Date: 21. August 2026
Time to read: 1 min
These days, Slovenia is welcoming some very special visitors. Slovenian basketball superstar Luka Dončić has brought his Los Angeles Lakers teammates to his homeland for a few days of relaxation and team bonding. Their visit has already attracted the attention of Slovenian and international media alike, while also delighting basketball fans.
The four-day trip is a private initiative organized and financed by Dončić himself. The team arrived in Slovenia by private jet and is staying in Ljubljana, where a crowd of enthusiastic fans gathered upon their arrival. Luka made the day of several supporters by signing autographs, while the players spent their first evening enjoying the relaxed atmosphere of one of Ljubljana’s restaurants, getting a taste of Slovenian hospitality and way of life.
From Ljubljana to Bled
Although the visit is entirely private and largely shrouded in mystery, Dončić, who also serves as an ambassador for Slovenian tourism, has shared some of his favourite Slovenian places, flavours and experiences in videos produced by the Slovenian Tourist Board.
Among the locations he highlighted were Lake Bled, where he enjoys playing golf, his hometown of Ljubljana, and Stožice Arena, a venue closely linked to many of his basketball memories. According to unofficial reports, these destinations may also be included in the itinerary for his teammates during their stay in Slovenia.
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The four-day stay combines team bonding ahead of the NBA season with an opportunity to experience and discover Slovenia. Photo: Siniša Kanižaj/STA
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Fans eagerly awaited the arrival of the basketball stars outside the hotel. Photo: Aleš Osvald/STA
Team Building and Discovering Slovenia
The gathering is primarily intended to strengthen team spirit ahead of the new NBA season, as the Lakers roster has undergone several changes in recent months. At the same time, the visit represents an exceptional promotional opportunity for Slovenia.
Luka Dončić is one of Slovenia’s most recognizable global ambassadors, while his teammates rank among the biggest names in international basketball.
Photos, videos and social media posts from their stay in Slovenia have the potential to reach millions of sports and travel enthusiasts around the world, further enhancing the country’s reputation as an attractive destination for active experiences, outstanding gastronomy and unforgettable natural beauty.
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Fourteen of Dončić’s teammates join him in Slovenia. Photo: Siniša Kanižaj/STA
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Several fans got the opportunity to meet Dončić and receive his autograph. Photo: Siniša Kanižaj/STA
Their visit offers an excellent opportunity not only to build team chemistry but also to experience Slovenia’s diversity, hospitality and unique attractions firsthand. The Lakers are expected to stay in Slovenia until 24 August before beginning preparations for the upcoming season.
