Luka Dončić has officially reached a three-year, $165 million maximum salary contract extension with the Los Angeles Lakers. He will play until 2028 and has a player option for the final year.

The Slovenian star gave up the opportunity to become a free agent next summer and chose to continue pursuing his dream of the Purple and Gold Army. At a press conference at the Lakers training hall, Dončić said: "It is an honor to be a player of the Los Angeles Lakers. When I look up and see these championship banners and retired jerseys, I tell myself that I want to be a part of them."

Since the Los Angeles Lakers and Dallas Mavericks reached a blockbuster trade in February of this year to acquire Dončić, he has quickly demonstrated his core value. Last season, he averaged 28.2 points, 8.2 assists and 7.7 rebounds per game, leading the team to 50 wins and a third-place record in the Western Conference.

Despite the Lakers' first-round exit in the playoffs, Dončić described his first season with the Lakers as one he thoroughly enjoyed. "I really love everything about this team, this city, and how hard we work to win," Dončić admitted.

In addition, Doncic also participated in the Los Angeles Lakers' recruitment process of Deandre Ayton and Marcus Smart this summer, showing his active investment in team building. Doncic said: "I respect them and hope they can compete for the championship with me. We already have a great team. Next, I will do my best to fight for victory in every game."