Luka Dončić is undergoing a transformative summer as he gears up for the most critical season of his NBA career. The 26-year-old star, now with the Los Angeles Lakers, has dedicated himself to an intense training regimen while in Croatia, aiming to reshape his physique and improve his performance on the court. His training sessions, which often last 90 minutes and blend weight training, agility drills, and shooting practice, are supplemented by a strict diet emphasizing protein and low sugar intake.
Dončić’s commitment is evident—he’s been working out fasted, engaging in rigorous circuits that push his limits. These workouts, which include everything from resistance band lay-ups to explosive jumps, are designed to enhance his agility and strength. His recent commitment to fitness follows a disappointing season marked by injuries and an early playoff exit, prompting him to completely overhaul his training approach.
He has formed a fitness team dubbed “Team Luka,” composed of his personal trainer Anže Maček and physiotherapist Javier Barrio, alongside a nutritionist. This support system has facilitated a more structured and effective training routine, allowing Dončić to focus on improving his balance and eccentric force—essential for maintaining control and executing sudden movements on the court.
After an offseason spent avoiding basketball for a month to let his body recover, Dončić returned to drills and new sports activities, including pickleball. This shift not only helped him build strength but also reignited his love for competition and athleticism. By focusing on overall fitness instead of just basketball skills, he hopes this approach will yield dividends in the upcoming season.
While the scrutiny he faced regarding his physical condition in the past has shaped his current focus on fitness, Dončić is determined to prove critics wrong. The early signs of his transformation are promising, as he reports feeling the best he has in years. Looking forward, he aims to further build on his current progress, envisioning a decade of elite play ahead.
This drive and commitment not only reflect his maturity as an athlete but also his determination to embrace the challenges that come with being a top player in the league. Dončić’s resolve signifies a positive step for him and the Lakers as they prepare for what they hope will be a successful season.