Los Angeles Lakers star Luka Doncic loves to represent his country when it comes to international play and FIBA EuroBasket 2025 is the latest opportunity to do so. However, things have not panned out for Slovenia as they struggled through their exhibition schedule, only winning one game.
Heading into the group stage, they opened up against Poland, where Doncic dropped 34 points, four rebounds, nine assists and five steals. But, those numbers were not enough as they lost 105-95.
Looking to bounce back from a tough loss, a solid France team awaited with NBA talent in Alex Sarr, Zacharie Risacher, Bilal Coulibaly and Guerschon Yabusele. Unfortunately, Slovenia suffered another defeat as the French put together an impressive second half after trailing 54-47 at halftime. They outscored Slovenia by 15 in the second half to drop Doncic’s team to 0-2 in group play.
To no surprise, Doncic was the leading scorer for his squad with 39 points, eight rebounds, nine assists and two steals. He was not as efficient in this contest, shooting 8-for-20 from the field, but shot 4-for-10 from 3-point range and made 19 of his 20 free throws.
ABSOLUTE THRILLER 🤯
France 🇫🇷 hold onto the late lead to take Slovenia 🇸🇮 down! 🔥#EuroBasket pic.twitter.com/PhtcfHhRQD
— FIBA EuroBasket (@EuroBasket) August 30, 2025
Luka gave it his all 😮💨
Flirting with triple-double, Luka Magic had another stellar performance against France 🔥#EuroBasket pic.twitter.com/16WmJRycsr
— FIBA EuroBasket (@EuroBasket) August 30, 2025
Getting to the free throw line has always been a strength of Doncic’s, but seeing him do it in FIBA play, which traditionally is more physical, is definitely impressive.
Despite Doncic doing everything he could, it’s clear that he doesn’t have enough help to beat a team like France, who is one of the favorites in the tournament. They held on for three quarters before France pulled away at the end.
Sylvain Francisco dominated the Slovenians with 32 points, shooting 60% from the field and 12-for-12 from the free throw line. Behind Francisco, there were four other French players in double figures compared to just three total for Slovenia.
What’s next for Luka Doncic and Slovenia
There are three more group play games remaining for Luka Doncic and Slovenia and they next match up with Belgium on Sunday in the a second of a back-to-back. They game is scheduled to start a 5 a.m. PT and will give Doncic and his teammates a quick opportunity to bounce back and pick up their first win in group play.
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