Milwaukee Bucks’ super star, Giannis Antetokounmpo, is set to don Greece’s colors in the 2024 Summer Olympics qualifiers, as announced by Greece’s national team coach, Vassilis Spanoulis, on Saturday. Spanoulis confirmed during a press briefing that Antetokounmpo will join the national squad for the upcoming FIBA Men’s Olympic Qualifying Tournament at SEF.
The decision comes amid speculations about Antetokounmpo’s availability, given his absence from the Milwaukee Bucks’ recent playoff matches due to injury. Despite concerns, Spanoulis assured the media of Antetokounmpo’s participation, stating unequivocally, “Yes, Giannis will be present in the national team.”
Born and raised in Athens to Nigerian immigrants, the 29-year-old NBA star has deep ties to Greece, having started his basketball journey in the city’s youth teams before his NBA draft in 2013. While his injury sidelined him during the Bucks’ playoff run, Antetokounmpo’s commitment to representing Greece highlights his dedication to international competition.
With the Olympic Qualifying Tournament scheduled at SEF from July 2 to July 7, Greece aims to secure its spot in the Summer Games. The team will face the Dominican Republic on July 3 and Egypt on July 4 at the Peace and Friendship Stadium, SEF, with hopes of clinching its first Olympic medal.
