After seven unforgettable years, Luka Dončić has officially bid farewell to the Dallas Mavericks and their passionate fanbase. In a heartfelt letter, Dončić reflected on his journey from a teenage prodigy in Slovenia to becoming the face of the franchise, expressing gratitude for the unwavering support he received throughout his time in North Texas.
A legacy of greatness
Dončić arrived in Dallas as the third overall pick in the 2018 NBA Draft and quickly became one of the most electrifying players in the league. His impact was immediate—winning the 2018-19 NBA Rookie of the Year award and establishing himself as the cornerstone of the Mavericks' future. Over the years, he consistently delivered breathtaking performances, including multiple All-Star selections, All-NBA First Team honors, and an unforgettable run to the 2024 NBA Finals.
Known for his exceptional court vision, clutch shot-making, and ability to take over games, Dončić etched his name in the Mavericks' history books. He became the youngest player in franchise history to record a triple-double, set multiple team scoring records, and was a perennial MVP contender. His historic 73-point explosion against the Atlanta Hawks in 2024 solidified his reputation as one of the most dynamic offensive talents in NBA history.
In his farewell message, Dončić expressed how much Dallas had become a second home to him:
"For a young kid from Slovenia coming to the U.S. for the first time, you made North Texas feel like home. In good times and bad, from injuries to the NBA Finals, your support never changed."
In a move that has stunned the basketball world, Luka Dončić has been traded to the Los Angeles Lakers, marking the end of an era for the Dallas Mavericks, just months after he led the franchise to the 2024 NBA Finals. The blockbuster trade, which sends Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and a first-round draft pick to Dallas in exchange for Dončić, Maxi Kleber, and Markieff Morris, signals a major shift in the NBA landscape.
Luka Dončić’s departure marks the end of an unforgettable era in Dallas, but his journey with the Lakers is just beginning. With an already historic career at just 25 years old, Dončić now faces the challenge of leading one of the NBA’s most storied franchises to another championship.