Unless you’re Draymond Green, it’s commonplace in the NBA for players to step away during the season for the birth of their children. It goes without saying, but it’s obviously a monumental milestone moment in the lives of players in which everyone understands why they want to be in attendance.
What’s not normal, though, is needing to travel to another continent for the moment. For Luka Dončić, the last week has been a chaotic and emotional one as he traveled back to Slovenia for the birth of his
second daughter.
“It was good, definitely good,” Luka said. “I got to see my daughter again, obviously my newborn. Coming back, it was hard to leave them behind. But it’s a job, got to do it. Hopefully, I’ll see them soon.”
After the game against the Suns last Monday, Luka flew home to Slovenia. He stayed in Europe throughout the week to be with his family for the birth. Already with one daughter who recently celebrated her birthday, Luka further solidified himself as a #GirlDad with the birth of a second daughter.
“It’s just the best thing in the world,” Luka said. “Obviously, two girls, they’re going to make my life hell for sure. I know that. I’m going to be the security after I retire. But all jokes aside, it’s the best thing in the world. I’m just blessed.”
After staying with his fiancé and daughters briefly after the birth, Luka took the roughly 12-hour journey back to Philadelphia to meet the Lakers and finish out the road trip. He looked no worse for the wear, notching a 30-point triple-double in the win.
Through it all, Luka was appreciative of the fact that the Lakers allowed him to take a couple of games off to be with his family.
“Normally, it’s one game but this was kind of different,” Luka said, “going all the way back home so I really appreciated them letting me do this.”
Certainly, we wish all the best to Luka and his family…while also being very happy he’s back on the court, too.
You can follow Jacob on Twitter at @JacobRude or on Bluesky at @jacobrude.bsky.social.
