Luka Doncic is earning money and winning hearts. The 26-year-old, a five-time All-NBA guard, signed a three-year, $165 million contract extension with the Los Angeles Lakers, ESPN reported on Saturday. While the Lakers and Donic announced the deal, they did not mention specifics. The extension comes six months after the former Dallas Mavericks star moved to Los Angeles to join the likes of LeBron James and Austin Reaves.
ESPN further added that the contract extension includes a player option for the 2028-29 season. Doncic will be out of free agency next summer, and the deal nixes his 2026-27 player option in place of the new contract.
"Today is a monumental moment for our franchise. Luka Doncic's future is with the Los Angeles Lakers," Rob Pelinka, the Lakers' president of basketball operations, said.
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"Luka is one of the game's most transcendent players, and his on-court dominance and passion is without compare. From the moment Luka became a Laker, there was an immediate connection and admiration between Luka and our fanbase. You can feel it in your spirit when you attend a Lakers game. Luka is an absolute killer on the court, and blends that with a unique generosity and care for the community. Above all else, Luka will lead our franchise to pursue future championships, a goal that will forever define the Lakers."
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Luka Doncic's big announcement
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Luka Doncic's big announcement
{{/usCountry}}Meanwhile, Luka Doncic won hearts with an announcement of his own. “I just signed my extension with the Lakers. Excited to keep working to bring championships to LA and make Laker Nation proud. Grateful to the Lakers, my teammates and all the fans who’ve shown so much love since day one. This is just the beginning. 💜💛” he wrote on X, platform formerly known as Twitter.
The 26-year-old further announced that he is pledging $5 million to help 77 young athletes.
“Today I’m also committing $5 million to help 77 young athletes around the world chase their dreams, just like I did. Basketball gave me everything, and I’m lucky to be able to give back and help the next generation,” he tweeted.