Greece’s chances at a deep World Cup took a hit when Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo opted out of play. He reportedly underwent a cleanup procedure in his left knee recently after dealing with lingering knee soreness throughout this past season. Antetokounmpo helped Greece qualify for the World Cup with his dominant play during FIBA EuroBasket 2022, highlighted by a showdown against fellow two-time Kia MVP Nikola Jokic. His absence leaves his brother, Thanasis, as the only active NBA player on Greece’s roster.
Active NBA players
- Thanasis Antetokounmpo (Milwaukee Bucks)
Coach: Dimitris Itoudis
What to Watch
Greece would have been one of the favorites to win gold with Giannis Antetokounmpo in the mix. However, his absence hurts and, along with the shaky status of his brother, Thanasis (who underwent an offseason knee procedure of his own), Greece will need their veterans such as Kostas Sloukas, Kostas Papanikolaou and Nick Calathes to be ready to carry the load.
Group Play Schedule
- Aug. 26: vs. Jordan (4:45 a.m. ET)
- Aug. 28: vs. United States (8:40 a.m. ET)
- Aug. 30: vs. New Zealand (8:40 a.m. ET)
