Giannis Antetokounmpo led Greece to a historic Olympic qualification, securing a spot in Paris 2024.
The Milwaukee Bucks superstar hit 23 points as Greece sealed a 80-69 win over Croatia in front of their home crowd in Piraeus.
Greece’s Olympic drought since 2008 has finally ended, thanks to their superstar’s determination and talent.
“It’s an incredible feeling,” said two-time NBA MVP Antetokounmpo, who was in tears after Greece’s victory.
“Since I was a kid I always wanted to play in the Olympic Games.”
The 29-year-old, who had been sidelined with a calf injury since April, made a triumphant return to the court, leading Greece to victories over Dominican Republic, Egypt, and Slovenia side featuring Dallas Mavericks star Luka Doncic in the semi-final.
Giannis Antetokounmpo will make his first EVER Olympic appearance 🔥#afropolitain pic.twitter.com/cabucoJ3wL
— AfropolitainMagazine (@afropolitainmag) July 8, 2024
In other Olympic qualifying tournaments, Brazil defeated Latvia 94-69, Spain beat Bahamas 86-78, and Puerto Rico made their first Olympic appearance since 2004 by winning 79-68 against Lithuania.
