After Luka Dončić passed up a potential game-winning shot, the Lakers star took full responsibility for the heartbreaking 110-109 loss, as LeBron James admitted he expected him to shoot.
The focus was on Luka Dončić on Tuesday night, but not for a winning shot. In the closing seconds of the Los Angeles Lakers’ 110–109 loss to the Orlando Magic, Dončić received the ball with 6.7 seconds remaining and space behind the three-point line.
He chose to pass instead of shoot. The possession broke down, and LeBron James missed a difficult fadeaway at the buzzer.
After the game, James said,
“I thought he had a great look.”
Lebron James
Dončić accepted responsibility.
“I know I was open… I shouldn’t have picked up the ball. That’s on me.”
Luka Dončić
The Lakers had led by 12 points in the second half. They had not lost a game all season when leading after three quarters. This result changed that.
At the same time, public interest in Luka Dončić’s family life continues to grow. Away from basketball, the Slovenian star is a father of two. He balances NBA pressure with life at home while leading the Lakers, who hold a 34–23 record and the sixth seed in the Western Conference.
Luka Dončić and Anamaria Goltes: A Long-Term Relationship
Luka Dončić has been in a relationship with Anamaria Goltes for many years. They first met as children at the seaside in Croatia when they were 12 years old. Their friendship later became a relationship, and they have been together since 2016.
On July 7, 2023, Dončić proposed to Goltes in Slovenia. The date matched his jersey number, 77. She has supported him during key moments of his career, including playoff games and public events.
Goltes was born in Slovenia. She studied at the University of Ljubljana in the School of Economics and Business. Even after moving to the United States during Dončić’s NBA career, she continued her studies online.
She works as a model and social media influencer. She began modeling in 2017 and has worked with Slovenian fashion and jewelry brands. Over time, she built her own audience online, sharing fashion and lifestyle content.
The couple also shares three dogs. During career changes, including Dončić’s 2025 trade to the Lakers, Goltes remained by his side. Their relationship began long before NBA fame and has continued through every stage of his career.
Luka Dončić Kids: Inside His Life as a Father
Luka Dončić and Anamaria Goltes have two daughters. Their first child, Gabriela, was born on December 1, 2023. Their second daughter, Olivia, was born in December 2025.
When Olivia was born, Dončić traveled back to Ljubljana, Slovenia, to be present for the delivery. He has spoken about how becoming a father changed him.
“Nothing better than being a dad for real.”
Luka Dončić
He also explained that holding his first daughter for the first time changed his outlook on life and basketball.
Despite a busy season in which he is averaging more than 30 points per game, Dončić keeps his family a priority. In 2025, he shared a birthday message for Gabriela that received wide attention online.
Although he does not often show his children publicly, he has said that family helps him handle pressure. Speaking about outside expectations, he once said,
“It’s a lot of pressure… but she helps me through it,”
Luka Dončić
Fatherhood now plays a central role in his life, alongside his goals on the court.
AI Overview
Luka Dončić addressed a crucial late-game decision after the Los Angeles Lakers’ 110–109 loss to the Orlando Magic, taking responsibility for passing up a potential game-winning shot. Off the court, interest in Luka Dončić kids continues to grow, as the Lakers star and his fiancée, Anamaria Goltes, are parents to two daughters, Gabriela (born December 1, 2023) and Olivia (born December 2025).
FAQs
How tall is Luka Dončić?
He is 6 feet 7 inches tall (2.01 meters). His height allows him to see over defenders and create plays.
How old is Luka Dončić?
He was born on February 28, 1999, in Ljubljana, Slovenia. He is 26 years old during the 2025–26 NBA season.
When did Luka Dončić join the NBA?
He entered the NBA in 2018 as the No. 3 overall draft pick. He began with the Dallas Mavericks and was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers in 2025.
What position does Luka Dončić play?
He plays guard, mainly point guard. He controls the ball, runs the offense, and leads scoring for his team.
Who are Luka Dončić’s parents?
Luka Dončić’s parents are Saša Dončić and Mirjam Poterbin. His father, Saša, is a former professional basketball player and coach, while his mother, Mirjam, is a former dancer and businesswoman.
