By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
ATHENS, Greece – Fueled by brilliant Giannis Antetokounmpo, Greece made short work of the Dominican Republic on the way to a 109-82 victory on Wednesday.
In his first official showing since injuring his left calf late in the 2023-24 NBA Regular Season, the Milwaukee Bucks star bounced into the 2024 FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Piraeus with 32 points in 18 minutes. The Freak connected all of his 11 attempts from the field, including one triple. Besides scoring he put up two assists, two rebounds, and one block.
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Thomas Walkup chipped in 17 points, including a game-high three three-pointers. Fellow guard Nick Calathes posted a 12-point, 11-assist double-double and pulled down three rebounds. Joining the list of double-digit scorers for the team coached by Vassilis Spanoulis, Giorgos Papagiannis ended up with ten points. On the losing end, Chris Duarte stood out with 26 points.
Playing host to Egypt on Thursday, Greece will advance to the Semifinals of the OQT as the top seed of Group B with a win or a loss by a margin of 19 points or less. A potential loss ranging between 20 and 41 points would clinch the second seed. Looking for even more improbable scenarios, a loss of 42 points or more would mark elimination.
The team coached by Nestor Garcia fell to 1-1. If Greece beats Egypt or if the visitors win by a margin of 42 points or more tomorrow, the Dominicans will progress as the second seed.
Photo Credit: FIBA.BASKETBALL