A lackluster Greek men’s national basketball team lost its second match in a row at the Paris 2024 Olympics to Spain (84-77) on Tuesday afternoon, despite a great performance by Giannis Antetokounmpo.
The “Greek Freak” put on another stellar show, effectively the only player who rose to the occasion, scoring 27 points, assisted by a surprise substitute, Toliopoulos, who scored 14 points. Antetokounmpo also grabbed 11 rebounds with 3 assists.
The rest of the players were found wanting contributing very little to the efforts of Giannis and Toliopoulos.
A mediocre Spanish team – considered by sports analysts as the worst in recent times – managed to control the rebounds, grabbing 8 more than Greece (39-31). NBAer Aldama, who clashed in the paint with Giannis, had 19 points while veteran Llull added 13 points to the Spanish tally.
The chances of Greece advancing to the next round in the tournament are now slim. If Australia beats Canada in the next match the national team will be eliminated today. However, if the Canadians defeat Australia, Greece will have an opportunity to move into the next round if it manages to overcome Australia in the final game – and by posting a victory with a certain point difference.
Greece lost their opening game to Canada, a team considered as a serious medal contender by many, along with Serbia, possibly Australia and home favorites France, before Tuesday’s loss to Spain.
