Luka Doncic Responds to Ozempic Rumors After Stunning Transformation

Luka Doncic Addresses Offseason Transformation Rumors

Luka Doncic has officially responded to the widespread rumors surrounding his offseason body transformation. The All-NBA guard appeared on NBC’s "3rd Hour Today" to promote his new cover story for Men’s Health. The feature highlights a visibly leaner Doncic lifting a dumbbell in Jordan gear, with a headline that reads, “Luka Doncic muscles up, the skinny on the Lakers star’s summer shred.” While the magazine focuses on his rigorous fitness routine and mental reset, as well as his new food choices outside of dinner with coach J.J. Redick, many were more interested in the speculation that Doncic used the drug Ozempic to lose weight.

When asked directly on live TV if he took Ozempic, Doncic simply shook his head and said, “No.” The conversation then quickly shifted to another topic. This one-word denial comes after weeks of online speculation and a steady stream of conspiracy-laden comments from sports media figures and fans.

On a recent Nightcap livestream, NFL Hall of Famer Shannon Sharpe and former Bengals wide receiver Chad Johnson (Ochocinco) questioned the timeline of Doncic’s transformation. “They’ve been out of season, what, three, two months?” Johnson said. “If that. It ain’t been that long for him to lose all that weight like that. He probably took that Olympic (Ozempic) stuff, I’m telling you.”

Sharpe laughed, but neither denied the insinuation. The clip quickly went viral, especially after Doncic faced criticism for his conditioning during his time with the Dallas Mavericks.

Doncic’s reputation in Dallas was highly regarded by former team owner Mark Cuban, who recognized his elite NBA talent. However, there were reports suggesting friction between Doncic and team staff regarding his preparation and body maintenance.

The trade to the Lakers last year was seen as a significant cultural shift for both sides and was even labeled as the worst trade in NBA history by some. Mavericks General Manager Nico Harrison faced backlash from fans, leading to consistent “Fire Nico” chants during games and even during the NBA Draft lottery. Harrison insisted the decision was based on the philosophy that “defense wins championships.”

Despite the initial shock, the trade ultimately benefited both teams. Doncic joined forces with his idol, LeBron James, during a playoff run, while the Mavericks received defense from Anthony Davis, who was traded in return. The move also resulted in the Mavericks securing the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, where they selected highly touted prospect Cooper Flagg to strengthen their core alongside Anthony Davis and Kyrie Irving.