By Aris Barkas/ barkas@eurohoops.net
Lille, France – The Hellenic Basketball Federation announced plans for the senior national team of Greece, which do not include staying at the Olympic Village in Paris.
After clinching a berth in the Quarterfinals of the men’s basketball tournament of the 2024 Olympic Games on Saturday evening, the team coached by Vassilis Spanoulis will travel from Lille to Paris on Sunday morning.
Seeking the best possible conditions to prepare for the next challenge, against Germany in a single-elimination game for a spot in the Semifinals on Tuesday, Giannis Antetokounmpo and his teammates will stay in a Paris hotel, the Hellenic Basketball Federation relayed, altering the initial projected plan.
During the Paris Games, athletes from all over the world complained about their stay in the Olympic Village. Considering reported conditions regarding food, heat, and more, Greece opted against the Olympic Village. More national teams are expected to follow the same route, including Serbia, France, Canada, and the United States, heading to the knockout stage of the tournament. FIBA World Cup champion Germany along with Australia and Brazil are the remaining qualified countries.
Pool play held in Lille postponed final decisions about accommodation in Paris until the next round, only for the eight remaining contenders.
Resuming action in Accor Arena on Tuesday, Greece faces Germany, Serbia clashes with Australia, France hosts Canada, and the United States meets Brazil. The Semifinals follow on Thursday. The gold and bronze medal games will wrap up the schedule on Saturday.
Photo Credit: FIBA