The Los Angeles Lakers wrapped up their NBA season on a frustrating note, falling short of expectations despite assembling a star-powered trio featuring Luka Doncic, LeBron James, and Austin Reaves. The high hopes that followed Doncic’s blockbuster arrival via trade faded quickly, as the team’s offensive firepower failed to compensate for major defensive shortcomings. What was projected to be a deep playoff run turned into a reminder that talent alone doesn’t guarantee cohesion.
Amid the turbulence surrounding the Lakers’ postseason exit, Luka Doncic took a moment to reflect on his athletic upbringing. The 25-year-old star joined NBA legend Steve Nash on the Mind the Game podcast, where he discussed the sports that shaped him before he committed to basketball full-time. Although the full episode airs Sunday, a preview clip released via X (formerly Twitter) already sparked buzz.
“For me, I wasn’t really great at any other sport—except soccer,” Doncic told Nash with a smile. “I wasn’t like you, obviously, but I did play a lot of sports growing up. Tennis, soccer, basketball… even volleyball. For me, it was just about enjoying being outside and playing after school. I was always active.”
Doncic also opened up about his early days immersed in the European basketball scene. Long before he became an NBA superstar, he served as a ball boy for EuroLeague club Olimpija in Slovenia. “I went to the games and ended up being a ball boy,” he said. “We were allowed to shoot before the game, at halftime, and even afterward. That’s how I really fell in love with the game. It gave me a chance to be around the court all the time.”
It’s clear that Doncic’s deep-rooted connection to basketball has played a key role in his development into one of the league’s elite talents. Yet, his early experiences with soccer and other sports also helped shape the athleticism and creativity that make him so unique on the hardwood. While soccer may have been his first love, the NBA ultimately became his destiny.
Now wearing Lakers colors, Doncic has the chance to forge his own legacy in one of the league’s most storied franchises. With LeBron James nearing the end of his iconic career, Doncic represents the future of the organization—a potential face of the franchise for the next generation. Whether he can lead Los Angeles to another championship and become a Lakers icon remains to be seen, but the foundation is there.
Moving forward, the Lakers’ front office—led by GM Rob Pelinka—faces a critical NBA offseason. Balancing respect for LeBron’s final years with the need to build around Doncic’s prime won’t be easy. The duo is still figuring out their rhythm, and if L.A. hopes to contend next season, that chemistry must improve. One thing is certain: with Luka Doncic at the helm, the Lakers’ future is still full of possibilities.
