Luka Dončić is not just a legend on the court — his tattoos are a whole other chapter of his story. From meaningful tributes to deeply personal symbols, Luka’s ink tells a tale that transcends basketball. So, what’s the story behind each piece of art? Let’s take a closer look at the 6 tattoos that reveal Luka’s passions, beliefs, and untold truths.

Luka Dončić Tattoo: How many tattoos does the Lakers star have?

Dončić, despite being just 26, has already accumulated a fascinating collection of tattoos. Here are 4 of the 6 tattoos that are inked into the fabric of his identity:

• ‘Non-desistas, Non-exieris’ on His Left Forearm
  Before the eagles, eyes, and tigers took over his arm, Luka Dončić marked his skin with a message that hits deeper than ink. “Non-desistas, Non-exieris”—Latin for “Never give up, Never surrender”—was the first major phrase he etched onto his left forearm. Fast-forward to the 2025 playoffs, and that motto feels more alive than ever. Although the Lakers had to admit defeat at the hands of Ant-Man, Luka isn’t just wearing the phrase—he’s living it.

• EuroBasket Tattoo on His Right Chest
  Back in 2017, Luka Dončić didn’t just help Slovenia win its first-ever EuroBasket title—he permanently inked the victory into his skin. After the historic win, Dončić got the championship trophy tattooed on his abdomen, with the date “VII IX MMXVII” (17/9/2017) etched below it in bold Roman numerals. The date came courtesy of ‘Tattoo Las Rozas’ in Madrid, while the trophy itself was inked in Ljubljana, Slovenia. Two cities. One title. One unforgettable tattoo.

• ‘Tiger’ Tattoo on His Left Forearm
  Luka Dončić didn’t just bring his game to the U.S. in 2018—he brought big cat energy too. Stamped on his left forearm is a tiger, lurking just above the Latin phrase “Non desistas / Non exieris,” like it’s guarding his game and grit.Why a tiger? In peak Dončić fashion, he told Bleacher Report back in 2018, “I just like tigers. I said if I go to the U.S., I will buy a tiger—like Mike Tyson.” He hasn’t bought the tiger (yet), but the tattoo’s doing a fine job prowling courtside every night.
   
• Eagle and Eye of Providence on the Back of His Left Forearm
  Luka Dončić’s left forearm is more than just a tiger; it’s a symbol-packed canvas featuring an eagle and the mysterious Eye of Providence. When Luka entered the NBA in 2018, his left forearm already boasted a striking half-sleeve, blending the fierce tiger with these powerful symbols. The ink first made headlines during a photoshoot with the Mavericks, with his tattoo artist, Rodrigo Galvez, proudly showcasing the design to the world.

What does Luka Dončić’s back tattoo mean? All of his tattoos explained

Now, let’s zero in on his two most striking back tattoos, the ones that take up prime real estate.

Right Upper Back Tattoo: The World and His Kingdom

Luka’s right upper back tattoo is a masterpiece of cartography and symbolism. A global map stretches across his shoulders, but right where Europe should be? A crowned basketball. It’s a subtle flex, a nod to his Slovenian roots, and a quiet message: this kid didn’t just come to play, he came to reign.

If you watch the YouTube video titled “DRAFT DAY UNCUT | LUKA DONČIĆ – Extended behind the scenes coverage of Luka’s draft” by NBA Europe, you’ll spot the tattoo in all its glory. The map is tilted, giving viewers a clear view of Australia, but it’s that crowned basketball—smack over Europe — that catches the eye.

Dončić has kept the meaning close to the vest, once simply saying, “It’s just the European continent” in an interview with Sportscasting.com a few years ago. But for fans who’ve watched him conquer both continents, it reads like prophecy: Luka’s world, and the crown sits comfortably on his shoulders.

Left Upper Back Tattoo: The Broken Clock — Time, But Not as We Know It

On the upper left side of Luka Dončić’s back sits one of his most cryptic tattoos yet—a broken clock. He reunited with renowned tattoo artist Rodrigo Galvez in February 2023, but the details of their session were kept under wraps. While the tattoo has made brief appearances, especially during off-season glimpses, clear shots remain elusive.

What’s the significance of a broken clock? Fans can only guess—maybe it’s about timeless greatness, a nod to the pressure of clutch moments, or simply Luka’s way of saying, “Game time is my time.” Until Luka spills the ink story, the broken clock keeps ticking in mystery.

So, there you have it: Luka Dončić’s tattoos are more than just ink on skin. They’re windows into his soul, his heritage, and his relentless pursuit of greatness. Each tattoo tells a unique story, whether it’s about his roots in Slovenia, his vision for the future, or his indomitable spirit on the court. And although his post-season is over, one thing’s for sure—Luka’s story is just beginning to unfold, both on his skin and on the hardwood.