Luka Dončić knows the fans are noticing his transformation. It’s a balmy summer morning in Croatia, and the five-time NBA All-Star is on a private court, deep into an intense workout session with trainer Anže Maček. This isn’t just another training day; for Dončić, this marks the beginning of a critical season, one that could define the next chapter of his career.
Currently, he’s in the midst of a 90-minute session that combines weightlifting, agility drills, and shooting targets. With a resistance band attached to his waist, Dončić drives to the basket, pulling against the weight as he perfects his shot. It’s the kind of relentless effort that elite athletes are known for, and today, Dončić is showing us a new side of himself—one that radiates determination.
The structure of his workout includes various circuits combining basketball-specific challenges with upper and lower body exercises. Recently, he had weights transported to his workout facility, allowing him to execute everything from deadlifts to overhead presses. And you can feel the energy surge through him as he transitions swiftly from one drill to another, tackling each challenge with an impressive focus that leaves little room for breaks. This isn’t just any offseason preparation; this Luka is a man on a mission.
Exercises like the deadlift are more than just strength builders; they provide Dončić with the glute strength needed for quick bursts of energy and sudden stops on the court. These are crucial elements that enhance not just his scoring ability, but his overall agility and game presence.
He’s visibly transformed, and the signs are evident from how his jersey fits him to his posture and demeanor when he discusses his progress during an interview. He openly acknowledges the changes, describing how he perceives his body in mirrors and touchingly points out his newly defined muscles. “Just visually, I would say my whole body looks better,” he admits, highlighting the noticeable shifts he’s made in his training and lifestyle.
We’ve seen countless athletes succeed in varying body types, but as Dončić points out, the spotlight often shines brighter on those with the chiselled, athletic physiques. For a player of his caliber, perceptions often misjudge his elite skills, particularly when critics point fingers at his past appearance. Yet, even at a young age of 26, he’s already carved out an impressive legacy with five All-NBA nods and a slew of triple-doubles under his belt.
After facing harsh criticism last season for his condition—which saw him questioning his fitness after an early playoff exit—Dončić has focused on developing a new regimen that emphasizes both fitness and nutrition. Throughout the summer, he has committed to a gluten-free, low-sugar diet that emphasizes protein, helping him bulk up in the right places while shedding unwanted weight.
However, his training isn’t limited to the court. Earlier this summer, he engaged in an extensive fitness evaluation in Madrid, running through a series of tests meant to measure his balance and overall state. Equipped with data from force plates and an array of physical assessments, Dončić’s team customizes his training to maximize performance.
After a disappointing end to last season, Dončić was eager to revamp his approach. Following the Mavericks’ playoff exit, he was ready to dive headfirst into a new training paradigm. The missteps of the previous season fueled his motivation, making this summer not just about getting fit but about fortifying his skills and pushing his boundaries.
What’s remarkable is how Dončić has embraced this journey not just by focusing on basketball but by reading his body and understanding its needs. His training team—comprised of a physiotherapist, a strength coach, and a nutritionist—has worked with him to refocus his efforts and build a routine that works holistically for him.
Taking a month away from the court initially felt counterproductive for Dončić, but stepping back allowed him the recovery he desperately needed. Surprisingly, he found new joy in playing other sports like pickleball. This diversion serves a dual purpose: keeping his competitive spirit alive while minimizing stress on his knees and joints.
As July rolls on, we see the payoff of his tireless work ethic and blossoming athleticism come to fruition. He moves with a newfound confidence as he practices jump shots at the end of a grueling session, still impatient to return to full competition. It’s clear: This summer, Dončić isn’t just focusing on looking better—he’s determined to enhance his performance and push his game to unprecedented heights.
Looking ahead, Dončić aims to blend his physical changes with insights gleaned from legendary athletes like Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant. Inspired by their unwavering commitments to excellence, he’s set on continuing to evolve, enhance, and excel in the NBA landscape. For Luka, this isn’t just the beginning of a season; it’s the dawn of a new era. “This year, with my team, I think we did a huge step. But this is just the start,” he asserts, confident that the hard work will yield tremendous benefits in the years to come.
