Luka Dončić’s Lakers Move Sparks a Naming Surge in Los Angeles

The name Luka, once a quiet choice, has become a trending baby name across Los Angeles, following the NBA star Luka Dončić’s trade to the Lakers in February.

National Data Highlights the Surge

According to newly compiled baby‑name data from the Social Security Administration, the name Luka has risen sharply over the last three years, with 10,235 newborns receiving the name. That figure includes a 10.5% increase from 2022 to 2023 alone, a period when Dončić was lighting up Dallas and captivating highlight reels. The trend shows that the player’s national visibility has translated into measurable naming activity.

Local Anecdotes in Los Angeles

Local hospitals report an anecdotal uptick in parents choosing the name “Luka” after the player’s arrival. While Los Angeles‑specific data will not be released until next year, parents from Pasadena to Palos Verdes are making the modern statement of naming their newborns after the Lakers’ new superstar. Walk through a suburban playground this summer, and chances are, someone’s calling for a little Luka to come down the slide.

A Look Back at Dallas

Luka Dončić’s influence on baby‑name trends is not new. During his tenure with the Dallas Mavericks, especially around his All‑NBA First Team selection in the 2020‑21 season, the name surged in Texas, particularly across the Dallas‑Fort Worth metroplex. That earlier spike mirrors the current Los Angeles enthusiasm.

Player’s Own Words

In a 2021 interview, Dončić said, “It feels special that someone named their child after me. Maybe they’re not all after me, you know, I think some of them are. But it feels special.” The comment captured the player’s awareness of the growing trend and his personal reaction.

Family Life and Naming Choices

Fast forward to 2025, and Dončić himself welcomed a new baby girl on Saturday. He and his fiancée Anamaria Goltes chose the name Olivia, not Luka. “It’s amazing, man,” he said, smile uncontainable. “Another daughter. I’m so happy. I know they’re going to stress me out when they get older, but I already told them—I’m gonna be their security after I retire.”

Name Rankings and Popularity

BabyCenter ranked Luka at #80 for all boys’ names in 2024, while The Bump placed it at #94. The name’s global roots—from Greek to Slavic origins—allow it to work across cultures and genders, adding to its appeal. The trend has been climbing even before his Lakers debut.

Comparative Name Popularity

Among basketball‑influenced names, Luka trails only Anthony in overall count over the past three years. Here is the snapshot of the scoreboard:

• Anthony – 19,626
• Luka – 10,235
• Kyrie – 5,102
• Jaylen – 3,579
• Kobe – 2,868
• Jayson – 1,525
• Giannis – 468
• Shaquille – 104
• LeBron – 36
• Steph – 5

Even Kobe, a beloved Los Angeles icon, has seen his name matched by the new prince in purple and gold.

Parent Testimony

A new dad outside Cedars‑Sinai Medical Center described his experience: “Once we knew Luka was coming to the Lakers, it was a done deal. My wife and I just looked at each other. He’s Luka. Period.” His words echo the certainty felt by many parents in the city.

What This Means for the Community

The Lakers’ influence extends beyond the court. The rise of Luka as a baby‑name trend illustrates how a player’s presence can shape cultural choices in a city. As the franchise continues to grow its legacy, the name Luka remains a quiet wish for greatness, a whisper of hope, and a belief that the name might carry a bit of that magic.

Key Takeaways

• The name Luka has increased by 10.5% from 2022 to 2023, with 10,235 newborns named Luka in the last three years.
• Local hospitals in Los Angeles report anecdotal upticks following Dončić’s trade.
• Luka’s name ranks #80 on BabyCenter’s 2024 list and #94 on The Bump’s list.

The trend underscores the powerful intersection of sports and cultural naming practices in Los Angeles.

Closing

Luka Dončić’s move to the Lakers has not only altered the NBA landscape but also left an imprint on the city’s newest generation. As parents continue to choose the name Luka, the Lakers’ influence will likely endure well beyond the hardwood.