The Los Angeles Lakers have officially arrived in Slovenia, with the team sharing the first photos from their unusual preseason visit. The images show the players spending time together away from the basketball court, giving fans around the world a glimpse of the NBA stars enjoying a more relaxed side of their trip. The visit was organized by Slovenian superstar Luka Dončić, who invited his Lakers teammates to his home country for several days of team bonding ahead of the new NBA season. The Lakers shared the photos on Instagram with the caption “Squad up in Slovenia,” quickly attracting attention from fans. Jaden Hardy described his first impressions of Slovenia as “incredible,” while Collin Sexton also praised the experience and said the team was having a great time.
The team arrived in Slovenia on Thursday by private jet before traveling to a hotel in central Ljubljana. Later that evening, several players were seen leaving a restaurant after dinner, appearing relaxed as they began exploring the country. For Dončić, the trip is an opportunity to introduce his teammates to the country where he grew up. The Lakers are expected to explore more of Slovenia during their stay, with activities including golf and fishing around Bled, as well as sightseeing in Ljubljana and other locations. Sandro Mamukelashvili and Jarred Vanderbilt were among the other players who appeared enthusiastic about the visit.
The visit is also providing significant international exposure for Slovenia. The Lakers are one of the most recognizable sports teams in the world, meaning their photos and videos from the country can reach millions of basketball fans. The Slovenian Tourist Board has also highlighted the promotional value of the visit. The trip combines basketball activities with social events, sightseeing and opportunities for the players to experience Slovenian culture, giving the team a chance to strengthen relationships before the intensity of the new season begins.
The Lakers are expected to remain in Slovenia until August 24, when the players will continue preparing for the upcoming NBA season. Dončić is organizing and financing the four day team bonding trip, giving his teammates an opportunity to experience his home country. For Slovenia, the visit represents a rare opportunity to see one of the world’s most famous basketball teams experiencing the country through the eyes of one of its biggest sporting stars. And judging by the Lakers’ first photos, Dončić’s teammates are already making the most of their Slovenian adventure.
