“Be your f***ing self”- LeBron James sends clear message to Luka Doncic ahead of debut game for Lakers

The wait was finally over. Luka Doncic was set to play his first game for his new home, the Los Angeles Lakers. The 25-year-old, who was out of action since Christmas 2024, stepped onto the court for the first time this year, and played his first game with idol, LeBron James. 

Doncic, who headed to Los Angeles after what might be the biggest NBA trade, made his debut for the fifth-seeded team in the Western Conference on Monday, Feb. 10 as they clashed against the Utah Jazz. 

As he stepped to join the side in his 77 jersey, fans erupted in cheers and gave a rousing welcome to their newest star. Not only this, but James also shared a piece of advice to Luka, who was coming on the back of an injury layoff. The 21-time NBA All-Star just asked Doncic to be himself and try not to blend in. 

“Luka, be your f***ing self. Don’t fit in, fit the f*** out,” said James as he sent a direct message to the five NBA All-Star.

Doncic took the advice well and came up with a decent performance in his debut game. 

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Luka Doncic in his first game for the Lakers

Luka played on a minutes restriction and started alongside James, Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura and Jaxson Hayes. While he wasn’t looking too comfortable earlier, Doncic made himself acquainted with the surroundings and finished with 14 points, five rebounds and four assists in 24 minutes. 

The Slovenian played for 6:56 minutes in the first quarter and added five points, one rebound, one assist and one turnover. In the second quarter, he added six points, two rebounds and two assists. 

As the Lakers entered the halftime with 72-47, the former Mavericks star had 11 points, three rebounds and three assists. He played seven minutes in the third quarter and called it a night with 14 points. He shot 5 of 14 including one of seven from three and three of three from the free throw line. 

“Heard a lot of noise when I was introduced, it was special”- Luka Doncic on playing first game as a Laker

Following the win, Luka was asked about his feelings after playing his first game in the Lakers uniform. He revealed how special he felt when he was greeted with cheers during his introduction.

“Special man. The way they received me, everybody, teammates, the front office. I heard a lot of noise when I was introduced. I really appreciate it. It was a special moment,” Luka told ESPN.

Doncic’s debut was made special with his family and former Dallas Mavericks star Dirk Nowtizki’s presence in the arena.

Speaking about Dirk, Luka said, “He is a lot. Great friend, great mentor. So really means a lot for him to show up here.”

He also spoke about how dangerous the Lakers can be and reflecting on his first game in nearly two months.

“Very dangerous. I think the ball was moving very well. I think we can lock down a lot of players. So I was just happy to be on the court again,” the Ljubljana-born concluded.

The Lakers recorded a blowout 132-113 win over the Jazz, marking their sixth straight victory. LeBron James again finished with a leading performance of 24 points, seven rebounds and eight assists.