By Aris Barkas/ barkas@Eurohoops.net
According to a press release that was given to the public after Gianni’s announcement, the Greek Federation believes that there was “an organized and well-staged plan by the NBA franchise” in order to prevent Antetokounmpo from playing in the Eurobasket.
The text of the press release is the following.
“The simultaneous briefing by the manager of the Milwaukee Buks and by Giannis Antetokounmpo himself via phone and social media from faraway China – and not in the proper formal form – for his inability to play for the Greek national team, brought us sadness due to this great loss, but unfortunately it does not surprise us.
Since Giannis arrived in Greece and the national team training camp started, a series of indications which were particularly worrying had created the conviction of an organized and well-staged plan by the NBA franchise in which Giannis has signed. Everything was in full knowledge of the NBA, if not encouraged by the NBA, and the athlete was put in a very difficult position. He ultimately was obliged today to announce that he can’t be a member of the national team.
This fact certainly creates a new reality, but as it is well-known, history is written by those who are present. The national team continues its coordinated effort to present itself in the best possible condition for the upcoming Pan-European Championship and to represent once again Greece the best possible way.
This is the first priority of Greek basketball, to support, by all means, our national team, the coach and the players who will be present.
Concerning everything that happened behind the scenes in this extremely interesting story which unfolded until today, it’s our duty to the country’s public opinion to reserve the right to inform fans about every aspect of this story, when the time is right”.