An Open Letter from Caitlin Clark to Luka Dončić and the Entire Lakers Community
Dear Luka Dončić and the Entire Lakers Community,
I hope this letter finds you all well, thriving, and continuing to inspire millions around the world with your dedication, skill, and passion for the game of basketball. As a fellow athlete who is constantly working to push boundaries, I want to take a moment to recognize the incredible journey each of you has taken in the world of basketball, and express my admiration for what you have achieved, both on and off the court.
Luka, it’s hard to find the right words to fully capture the respect I have for you. As a young player, you have already established yourself as one of the most electrifying talents in the NBA. Your unique playing style, vision, and basketball IQ are nothing short of mesmerizing. Every time you step onto the court, you bring a level of poise and confidence that makes your team better and captivates your fans. Your leadership is a true testament to your character, and it is evident that you are destined to be one of the greats.
But this letter isn’t just for Luka—it is for the entire Lakers community. To the fans, coaches, staff, and the team itself, I want to acknowledge your relentless pursuit of greatness. The Lakers are an organization built on legacy, championships, and a culture of excellence that resonates through every season. Whether you’re playing at the Staples Center or on the road, the Lakers bring an intensity and energy to the game that’s unmatched. And that energy is contagious. You’ve inspired countless players, fans, and young athletes like myself, who look up to what you represent.
For me, basketball is more than just a sport. It’s about pushing the limits of what we think is possible. It’s about breaking down barriers and showing the world that with hard work, resilience, and passion, there’s no ceiling to what we can achieve. I’ve spent my whole life trying to carve my own path, much like many of you have, and I draw strength from watching players like Luka, LeBron, and the entire Lakers team rise above adversity.
As a female athlete, it’s easy to feel like the spotlight is often somewhere else—on male athletes, on certain teams, or on certain leagues. However, one thing I’ve learned through my time playing basketball is that we all have the opportunity to redefine what it means to be a star. Luka, you are a perfect example of this. You’ve taken the NBA by storm, but even more impressive is the way you play the game with such joy and a genuine love for it. It reminds me of why I fell in love with basketball in the first place. There’s something so pure about the way you play.
For those of us who grew up in small towns and never saw someone who looked like us on a national stage, seeing athletes like you push the limits has given us all the permission to dream bigger and work harder. Your talent is undeniable, but it’s your heart, humility, and commitment to your craft that truly elevate you as one of the brightest stars in the game.
To the Lakers community, I want to extend my deepest appreciation for the way you’ve carried the torch of excellence. Lakers basketball has always been a blend of artistry, precision, and a competitive spirit that’s shaped the history of the NBA. Every season brings new challenges, but your resilience and passion for the game never falter. Whether you’re fighting for a playoff spot or looking to defend your championship title, the Lakers have a way of making each game feel monumental. It’s no surprise that the city of Los Angeles, with its rich history and deep connection to basketball, has become synonymous with greatness.
Looking ahead, I see nothing but greatness for both Luka and the Lakers. The NBA continues to evolve, and with it, so do the players who shape its future. What excites me most is the future of the game. Luka, your skill set is revolutionary, and it’s clear that the NBA is in good hands with you leading the charge for the next generation. And as for the Lakers, with the leadership of LeBron and the supporting cast, the future looks incredibly bright. Together, you are forging a path that will inspire young athletes for generations to come.
As someone who has had the honor of representing the WNBA and watching both the NBA and WNBA thrive, I also want to take this moment to highlight the importance of continued support for women’s sports. The world is slowly but surely recognizing the value, talent, and immense skill within women’s basketball. There’s no denying that the women who have helped elevate the game in our league are just as capable and skilled as those in the NBA. My hope is that in the coming years, we will see even greater collaboration and mutual support between these leagues, as we all continue to push the boundaries of what we thought was possible.
Luka, the Lakers, and the entire basketball world—your efforts do not go unnoticed. The impact you have on the court extends far beyond the game. You inspire us to dream bigger, to work harder, and to never back down from the challenges that lie ahead. In a world where the lines between cultures, countries, and sports often blur, basketball remains a unifying force, and for that, we are all grateful.
Thank you for your contributions, your leadership, and your unwavering commitment to the game we all love. I look forward to seeing you all continue to break records, inspire the next generation, and redefine greatness on the court.
With respect and admiration,
Caitlin Clark
