Luka Dončić reveals his spectacular physical transformation to the Lakers!
Apr 22, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) warms up before a game two of first round for the 2024 NBA Playoffs against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images
Luka Dončić created a sensation by making the cover of Men’s Health magazine, revealing an impressive physical transformation that’s buzzing on social media. The Los Angeles Lakers star, aged 26, took advantage of his appearance on NBC‘s Today show to explain the reasons behind this summer metamorphosis.
A different summer with a revolutionary approach
« My team and I tried new things, you know, different nutrition, different practices. I actually stopped playing basketball for a month, which I had never done in my life, so it was quite difficult, but it was for the best, » Dončić shared during his television interview.
This unprecedented break in his career is explained by a desire to focus on mental and physical aspects. « Mentally, you know, I’ve played basketball my whole life, so I won’t forget how to play. We tried other sports. I felt it was a good thing, » he specified.
According to Men’s Health, the five-time All-Star followed a gluten-free and low-sugar diet, including at least 250 grams of protein and an almond milk shake daily. This dietary discipline was accompanied by intensive training sessions in Croatia, with twice-daily workouts.
A long-planned transformation
Contrary to speculation suggesting this physical change was a reaction to his trade from the Dallas Mavericks to the Lakers, several sources close to Dončić claim this transformation was planned regardless of his professional situation. According to The Athletic, the Slovenian player’s entourage indicates he was « going to have this physical transformation whether Dallas GM Nico Harrison bet against him or not. »
Luka Doncic on his motivation after receiving criticism:
« I think I was still a pretty good basketball player back then, no matter what people say. »
via @TODAYshow pic.twitter.com/JGKpNxp7i2
— NBA Retweet (@RTNBA) July 30, 2025
The « Team Luka » accompanying him on this journey was formed in summer 2023, showing that this reflection began well before his arrival in Los Angeles. This methodical approach is consistent with a player who has always sought to push his limits.
Dončić remains focused on what matters: « I think I’m still a very good basketball player, no matter what people say. I think this was the next step in my career. In the end, I’m still 26, and you know, I still have a long way to go, so this was a good step in my career. »
The Lakers can now count on a renewed version of their star, who is expected to sign a four-year contract extension worth $229 million this Saturday.
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