Throughout his NBA career, Luka Dončić has made a habit of competing for Slovenia during the summer in basically whatever competition they’re in.
However, that’s set to change this offseason, though not for any basketball reasons. Following Monday’s Game 4 loss to the Thunder, Luka put out a statement on his Instagram stating he would not be playing in the FIBA World Cup qualifying games this summer.
Instead, he will focus on spending time with his daughters as he works to secure joint custody.
Luka’s turmoil in his personal life became public in recent months. In March, news came out that his fiancée had ended their engagement and was looking for child support and attorney fees.
While in Spain for treatment on his hamstring, Luka also made a trip to Slovenia to see his daughters. During his exit interview on Tuesday, President of Basketball Operations Rob Pelinka noted in passing that Luka would be heading back to Slovenia again to see his family in the near future as well.
“I plan on seeing him before he takes off to go home and spend some time with his daughters,” Pelinka said. “We’re going to get together I think Friday or Saturday.”
It goes without saying that family comes before basketball. Luka spending time with his daughters and prioritizing his personal life was certainly a tough decision, but one that everyone can surely get behind.
Having said all that, there is something quite funny about the fact that Jaxson Hayes, who recently secured his Slovenian passport, will now be playing with a bunch of people he’s never met before this summer.
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