Luka Doncic will play sooner than fans think after Slovenia updates schedule

The Dallas Mavericks have a busy offseason ahead as they look to retool their roster around superstar Luka Doncic after missing the playoffs. They have multiple needs and limited assets to acquire them, so it won’t be easy. The Mavs must upgrade their defense, rebounding, and rim protection to get back to the postseason. Doncic is already working on his game, and he too has a jam-packed offseason.

The 24-year-old superstar will again lead his home country of Slovenia in FIBA action. Doncic’s team finished fourth in the 2020 Olympics and sixth in last summer’s EuroBasket. Number 77 never misses a chance to represent his people, and Slovenia is looking to win their first-ever medal at a World Cup this summer.

The country updated its preparation schedule leading into this year’s event, and they will be facing some of the world’s best before arriving at the World Cup in Asia. Here is the latest.

 Luka Doncic will play sooner than fans think after Slovenia updates schedule

Slovenia will begin practices on July 17 as they start gearing up with six exhibition games before their World Cup opener against Venezuela on Aug. 26. Their exhibition slate features two games against Giannis Antetokounmpo and Greece and matchups against Spain and Team USA. Here is a closer look.

Tuesday, July 25: Slovenia vs. China

Wednesday, August 2: Slovenia vs. Greece

Friday, August 4: Greece vs. Slovenia

Tuesday, August 8: Slovenia vs. Croatia

Friday, August 11: Spain vs. Slovenia

Saturday, August 12: USA vs. Slovenia

All six games figure to be difficult and fantastic preparation for this year’s World Cup. Slovenia was drawn into Group F where they will face Venezuela, Georgia, and Cape Verde. Luka Doncic and company will be favored to win their group, but their draw from there is not easy.

Dallas Mavericks GOAT Dirk Nowitzki is serving as an ambassador for FIBA at this year's World Cup, and he will be on hand for Luka's games. It is always fun to watch Luka play for Slovenia and even better when the legend is on hand cheering him on.

Number 77 always gives his country a chance to win, and fans should tune in for plenty of exciting basketball this summer. Doncic wears his heart on his sleeve when playing for Slovenia, and he is eager to bring them their first-ever medal in a major competition. He got so close at the 2020 Olympics and never underestimate him. Luka will be looking to prove he is the best player in the world as he leads his country this summer. Do not miss it.