Luka Doncic will provide financial aid to families who lost loved ones at an elementary school shooting in Belgrade, Serbia.
ESPN reports that the Dallas Mavericks player will pay for funeral services and grief counseling for classmates and staff. The mass shooting resulted in the deaths of eight children and one security guard at Vladislav Ribnikar primary school on Wednesday.
“I am heartbroken by the tragic school shooting in Serbia and the loss of lives, including those of innocent school children,” Doncic said in a statement. “My thoughts are with the families and the entire community affected by this tragedy.”
He continued, “Through my foundation, I am exploring both immediate and long-term ways to support the students, faculty, and families affected by the shooting at the Vladislav Ribnikar Elementary School. I am committed and I will continue to share updates and ways to support as details become available.”
In addition to pledging financial assistance in the short term, he has also committed to helping out in a long-term capacity as well. Doncic is a native of Slovenia, and his family has connections to the Serbian capital of Belgrade. His grandmother, aunt, uncle, and cousin live in the area and his father is from Serbia.
According to Sports Illustrated, because the Mavericks didn’t make it to this year’s NBA playoffs, Doncic was able to go home to Slovenia and be with his family and players from his national team. This summer, he’s looking to play for Slovenia in the 2023 FIBA World Cup.
