Luka Doncic's frustration erupts after quarterfinal exit

Posted : 07 September 2023

Luka Doncic, the Slovenian basketball sensation, found himself in a tense situation during the World Cup quarterfinals, as his team faced a disappointing elimination at the hands of Canada. The North American team made history by advancing to the semifinals for the first time ever, but it was a bitter pill for Doncic and his teammates to swallow.

Throughout the game, Doncic felt the pressure of Canada's physical style of play, which included numerous fouls. This aggressive approach frustrated the Dallas Mavericks' star, and he believed that the referees were not calling enough fouls in his favor. Doncic's frustration reached a boiling point, resulting in his ejection from the game during the fourth quarter after receiving a second technical foul.

As he left the court, Doncic made a demonstrative gesture toward the referees, clapping his hands and even using a "money" gesture aimed at FIBA leaders. While he initially refused to answer reporters' questions after the game, he did speak at the subsequent press conference.

Doncic revealed that the referees had informed one of his teammates that they wouldn't whistle fouls against Canada's Dillon Brooks because Doncic had been persistently complaining to them. He expressed his displeasure with this decision, stating, "I think it's unfair. I know I complain a lot, but I just don't think it's fair."

Dillon Brooks, known for his tough defensive assignments and ability to frustrate opponents, was also ejected from the game following an unsportsmanlike foul on Doncic. Despite their on-court clashes, Doncic acknowledged Brooks' abilities, saying, "A lot of people don't like him, but I respect him for what he does, and he does his job great."

Doncic's frustration didn't stop with the referees and FIBA officials; it extended to Slovenia's national team coach, Aleksandar Sekulic. During the fourth quarter, Doncic became visibly upset with his coach, urging him to put more pressure on the referees. Sekulic, in his attempt to explain Doncic's behavior, said, "It's hard to control your emotions when throughout the game you're getting more and more punching and bullying. I know it doesn't look good, but it's hard and frustrating to conduct yourself like this. He's a huge player, and it's hard to keep him legally and legitimately."

Despite Sekulic's understanding of the situation, some European journalists criticized Doncic's conduct. One prominent basketball website on the continent pointed out Doncic's challenge: "Luka Doncic has a huge problem. He is already 24 years old and has been playing professionally for eight years. For some reason, he still believes he can control the refereeing style during games. It doesn't work anywhere, and it looks bad. It's 2023, and he just doesn't seem to be learning."

Luka Doncic's frustration erupts after quarterfinal exit

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