Luka Doncic reveals that he might leave the NBA
Dallas Mavericks sensation Luka Doncic has opened up about his excitement for the upcoming matchup against his former team, Real Madrid, set to take place on October 10th at the WiZink Center at 1:45 p.m. CST. Doncic is eager to reunite with his former teammates, making this game "very special."
Mark Cuban's Promise and Luka's Excitement
Mavs Governor Mark Cuban made a promise to Luka Doncic during his second NBA season, assuring him that they would face Real Madrid. Despite some delays due to COVID-19, Cuban is thrilled to see this promise fulfilled and knows it means a lot to Doncic.
"I'm excited for Luka. I think it was Luka's second year that I promised him we would play in Madrid," Cuban said. "It took us a while to get it all organized, and COVID slowed things down, but I'm excited for him because I know he's excited. That's going to be the best part."
Real Madrid's Approach and Doncic's Expectations
As the matchup approaches, the question remains: How will Real Madrid strategize against a player they know so well? Doncic is intrigued by the tactics but remains excited to step onto the court, emphasizing the competitiveness of the game.
"I think it's going to be competitive," Doncic said. "In the end, you also play against an NBA team. I don't know. The trust is that I have thought about it a lot. I don't know how it's going to start. I don't know how it's going to happen. I'm very excited to play this game."
Doncic's Return to Spain and Fond Memories
Returning to Spain has brought back numerous memories for Doncic. His time in Madrid, both on and off the court, holds a special place in his heart, and he's thrilled to be back.
"There are many memories," Doncic said. "Just being here. Being here, being in Valdebebas, being in Madrid, there are a lot of memories. Beautiful memories. And well, I'm very happy to be back."
Real Madrid's Influence on Doncic
Doncic credits Real Madrid for shaping him not only as a basketball player but also as a person. He acknowledges that he wouldn't be where he is today without his time at the club.
"I surely wouldn't be where I am now," Doncic said. "Like I said, this is where I learned everything, I learned how to talk, study, play basketball and many more things. So I surely wouldn't be where I am now."
Doncic's Playful Take on Souvenirs
When asked about what he misses most about Madrid, Doncic humorously mentioned that he'd take back some of his former teammates and even the famous Spanish ham.
"I would take Rudy and Llull," Doncic said. "Well, many, almost all of [my teammates]. Some coaches too. Some physio. But what I'm sure I will take with me is the ham."
Doncic's Hope to Play at Santiago Bernabeu
While he didn't have a chance to visit the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium under construction, Doncic expressed his desire to play there if the NBA brings the Mavs back to Madrid for another international exhibition match.
Contrasting European and NBA Basketball
Doncic shares his thoughts on the differences between European and NBA basketball, highlighting the importance of team play in Europe and the distinct court dimensions.
"I think it's a very different kind of basketball," Doncic said. "In the end, you have a wider court, and the 3-point line is further away. But I think that in Europe you play more as a team, that is, in fewer minutes you play more as a team. The plays are very important. I think there are not many plays in the NBA, so team basketball is very important."
NBA's Inspiration from European Basketball
The NBA is taking cues from European basketball, introducing an in-season tournament for the 2023-24 season. Doncic reflects on the Copa del Rey's significance in Europe and looks forward to the NBA's version.
"I have played the Copa del Rey here. The Copa del Ray is something special," Doncic said. "I don't know how it will be in the NBA. It's the first year they're doing it. I don't know the rules yet. I'm a bit confused. I think it's going to be fine. And well yes, there are always options."
Luka Doncic's Future in Europe
Despite his current contract with the Mavs, Doncic doesn't rule out the possibility of returning to Europe, specifically to play for Real Madrid, expressing his commitment to the club.
"If I ever go back to Europe, I will surely go back to Madrid. That's 100%," Doncic said. "I don't know what the future is going to be like, but if I ever go back to Europe, I'm sure it will be Madrid."
Sports illustrated
| POLL | ||
October 10 | 141 answers Luka Doncic reveals that he might leave the NBA Should Luka Doncic consider returning to play for Real Madrid in the future? | ||
| Yes, it would be great to see him back in Europe! | 77 | 54.6 % |
| No, he should continue his career with the Mavs. | 64 | 45.4 % |
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