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"Anybody talks" - Doncic on the difference between trash talk in Europe and America
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- "Anybody talks" - Doncic on the difference between trash talk in Europe and America
Trash-talking might not be as prominent or frequent in today's NBA as it was back in the day, but there is still a good number of heavy talkers playing in 2025. Among the most prominent ones must be Luka Doncic , as the Slovenian superstar appears to engage in verbal battles with opponents and fans on a nightly basis.
The Los Angeles Lakers guard recently appeared on the popular YouTube show "Hot Ones" and talked about a variety of topics while munching on some hot wings. Given Doncic's habit of talking trash, host Sean Evans was interested in where players spit more smack between Europe and the NBA. Luka didn't have to overthink to give his answer.
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"I think in the NBA it's way more than in Europe. When I was a kid I didn't trash talk in Europe. I was a little kid, I didn't. It's way more in the NBA. Anybody talks," Luka answered .
Insane competitor
Coming from Slovenia and shaping his game up as a teenager at the Real Madrid academy, Doncic was pushed into the fire early. However, that made him a fearless monster who was already leading his team to the EuroLeague title at only 17 years old. However, back then, Luka was much better known for his game and not really getting into too many verbal confrontations.
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While Europe is filled with plenty of rugged and tough individuals, most guys let the game do the talking and punish the so-called "yappers". Naturally, Doncic recognized that and focused on destroying his opponents with his hoop skills.
However, when the Slovenian arrived to the NBA, his demeanor changed. Guys were testing Doncic to see if he is the real deal, primarily due to his international heritage and the hype surrounding him. Luka had to fight back in every way possible to earn his respect, and in the process, became one of the most feared players in the league — unafraid to speak his mind at any time.
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Cowherd thinks it made Doncic succeed
Interestingly, FS1's Colin Cowherd had a theory earlier this year that this precise characteristic made Doncic so successful in the NBA. Unlike the majority of other international players, who are usually laid-back and non-confrontational, Luka is quite intense and willing to get physical against the most challenging defenders.
"Luka does something that domestic players do," said Cowherd. "He trash-talks fans. He trash-talks; he's us. He is not an international player that's polite and loyal. He drinks beer after games. They have to take it from him. He's yelling at fans. I think he is the face of the league if LeBron retired."
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While international players have been dominating the court in the past couple of years, they have also been unafraid to show their emotions. Aside from Doncic, stars like Nikola Jokic, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and plenty more have all shown their bravado and stood up to the classic American talkers.
Gone are the days of international players, especially those from Europe, being relegated to a box of role players who just do their job and not shine on the court. This new generation is different, and it is creating a fascinating dynamic and an abundance of interesting battles night in and night out throughout the Association.
This story was originally reported by Basketball Network on Oct 10, 2025, where it first appeared in the Latest News section. Add Basketball Network as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
