Luka Doncic spoke after the match that he played with the Dallas Mavericks in Madrid against Real, his former club.
The Mavericks player, who could only be on the court for five minutes due to a left knee issue, says he is “quite upset” that he didn’t play more. After the match, he answered questions from reporters for a long time, and they were initially interested in what was most special for him?
“I don’t know if it was just one thing. It was all the moments: seeing, the trophy, talking with teammates. Everything was very special. I wanted to play a lot, I waited the whole summer for this game, and yesterday I had a little mishap. Nobody wanted to play this game more than me,” Doncic said.
![Real Madrid - Dallas](https://basketballsphere.com/en/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Real-Madrid-Dallas.jpg)
What are his expectations for the season?
“We need to improve many things. I know it’s the preseason, but we’ve lost three games, and we need to improve a lot. The season is very long, so we’ll see.”
He spent little time on the court but had duels with Sergio Llull.
“He beat me, made three consecutive three-pointers, and I made only one. Being able to play with my former teammates was special. I have a special relationship with them, and I wish I could have played more. I was upset.”
He was asked if this was his last game in Madrid or if he plans to return.
“No, no. I spoke with Nico (Harrison, President of Dallas Operations) now, and he told me he’ll try to bring us back. He promised me, in two or three years. We need to tell them more because I couldn’t play, and they have to bring me back.”
On the goals for the upcoming season and playing with Kyrie Irving.
“The goal is always to win the NBA, that has to be the goal. We’ll have to work a lot because the season is very long. Last season was very good, but we struggled a lot in defense and rebounding. Those are two things we need to improve.”
The next question was what would mean more to him, an NBA championship or individual recognition as league MVP.
“If I have to choose, it would definitely be the NBA, even though it wouldn’t be bad to be the MVP.”
Luka Doncic also believes that Real Madrid is ready to compete in an NBA game.
“Yes, you saw that today. I think they are very good even in the EuroLeague. The signing of Facu Campazzo has greatly improved the team, and they are very good.”