Luka Doncic takes over as Slovenia beats Lithuania in EuroBasket 2022 opener

Dallas Mavericks superstar Luka Doncic did not have his best shooting night to open EuroBasket 2022, but his playmaking saved Slovenia as they topped Lithuania 92-85 on Sept. 1. It was an incredible back and forth contest where Lithuania packed the paint and forced someone other than Doncic to beat them. Luka used his playmaking to find open teammates, and they converted in the win.

It was far from the 23-year-old superstar’s best night. He was just four of 14 from the field, and Doncic missed three free throws. Still, he finished with a double-double in nearly 35 minutes of action to lift his country to victory.

It was a fun and exciting contest to kick off EuroBasket 2022. Here is a closer look at Luka’s performance before diving into what is next for Doncic and Slovenia.

Luka Doncic takes over as Slovenia beats Lithuania in EuroBasket 2022 opener

Doncic had eight first-half points, and he showcased his ability to score from anywhere on the court. See what the 23-year-old superstar did below.

Luka’s scoring never really got going, but he took over with his playmaking. The 23-year-old drew double teams and kept probing into the paint before finding the open teammate.

Doncic has focused on his conditioning this offseason, and fans can see that he is a bit spryer on the court. The 23-year-old superstar got up for a monster dunk on Thursday against Lithuania, and fans can see the must-see moment below.

Luka finished with 14 points, ten assists, six rebounds, and three steals on Sept. 1 as Slovenia dominated the final minutes for the win with Mark Cuban, Jason Kidd, Nico Harrison, and Michael Finley watching courtside. It was not his best night, but Doncic made sure his country got the win.

Luka Doncic and Slovenia continue group play on Sept. 3 as they face Hungary in Germany. Fans can watch the game at 1:20 p.m. CT on ESPN-plus. Slovenia should be a significant favorite, and the Dallas Mavericks superstar will be ready to put up monster numbers as he looks lead Slovenia to another win.