Montreal and Quebec Shine Through One of Their Own!
Quebeckers and Montrealers are celebrating today as Luguentz Dort, a native of the Montreal-North neighbourhood, led the Oklahoma City Thunder to victory over the Indiana Pacers in the final game of the 2025 NBA Championship, etching his name among basketball legends. A first for the Thunder, a first for Lu, and a moment of immense pride for the entire province!
Renowned for his tenacious defense, physical strength, and leadership on the court, Dort has continued to impress since joining the league in 2019. His consistent growth and ability to perform in crucial moments are a testament to his exemplary work ethic and outstanding competitive spirit. In this decisive game, Dort scored 9 points, grabbed 3 rebounds, and made several key defensive stops late in the match, leading his team to a spectacular win over the Indiana Pacers.
Montreal and Quebec celebrate his journey
Beyond the stats, an entire city—and province—is celebrating the journey of this exceptional athlete. Luguentz Dort represents more than just a player: he is a role model for a new generation of young Montrealers, especially in multicultural neighborhoods where basketball and sports pave the way to a brighter and more hopeful future.
Montreal’s Mathurin has an exceptional season with NBA finalist Indiana Pacers
We also want to acknowledge the remarkable performance of Bennedict Mathurin, also a Montreal native, who had an exceptional season with the Indiana Pacers. Together, Dort and Mathurin embody the extraordinary potential of Quebec and Montreal talent on the international stage.
To Luguentz Dort, congratulations on this resounding victory. Keep representing Montreal with pride—know that your city is behind you with every rebound.
Overcoming many odds – Dort’s story
Born in 1999 to Haitian parents in Montreal-North, Luguentz Dort has overcome many obstacles to become an internationally recognized basketball player. He began playing at a young age, quickly showcasing exceptional talent and unshakable determination. After a standout college career at Arizona State University, Dort joined the NBA in 2019, signing a five-year, $87.5 million contract with the Oklahoma City Thunder. In 2022, he co-founded the Maizon Dort Foundation with his family, aimed at improving the lives of youth in underserved communities in Montreal, Oklahoma City, and central Arizona through team sports.
Known as “LuTheBeast,” he is celebrated for his tough defense, agility, and ability to score in clutch moments. His inspiring journey—from modest beginnings in Montreal to NBA success—is a testament to his resilience and hard work.
In 2024, at age 25, Luguentz Dort was selected to represent Canada at the Paris Summer Olympics—his first Olympic appearance and a major milestone in his career. As a key member of Canada’s national basketball team, Dort continues to pursue excellence and make his fellow Canadians proud.
In 2025, Luguentz was named to the NBA All-Defensive First Team.
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