Dallas Mavericks: Luka Doncic inspires 2020 draft prospect R.J. Hampton

Dallas Mavericks star Luka Doncic inspired 2020 draft prospect R.J. Hampton’s decision to play overseas instead of going to college. Read more here.

Dallas Mavericks fans love Luka Doncic. The rookie played like a veteran from opening night. He has elite playmaking ability coupled with scoring prowess. Luka became the first rookie since Oscar Robertson in 1961 to average over 20 points, seven rebounds, and five assists per game.

It was a special season for the 20-year-old, but the best is yet to come. The Mavericks traded for Kristaps Porzingis near the deadline. The front office is committed to adding pieces and building a contender this summer. Doncic should only improve as well. The rest of the NBA should be frightened at that notion.

Luka inspires Hampton

2020 NBA Draft prospect R.J. Hampton announced that he is forgoing college to play professionally in the Australian National Basketball League (NBL). The announcement came as a bit of a surprise. Hampton is currently projected to be a top ten selection in the 2020 draft. ESPN broke the news and fans can read their entire article here.

Hampton has quotes in the piece about how Luka inspired his decision. Doncic played professionally since age 14 with Real Madrid in Spain before being drafted in 2018. His four years of pro experience certainly eased the transition to the NBA. Hampton also says he is a fan of Luka. The prospect currently resides in Dallas.

Doncic may start a trend. Other draft hopefuls may decide against heading to college to play professionally overseas. It gives them a chance to make money and develop their game against grown men. It will be an interesting storyline to follow in the coming years.

Final thoughts

Dallas Mavericks lead ball handler Luka Doncic inspired R.J. Hampton’s decision to skip college and play professionally overseas. Keep an eye on how Hampton performs next season in the NBL. The 18-year-old could vault his way into the top five in 2020 with a stellar year.

Luka is the face of the Mavs following the retirement of Dirk Nowitzki. He is ready for that title, though. Doncic will be looking to make his first All-Star appearance next season as he leads the Mavericks to the playoffs.

Dallas Mavericks fans have an exciting offseason ahead of them, so keep it tuned to The Smoking Cuban for all the latest analysis and rumors.