A.J. Slaughter, a guard for the Polish national team, attracted considerable attention after posting a viral photo alongside his son, Nikola Jokic, and Luka Doncic. In an interview, Slaughter discussed the importance of the picture for both him and his son.

A.J. Slaughter shares the story behind a photo with Doncic and Jokic / News – Basketnews.com

At first glance, the photo seemed like a typical snapshot of Slaughter with two standout players from EuroBasket 2022. Following Poland’s win over Slovenia, jokes circulated that Slaughter was the last man standing in the tournament.

Seizing the moment, Slaughter captured the occasion with two cameras. He now stands as the sole contender for the ME – Sports Report medal.

Slaughter zrobił zdjęcie z dwoma gwiazdami. Teraz tylko on ma szansę na medal ME – Przegląd Sportowy

However, this image carries profound significance for Slaughter.

“I was expressing my gratitude to these guys for their humility in taking a photo with me and my son,” Slaughter shared with BasketballNews. “Setting aside my pride, I’ve never faced such individuals. I humbly put my ego aside and asked for that picture from those gentlemen.”

X 上的ClutchPoints：「Luka Doncic and Nikola Jokic hanging out at EuroBasket (via @KoszKadra) https://t.co/bwOPCfCklS」 / X

“They kindly offered me and my son a photograph that will be a treasured memory for a lifetime. When he grows up, he will recognize who was in that picture. He will thank me. Just another lasting memory created at EuroBasket 2022,” Slaughter further explained.

In a quarterfinal win against Slovenia, Slaughter recorded 16 points (4/6 2PT, 2/8 3PT, 2/3 FT), 6 rebounds, 4 assists, 3 steals, 1 turnover, and a 20 EFG.

Poland is scheduled to face France in the semifinals on Friday at 17:15 CET.