KATOWICE, Poland — A slimmed-down Luka Doncic gave Lakers fans something to look forward to, but it wasn’t enough to lead his team to victory in a EuroBasket opener on Thursday.
American-born guard Jordan Loyd hit seven 3-pointers and finished with 32 points to help Poland outlast Doncic and Slovenia, 105-95.
Loyd’s efforts spoiled a strong effort from Doncic, who finished with 34 points and nine assists in the Group D matchup. Doncic shot 7 for 14 from the field (3 for 9 from 3-point range) and 17 for 18 from the free-throw line in a team-high 36 minutes. He added five steals and four rebounds.
Poland led 47-46 at halftime, then outscored Slovenia 33-23 in the third quarter to take control.
Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo had a much easier outing, scoring 31 points in 29 mi