Emotions ran high Wednesday night in Dallas — especially for Luka Dončić.
The Lakers star returned to American Airlines Center for the first time since February’s stunning late-night blockbuster trade that sent him from the Mavericks to Los Angeles.
Before he even stepped on the court and dropped a game-high 45 points in the Lakers’ 112-97 win, the Mavericks honored Dončić with a heartfelt tribute video, bringing the five-time All-Star to tears.
Luka 💔 pic.twitter.com/uj1ZoPdtSR
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) April 9, 2025
An emotional Luka Dončić reacts to a tribute video ahead of the Lakers’ matchup against his former team, the Mavericks, at American Airlines Center.
During the lineup introductions, the Dallas crowd waited until the end of the Lakers’ announcements to play a two-minute montage highlighting Dončić’s most memorable moments with the Mavericks.
As the tribute played on the arena scoreboard, Dončić sat alone on the Lakers bench in his warmup gear, visibly emotional. He wiped away tears with a towel several times, unable to hold back the wave of feelings.
The video ended with a “Thank you, Luka” message, followed by his official introduction — met with a standing ovation from the Dallas crowd, including Mavericks legend and former teammate Dirk Nowitzki.
“Honestly, I don’t know about closure. It’s obviously a lot,” Dončić said after Tuesday’s loss in Oklahoma City, reflecting on his return to his old home in Texas. “I know the fans are going to appreciate me being back here. Honestly, I don’t know how I’m going to feel, but I’m just excited to be back.”
A fan holds up a sign for Lakers guard Luka Dončić before the game against the Mavericks at American Airlines Center.
Luka Dončić shares an embrace with Rui Hachimura ahead of the Lakers’ game against the Mavericks on April 9, 2025.
The trade remains a sore spot for many Mavericks fans, who once again voiced their frustration Wednesday night by chanting for the firing of general manager Nico Harrison.
Since the trade to Los Angeles, Dončić has maintained his consistency, averaging 27.1 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.6 assists over 26 games leading up to Wednesday’s contest.
