social media. But behind it all lies a calculated plan involving national pride, peak performance, and NBA-related expectations. 

Doncic has become L.A.’s newly anointed franchise cornerstone. And while other players gear up for trade speculation or offseason changes, Luka is set for a demanding summer. The Lakers star has confirmed that he will be participating in EuroBasket 2025. Despite a grueling NBA season, capped by a surprise trade and early playoff exit, Doncic is stepping up for Slovenia.

Playing for the national team marks another chapter in his enduring loyalty to his homeland. However, this time around, the backdrop of his vacation photos sparked a different kind of buzz. Fans were stunned, but not by the signs of leisure, but rather by how lean and fit Doncic looked. @LADEig, a fan account, posted on X a visibly toned Luka enjoying brief downtime. 

Critics who expected signs of offseason complacency were instead met with evidence of preparation and professionalism. Doncic’s “vacation” wasn’t about luxury; it was a pause before the push. While Slovenia enters a fiercely competitive group, the Lakers expect nothing short of elite conditioning this fall. However, the Lakers green-lighted his participation on one condition: a coach would accompany Luka. This way, they can closely monitor his workload and health.

Let’s now take a look at the most consequential off-season of Luka Doncic’s career. 

Luka Doncic to lead Slovenia in EuroBasket 2025

Luka Doncic is not a hidden gem. Even as a teenager, he was the EuroLeague MVP, arriving in the NBA already a proven star. And now he will join Slovenia, as they enter the EuroBasket 2025 in Group D. His team competes in a high-stakes group that includes basketball powerhouses France and Poland, along with Belgium and Iceland. The tournament tips off on the 28th of August with Slovenia facing Poland, following a clash against France two days later.

This group has no easy nights, and we might see another familiar face going against Doncic. Victor Wembanyama will possibly be seen with France, potentially setting up a mouth-watering tie. In 2022, Luka had dropped 47 points against France, a career high, leading to a commanding win.

But for Doncic, this is beyond just chasing another gold medal, he has a lot more riding on this tournament. JJ Redick has emphasized the need for players to be in championship shape. For Luka, the EuroBasket doubles as a training ground, merging professional preparation with national pride.

So, whenever he steps onto court, it won’t just be for Slovenia, it will be for legacy.