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via Imago

via Imago

The Dallas Mavericks did it! Luka Doncic and his team did not hold back on anything as they relentlessly and mercilessly attacked the Wolves to advance to the NBA Finals. The Mavs’ first appearance since 2011 is surely going to be epic. And if that’s not enough, they have Kyrie Irving on their team. Kai and the Celtics? Perfect ingredients for an intense, competitive battle. The Boston crowd is already fired up to see him on their turf.

However, for Doncic and many others, this will be their first time in the NBA Finals. And as he joined the Inside crew for a little post-game chat, Kenny Smith had a question regarding this. He pointed out that an NBA Finals is a unique experience, altogether. “The one thing that changes is the media. You see every team, media from all over the world. That’s a different feeling than in practice. Would you say that’s the biggest adjustment for you with seeing all of that for the first time? … Who’s going to stop all for you?” Smith asked.

Luka’s nonchalant self just had a one-word answer. “Myself.” Anybody who hoped he would have a few more insights to offer was disappointed. Everyone on the table just kept nodding their head as Kenny, who clearly didn’t expect such a short answer, said ‘Okay’. But Charles Barkley being himself, hit the Slovenian superstar with a hilarious dig.“Okay, Kevin Durant,” referring to his non-dramatic response.

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By now, it’s not a surprise to hear one-word and short answers from Luka. If the 5x All-Star believes that a question needs more explanation, he has no problem giving it. However, there are times when just a word is enough to convey his feelings. And then at other times, he is just hands down funny.

Luka Doncic and his short (and sometimes hilarious) answers

After Game 3 in the Semifinals against Oklahoma City Thunder, Doncic was walking (more like slogging) to the locker room. He was battling multiple injuries. And the usually physical player only attempted them when there was no other choice. When a reporter asked what hurt, Luka had a simple answer. “Everything. I am battling it out there.” 

These health concerns were quite apparent throughout the series. There were many situations where the 25-year-old would have to leave to get a quick checkup or medical attention. But he always came back and ensured his team was over the edge. Then there’s the fun guy, Luka. For example, the Mavs 125-107 regular season win over the Rockets on March 31, 2024, saw the 2019 ROTY hit a spectacular underhanded shot at the 24-second shot clock buzzer.

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When asked about this shot, Doncic had a hilarious reply. “When I was young, I was bartending. I had a good feeling it was going in. It was 1 second on a clock. Those are the shots I like.” We don’t even have to remind you of the moaning incident during a recent presser! That’s just who the Slovenian star is. Do you remember any incidents like this? Drop the stories in the comments below!

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Before you go, another matter foremost in our mind is about our beloved Inside the NBA crew. While many are sure they are going to be disbanded, Shaq’s confidante and ex-agent, Leonard Armato, thinks otherwise. To know more about his comments, watch this video.