Dallas Mavericks star Luka Dončić's home was burglarized Friday night, marking the latest in a series of similar incidents targeting high-profile athletes. The break-in resulted in approximately $30,000 worth of jewelry being stolen, according to a police report.
The incident occurred while Dončić was away from home, as confirmed by his business manager. Fortunately, no one was present at the time, and both Dončić and his family are safe. A police report has been filed, and an investigation is currently underway.
The burglary took place between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m., with entry gained through a broken master bathroom window. While private security was present at the residence, it did not deter the theft.
This incident comes as Dončić recovers from a left calf injury that will sideline him for at least a month. He was not with the Mavericks when they began their four-game road trip with a game against the Phoenix Suns.
This recent burglary is part of a troubling trend. In November, the NBA issued a warning to players about increasing home security after the residences of Milwaukee Bucks’ Bobby Portis and Minnesota Timberwolves’ Mike Conley Jr. were also targeted.
The FBI has connected these high-profile burglaries, which have also affected NFL stars such as Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce, and Joe Burrow, to "transnational South American theft groups." These groups reportedly use sophisticated techniques and technologies, including pre-surveillance and drones, to carry out their operations. The stolen items are often resold on the black market, with jewelry and other valuables being primary targets.
The NBA warning was preceded by a similar security alert from the NFL after it was reported that $20,000 was stolen from Kelce’s home. This underscores a broader concern about the safety of athletes and the methods employed by these organized theft rings.
