FIBA has officially released the rosters for the upcoming FIBA World Cup 2023, and the roster for Greece includes the Antetokounmpo brothers – Giannis, Thanasis, and Kostas.
However, there’s a cloud of uncertainty hanging over Giannis Antetokounmpo’s participation, as he awaits clearance from the Milwaukee Bucks to play for the Greek national team. The NBA superstar recently underwent knee surgery, adding to the concern about his availability.
Despite the situation, Greece’s basketball team has included Giannis, the former NBA MVP, in their roster, eagerly anticipating a decision on his eligibility. The team recognizes the impact of having Giannis on the court, given his phenomenal skills and basketball prowess.
During the 2023 NBA playoffs, Giannis faced challenges, suffering a back injury that contributed to the Milwaukee Bucks’ unexpected early exit in the first round against the Miami Heat. In the three games he played, Giannis’ performances were somewhat underwhelming, averaging 23.3 points, 11 rebounds, 5.3 assists, and struggling with a free-throw shooting percentage of 45%.
Joining his brother Giannis in representing Greece is Thanasis Antetokounmpo, another NBA player from the Milwaukee Bucks. Throughout the 2022-23 season, Thanasis played in 37 games while juggling his commitments with the Milwaukee Herd through a two-way contract.
Kostas Antetokounmpo, the third brother in the family, is also expected to be part of the Greek squad. With previous stints in the NBA, playing for the Dallas Mavericks and winning a championship with the LA Lakers in the 2020 bubble, he currently showcases his talent for Panathinaikos in the Greek basketball league.
Greece faces formidable challenges in the FIBA World Cup group phase, being grouped with powerhouses Team USA, New Zealand, and Jordan. The inclusion of Giannis in their roster is crucial, not only due to the challenge posed by Team USA but also because of the strong competition from New Zealand, boasting seasoned players with international experience. A potential matchup between Greece and Team USA would be a highly anticipated showdown during the group phase, and Giannis’ presence on the court will undoubtedly make it a thrilling spectacle. With his dominant skills and status as a seven-time NBA All-Star, Giannis will face off against a talented group of 12 young and promising NBA players in the competition.
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