Luka Doncic’s rivalry with Rudy Gobert reached a new level during the 2024 NBA Playoffs when the Mavericks faced the Timberwolves. The roots of this conflict extend far beyond the hardwood of the NBA. Dončić’s systematic targeting of Gobert, particularly in pick-and-roll situations, was not only a basketball strategy. It was also a response to their past encounters on the international stage and the broader perception of Gobert within the NBA community.
Why Was Luka Doncic Targeting Rudy Gobert?
Some Luka Dončić-Rudy Gobert Lore
The genesis of this rivalry can be traced back to the Tokyo 2021 Olympics, where Dončić’s Slovenia faced Gobert’s France in a highly anticipated semifinal. Slovenia, led by Dončić, was on a miraculous run. Their dream of reaching the gold medal game was shattered by a resilient French team. Gobert played a significant role in this victory. He anchored France’s defense and helped to secure the win that knocked Slovenia out of contention for gold. This defeat was a bitter pill for Dončić. He had been virtually unstoppable in international play up until that point. France’s triumph, particularly with Gobert as the defensive centerpiece, left a lasting impression on Dončić.
Fast forward to the 2023-24 NBA season, where Doncic and Gobert found themselves on opposite sides in the Western Conference Finals. With memories of the Olympic defeat still fresh even three years later, Dončić went on the offensive, deliberately targeting Gobert in pick-and-roll plays. This strategy was not only a tactical move to exploit Gobert’s slower lateral movement but also a personal vendetta.
Dončić knew that by forcing Gobert into uncomfortable defensive positions, he could neutralize one of the league’s premier shot-blockers and swing the momentum in his team’s favor. Dončić capped off Dallas’ 18-point comeback in Game 2 of their series with a stepback three with three seconds remaining. This moment symbolized his mastery over his rival and perhaps served as a form of retribution for the Olympic loss. The broadcast footage shows Dončić trailing behind Gobert and appearing to yell,
“motherf–ker, you can’t f–king guard me!”
That game-winner was not Luka Doncic’s first against Rudy Gobert. In fact, he scored one when Slovenia and France met in 2022. At the Eurobasket 2022, Slovenia outlasted France off Luka’s 47.
Luka Dončić game winner over Rudy Gobert X Father Stretch My Hands pic.twitter.com/jULHX5qLjb
— Coopz (@Coopz___) May 25, 2024
Some Rudy Hate
Rudy Gobert to ESPN on Luka Doncic’s trash talk after the game-winner: “I didn’t see or hear it, but he says that every game. So nothing new.” https://t.co/qVchLJ9eIR
— Tim MacMahon (@espn_macmahon) May 25, 2024
However, the tension between Dončić and Gobert is not purely based on basketball matchups. Gobert, despite his accolades as a four-time Defensive Player of the Year, has not always been warmly received by his peers. Notably, NBA legends like Draymond Green and Shaquille O’Neal have publicly criticized Gobert. Green has mocked Gobert’s emotional reactions. Shaq has questioned his value, particularly in light of his massive contract. This widespread skepticism towards Gobert’s status in the league likely adds another layer to Dončić’s approach. In a league where respect and reputation are paramount, Dončić is known for his competitive fire. He may see his frequent targeting of Gobert as a way to challenge not just Gobert’s physical abilities, but also his standing among the NBA elite.
The combination of these factors—past international battles, Gobert’s divisive reputation, and Dončić’s own competitive drive—culminated in a playoff series where Dončić seemed to take particular pleasure in going after Gobert. It wasn’t just about winning games; it was about proving a point. Dončić’s success in these matchups, particularly in the high-stakes environment of the playoffs, underscores his ability to not only dissect opponents tactically but also to use psychological warfare to his advantage.
The Last Word
Doncic’s targeting of Gobert during their NBA playoff series was the result of a multifaceted rivalry. It was fueled by a desire for redemption following an Olympic disappointment, a strategic exploitation of Gobert’s defensive limitations, and perhaps a broader commentary on Gobert’s polarizing presence in the NBA. This confluence of factors made their matchups must-watch basketball. It highlighted how personal history and league-wide perceptions can drive the intensity of on-court battles.
