Missing Out on NBA?s Prestigious Award Multiple Times, Luka Doncic Might Just Make History at FIBA World Cup 2023

Superstar Luka Doncic entered the NBA in 2018 and he was league-ready even though he was very young. He settled in quickly and won the Rookie of the Year award. Doncic continued his ascension in the next few years and soon became one of the best players in the league. Before you know it, he was in the NBA MVP conversations leading the Dallas Mavericks. However, the award has so far eluded the Slovenian. Finally, Doncic could lay his hands on the MVP award with his performances for his country in the 2023 FIBA World Cup.

Doncic has been on a tear for Slovenia in the World Cup so far. He has helped his team qualify for the second round of the tournament with three wins in three games in the group stages.

Luka Doncic’s shot at the MVP award

Luka Doncic has been on an offensive onslaught in the past few seasons in the NBA which led him to be in the MVP race with other superstars. However, he was not able to win the award despite coming close. Notably, after averaging 28.4 points, 9.1 rebounds, and 8.7 assists in the 2021-22 season, he finished 5th in the MVP ladder.

In the next season, Doncic averaged 32.4 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 8 assists as per ESPN. But after missing out on the playoffs, he finished 8th this time. However, his wait could finally be over on the highest international stage playing for his beloved country.

In the three games he played in the group stage, Doncic averaged 30 points per game which is the highest points average in the tournament. This has helped him stay atop the MVP ladder as well. According to a report from FIBA, Doncic currently leads the Tissot MVP race thanks to his spirited displays.

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However, he is not leading the race only because of his scoring. Notably, he is also leading his team in rebounds and assists with 8 and 7 per game respectively. He has dethroned Team USA superstar Anthony Edwards in the process to capture the first spot for now. Doncic is followed by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander at second and Edwards at third.

Can Luka Doncic lead his country to the next round?

Luka Doncic loves representing Slovenia on the international stage and rarely misses major tournaments. Even though he is leading the MVP ladder, his eyes are set on the World Cup trophy. Doncic has been on a mission to win a major title for his country and is successful so far in the current tournament.

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After defeating Venezuela, Georgia, and Cape Verde in the group stages, tough tests are ahead for the team. In the second round, Slovenia are set to face Australia and Germany. It will be interesting to see whether Doncic will be able to help his team qualify for the next round and win the MVP award.