CONTRIBUTING OFF THE COURT

Dallas Mavericks Luka Don I And His Foundation Plan Holiday Surprises For Pediatric Patients

THE HOLIDAYS ARE TYPICALLY A JOYOUS TIME FOR CHILDREN, BUT THAT’S NOT ALWAYS THE CASE FOR THOSE SPENDING THEM IN A HOSPITAL BED OR AFFECTED WITH A SERIOUS MEDICAL CONDITION.

With a generous heart and a love to serve others, the threetime All-NBA First Team and All-Star wanted to expand his holiday giving this year beyond Slovenia to include children from his “second” hometown, Dallas.

In December, patients at Dallas’ Scottish Rite for Children gathered for a fun-fi lled party — packed with gifts, games, and activities — that Luka helped plan and fund through the Luka Dončić Foundation.

“I hope this makes them happy and puts a smile on their face,” said Luka. “They are so brave and strong, and I want them to know I’m thinking of them during the holidays and wishing them all the best in the New Year!”

Gifts, personally chosen by Luka, were also given to the children from him.

In addition to toys and games, Luka teamed up with a few “elves” at NERF, Jordan Brand, and Chess.com. They provided NERF basketball hoops and NERF blasters, Jordan Brand apparel and drawstring bags, ChessKid gifts, and a yearlong premium membership at ChessKid.com or Chess.com (depending on the child’s age).

And Luka didn’t forget the dedicated, hardworking healthcare staff who provide round-the-clock daily care for the young patients. Luka gave 25 Scottish Rite healthcare workers two lower-bowl tickets to watch the Dallas Mavericks play the Los Angeles Lakers on Christmas Day.

“We loved seeing the children’s eyes light up and hearing their excitement when they received these generous gifts from Luka and his foundation,” said Stephanie Brigger, Vice President of Development at Scottish Rite for Children. “Scottish Rite is honored to be a part of Luka’s holiday giving and grateful for his help in making the season merry and bright for our patients and staff!”

Never forgetting his homeland, he also expanded his involvement in Slovenia. Since Luka is competing in the US, his girlfriend, Anamaria Goltes, delivered presents and treats to approximately 150 patients at two hospitals – University Medical Centre Maribor and the Šentvid pri Stični Children’s Hospital – located near their hometown, Ljubljana.

For more information, follow the Luka Dončić Foundation on Instagram.