Luka Doncic teams up with 2K Foundations to refurbish childhood basketball courts in Slovenia

Author Photo
Luka Doncic, 2K Foundations refurbish local courts in Ljubljana, Slovenia

Dallas Mavericks star Luka Doncic is spending his off-season giving back, refurbishing his local basketball courts in Ljubljana, Slovenia. 

“This is a very exciting day for me. I have great memories growing up in Ljubljana. These are my childhood courts where I learned and practiced the game,“ Doncic said.

“It’s an honour to be able to give back to my city and to my country that gave me so much and that I love. The opportunity for kids to play on the same courts and pursue the same dreams I had is something I am excited about.”

2K Foundations is the philanthropic arm of 2K, that helps serve communities by investing in local programs and with Doncic gracing the cover of the NBA 2K22 video game, he wants to give young kids a chance to hoop on local courts just as he did growing up.

“Foundations plays a very important role for 2K and our sports titles. We’re incredibly proud of the contributions made to communities, from court refurbishments to STEM programming. Since 2018, the foundation has completed over 40 community enrichment projects, reaching communities across the globe,” David Ismailer, President of 2K said.

“We’re honoured to have created a program that plays a part in giving some of the world’s biggest athletes and talents, such as Luka, the chance to further connect with the communities that mean so much to them.”  

The two-time All-Star designed the new-look courts and enlisted the help of local graphic designer Nejc Prah to bring his vision to life, featuring his new 'LD' logo which incorporates his initials, jersey number 77 and arrows to represent his deceptive style of play. The 'S' in the middle of the logo is a nod to his native Slovenia.

Luka Doncic, 2K Foundations refurbish local courts in Ljubljana, Slovenia

Doncic, who led his country to their first Olympic Games this year unveiled the court with local kids invited to scrimmage, play 3-on-3 games and skills challenges, giving away prizes in partnership with his other sponsors Jordan Brand and BioSteel.

“Having Luka return to his hometown and dedicate these courts to his childhood town is such an honour," Zoran Janković, Mayor of the City of Ljubljana said.

"He continues to represent Slovenia globally, and we’re proud of what he has done for our country, not only at the Olympics but his efforts in the NBA,”  “He loves Ljubljana, and the city and country love him.”

The views on this page do not necessarily reflect the views of the NBA or its clubs.

Author(s)
Benyam Kidane Photo

Benyam Kidane is a senior NBA editor for The Sporting News.