Luka Doncic in tight spot as $11.7B Giorgio Armani move sees Slovenia lose Cancar, Nebo for EuroBasket clash
Slovenia's Stozice Arena was packed to capacity on Friday night, August 8. Fans came to see Luka Doncic back on the home court after his NBA season with the Los Angeles Lakers. The stands were full of Slovenian flags, 'Luka 2.0' signs, and even a few purple Lakers jerseys with the number 77.
The night had the energy of a celebration, but something important was missing from the court.
Luka Doncic Slams Milano as Armani's Club Blocks Cancar, Nebo from Slovenia Duty
The Slovenian national basketball team started their EuroBasket warm-up match in Ljubljana, Slovenia, without two of their top players - forward Vlatko Cancar and center Josh Nebo. Both play for Olimpia Milano, the Italian club owned by billionaire fashion icon Giorgio Armani, whose net worth is estimated at $11.7 billion.
Olimpia Milano refused to release Cancar and Nebo for Slovenia's preparation games, saying they were still recovering from past injuries. On August 6, the club's general manager, Christos Stavropoulos, said in an official statement:
'In agreement with them, a procedure for their gradual return to action will be implemented to safeguard principally their health and long-term competitiveness.'
But Luka Doncic told Slovenian media a different version before tip-off. He said,
'The Lakers allowed me to play, but Milano doesn't.
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It should always be the player's decision.'
The Slovenian Basketball Federation confirmed they had offered a counter-medical opinion, but Milano stood firm. National team coach Aleksandar Sekulic later added,
'There was pressure from the club, so both had to withdraw.'
Luka Doncic's solo show falls short as Slovenia miss Cancar, Nebo in loss to Germany
On August 8, Slovenia hosted Germany in Ljubljana for the first of their EuroBasket warm-up matches. It was Luka Doncic's first game since the Lakers' playoff exit in May 2025. He scored 19 points in 24 minutes, showing sharp shooting, quick passes, and confidence.
But with Cancar and Nebo missing, Slovenia struggled against Germany's size and depth.
Germany, even without Dennis Schroder, Daniel Theis, and Maodo Lo, had Franz Wagner, David Kramer, and several other NBA and EuroLeague players. Wagner scored 18 points in 17 minutes, and Kramer also had 18. Germany led by as much as 18 points and won 103–89.
Slovenia's lack of size and athleticism was clear. The Germans trapped Doncic in pick-and-rolls, doubled him often, and forced other players to take shots.
Slovenia will face Germany again on August 10 and Lithuania on August 15 in more warm-ups before EuroBasket begins on August 27, 2025. They are in Group D with France, Israel, Belgium, Iceland, and host Poland.
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While Giorgio Armani was not in the arena that night, his club's decision had a major impact on Slovenia's roster - and left Luka Doncic carrying the team almost alone.
Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
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