How is the Mavericks’ Luka Doncic supporting those affected by the school shooting in Serbia?
The tragic events that unfolded recently in Serbia serve as a reminder, that the sickening trend of mass shootings is not only limited to the United States.
With family roots in the country, the Mavericks star was understandably hurt by the terrible tragedy which occurred recently in Serbia’s capital city. As the community attempts to come to terms with what happened, there is at least the small consolation of knowing that he will be supporting them.
Luka Doncic to pay for funerals of school shooting victims in Belgrade
According to reports, Dallas Mavericks star Luka Doncic has pledged to cover the funeral expenses for the nine people who were killed during a mass shooting at a Belgrade elementary school on Wednesday. Just a day ago, a a 13-year-old student opened fire on his classmates at Vladislav Ribnikar Elementary School in Belgrade, the capital of Serbia, resulting in the deaths of eight fellow students and one security guard before he was apprehended.
“I am heartbroken by the tragic school shooting in Serbia and the loss of lives, including those of innocent children. My thoughts are with the families and the entire community affected by this tragedy,” Doncic posted on Twitter on Thursday. “Belgrade, I support and stand with you all during this difficult time.” Though the four-time NBA All-Star was actually born in Ljubljana, Slovenia, his family is known to have ties to the country with his father, Saša Doncic, a former professional basketball player being of Serbian descent.
There is even more commitment from Luka Doncic
Further to his tweet, Doncic also indicated that his foundation, The Luka Doncic Foundation, is “exploring both immediate and long-term ways to support the students, faculty, and families affected by the shooting at the Vladislav Ribnikar Elementary School.” This of course is in keeping with the organization’s mission, which states that it is focused on improving the health and well-being of children. To that end, Doncic also stated that he would be seeking to provide grief counseling for students and staff. “I am committed and I will continue to share updates and ways to support as details become available. StandWithBelgrade,” his statement concluded.
Interestingly and sadly, this is not the first time that Doncic has been involved in showing support for those who were affected by a mass shooting. Fans may recall, that during a Christmas Day game against the Lakers last year, the 24-year-old spent time with two survivors of the mass shooting that occurred at the and Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, in May. Tragically, 19 students and two teachers lost their lives that day.