Luka Dončić Foundation dishes out gifts and surprises to 350 pediatric patients in Dallas and Slovenia

Dallas Mavericks star Luka Dončić is giving back to children in the community this holiday season, both in Dallas and his home country of Slovenia.

Last week, the Luka Dončić Foundation held a surprise party with 200 pediatric patients at Dallas’ Scottish Rite for Children and packed the fun-filled event with gifts, games and activities through the Luka Dončić Foundation.

His foundation’s mission is to improve the health and well-being of children through play.

Community work has long been a passion of Dončić’s and he continuously gives back to the game through many endeavors, many times out of the spotlight.

Last week, he volunteered alongside his teammates at the Mavs Cookies with Santa event. He also hosts children at games throughout the year and always makes time to visit with young people along the sidelines.

“I hope this makes them happy and puts a smile on their face,” said Dončić. “They are so brave and strong, and I want them to know I’m thinking of them during the holidays and wishing them all the best in the New Year!”

Later this week, the MVP candidate will send his elves back to Slovenia to host a surprise party for 60 children residing at the Children’s Hospital in Sticni, Slovenia.

He will also provide gifts and a holiday party with 80 children and their families on Thursday at the UKC Children’s Hospital in Maribor, Slovenia.

All the gifts were selected by Dončić, event organizers said.

The celebration at Scottish Rite included holiday crafts like decorating cookies, ornaments and gingerbread houses; the party also had face painting, an interactive photo booth, hot cocoa and more.

In addition to toys and games, Dončić teamed up with a few “elves” at NERF, Jordan Brand and Chess.com. They provided NERF basketball hoops and NERF blasters, Jordan Brand apparel and drawstring bags, ChessKid gifts, and a year-long premium membership at ChessKid.com or Chess.com (depending on the child’s age).

And Dončić didn’t forget the dedicated, hardworking healthcare staff who provide round-the-clock daily care for the young patients.

He gifted 25 Scottish Rite healthcare workers two lower-bowl tickets to watch the Dallas Mavericks play the Los Angeles Lakers on Christmas Day.

“We loved seeing the children’s eyes light up and hearing their excitement when they received these generous gifts from Luka and his foundation,” said Stephanie Brigger, Scottish Rite for Children VP of Development. “Scottish Rite is honored to be a part of Luka’s holiday giving and grateful for his help (in) making the season merry and bright for our patients and staff!”

Dončić has transcended the game and he’s also transcending the lives of children both on and off the court.