Luka Dončić broke down into tears after Dallas Mavericks played heartfelt tribute video for him on his return.
Los Angeles Lakers superstar point guard Luka Dončić produced a masterful performance Wednesday night in his highly-anticipated Dallas homecoming after being traded in the stunning February blockbuster deal.
Dončić finished with 45 points, tying a season high, while shooting 16-of-28 from the field, including seven three-pointers, eight rebounds, six assists and four steals in the Lakers 112-97 victory. It was his 46th career 40-point game as the Lakers clinched a playoff berth.
The fans at American Airlines Center gave him a rousing standing ovation as he checked out of the game with one minute and 34 seconds remaining in regulation.
Dončić clapped to the crowd as he walked to the bench. Fans chanted, “Luka! Luka! Luka!”
The Mavericks honored Dončić, who was the face of the franchise for more than six seasons and led Dallas to the 2024 NBA Finals, with a two-minute pregame video during player introduction.
Dončić asked for a towel before the video started. As the tribute was playing, the former Maverick was filled with emotions. After the video concluded, Dončić wiped away tears before joining his teammates.
The crowd gave its favorite son a standing ovation. Mavericks great and Basketball Hall of Famer Dirk Nowitzki, who guided the franchise to its only NBA title in 2011, was in attendance to show Dončić some love.
