Luka Dončić’s physical transformation: Frank Ntilikina discusses his former teammate’s evolution
Mar 23, 2022; Dallas, Texas, USA; Dallas Mavericks guard Luka Doncic and Dallas Mavericks guard Frank Ntilikina (21) react during the first half against the Houston Rockets at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports
According to The Athletic, Dončić‘s team has been working on his physical transformation since 2023, after hiring Anže Maček and Javier Barrio as trainers. The goal: to help him adopt better habits and follow a stricter strength training program.
Luka Doncic is reportedly fasting 16 hours a day, everyday except Sunday.
You can’t say he isn’t dedicated 💪🔥
via @MensHealthMag pic.twitter.com/sFKTDL8VBM
— NBA Retweet (@RTNBA) July 28, 2025
First, Dončić’s injuries in 2024 slowed down his transformation. Then, Mavericks GM Nico Harrison was concerned about his weight gain despite a heavy workload. Eventually, these physical concerns influenced Dallas’s decision to trade him.
Frank Ntilikina anticipates a tough challenge
During Team France’s Media Day, Frank Ntilikina was asked about his former Dallas teammate’s (2021-2023) evolution. The French point guard emphasized the positive impact of this transformation. « It will bring new elements to his game, » he states. « We saw how he moved when he was… When he had a different physique. »
This new version of Dončić will soon be tested at the upcoming EuroBasket in late August. France and Slovenia are in Group D, and their matchup will take place in the second game of the group stage. For Ntilikina, it will be a « great challenge » to slow down his former teammate, but that’s exactly what makes this matchup so exciting.
Dončić told Men’s Health that this summer was « a bit different » and pushed him to exceed his limits. Already a five-time All-NBA selection and top 10 MVP finalist before 25, a sharpened Dončić promises to be even more formidable.
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