Giannis Antetokounmpo, the two-time NBA MVP, led the Greece Men's Basketball Team to a triumphant 80-69 victory over Croatia in the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Finals on Sunday. This win secures Greece a spot in the Paris Olympic Games, their first Olympic qualification since the 2008 Beijing Games.
Antetokounmpo shone with a game-high 23 points and eight rebounds, while teammate Nick Calathes contributed 14 points and a game-leading 11 assists. Georgios Papagiannis also played a pivotal role, adding 19 points to the scoreboard.
"The best athletes in the world compete in the Olympic Games," Antetokounmpo stated. "We have nothing to lose. I really believe we have an incredible team and we can accomplish something special."
Croatia put up a strong fight, with Ivica Zubac leading the team with 19 points and 13 rebounds. Mateo Dreznjak and Mario Hezonja each scored 15 points, while Dario Saric added 14 points.
Greece will begin their Olympic journey on July 27th against Canada in Group A, which also includes Australia and Spain.
"It's very nice to qualify because that's the first step," said Papagiannis. "At the Olympics, we're looking to do something really good there."
Antetokounmpo was overcome with emotion following the Greek National Basketball Team's qualification for the 2024 Olympic Games, marking their return after a 16-year absence.
The Milwaukee Bucks star was visibly moved, shedding tears both on the court and in the locker rooms of the Peace and Friendship Stadium.