Luka Doncic entered Thursday’s Olympic men’s basketball semifinal matchup with France having never suffered a loss in international play with Slovenia’s senior national team. That changed thanks to a familiar opponent.
Just as Nicolas Batum and the Clippers ended the Mavericks’ NBA season, Batum — and his game-saving block in France’s 90-89 win — put an end to Doncic’s gold medal hopes. Doncic, who was limited after hurting his wrist, still put up the first Olympic men’s triple-double since LeBron James in 2012. But the Mavs star was understandably devastated to suffer that first Slovenia loss.
That was where Batum came in with a classy show of sportsmanship.
Batum sought out Doncic after the game to offer words of encouragement. Luka appreciated the gesture.
Nic Batum — who beat Mavs in NBA playoffs and blocked Slovenia's gold-medal game hopes tonight — sought out Luka Doncic immediately after the buzzer:
What he told Luka, per Luka: "He told me he hates playing against me in a good way. I really respect him. He’s really class act."
— Callie Caplan (@CallieCaplan) August 5, 2021
And after the game, Batum shared a photo of him shaking hands with a disappointed Doncic. He wrote in the caption:
Nothing but respect brother, this sport is yours! @lukadoncic
France will take on Team USA in the gold medal game at 10:30 p.m. ET on Friday. Doncic and Slovenia will face Australia for the bronze medal.
