Luka Dončić Shuts Down Critics: “I Was a Good Player Back Then, No Matter What People Say”
This offseason has marked a pivotal chapter in the career of Slovenian basketball superstar Luka Dončić. Known worldwide for his elite skillset, Dončić has often faced criticism regarding his physical conditioning. But in 2025, the Dallas Mavericks’ franchise cornerstone is not just responding with words—he’s letting his actions, and his body, do the talking.
Recent appearances of Dončić have left fans and critics alike stunned. The 6-foot-7 guard has undergone a striking transformation, appearing significantly leaner and more muscular. One of the most eye-catching developments came when he graced the cover of Men’s Health magazine—a symbolic and visual testament to the dedication he has poured into reshaping not only his physique but also his approach to the game.
Dončić spoke candidly in a recent interview with NBC, reflecting on the changes he’s made and the motivations behind them. “Honestly, I tried not to read much, just trying to focus,” he said, brushing off the years of public commentary about his weight and endurance.
“I think I was a good basketball player back then, no matter what people say,” he continued. “I think it was the next step in my career. At the end, I’m still 26 and I have a long way to go.”
The offseason changes weren’t just surface-level adjustments. One of the most significant—and arguably underrated—decisions Dončić made was to take an entire month off from basketball this past May. That break, the first in years for the tireless athlete, allowed his body to fully reset and recover. For someone who has been playing professional basketball since his mid-teens and representing Slovenia in international competitions almost every summer, that period of rest was both rare and much-needed.
While it’s easy to assume that Dončić’s transformation was a reaction to years of external pressure, he made it clear that the motivation came from within. “This is just the start,” he said firmly. “I need to keep going. Can’t stop.”
Rather than responding emotionally to the noise, Dončić used it as fuel. His conditioning overhaul wasn’t just about silencing critics—it was about longevity, leadership, and taking his already-impressive career to the next level. Through the first half of his NBA journey, Dončić has racked up accolades: All-Star appearances, All-NBA selections, jaw-dropping stat lines, and playoff heroics. But now, he’s shifting his focus to sustainability. To keep playing at a high level into his 30s—and to be the best leader he can for both the Mavericks and the Slovenian national team—Dončić knew change was necessary.
That leadership will be put to the test once again this summer as Dončić prepares to suit up for Slovenia at EuroBasket. The tournament will see Slovenia placed in Group D alongside formidable opponents: France, Poland, Israel, Belgium, and Iceland. Dončić has long been the engine behind Slovenia’s international success, including their stunning run to a EuroBasket title in 2017 and a fourth-place finish at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021. This time, with a renewed sense of purpose and a fitter, stronger body, he’s aiming to lead his team even further.
What’s most remarkable about Dončić’s evolution isn’t just the visible physical transformation—it’s his mindset. While some athletes plateau or burn out after early success, Dončić is demonstrating the maturity and foresight to invest in long-term excellence. He understands that the game is bigger than highlights or short-term accolades. For Dončić, it’s about legacy.
With his 27th birthday still months away, Luka Dončić has already accomplished more than most players dream of. But in his own words, he’s just getting started. The next chapter of his story promises to be the most compelling yet—and perhaps the most dominant.