They wanted to get to the venue early to secure their seats so they could show off their custom-made jerseys that read “LUKAMVP.”
DALLAS — After traveling more than 5,000 miles, the Fraleys and Kosems have reached their destination.
American Airlines Center.
More than two hours before tipoff between the Mavericks and Phoenix Suns, both families arrived at the plaza outside Dallas Arena.
They wanted to get to the venue early to secure their seats so they could show off their custom-made jerseys that read:
They were there to see their favorite player, Luka Doncic, the Mavs' perennial All-Star.
After all, they are also from Slovenia.
“We watched him in Slovenia when he was playing for the national team,” said Czasa Freli, who was accompanied by her husband and two sons.
In July, Doncic proposed to his longtime girlfriend in an enchanting setting on the shores of Lake Bled in Slovenia.
Fraley and Kjosem said they were from a “small village” near Bled, about 60 kilometers north of Ljubljana, the capital and Dončić's hometown.
“It's a first for us here in Dallas, and that's something we're really, really excited about,” Fraley said.
The family traveled from Slovenia to London, England, then across the pond to New Orleans, Louisiana.
After spending a few days on the bayou, they rented a car and drove 500 miles to Dallas.
“We took a chance that no one would get hurt,” Iztok Kosem said.
Thankfully, Doncic and teammate Kyrie Irving suited up for the nationally televised game against the Suns, the Mavs' bitter rival in recent years.
Seven Slovenians cheered from Section 113 Row N as Doncic warmed up before the game.
That was until a Mavs staff member escorted them to the front row so they could see the pride and joy of their home country up close.
“Wow, that’s amazing,” Freiley said with a smile. “I have no other words. Super cool.”
Doncic showed off his work to the fans with 41 points, 11 assists, and 9 rebounds in a 123-113 win over the Mavericks.
Well worth the journey of over 5,000 miles and a night you'll never forget.
“It feels like a dream come true,” Freiley declared. “I'm very happy to be here.”
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