The flames of Greece remain burning. Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Hellas staged an incredible win against Australia in their last group stage win. A win by 10+ points would have seen them securely go through to the knockouts. But now, the Greek Freak and his teammates can only wait and pray that Shai Gilgeous-Alexander overcomes the gritty Spain team.
Greece, who at one point held a 17-point lead seemed to be cruising to the knockouts. But a fightback and the Boomers’ war mentality helped them recover from their drought. Jock Landale led the surge, scoring a team-high 17 points for Australia. On the other end, Antetokounmpo’s fearsome strength led the Hellas to their first victory in Paris. The two-time MVP added 20 points, emptying his entire tank.
After the game, he was seen relieved to have given Greece a fighting opportunity. His brother Thanasis too was elated watching the resurgent Greek team keep their hopes alive. Now all that is left is patiently waiting.
An exhausted Giannis Antetokounmpo and an elated Thanasis Antetokounmpo after Greece stays alive in the Paris Olympics with an upset win over Australia pic.twitter.com/GonD2amWRX
— Ben Golliver (@BenGolliver) August 2, 2024
The only scenario for Giannis Antetokounmpo and Greece to qualify is contingent on Canada overruling the Spanish spirit. So far, the Maple, led by SGA are the only team in the group to secure a place at the knockouts. Hence, the result doesn’t hamper their chances to compete for a place at the podium.
It could be problematic if Canada, given their assured qualification decides to rest their starters in the matchup against Spain. For them, it would be a wise move since it is an inconsequential game. But for Greece, their destiny leans completely on the Canadians winning their third and final group stage.
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