Lakers’ Luka Doncic Could Be Greatest International Player Ever, Says Rival All-Star

Apr 9, 2025; Dallas, Texas, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) warms up before the game against the Dallas Mavericks at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images | Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

The Los Angeles Lakers head into the new season with two of the league’s premier stars on their roster: LeBron James and Luka Doncic.

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James may be the more popular player, and rightfully so, as he has established himself as arguably the greatest basketball player ever. However, at only 26 years old, Doncic is trying to do the same.

Doncic is set to enter his eighth season in the league and has established himself as one of the best players in the world today. The five-time All-Star has all the talent in the world and will look to continue to showcase that as he enters his first full season in Los Angeles.

Doncic still has a long way to go, but he is on the right trajectory. One NBA All-Star who thinks Doncic is right on his way to a stellar career took it up a notch.

Philadelphia 76ers star forward Paul George said that he thinks Doncic could be the greatest international hooper ever.

“We’re talking about being the biggest international player now,” George said. “That’s surpassing GOATs,” George said. “That’s surpassing Dirk. That’s surpassing Tony Parker. That’s surpassing Hakeem. He’s got a chance to be the biggest international guy, surpassing Giannis in a way. He’s got a chance to be one of the best to ever do it. His game is just way older than what he is. He’s tough, man. He’s a problem. Big fan of Luka and he talk that s***, too.”

“He’s got a chance to be the biggest international guy… He’s got a chance to be one of the best to ever do it. His game is just way older than what he is.”

Paul George says Luka Doncic could be the best international hooper ever 👀

(via @PodcastPShow)pic.twitter.com/31gH4fjiPK

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) September 11, 2025

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Luka Doncic Still Has a Long Way to go For That Title

Doncic has done a lot in his first seven years of his career, but he has a long way to go to be crowned the greatest international hooper ever.

Players who are among the best from outside of the United States include Hakeem Olajuwon, Dirk Nowitzki, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Manu Ginobili, Pau Gasol, Nikola Jokic and Steve Nash, to name a few.

The international players mentioned above either won multiple titles or major individual accolades throughout their incredible careers.

Doncic is still seeking either one of them or both if he is fortunate enough. Nonetheless, George believes he is on that path, and only time will tell whether or not he can take that top spot.

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