Luka Doncic shows appreciation for Philippines fans / News - Basketnews.com

Following the ejection and elimination against Canada, Luka Doncic gave a moment to appreciate the support and love he received from the fans in the Philippines.

Credit: FIBA Credit FIBA

Luka Doncic and Slovenia played their first game in Manilla, Philippines, and their hopes in the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 were crushed, but despite that, the Dallas Mavericks superstar shared a warm message to the local fans.

Player of the Game EFF 40 Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Points 31 Accuracy 8-12 Rebounds 10 Assists 4

From the moment Doncic arrived in the Philippines, many supporters wore his jersey, while some of them attended the Slovenia-Canada game with Doncic's Jordan brand sneakers.

"I really appreciate the love, it's been amazing," Doncic said in the post-game conference. "So many fans support me. Tomorrow, we have another game, and hopefully, we can get the win for them. It's been really amazing, so I really appreciate the love."

In the quarterfinal against Canada, Doncic received his second technical foul after arguing with the referees for not receiving a call and was ejected with 6:37 left in the 4th quarter.

Doncic finished the game with 26 points (4/14 2PT, 4/6 3PT, 6/7 FT), 4 rebounds, 5 assists, 3 turnovers, 2 steals, and 21 EFF.

"Everybody knows what my frustration was," Doncic said. "Playing for the national team it's a lot of emotions. A lot of times, I don't control myself, which I've been having problems with."

"One of the referees told our guys, 'We're not going to call a foul on him because he's coming at us.' I think this is not fair. I know I complain a lot, but I don't think it's fair. They've been playing physical with me, but if you say that, it's not fair," Doncic added.

Slovenia ended up losing the game 89-100 and will continue to play for 5th-8th places. Up next, Slovenia will face Lithuania.

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