An Open Letter from Luka Dončić to Jayson Tatum, Fans, and the Entire Los Angeles Lakers Community
Dear Jayson, Fans, and the Entire Lakers Community,
I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits. I write to you with a sense of deep respect, admiration, and gratitude for everything that we’ve been able to experience together on this journey through the NBA. As you all know, the game we play is about much more than just basketball; it’s about the connection we form with each other, the fans who support us, and the deep-rooted love we all share for this sport. The road we travel as professional basketball players can be difficult, but it’s also incredibly rewarding, and in many ways, it brings us together in ways words can hardly capture.
Jayson Tatum,
First and foremost, Jayson, I want to personally take a moment to acknowledge you. You have been nothing short of spectacular in your career, and you continue to set a standard of excellence on and off the court. It has been a true honor to watch you grow, compete, and succeed. Whether it’s in clutch moments or through your leadership with the Celtics, you’ve shown what it means to be a true competitor. Our matchups have always been intense, but there’s a mutual respect that I hold for you. Your dedication to the game, your relentless pursuit of improvement, and your ability to carry your team in big moments are qualities that I admire. You remind me every time we play that greatness is earned and not given.
Basketball is a game where each matchup is an opportunity to learn and evolve. Every game we play against each other raises the stakes and pushes us to play better, not just for ourselves, but for our teams and fans. Your influence in this league has been undeniable, and I look forward to many more battles where we both give everything for the win. There is always room for growth, but in many ways, you have already reached the peak, and that’s something every player in the league should aspire to.
To the Fans,
To the incredible fans who follow and support us, I can’t thank you enough. Whether you cheer for the Mavericks, the Celtics, or any other team, your passion is felt across every arena, every play, and every second. It is because of your energy that we give our best, pushing our limits to be the best versions of ourselves on the court. Your unwavering dedication creates the atmosphere that fuels our drive to perform at the highest level. I understand the importance of every moment you spend cheering for your team, and I appreciate the love and respect that we receive as athletes.
The bond between a fan and a player is something truly special. I’ve seen firsthand how much effort and emotion fans pour into their teams, and that’s why we play the game — not just for the trophies, but for the joy and the pride of representing something bigger than ourselves. The Los Angeles Lakers’ community, in particular, holds a place in the hearts of so many basketball lovers across the world. You are the foundation of what makes the NBA so incredible, and I have so much respect for the passion and energy you bring every time your team steps onto the court. The history, the tradition, and the iconic legacy that the Lakers represent are undeniable. As much as I’m focused on helping my team succeed, I can’t help but recognize the immense contribution the Lakers have made to this league, and how inspiring your franchise is.
To the Entire Los Angeles Lakers Community,
This one is especially for you, the entire Lakers family. I respect the championship pedigree, the unwavering commitment to excellence, and the drive to continue being one of the league’s most successful franchises. From the time I was growing up watching the likes of Kobe Bryant, Magic Johnson, Shaquille O’Neal, and others, it was clear to me that the Lakers were more than just a team — they were a symbol of greatness. Every player who puts on that purple and gold jersey is part of something special. I know this from my own experience — the Lakers’ culture sets a bar, and the fans expect nothing but the best from their team.
Even when we don’t share the same colors, I can say that I deeply respect what your team has accomplished over the years. The Lakers represent the heart and soul of basketball, and being in the NBA means that we all share a collective respect for what the franchise has done to build this game to the global platform it is today.
The upcoming seasons promise to be exciting for all of us, and I know there are challenges ahead. But one thing is for certain: the Los Angeles Lakers, with their rich legacy and passionate fans, will always remain a dominant force in the NBA. I look forward to competing with you all in the years ahead, continuing to learn from one another, and striving for greatness every time we hit the hardwood.
To Jayson, to the fans, and to the entire Lakers community, thank you for your constant support, your energy, and your commitment to the game we all love. Let’s continue to bring out the best in each other, and let the rivalry and camaraderie live on. The future is bright, and we have so much to look forward to as the game of basketball continues to evolve.
With respect and admiration,
Luka Dončić
