Luka Doncic donates $500,000 to wildfire relief efforts ahead of his anticipated debut with the Los Angeles Lakers. This generous act marks a significant commitment to his new community as he prepares to step onto the court for the first time as a Laker.
The Slovenian basketball star was labeled as probable just hours before the Lakers’ home game against the Utah Jazz on Monday night. Coach JJ Redick expressed confidence last week that Doncic would be ready to play at home after the Lakers traded for him from the Dallas Mavericks in a blockbuster deal involving Anthony Davis and Max Christie.
Having not played since Christmas due to a strained left calf, Doncic returned to practice with his new teammates last week, showcasing his readiness to join the team.
His immediate impact in Los Angeles was felt through his donation aimed at aiding recovery from the wildfires that recently ravaged parts of Southern California, including the Pacific Palisades, where Coach Redick suffered personal loss.
In a heartfelt message, Doncic reached out to those affected, stating, “To everyone affected by these fires: we’re here to help, now and for the long haul.”
He signed his note, “Your new neighbor,” highlighting his desire to connect with the community he has joined.
The initial donation will go to the Community Foundation Wildfire Recovery Fund, with plans for Doncic to contribute “significant additional funding over the next two years” focused on rebuilding children’s play areas, as stated by a spokesperson.
[Related: Luka Doncic, blindsided by Mavericks trade, is now embracing life with the Lakers]
The Lakers have been performing impressively, winning five consecutive games and 11 out of their last 13, even before Doncic’s arrival. Austin Reaves shone in a recent game, scoring a career-high 45 points to lead the Lakers past the Indiana Pacers 124-117, despite the absence of Doncic and LeBron James, who rested due to an ankle issue.
Since joining the Lakers a week ago, Doncic has witnessed three straight victories from the sidelines. He watched Reaves dominate the Pacers while sitting beside LeBron James, a player Doncic has often referred to as his idol.
