LeBron James Inspires Luka Doncic with Iconic Pregame Message
LeBron James references his past advice to Kevin Love while motivating Luka Doncic to embrace his unique style in their first game together.

LeBron James and Luka Doncic’s Debut Together
On February 11, 2025, LeBron James and Luka Doncic took the court together for the first time, creating an unforgettable moment for the Los Angeles Lakers. As the team gathered for their pregame huddle, James delivered a powerful message to Doncic that echoed a past advice he once gave to Kevin Love.
Pregame Motivation
LeBron’s directive to Luka was straightforward yet profound: "don't fit in, fit the f-- out." This statement was a stark contrast to his previous suggestion to Kevin Love during their time with the Cleveland Cavaliers. Back in 2015, James had tweeted, "Stop trying to find a way to FIT-OUT and just FIT-IN." This shift in messaging highlights LeBron’s evolving philosophy on teamwork and individual expression.
Fan Reactions
NBA fans quickly recognized the reference, drawing parallels between the two moments. Kevin Love himself noticed the change, humorously posting on Instagram, "punching the air right now," reflecting on James’ altered advice. This interaction added a layer of nostalgia and camaraderie to the event, connecting past and present NBA narratives.
The Game Ahead
As James and Doncic prepare to lead the Lakers, their partnership is anticipated to bring a new dynamic to the team. By encouraging Luka to be his authentic self, LeBron sets the stage for a season filled with high energy, creativity, and potential championships. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how this duo will shape the future of the Lakers and the NBA.