Luka Dončić may now be wearing Los Angeles Lakers colors, but NBA fans were reminded that Dallas still holds a place in his heart.
When the Lakers made the trip to the American Airlines Center on Saturday, Dončić didn’t treat it like just another road game. Even in purple and gold, he made sure to show appreciation for the fanbase that supported him throughout his years with the Mavericks.
Before the game, Dončić invited 22 Mavs fans into his private suite. Those fans were also gifted jerseys and his signature Jordan Luka 5s, a gesture that quickly started making the rounds online.
NBA fans shared mixed reactions.
@SamPeterToT wrote, “Some stars would call this ‘doing too much.’ I call it doing what others are scared to do. Authentic connection always looks extra to empty people.”
Some stars would call this “doing too much.” I call it doing what others are scared to do. Authentic connection always looks extra to empty people.
— Samuel Peter (@SamPeterToT) January 25, 2026
@HEMENDRABISHT3 added, “Superstars say ‘business is business.’ Luka still shows up for the people. That’s the difference.”
Others saw it differently.
@RobMoor68231880 joked, “Luka owns that suite, for a while, it’s his middle finger to Dallas for getting rid of him, he still owns it.”
Dončić didn’t stop there. In front of fans who continue to support him despite the jersey change, he delivered on the court as well, leading the Lakers to a comeback win with 33 points, 11 assists, and 8 rebounds.
“Nico’s enjoying his under-the-table Laker money”: NBA fans react to Dallas Mavericks’ standing ovation for Luka Dončić
When Dončić was introduced before tip-off, the Dallas crowd gave him a standing ovation — a reminder that the relationship between Luka and the city hasn’t disappeared.
For many fans, though, the emotions around the trade are still raw.
@deadboy90d aimed frustration at the Mavericks’ front office, writing, “Nico’s on a beach somewhere enjoying his under the table Laker money.”
@ygernesto added, “That crowd would trade every single player for Luka. They rather play 1v5 than watch that butt a** team.”
Others still believe there’s a chance for a reunion down the line.
@JayTheGreat305 said, “I think one day they have to make it right with Dallas fans. And get Luka back maybe before he retire.”
Dončić was moved in the blockbuster trade that sent him, Maxi Kleber, and Markieff Morris to Los Angeles in exchange for Max Christie, Anthony Davis, and a 2029 first-round pick — a deal that Dallas fans clearly haven’t fully moved on from.
