Los Angeles Lakers superstar Luka Doncic inked a three-year, $165 million contract extension, remaining in the purple and gold at least through 2028. Luka marked the extension with a night out in Las Vegas for his team and all-time favorite boy band: the Backstreet Boys.
The bash was a surprise party arranged by Lakers General Manager Rob Pelinka and Head Coach JJ Redick, who took the 25-year-old player to the Sphere in Vegas for a viewing of the legendary pop group’s show, a report stated.
Doncic Gets VIP Backstreet Boys Moment
Doncic had earlier informed ESPN’s Malika Andrews that he was a Backstreet Boys fan for life. The Lakers organization apparently did not miss it. After Saturday morning’s signing, Doncic was given VIP treatment at the concert, including backstage privileges and a go-viral moment with band member Brian Littrell, the report continued.
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In the video, shared by the pop band on Instagram, Littrell is seen speaking to Luka at eye level, and when the camera zooms out, it is revealed that the musician is standing on a table. The band captioned the post, stating, “A Backstreet Boy trying to talk to an NBA player at eye level.”
The clip went around on various sites as fans swooned over the sweet moment.
Lakers Secure Future Amid LeBron’s Final Season
In accordance with another Athlon Sports article, the agreement brings an end to speculation over Doncic’s future and situates the Slovenian superstar as the franchise’s next franchise player, particularly with LeBron James poised to play his last NBA season.
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With James picking up his $52.6 million player option, the Lakers are locked in for at least one season of a LeBron-Doncic super-duo. Following the extension, Luka posted on X (formerly Twitter) and wrote, “This is just the beginning.” He expressed gratitude for the Lakers, his team, and the fans who have “shown love since day one”.
Doncic’s 2024 Stats and Playoff Performance
After a year in which he scored 28.2 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.5 assists per game during the regular season in 28 games, Dončić is determined to keep contributing to the Lakers’ 18th championship win. Dončić became part of an exclusive group in Lakers playoff lore by averaging 30 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists, and while the Lakers lost in the playoffs to the Timberwolves.
He picked up a Men’s Health cover spot for his hard-earned off-season conditioning, and he made a significant effort to sign the likes of Marcus Smart and DeAndre Ayton.
