Luka Doncic is coming off an amazing FIBA EuroBasket campaign where he led Slovenia to the quarterfinals. In the tournament, Doncic averaged 34.7 points, 8.6 rebounds, 7.1 assists, and 2.7 steals per match to continue his fine play for his national squad.
Having seen such a great performance from Doncic, Philadelphia 76ers player Paul George expressed admiration. On his podcast, George appreciated Doncic, regarding him as one of the greatest international players of all time.
"We're talking about being the biggest international player now," George said. "That’s surpassing the GOATs, you know what I mean? That’s surpassing Dirk, that’s surpassing Tony Parker, that’s surpassing Hakeem. He’s got a chance to be the biggest international guy. Surpassing Giannis, in a way."
George also praised Doncic's maturity on the court, saying that the 26-year-old has been way ahead of his peers.
"He’s got a chance to be one of the best to ever do it. His game is just way older than what he is. He’s tough, man. He’s a problem. Big fan of Luka. And he talk that shit too. He’s a child killer," he said.
The EuroBasket was also the first instance where Doncic was seen on the court after his offseason body transformation. Doncic has reportedly lost over 30 pounds since the LA Lakers were eliminated in the first round by the Minnesota Timberwolves last season.
Doncic's Slovenia faced defeat against Germany in the quarterfinals, 99-91, ending their stint in the EuroBasket.
Luka Doncic opens up on offseason motivation amidst body transformation
Luka Doncic revealed his shredded body in a Men's Health magazine feature in July, a month before the EuroBasket.
There, Doncic revealed about his offseason motivation and how he prepared to keep his body in shape for the tournament and the upcoming 2025-26 NBA season.
"Every summer I try my best to work on different things," he said. "Obviously, I'm very competitive. This summer was just a little bit different, you know. It kind of motivated me to be even better."
"This is just the start, you know. I need to keep going. Can't stop."
Last February, the Dallas Mavericks traded Doncic to the Lakers due to concerns about his body and lifestyle.
Next season will be the first time Doncic will play an entire season with the Lakers, alongside LeBron James.