It’s been four months since Luka Doncic’s NBA season ended.
But up until today, the five-year pro has yet to let go of the bitter taste it left in his mouth.
“Obviously, it was disappointing that we couldn’t make the playoffs, but playing for the country is special,” said the Dallas star.
“It’s from the heart and representing your country is amazing.”
Despite adding Kyrie Irving and Doncic averaging 32.4 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 8.0 assists, the Mavericks failed to even make the play-in.
And so Doncic vowed redemption starting with the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023.
Doncic dropped a Day 1-high 37 points to go with seven rebounds and six assists, leading Slovenia to a dominant 100-85 win over Venezuela in Okinawa.
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“We knew it was gonna be a very difficult game. We played Venezuela two years ago. They’re a very physical team and they can shoot the ball very well. It was not an easy game,” he said on facing Venezuela.
“We had to fight til the end.”
Doncic knows that the next two weeks will be long and hard for him and the Junaki.
And up next for them is Georgia, a team coming off an 85-60 victory over Cape Verde, on Monday.
“Great, very tall team. Very talented. They have so many weapons. And tomorrow we’ll watch videos,” he said.
“It’s gonna be a really tough game (against them) and we’re looking forward to the game.”
