Luka Dončić’s father has criticized the Dallas Mavericks following the high-profile trade that sent his son to the Los Angeles Lakers.

Over the weekend, NBA fans were stunned when the news broke that the 25-year-old would be moving to the Lakers, with Anthony Davis heading to the Mavericks in return.

The trade was shrouded in secrecy, with reports suggesting that Dončić, Davis, and even LeBron James were all unaware of the move until the news emerged. Reports later indicated that the Mavericks were unhappy with Dončić’s focus on conditioning and his physical fitness. Dallas GM Nico Harrison has mentioned that Dončić’s upcoming contract talks and Davis’s superior defense were also factors in the decision.

In an interview with Arena Sport 1 in Slovenia, Sasa Dončić, Luka’s father, expressed his frustration with how the Mavericks handled the trade.

“I understand that sometimes there’s a difference in philosophy,” said Sasa Dončić. “You may not like a player or disagree with certain things, but the secrecy – or perhaps even hypocrisy from some individuals – personally hurts me. Luka definitely doesn’t deserve this.”

The Mavericks are the only NBA team Luka has played for. His stellar offense played a major role in the Mavs reaching the NBA finals last season, and he has five All-NBA First Team selections, cementing his status as one of the NBA’s top players.

Sasa Dončić defended his son’s physical condition in response to claims, likely from within the Mavericks organization, about Luka’s fitness.

“Last year, conditioning wasn’t an issue,” said Sasa. “One person said Luka wasn’t fit enough, but he played over 100 games, with 40 minutes per game, constantly being guarded by two or three players. He was physically challenged and yet still performed. To make these accusations is very unfair from certain people. If you trade him, stand by it, but don’t make excuses.”

Luka Dončić took a more restrained approach in his own comments about the trade, not directly addressing the Mavericks organization but thanking the city of Dallas.

“For a young kid from Slovenia, coming to the US for the first time, you made North Texas feel like home,” Dončić wrote. “Through the highs and lows, injuries, and the NBA finals, your support never wavered. Thank you for sharing in our best moments and for lifting me up when I needed it.”

While he didn’t mention the Mavericks specifically, he did thank the fans.

“As I start the next chapter of my basketball journey, I’m leaving a city that will always feel like a second home,” he added. “Dallas is special, and Mavs fans are one of a kind.”

In a separate message, Dončić expressed excitement about his future with the Lakers. “I’m grateful for this amazing opportunity,” he said. “Basketball means everything to me, and no matter where I play, I’ll always play with the same joy, passion, and goal – to win championships.”