« I was already playing well before »: Luka Dončić humorously responds to critics after his physical transformation
Apr 25, 2025; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) dribbles the ball against the Minnesota Timberwolves during game three of first round for the 2024 NBA Playoffs at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-Imagn Images
The Dallas star point guard used his pre-game press conference to address the numerous comments about his spectacular physical change. Looking fitter than ever, Dončić discussed the eternal questions about his physical condition with a touch of irony.
Luka Dončić « locked in » in the gym ahead of tomorrow game vs current World Champions Germany
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« There have always been questions about my physical condition, but I think I was already a very good player before… This year, we approached things differently. Last summer was tough: I played until June, then went straight into Olympic qualifications. This time, I had more time and a better plan, » stated the Slovenian after practice with his national team.
Optimized preparation thanks to extended offseason
This remarkable physical transformation is explained by a different approach to preparation. Unlike the previous summer when he had back-to-back NBA playoffs and international obligations without a break, Dončić benefited this time from an extended offseason to fine-tune his condition.
After a round trip to Los Angeles to sign his new contract, the 25-year-old player rejoined his national team teammates in brilliant shape. « I feel good. I’m still dealing with some jet lag, but I think we’re training very well, » he continues, confirming that he’s training normally despite his recent return.
His philosophy remains unchanged regarding his availability: « I had some doubts, but in the end, everyone knows that if I’m healthy, I play. That’s always been my position: if I can play, I play. »
For the game against Germany, Dončić plans a gradual build-up. « Playing the whole game would probably be difficult, but I think I can play some minutes. It will depend on how I feel physically, » he concludes, mentioning a logical adaptation phase to this new physique. « It wasn’t easy at first, but then it becomes a habit. We’ll see how it goes in the game because I haven’t played since the end of the NBA season, and I’ve just started playing against opposition. »
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