FANS STUNNED💔: Luka Doncic Cries Out After Beloved Puppy Gia Dies Weeks After Falling Ill—The Puppy’s Final Moments Leave Hearts Heavy
In a heartbreaking turn of events, NBA superstar Luka Dončić has revealed the tragic loss of his beloved French Bulldog, Gia. The Slovenian-born Dallas Mavericks guard took to social media this week to share the news with fans, writing a tearful tribute to the pup that had become a constant presence in his life both on and off the court. The emotional post, accompanied by a series of photos and videos of Gia over the years, has left fans around the world stunned and deeply moved.
Gia, known affectionately to Luka’s followers as his “little girl” and often featured in his Instagram stories and posts, passed away just weeks after falling gravely ill. While the exact cause of her illness has not been publicly confirmed, sources close to the family say Gia had been battling an aggressive respiratory infection that rapidly worsened despite intensive veterinary care.
“Today I lost my best friend,” Dončić wrote in a heartfelt caption. “Gia, you brought so much joy and comfort into my life. I can’t believe you’re gone. I love you forever, my sweet girl.”
The news quickly spread across social media, with thousands of fans, fellow athletes, and celebrities offering condolences. Fans who have followed Dončić since his early NBA days know how important Gia was to him. She traveled with him often, even appearing in team videos and post-game interviews. For Dončić, who has spent much of his young adulthood away from his home country, Gia was more than a pet—she was family.
According to close sources, Gia began showing signs of illness several weeks ago, including difficulty breathing and fatigue. Despite prompt veterinary intervention and several visits to a specialist, her condition deteriorated. Luka reportedly cleared time in his demanding playoff schedule to stay by her side, even sleeping on the floor next to her crate during her final days.
In one particularly gut-wrenching clip shared by Luka, Gia can be seen resting her head on his lap as he gently strokes her ears, whispering soft words in Slovenian. “She was strong,” Dončić wrote. “She fought so hard.”
Fans around the world have since turned Luka’s comment section into a digital memorial, with thousands posting photos of their own pets and sharing stories of loss. “We cried with you, Luka. Rest in peace sweet Gia,” wrote one follower. Another said, “She brought joy to millions through you. Thank you for sharing her with us.”
Dončić’s teammates have also expressed their sympathies. Mavericks coach Jason Kidd mentioned the loss during a pre-game press conference, stating, “Luka is grieving right now, and we’re giving him all the space he needs. We all loved little Gia—she was part of our family too.”
While fans are accustomed to seeing Luka’s competitive spirit and steely focus on the court, this moment offered a rare glimpse into the emotional vulnerability of the 26-year-old star. It reminded everyone that behind the fame and talent lies a man with a deep heart and genuine love.
In the wake of Gia’s death, Dončić has hinted at plans to honor her memory in a permanent way—possibly through a tattoo or by supporting an animal rescue initiative in her name.
As the NBA season rolls on, Luka Dončić carries a heavy heart, but one filled with gratitude for the unconditional love Gia gave him. And for his fans, the loss of Gia is a sobering reminder that even heroes hurt—and sometimes, it’s the smallest companions who leave the biggest holes.