The Mavericks’ superstar point guard, fresh from leading Slovenia to its first men’s basketball appearance in the Olympics and narrowly missing a medal, returned to his home country on Tuesday to sign a record-breaking supermax contract extension.
The deal was officially announced just before 8 a.m. Dallas time and was signed earlier in Slovenia at the hotel where the Mavericks’ entourage was staying, according to Dončić.
Worth $207 million over five seasons, the contract starts in the 2022-23 season and keeps Dončić with the Mavericks until 2027.
“It’s a very special moment,” Dončić said. “Thank you to Dallas for offering me this. I never imagined this happening. I dreamed of playing in the NBA, and now I’m signing a five-year extension with the Mavericks, which I always wanted.”
The contract, negotiated with the Mavericks’ representatives and agent Bill Duffy in Slovenia, was a straightforward decision for both parties. The Mavericks offered Dončić the maximum possible amount, similar to their previous negotiations with Dirk Nowitzki.
At 22 years old and standing 6-foot-7, Dončić is entering his fourth season. This extension is the largest rookie contract extension in history.
In other words, it’s a win-win situation.
As Dončić’s agent, Bill Duffy, stated: “He’s a great human being who cares about his community and Slovenia. We wanted him in Dallas from the draft, so we worked with Mark [Cuban], Donnie Nelson, and the scouts to make it happen. Luka’s gracious, humble, and loyal. This is a great day for Luka, starting what will be a hall of fame career with hopefully many championships.”
Dončić was eligible for the supermax extension due to making the all-NBA first, second, or third teams twice in his first three seasons.
Present for the announcement in Ljubljana, Slovenia, were owner Mark Cuban, coach Jason Kidd, president of basketball operations Nico Harrison, franchise icon and special adviser Dirk Nowitzki, director of athletic performance Casey Smith, and assistant GM Michael Finley.
Cuban opened the news conference with a few words in Slovenian, which he admitted he likely “butchered.”
“This is a big day,” Cuban said. “When we drafted Luka in 2018, we knew he was good, but not this good. This is the result of his hard work. He’s become an incredible NBA player and a great part of the community. Announcing his extension with the Mavericks is a proud moment. We want him to have a hall of fame career like Dirk, who is here with us. Congratulations on all your hard work, Luka. This is just the beginning.”
Dončić also announced the expansion of The Luka Dončić Foundation, his international nonprofit that will give back to Slovenia and the communities of North Texas.
During their time in Ljubljana, the group spent Monday sightseeing and enjoying Slovenian food and wine.
The relief and joy on everyone’s faces were evident during the announcement.
Dončić said many factors made re-signing with the Mavericks an easy decision, but his comfort level was the most important.
“I feel like it’s a second home, like I’m a second Dirk,” he said. “The people in the organization are great. It feels like home. I can’t say anything else.”
Cuban emphasized the importance of sending a high-level group to Slovenia to show Dončić how valued he is by the organization.
“This is just the beginning,” Cuban said. “We want him to know we’re there for him, whether in Slovenia, Dallas, or anywhere in the world. Getting to know him and what’s important to him is part of the process. Spending time in his city and with his people has helped us take the first step.”
Cuban also mentioned that initial talks have occurred about an exhibition game involving Dončić and the Mavericks, possibly in Madrid, with a side trip to Slovenia.
In the meantime, the Mavericks have their cornerstone secured and can continue building a championship team around Dončić.
“We’re happy with how the offseason has gone,” Cuban said. “I think we improved our team considerably. Watching Slovenia play, Luka’s ability to find open shooters and play a team game stood out. I know Jason and Nico are excited for the future.”
Dončić added, “We made great moves in free agency, but chemistry on the court is crucial. Slovenia had amazing chemistry, and it led us to winning games. That’s what we need in Dallas.”
