By Antonis Stroggylakis / info@eurohoops.net
Luka Doncic comes from Slovenia and made his first basketball steps (that featured an unprecedently successful run for his age) with Real Madrid before joining the Dallas Mavericks.
It would only seem proper that Doncic’s first exhibition games in Europe take place in a form of celebratory homecomings in both Madrid and Slovenia, two places that have nothing but love for him. What better opponent for the Mavericks to face in such a match other than Real Madrid and which country more ideal to also host such an event than Doncic’s native Slovenia, right?
That’s what Mavericks owner Mark Cuban is probably thinking, rather seriously in fact. Cuban said during the SPORTO online conference that he’s already been talking with the NBA about the idea of the Mavericks facing Real Madrid in an exhibition contest and also having a game held in Slovenia.
Of course, first and foremost the coronavirus crisis must be over or at least retreat enough for the NBA to be able to organize this kind of event. In any way, the plan of the Mavericks playing against Real Madrid and in Slovenia looks like a splendid idea.
Doncic actually participated in an NBA preseason game in Europe in 2016. He, a 17-year-old back then, had three points, five rebounds, and four assists in Real Madrid’s 142 – 137 win over the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Sergio Llull had 22 points and nine assists that night while scoring the buzzer-beater that sent the game to the extra period.
Doncic proceeded to embark on his breakout season in Europe, collecting his first MVP trophies and establishing himself often as a protagonist for Real Madrid, even before hitting adulthood. Signs of things to come.
Photo: Getty Images