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Luka Dončić makes EuroBasket 2025 history with a triple-double vs. Belgium, scoring 26 points, 10 rebounds, and 11 assists to lead Slovenia’s first win.
Introduction
Very few players in world basketball can dominate a game like Luka Dončić.
Already an NBA superstar with the Dallas Mavericks, Dončić showcased his talents on the international stage at EuroBasket 2025 and put on a performance that will be remembered for years.
In Slovenia’s 86-69 win over Belgium, Luka not only led his team to its first win of the tournament,
but also etched his name in history with a rare triple-double, a feat that has occurred very few times in EuroBasket history.
Luka’s triple-double performance
Dončić’s stats against Belgium were like this from an NBA playoff box score:
26 points
10 rebounds
11 assists
This made him only the fourth (or fifth, depending on the count) player to record a triple-double in EuroBasket history since 1995.
Considering how rare this feat is on the European stage, Luka’s performance puts him in the category of rare players.
Why triple-doubles are so rare in EuroBasket
Unlike the NBA, where triple-doubles are becoming increasingly common, EuroBasket games are shorter (40 minutes vs. 48 minutes in the NBA) and the pace of play is different.
Players also share responsibilities more evenly, making it much harder for one player to dominate in multiple categories.
That’s why Luka’s triple-double feels even more historic—it was a display of all-around talent in a tournament that emphasizes efficiency and teamwork more than individual stardom.
A look at Luka’s efficiency
Although Dončić performed impressively, his shooting was mixed:
9 of 23 shots from the field
2 of 11 shots from three-point range
Although the efficiency wasn’t perfect, his ability to stay aggressive, dodge defenders and create chances for teammates outweighed the misses.
His 11 assists were proof that Luka’s vision and playmaking are unmatched.
Display of leadership
Slovenia was under pressure and desperately needed a win after struggles earlier in the tournament.
Luka responded by controlling the tempo, organizing the game, and energizing his teammates with his confidence.
His leadership went beyond the box score—he kept the team calm during a tough period and made sure Belgium never gained momentum.
Youngest player to score 400 points at EuroBasket
The match wasn’t just about triple-doubles. Dončić also became the youngest player (26 years, 184 days) in EuroBasket history to score 400 career points,
surpassing the milestone achieved by Tony Parker in 2007.
This not only reflects his dominance in single matches, but also his consistent excellence across multiple tournaments.
Comparisons to NBA legends
Luka’s international performance is reminiscent of Russell Westbrook’s triple-double era dominance in the NBA, as well as LeBron James’ composure in big moments.
His ability to seamlessly adapt his NBA style to FIBA competitions highlights just how unique a player he is.
Very few players on the European stage have been able to blend scoring, rebounding and passing the way Luka did against Belgium.
Impact on Slovenia’s EuroBasket journey
With this win, Slovenia has gained significant momentum in the group stage.
Dončić’s performance not only lifted the team up the standings, but also infused new energy into the squad after initial struggles.
If Slovenia is to repeat its performance from the EuroBasket 2017 championship, it will need more of Luka’s magic.
What’s next for Luka and Slovenia?
Slovenia’s road to EuroBasket 2025 is still full of challenges. Strong opponents like Spain,
France and Serbia lie ahead. But with Luka’s historic form, Slovenia remains a dangerous team capable of defeating any powerhouse.
The question now is whether Luka can continue his impressive form—and possibly lead Slovenia to the knockout round.
Conclusion
Luka Dončić’s triple-double against Belgium was more than just a statistical accomplishment—it’s a reminder of his greatness both in the NBA and on the international stage.
Becoming one of just a handful of players to record a EuroBasket triple-double and the youngest player in tournament history to score 400 points,
Luka solidified his status as one of basketball’s all-time global stars.
For fans, it was a glimpse of why Luka is considered a generational talent: a player who can score, rebound and create chances for others at the highest level, no matter the stage.
