The NBA’s search for its next face of the league is heating up as legends LeBron James, Kevin Durant and Stephen Curry inch closer to calling it a career.
While the league boasts plenty of elite talent waiting in the wings, finding that perfect blend of on-court brilliance and off-court charisma is crucial.
Stars like Luka Doncic and Anthony Edwards have emerged as frontrunners, while Ja Morant’s path was temporarily derailed by his 2023 suspensions.
FOX Sports host Nick Wright recently made a compelling case for one player to take over the prestigious role.
“I think Luka can take the mantle. I don’t think he could’ve in Dallas, but I think with the [Los Angeles] Lakers and with the added attention of him being alongside LeBron, I absolutely think he can be the next face of the league,” Wright said on “First Things First.”
“I think Luka can take the mantle. I don’t think he could have in Dallas, but I think with the Lakers and with the added attention of him being alongside LeBron, I absolutely think he can be the next face of the league.”
— @getnickwright pic.twitter.com/iDYfE0sxxy
— First Things First (@FTFonFS1) February 18, 2025
Despite some arguing that the NBA’s marquee star should be American-born, Wright waved off those concerns.
He points to Doncic’s natural adoption of basketball culture, complete with the confidence, swagger and competitive fire that fans love.
Wright also drew an interesting contrast between Doncic and fellow European star Nikola Jokic.
While Jokic has openly expressed his desire to eventually return to Europe, Doncic seems to embrace the NBA spotlight fully.
Wright suggests that the trade to the Lakers and playing alongside James will provide the perfect launching pad for Doncic to assume top billing.
Co-host Chris Broussard named Edwards and Victor Wembanyama as strong candidates for the role, but Wright remains convinced that Doncic’s unique combination of basketball wizardry, marketability and magnetic personality makes him the ideal successor to carry the NBA torch.
NEXT: Luka Doncic Was Reportedly Impressed With 1 Recent Rob Pelinka Move
