Luka Doncic Sparks Debate Over WNBA Legend’s New Nickname

LOS ANGELES, March 6, 2025 — Luka Doncic’s recent performance with the Los Angeles Lakers has ignited lively discussions among basketball fans and commentators alike. The trade that brought the Slovenian star to Los Angeles has played a vital role in revitalizing the Lakers’ playoff ambitions, contributing to the team’s impressive record of eight wins in their last ten games.

Doncic’s impact on the Lakers, alongside teammates like LeBron James, has garnered increasing media attention. However, this spotlight also brought mixed reviews, particularly concerning commentary from WNBA legend Candace Parker during a recent game against the New York Knicks.

Parker, a three-time WNBA champion, has transitioned to commentary and was one of the hosts on TNT’s ‘Inside the NBA.’ During the game, her focus on Doncic led her to affectionately nickname him ‘Luka the Don,’ a moniker that has not been universally received.

Fans took to social media to express a range of opinions about Parker’s commentary. One user tweeted, “Hearing Candace Parker say ‘Luka The Don’ makes me cringe every time I hear it.” Another user was more straightforward, saying, “Does Candace Parker ever shut the f**k up?? ‘Luka The Don’ okay we got it, that s**t is not sticking.”

Parker’s repetitive use of the nickname during the game has drawn criticism, with some noting they counted it over twenty times in the first quarter alone. Despite the potential for ‘Luka the Don’ to catch on, many believe that a nickname should be more than just a catchy phrase.

“What makes Luka Doncic a ‘Don’?” questioned one fan. “Simply being Slovenian does not mean you’re an Italian mobster.” Fans seem to agree that without deeper justification, the nickname risks sounding contrived.

Despite the backlash, it’s clear that Doncic has made quite the impression since joining the Lakers, averaging 22.9 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 7.7 assists per game. His presence appears to have eased the scoring pressure on LeBron James and others, bolstering the Lakers’ lineup.

While some commentators have found success translating their playing careers into television, history shows it’s not a guaranteed transition. This has led to mixed feelings about Parker’s commentary during games, leading fans to wonder if she will refine her skills or pivot her approach moving forward.

As social media reactions continue to pour in, the overall sentiment leans towards criticism of Parker’s performance. How she addresses this feedback in the future, as well as the fate of ‘Luka the Don,’ remains to be seen.