Jalen Johnson has become one of the most exciting figures in the National Basketball Association in recent years. At just 23 years old, the 6’8″ (2.03 m) forward for the Atlanta Hawks displays a rare combination of athletic power, court vision, and versatility that has put him firmly in the spotlight. Born on December 18, 2001, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Johnson embodies the American basketball dream: from a talented kid on local courts to a rising star on the world’s biggest stage. His journey, marked by challenges and explosive flashes of brilliance, reflects the competitive essence of the NBA, where relentless effort can turn prospects into legends.

In this article, we explore Johnson’s path from humble beginnings to the recent achievements that project him as one of the most promising players of his generation. Updated through December 2025, we dive into the details that define not only his career but also the impact he’s having on the sport.

Origins and Early Steps in Basketball

Jalen Johnson’s story begins on the cold streets of Wisconsin, where basketball is woven into the local identity. Raised by parents who valued discipline and sport, Johnson grew up immersed in a culture that reveres athletes like Giannis Antetokounmpo—the Greek Freak who also shines in Atlanta. From an early age, he showed a natural gift for the game, dribbling in driveways and competing in youth leagues.

In high school, Johnson attended Nicolet High School in Glendale, where he quickly stood out. His imposing size and agility made him a five-star recruit, ranked among the top wings in the class of 2020. To further hone his skills, he transferred to IMG Academy in Florida—one of the elite basketball factories that produced names like Ben Simmons and RJ Hampton. There, Johnson led his team to an outstanding record, averaging 17.3 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game while earning McDonald’s All-American honors.

Those formative years were crucial. Johnson wasn’t just a scorer; he learned to read defenses, distribute the ball, and lead quietly. Coaches described him as a “complete athlete” capable of finishing powerfully at the rim or shooting from deep. That solid foundation prepared him for the leap to college basketball, where the professional world was already watching.

A Quick Stint at Duke and the 2021 NBA Draft

In 2020, Johnson chose Duke University, a college basketball powerhouse under legendary coach Mike Krzyzewski. As a freshman, he joined a loaded roster that included Wendell Moore Jr. and Matthew Hurt. However, his season was short and challenging: in just 13 games, Johnson averaged 11.2 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 2 assists while shooting 45.1% from the field.

Injuries and tactical adjustments limited his minutes, but flashes of brilliance—like a 22-point outburst against Boston College—showed his potential. In February 2021, he made the bold decision to leave Duke early for the NBA Draft, a move that paid off. His choice reflected the modern era of college basketball, where top talents trust their instincts and the eyes of scouts.

In the 2021 NBA Draft, Johnson was selected 20th overall by the Atlanta Hawks, a franchise in rebuild mode after moving on from veterans like Danilo Gallinari. The Hawks saw him as the perfect complement to star point guard Trae Young—someone who could space the floor and finish plays. He signed a four-year rookie contract worth approximately $17 million and arrived in the league with moderate expectations but a fierce determination to prove himself.

Adaptation and Growth with the Atlanta Hawks

Johnson’s 2021-22 rookie season was one of intense learning. Playing in just 22 games and averaging 5.5 minutes, he posted 2.4 points and 1.2 rebounds. The NBA’s frenetic pace tested him, but he used G-League time with the College Park Skyhawks to sharpen his three-point shot and defense. In 2022-23, opportunities grew: 39 games, 14.4 minutes, 6.4 points, and 3.8 rebounds, including standout playoff moments that helped Atlanta upset the Boston Celtics in the first round.

The real breakout came in 2023-24. With injuries to teammates like John Collins, Johnson became a full-time starter, playing 33.7 minutes per game and averaging 16.0 points, 8.7 rebounds, 3.6 assists, 1.2 steals, and 0.9 blocks. Shooting 51.1% from the field and 35.5% from three, he became one of the league’s most efficient players. Despite missing time with wrist and ankle issues, he finished the season as one of Atlanta’s brightest spots as the Hawks returned to the playoffs.

In 2024-25, Johnson solidified his status, averaging 18.9 points, 10.0 rebounds, and 5.0 assists in 36 starts. His pick-and-roll chemistry with Trae Young became lethal, and he led the team in rebounding. Persistent injuries—including left-shoulder surgery in January—tested him, but his resilience impressed everyone. In the offseason, Atlanta added Kristaps Porziņģis and Dyson Daniels, creating an ideal supporting cast so Johnson wouldn’t have to carry the entire load.

The Explosion in the 2025-26 Season: Unforgettable Numbers and Moments

The 2025-26 season has been Jalen Johnson’s coming-out party. Through 20 games as of December 2025, he’s averaging a jaw-dropping 23.2 points, 10.0 rebounds, 7.3 assists, 1.6 steals, and 0.4 blocks in 34.9 minutes. His shooting splits? 53.9% from the field, 41.2% from three, and 78.9% from the free-throw line. Those numbers place him in the top-20 in scoring and rebounding, and top-10 in assists among forwards.

November was electric. On November 30 against the Philadelphia 76ers, Johnson set a new career high with 41 points, 14 rebounds, 7 assists, 1 steal, and 1 block in a wild 142-134 double-overtime victory—one of the most complete performances of his career. Days later, on December 1 against the Detroit Pistons, he posted 29 points, 13 rebounds, and 7 assists despite a 99-98 loss.

The pinnacle came on December 5 at home against the Denver Nuggets. Listed as questionable with a right calf strain that had kept him out of the previous game against the Clippers, Johnson came out possessed. In the first half alone, he recorded a historic triple-double: 11 points, 10 rebounds, and 12 assists in just 16 minutes. That made him only the fifth player since 1997-98 to notch a triple-double in a half and the second-fastest in NBA history (behind a 15-minute mark). Fans and analysts lost their minds; social media exploded with comparisons to prime Russell Westbrook.

These games aren’t flukes. Over his last 11 contests, Johnson has averaged 25.7 points, 11.2 rebounds, 8.9 assists, and 1.7 steals in 37 minutes. His versatility—guarding guards to centers, elite shooting, and elite playmaking—has thrust him into the MVP conversation, or at the very least, the Most Improved Player race. With the Hawks surging in the East thanks to Porziņģis and company, Johnson is the offensive engine alongside Trae Young.

Playing Style: Versatility and Basketball IQ

What makes Johnson special is his adaptability. As a modern power forward, he seamlessly slides between the 3 and 4 positions, exploiting mismatches. His athletic explosion produces highlight-reel dunks and voracious offensive rebounds—he leads the league in rebounds per game among players under 25. His passing vision, reminiscent of facilitators like LeBron James, creates easy looks for teammates at a 7.3-assist clip.

Defensively, he’s a hound: 1.6 steals per game reflect elite reading of passing lanes. His now-elite 41.2% three-point shooting stretches defenses and opens driving lanes. Critics point to occasional foul trouble (3.3 per game) and inconsistency in low-usage nights, but his work ethic—extra shooting sessions and film study—continues to smooth those edges. In a league of specialists, Johnson is a throwback generalist, valuable in any system.

A Bright Future and a Legacy in the Making

With his rookie contract running through 2025 and extension talks looming, Johnson is on the superstar track. Rumors of a massive new deal have intensified after his Nuggets masterpiece made global headlines. Off the court, he’s active in Atlanta community programs—running basketball camps for underprivileged youth—and has endorsement deals with Nike and Gatorade.

Looking ahead, the goal is deep playoff runs with the Hawks. With young talents like Zaccharie Risacher and Onyeka Okongwu maturing, Johnson could anchor a new era in the Southeast. His calf injury, while manageable, serves as a reminder that health remains the only real obstacle. If he stays on this trajectory, 2026 could be the year he makes his first All-Star team.

Conclusion: A Name to Etch in History

Jalen Johnson is no longer just a prospect—he is a thrilling reality in the NBA. From the courts of Wisconsin to the bright lights of State Farm Arena, his journey inspires millions. As of December 2025, with that lightning-fast triple-double still fresh in everyone’s mind, Johnson represents everything basketball has to offer: overcoming odds, spectacle, and unity. The Hawks and their fans are lucky—and the basketball world has a talent to celebrate for many years to come.

Antoine Griezmann is one of those players who seem made for football. With a sharp game vision, precise dribbles, and a goal-scoring instinct that defies the years, the 34-year-old Frenchman continues to shine on the pitches. Born in Mâcon, in the heart of France, Griezmann is not just a scorer, but a true maestro on the field, capable of creating plays out of nothing and deciding matches with a touch of class. His trajectory, full of ups and downs, reflects the passion he carries for the sport. In a world where European football renews itself every season, Griezmann remains a reference for dedication and pure talent. Let’s dive into the story of this star who, even at 34, dreams of new horizons.

The First Steps: From Mâcon to the Youth Academies

It all began in a small French town called Mâcon, on March 21, 1991. The son of Alain, a former amateur player with Germanic roots, and Isabelle, of Portuguese descent—with a grandfather who played for Paços de Ferreira—Griezmann grew up in an environment where football was more than a game: it was family. Vacations in Portugal at his grandparents’ house planted the seeds of love for the sport. But the initial path wasn’t easy. At the local club UF Mâcon, the skinny and light boy faced rejections. Clubs like Metz and Lyon turned him away because of his stature. “I was too small,” he recalls in old interviews, with a smile that hides his determination.

The turning point came at age 14. In a friendly against the Paris Saint-Germain juniors, Griezmann caught the eye of Real Sociedad scouts. The family took a risk: they moved to San Sebastián, Spain, where he joined the Basque academy. There, far from home, the boy transformed. He learned Spanish, absorbed the local culture, and above all, refined his game. “Real Sociedad gave me wings,” he once said. From the youth team to the senior squad, it was a quick leap. In 2009, at 18, he debuted in Spain’s Segunda División. His speed, peripheral vision, and placed finishes began to emerge. In the 2009-10 season, he helped the team win the division title, scoring six goals in 37 games. It was the harbinger of a talent that would soon explode in the elite.

Rise at Real Sociedad: The Birth of a Star

Real Sociedad, with its passionate fans and the boiling Anoeta stadium, was the perfect crucible for Griezmann to forge his style. In La Liga, starting in 2010, he evolved from prospect to key piece. He played as a left winger, but his versatility allowed him to float across the attack, confusing defenses. Over five years (2010-2014), he accumulated 201 matches and 52 goals—impressive numbers for a 23-year-old.

Iconic moments defined this phase. In 2013, a hat-trick against Celta de Vigo put him on the map. But it was the volley goal against Athletic Bilbao in the 2014 Basque derby that sealed his farewell to the club. The txuri-urdin fans, as the Sociedad supporters are called, still mourn his departure. Offers poured in: Lyon, Saint-Étienne, Manchester United, Arsenal. In the end, Atlético de Madrid, coached by Diego Simeone, won the race for 30 million euros. Griezmann left with a heavy heart, but ready for the big stage. “San Sebastián taught me to be a man,” he confided years later. This stage shaped not only his football but his character: humble, resilient, and always grateful.

The Colchonero Heart: Glories and Challenges at Atlético de Madrid

Arriving at Atlético in 2014 was like entering a demanding family. Simeone, the Cholo, saw in Griezmann the ideal partner for Álvaro Morata and company. In his debut, against Barcelona in the Spanish Supercopa, he scored and lifted the trophy—the first of many. In the 2014-15 season, 22 goals in 54 games. But the peak came in 2018: the UEFA Europa League, with a brace in the final against Olympique de Marseille (3-0). The UEFA and Spanish Supercopas completed the cycle. Griezmann became an idol, with his rochiblanca grit—the warrior soul of the club.

In 2019, however, came the controversy. After a months-long saga, he signed with Barcelona for 120 million euros, the fifth-largest transfer in history at the time. The farewell to Atlético was bitter; fans felt betrayed. At Barça, alongside Messi and Suárez, the world was expected. But things didn’t flow. 35 goals in 103 games, a Copa del Rey title in 2021, but criticism for not fitting into Koeman and Xavi’s schemes. Griezmann, always elegant, admitted: “It wasn’t the right place for me.” In 2021, his return to Atlético on loan—and subsequent purchase for 20 million—was like a reunion of soulmates. Today, with a contract until 2027, he is the club’s all-time leading scorer: 197 goals, surpassing Luis Aragonés in 2024. His partnership with Simeone yielded magical moments, like the goal against Real Madrid in the 2024 Supercopa, which crowned him as the record holder.

The French National Team: From Runner-Up to World Champion

For France, Griezmann is synonymous with consistency. He debuted in 2014 against the Netherlands, in a friendly mixing talent and pressure. At the 2014 World Cup, he was a substitute, but at Euro 2016, he exploded: six goals, Golden Boot, and runner-up after a final loss to Portugal. “It was painful, but it strengthened me,” he said. The peak? The 2018 World Cup. In Deschamps’ France, he scored four goals, including in the final against Croatia (4-2), and took home the Bronze Ball. World champion at 27—the dream of any boy from Mâcon.

The 2021 Nations League and the 2022 World Cup runner-up, with a missed penalty in the shootout against Argentina, completed a cycle of glories and lessons. In September 2024, after 137 games and 44 goals, Griezmann retired from the national team. “I left everything on the field,” he declared in an emotional press conference. His absence leaves a void, but his legacy—Olympic gold in the youth ranks in 2010 and leadership in majors—is eternal.

Life Off the Field: Family, Controversies, and Passions

Griezmann is more than football. Married since 2017 to Erika Choperena, a child psychologist, the couple has three children: Mia (2016), Amaro (2019), and Alba (2021). Family is his safe harbor; Erika, Colombian, brings balance to the star’s hectic life. Off the four lines, he is a fan of video games—FIFA is his vice—mangas like One Piece, and basketball, influenced by his friendship with Tony Parker.

Not everything was perfect. In 2017, a blackface photo as a tribute to the Harlem Globetrotters sparked controversy. Griezmann issued a public apology: “I didn’t mean to offend anyone; I learned from the mistake.” His sister Maude survived the 2015 Bataclan attacks, which marked him deeply. Today, he uses his voice for social causes, like inclusion in sports. Nicknames like “Little Prince” or “Grizi” capture his essence: charming, but grounded.

The Current Moment: Renewal, Goals, and American Dreams

In December 2025, Griezmann is living a transition phase at Atlético. At 34, he renewed until 2027 in June, but with a reduced salary to help the club’s finances under La Liga rules. The 2024-25 season ended with an 18-game goal drought, overshadowed by Julian Álvarez (17 goals) and Alexander Sørloth (20). But the Frenchman responded: in September 2025, he scored the first goal of the 2025-26 season in stoppage time against Real Madrid (5-2), ending a 22-match dry spell and handing the rivals their worst derby loss since 1950. Three days later, his 200th goal for Atlético came against Eintracht Frankfurt in the Champions League (5-1).

In March, he surpassed Messi as the foreigner with the most La Liga games (521). Recently, he came off the bench against Levante, scoring two goals in a 3-1 comeback. Against Inter Milan in the Champions League, he was on the bench, but his mentality impresses: “I have to be professional and an example for my teammates,” he said in November.

Rumors of departure swirl. Griezmann dreams of the MLS: “It’s my goal, but I’m under contract and want more trophies here.” Speculation links him to an “unexpected club” to reunite with former teammates, but he focuses on the present. With 53 games in the last season (16 goals, 9 assists), Griezmann proves that age is just a number. Atlético prepares for the Club World Cup in the US, and he, always smiling, assures: “I’ll give everything on the field.”

Eternal Legacy: Why Griezmann Still Captivates

Antoine Griezmann transcends statistics. His 262 goals in 672 club games, the World Cups, the versatility from winger to false 9—all this places him among the greats. But it’s the heart that wins over: loyalty to Atlético, humility after mistakes, family as an anchor. In a football world of inflated egos, he is the perfect anti-hero—the guy who runs, smiles, and delivers. At 34, with MLS on the horizon, Griezmann reminds us: football is about moments, not endings. And his, still under construction, promise more glorious pages.

Luka Dončić, the young talent born on the streets of Ljubljana, Slovenia, has transformed into one of the greatest stars in world basketball. At just 26 years old, he already carries the weight of a career filled with achievements, from his early days in Europe to the intense spotlight of the NBA courts. His journey is not just one of precise shots and brilliant plays, but of a determination that inspires millions. In this article, we explore the life, accomplishments, and impact of this athlete who has elevated Slovenian basketball to a global level, with recent updates showing why he remains the center of attention.

Origins in Slovenia: An Early Talent

Luka Dončić was born on February 28, 1999, in Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia—a small country in the heart of Europe that, at the time, was still recovering from its independence from the former Yugoslavia. His father, Sasa Dončić, was a former professional basketball player, and his mother, Mirjam Poterbin, a former volleyball athlete. From an early age, basketball ran through Luka’s veins. At five years old, he was already dribbling a ball bigger than his body, training on local courts with the passion of someone dreaming big.

At 13, Dončić joined Real Madrid, one of Europe’s most traditional clubs. It wasn’t a random choice: the Spanish giant saw a raw diamond in him. In 2015, at just 16, he debuted for the senior team, becoming the youngest player to appear for the club in official competitions. His adaptation was immediate. In the 2017-2018 season, Luka led Real Madrid to the EuroLeague title, earning Finals MVP honors with 15 points, 10 assists, and nine rebounds in the decisive game against Fenerbahce. At 19, he was already the EuroLeague’s top scorer, averaging 14.2 points per game.

Those years in Europe shaped his unique style: a blend of sharp court vision, long-range shots, and an ability to read the game like few others. Dončić wasn’t just a scorer; he was a maestro, distributing the ball with surgical precision. His rise caught the attention of the entire world, especially NBA scouts, who saw in him the next great international talent.

Transition to the NBA: From Dallas to Los Angeles

The 2018 draft marked the turning point. Selected as the third overall pick by the Atlanta Hawks, Dončić was immediately traded to the Dallas Mavericks in a deal involving Trae Young. The move to the United States at 19 wasn’t easy. Far from home, dealing with a new culture and the pressure of a ruthless league, he faced initial criticism about his physical condition and pace of play. But Luka quickly silenced the doubters.

In his rookie season, 2018-2019, he was named to the NBA All-Rookie First Team, with averages of 21.2 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 6 assists per game. From there, it was a meteoric rise. In 2019-2020, he led the Mavericks to the playoffs, where they faced the powerful Los Angeles Lakers of LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Despite the elimination, his performance—with consecutive triple-doubles—announced the arrival of a phenomenon.

The following seasons solidified his status. In 2023-2024, Dončić guided Dallas to the Western Conference Finals, leading in points, rebounds, and assists during the playoffs. His postseason averages of 33.9 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 9.8 assists per game placed him among the greatest in recent history. He accumulated five All-Star Game selections, three First Team All-NBA honors, and a Western Conference Finals MVP award.

But fate had a twist in store. In the middle of the 2024-2025 season, in a blockbuster trade, Dončić was sent to the Los Angeles Lakers. The deal, which involved multiple players and draft picks, aimed to bolster the purple and gold in a post-LeBron James era. Under coach JJ Redick, Luka integrated seamlessly, forming a dynamic duo with Austin Reaves and leveraging the versatility of Rui Hachimura. The Lakers, who had been fighting for relevance, climbed to second in the West with a 15-5 record in the 2025-2026 season, thanks to Dončić’s immediate impact.

Playing Style: The Slovenian Maestro in Action

What makes Luka Dončić so special? It’s not just talent; it’s intelligence. Standing at 2.01 meters with an impressive wingspan, he plays like a classic point guard in a forward’s body. His step-back jumper, a retreating shot that fools defenders, has become his signature. He sees passes others can’t imagine, with an assist rate rivaling legends like Magic Johnson.

Defensively, he has evolved: not the most athletic, but he uses positioning and game-reading to steal balls and block shots. His versatility allows him to guard positions 1 through 4, adapting to any scheme. Off the court, his stoic calm—contrasting his inner fire—makes him a natural leader. Fans have nicknamed him “Luka Magic” for his ability to turn games in clutch moments.

Personal Achievements and Impact on Slovenia

Dončić doesn’t play just for himself; he carries a nation on his back. With the Slovenian national team, he led the country to gold at the 2017 EuroBasket at age 18, earning tournament MVP with 18.2 points per game. It was Slovenia’s first European title, a milestone that boosted national pride. In 2021, at the Tokyo Olympics, he shone with averages of 16.5 points, helping the team advance.

On a personal level, Luka is married to Anamaria Goltes, his childhood sweetheart, and they have a daughter born in 2023. His family life is discreet, but recent sources reveal the couple is expecting their second child, which explains his current absence from the court. Off the basketball court, he invests in philanthropy, supporting sports projects in Slovenia for low-income youth, and serves as an ambassador for global brands like Nike and Jordan.

His impact goes beyond numbers: Dončić has inspired a generation of Europeans to dream of the NBA, proving that talent knows no borders. In Slovenia, courts and academies bear his name, and he is seen as a national hero alongside icons like tennis player Mima Jausovec.

Recent Updates: Absence and Expected Return

The 2025-2026 season has been a fairy tale for the Lakers, with Dončić as the protagonist. In 16 games played so far, he has posted impressive averages of 35.3 points, 8.9 rebounds, and 8.9 assists per game, leading the league in scoring and positioning himself as the MVP favorite. His streak of seven consecutive games with at least 30 points culminated in a 38-point performance against the Phoenix Suns on December 1, despite a 125-108 loss.

He was named Western Conference Player of the Week for the sixth time, alongside Jalen Brunson, highlighting his consistency. On November 29 against the New Orleans Pelicans, he recorded 34 points and 12 rebounds in a 133-121 victory, extending his influence beyond the numbers.

However, personal news interrupted the rhythm. On December 3, 2025, Dončić was announced as absent for the game against the Toronto Raptors on December 4, for personal reasons. Reports confirm he traveled back to Slovenia for the birth of his second child, a moment of family joy. Coach JJ Redick commented: “He’s away for personal reasons. We don’t have an exact date, but we hope he’ll be back soon.” There are speculations he may also miss the matchup against the Boston Celtics on December 5, but he is expected to rejoin the team shortly after.

Luka’s absence hasn’t shaken the Lakers: in four games without him this season, the team has won three, thanks to the brilliance of Austin Reaves and Bronny James. Still, his return is eagerly awaited, especially during a challenging East Coast road trip. With the Lakers in second place in the West, behind only the Oklahoma City Thunder (21-1), Dončić remains the engine of a team chasing a championship.

Legacy and a Bright Future

Luka Dončić is still early in his journey, but his legacy is already undeniable. He has redefined what a European player can achieve in the NBA, paving the way for talents like Giannis Antetokounmpo and Nikola Jokić. His trade to the Lakers, seen by some as risky, proved to be a masterstroke, revitalizing a historic franchise.

Looking ahead, Dončić dreams of a championship ring, something that eluded him in Dallas. With the Lakers, he has the tools: a balanced roster, a visionary coach, and his own genius. Off the court, he plans to expand his foundation in Slovenia, promoting sports as a tool for inclusion.

In a world where basketball evolves quickly, Luka Dončić remains constant: a rare talent, a humble leader, and a devoted father. His story reminds us that the greatest achievements come from simple roots and big hearts. As he celebrates the new life in his family, fans await his return with anticipation—because with Dončić on the court, the impossible becomes routine.