Date: 26. August 2026
Time to read: 1 min
For a few days, Slovenia became home to one of the NBA’s most iconic franchises. After four days of basketball, exploring Slovenia, new experiences, and meeting fans, the visit of the Los Angeles Lakers stars to Slovenia came to an end. The days the team spent in Luka Dončić’s homeland will remain memorable for many basketball enthusiasts.
Basketball, Rowing, and Golf
Members of one of the world’s most recognizable sports teams experienced a unique blend of sports, culture, gastronomy, and authentic Slovenian hospitality. They trained at Ljubljana’s Stožice Arena, visited Ljubljana Castle, and took a boat ride along the Ljubljanica River, experiencing firsthand the atmosphere of the Slovenian capital.
One of the highlights of their visit was a trip to Bled, one of Slovenia’s most famous tourist destinations. There, the players competed in rowing on Lake Bled, while some of them even took a refreshing swim in the lake. The day concluded with relaxed socializing and a friendly round of golf.
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Some lucky fans got the chance to meet Luka Dončić and his Lakers teammates up close, and even get their autographs. Photo: UKOM
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Lakers players took in the sights of Ljubljana from the Ljubljanica, cruising through the heart of the city by boat. Photo: UKOM
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Bled is one of Luka Dončić’s most beloved places in Slovenia, known for its stunning natural beauty and iconic lake. Photo: Jošt Gantar/Slovenia.info
A Return to the Court Where It All Began
Luka Dončić also took his teammates to the Savsko Naselje neighborhood in Ljubljana, where he spent part of his childhood and played basketball on a local court as a young boy. On the court, which had previously been renovated with his support, the NBA stars shot hoops alongside young Slovenian basketball players.
The event attracted a large crowd of enthusiastic fans eager to greet their role models, collect autographs, and take photos with them.
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From Ljubljana to Bled, devoted basketball fans followed the Lakers every step of the way. Photo: Siniša Kanižaj/STA
A Special Visit to the Maternity Hospital
Before departing, the players also visited Ljubljana’s maternity hospital and pediatric clinic, bringing joy to patients, their families, and healthcare staff. The visit took place on August 24, a date on which Los Angeles remembers the legendary Kobe Bryant. On this occasion, newborn babies in Slovenia received special welcome packages to celebrate their birth.
Among the most emotional moments of the visit was Luka Dončić’s meeting with obstetrician Branko Cvjetićanin, who was present more than 27 years ago at the birth of what would become one of Slovenia’s greatest athletes.
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Luka Dončić and his teammates presented a signed jersey to the leadership of Ljubljana Maternity Hospital. Photo: Los Angeles Lakers
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Luka Dončić shares a memorable moment with obstetrician Branko Cvjetićanin, who was present at his birth. Photo: Los Angeles Lakers
More Than Just Preparation for a New Season
Although the visit was primarily intended to strengthen team spirit ahead of the new NBA season, it also served as a major promotion of Slovenia. Luka Dončić introduced his teammates to the places that shaped both his life and his basketball journey, while also bringing his homeland closer to millions of basketball fans around the world.
