From “Luka Magic” to Amazon Prime: Exel Talks Acting, Music, and Luka Doncic’s Shocking Trade

If you were in the vicinity of a Dallas Mavericks game in 2022, you likely heard the single Luka Magic.

Exel, who resides in Dallas and became the soundtrack to Luka Doncic’s meteoric rise, was behind the mic. Exel has been carving out a new path—this time on-screen, despite the song’s success. Exel’s talents extend beyond music, with his appearances on hit shows like Walker and Bandmates and upcoming roles in Landman. We sat down with him to talk about life after the anthem, his thoughts on the 2025 NBA Finals, and the trade that broke hearts everywhere.

If you’re a Mavs fan, chances are you’ve heard “Luka Magic”—the viral anthem that lit up the Dallas Mavericks’ 2022 season. The artist behind the track, Exel, quickly became a recognizable name in the MFFL circle. However, since then, he has pivoted into acting, landing roles in Walker, Landman, several indie films, and the Amazon Prime series Bandmates.

We caught up with Exel to talk about his transition to acting, his thoughts on the NBA Finals, and of course, that huge Luka Doncic trade.

First off congrats on all your success. The jump from music to acting isn’t easy, but you’re doing it. How’s that journey been?

Exel: Thank you so much, that means a lot to me. Acting has been rewarding! I’ve been fortunate both in music and acting to always be surrounded by such talented people and a great inner circle that I can learn from and be motivated by. Anything I know came from someone showing it to me. As with music, acting has its own significant learning curve. I’m still relatively new compared to most of the actors I work with, who are truly incredible at what they do, and I couldn’t do it without their guidance. I’m very grateful for the opportunities and have been lucky enough to meet such great people thus far.

Let’s talk basketball. 2025 Finals just wrapped and the Oklahoma City Thunder are the champs. What are your thoughts? Did you see this coming?

Exel: Wow, yeah, what a run they had this year. I give them nothing but respect, but the Pacers? You’ve got to hand it to them! Up until the very bitter end, they fought tooth and nail and got 7 games out of it. I’ll say on record that if Haliburton didn’t get injured, I think we would have seen a very different ending. He is one of the most clutch players I’ve seen in a long time. I’m wishing him a speedy recovery and absolutely loved the heart the Pacers showed. This Pacers run reminded me of the 2011 Mavs, and that was something special. Congrats to OKC, nonetheless.

Speaking of the Mavs…I’m sure you’re aware that Luka Doncic is a Laker now. You literally made a song called ‘Luka Magic.’ How did you take that news?

Exel: Man…What a fumble. Luka’s not just a player to Dallas – he’s a symbol. He meant the absolute world to the city of Dallas, and I will never understand or be able to wrap my head around that trade. It’s sickening, honestly. So many die-hard and lifelong fans have raised their voices to express their unhappiness and heartbreak over the trade. That in and of itself is just an awful feeling. Fire Nico.

You’re big into fitness, and it shows. How does training help you balance the pressure of acting and your creative process?

Exel: Thank you! At this point I think fitness has become such a part of my daily routine that I notice a huge difference if I don’t train for a couple of days. My days just don’t feel complete without working out or going for a run, so I constantly make sure to stay active. I think it’s all just habit now which helps me to stay focused.

So what’s next for Exel? More acting, new music, something totally unexpected?

Exel: Great question, and I wish I could also answer it correctly, haha! I can say that I have been working on music both solo and with a good friend of mine, Raf. When will something be released in that department? Super hard to say. With the project I’m working on with my friend, Raf, we both play all the main instruments, so we switch from guitar to drums to bass to singing and writing back and forth, and that’s been a really awesome dynamic to be a part of. He’s one of the most talented people that I know. I’m lucky to know the guy. He’s a prime example of someone I always learn something from. For acting? I did a spot on Landman and am being brought back out for it, which is really more than I can ask for, so that’s (hopefully) probably where you’ll see me next for acting. I’d love to start doing intense roles or horror roles, but I’m a constant student to all of this, so I have a bit more learning to do I feel. For anything unexpected? Oof…I think I have about 100 plans a day about what I’d love to do next, haha. As of now, I’m really falling in love with acting.

As we send you on your way, is there anything else you’d like to say?

Absolutely – thank you to everyone who has helped me along this journey and have supported me in any capacity. It’s something that I always think about and appreciate. Make sure to learn from everyone around you because every person you meet knows something that you don’t know. Be grateful every day. Do something good every day. Give back to your community. Stand for what you believe in. Always save seats at your table. Also, of course, Fire Nico.

Exel’s passion and authenticity are unwavering despite his evolution, from viral music artist to emerging screen talent. He is always wearing his heart on his sleeve, whether it’s dropping verses, delivering lines on set, or speaking out on behalf of his city. Exel is just starting out with new projects, a strong love for fitness and community, and his sights on even more challenging acting roles. While his fans may never forget him as ‘Luka Magic,’ it’s clear that he’s now writing his own story—and this time, it’s all his.

Follow Exel on Instagram and catch him on Season 1 of “BandMates,” now streaming on Amazon Prime.