Luka Doncic Timeout Outburst Sparks Slovenia’s Historic Win

Luka Doncic has never been one to hide his feelings, and the Los Angeles Lakers star was caught on camera at his most raw during Slovenia’s EuroBasket matchup with Belgium.

With Slovenia fighting to keep momentum midway through the game, Luka Doncic erupted during a timeout. Because EuroBasket broadcasts air team huddles live, fans saw Luka cussing out his teammates, demanding sharper execution and more focus.

Instead of derailing Slovenia, the outburst sparked one of the most historic stat lines the tournament has witnessed.

Luka Doncic led Slovenia to an 86-69 victory over Belgium with 26 points, 11 assists, 10 rebounds, and three steals. The performance marked just the fourth triple-double in EuroBasket history since 1995, joining Toni Kukoc, Rares Mandache, and Mateusz Ponitka.

At only 26 years and 184 days old, Luka Doncic also became the youngest player to surpass 400 career EuroBasket points since Tony Parker in 2007.

The win was critical for Slovenia after starting the tournament with consecutive losses, including a painful 103–95 defeat to France despite Doncic’s 39-point effort. Against Belgium, Luka showed his ability to bounce back, dominating every possession and keeping his team together.

His fiery timeout rant became the turning point. Slovenia tightened defensively, dictated the tempo, and never looked back.

Through three games, Luka Doncic is averaging 33 points, 9.7 assists, 7.3 rebounds, and 3.3 steals — video game-like numbers. Even more encouraging for Lakers fans, he’s been far more active defensively. Once mocked as a “traffic cone,” Doncic now looks slimmer, quicker on his feet, and committed to guarding his man.

The Belgium win also eased health concerns. Earlier in August, he suffered a right knee contusion during a Slovenia exhibition, worrying Los Angeles after signing a three-year, $165 million extension.

Lakers executives Jeanie Buss and Rob Pelinka even traveled to Poland to support him and ensure everything was under control. Sunday’s triple-double proved Doncic is not only healthy but thriving under the international spotlight.

For the Lakers, this is exactly the form they need him to carry into the NBA season. Last year’s first-round playoff exit still lingers, and with LeBron James nearing the twilight of his career, Los Angeles needs Doncic to step fully into the franchise leader role. His EuroBasket dominance suggests he’s ready.

Slovenia now turns its attention to Iceland on Tuesday, needing every win to advance. With Doncic playing at this level, no opponent will feel comfortable.