On Monday night in the Bronx, Luka Doncic attended the New York Yankees’ game against the Tampa Bay Rays, where he met star player Aaron Judge. The meeting drew attention as Doncic, known for his basketball talents, expressed surprise at Judge’s physical stature and even speculated on the baseball player’s potential in basketball.
Doncic Impressed by Judge’s Size and Athleticism
Speaking with Michael Kay of the YES Network, Doncic commented on Judge’s size, saying he appeared larger in person than on television. When asked whether Judge could play basketball, Doncic confidently suggested that Judge would fit well as a power forward, indicating his belief in Judge’s versatile athletic capabilities.
“Yeah, I was amazed. When you see on TV, he don’t look like that.”
—Luka Doncic
“He can play. I think power forward.”
—Luka Doncic
Aaron Judge’s Remarkable Season and Career Highlights
Aaron Judge is currently having another remarkable season despite dealing with an injury. He is batting .342 with 37 home runs and 85 RBIs. Judge has made history as the first MLB player to hit 33 or more home runs before the All-Star break in three separate seasons—2022, 2024, and 2025.
“Aaron Judge is the first player in MLB history to hit 33 or more home runs before the All-Star break in three different seasons (2022, 2024 and 2025).”
—OptaSTATS
Last season, Judge played a key role in leading the Yankees to the World Series, marking the team‘s first appearance since 2009. This season, the Yankees hold a 57-49 record, placing them second in the American League East following their 4-2 loss to the Rays on Monday night.
Highlights from the Meeting Between Doncic and Judge
The MLB reported that Luka Doncic was gifted a pair of Aaron Judge’s special edition “Double Gum” cleats and a game-used bat during his visit to Yankee Stadium. This exchange highlighted the mutual respect between the basketball and baseball stars.
“Luka DonÄiÄ pulled up to Yankee Stadium to meet Aaron Judge and was gifted a pair of Judge’s PE ‘Double Gum’ cleats and a game-used bat.”
—MLB
Doncic’s Career Journey and Current Status
Luka Doncic spent over six years with the Dallas Mavericks before being traded to the Los Angeles Lakers last season. As a prominent figure in basketball, Doncic continues to attract interest both on and off the court.
Broad Significance of the Encounter
The meeting between Luka Doncic and Aaron Judge represents a fascinating crossover between basketball and baseball, highlighting the remarkable physicality and talent of athletes across sports. With Judge showing potential beyond baseball and Doncic embracing this possibility, this event could spark further conversations about athletic versatility. As both athletes continue their seasons, fans will watch closely to see how their respective careers evolve.