Greece international Thanasis Antetokounmpo called for unity after the national basketball team suffered an 82-76 loss to Ukraine in their 2027 World Cup qualifying match on Friday.
The defeat marks the third consecutive loss for Greece in the qualifying campaign, putting further pressure on their hopes of reaching the tournament.
Speaking to public broadcaster ERT after the game, Antetokounmpo analyzed where the team struggled during the match. He noted that statistical comparisons showed both teams recorded nearly identical numbers, with Greece actually leading in total assists.
However, Antetokounmpo explained that the Greek offense stalled during key moments, describing the team as hitting an invisible wall. He added that whenever Greece managed to narrow the deficit to a single point, they were unable to complete the comeback and take the lead.
Offensive Stagnation and Post Match Reaction
Addressing the difficult period for the squad, Antetokounmpo acknowledged that the current situation is challenging, noting that nothing in life comes easy. He stated that the players had not yet had the opportunity to discuss the defeat thoroughly in the immediate aftermath of the final whistle.
Antetokounmpo emphasized that reviewing performance and quickly shifting focus to the next fixture defines what it means to be a professional athlete. He declared that team members must stand together not only during times of victory and celebration, but also through difficult moments.
Antetokounmpo also expressed gratitude to the fans who attended the game to support the national team. He stated that the squad strongly wanted to deliver a victory for the crowd, but expressed regret that they were unable to achieve the result.
Head Coach Spanoulis Focuses on Upcoming Spain Match
Greece head coach Vassilis Spanoulis expressed frustration during his post-match media obligations when questioned about the performance of player Dinos Mitoglou. Spanoulis dismissed the query regarding individual scoring output, asking who cares about points when evaluating team performance.
Looking ahead, Spanoulis insisted that the team is not paying attention to external qualification combinations or mathematical scenarios. He clarified that the sole priority for Greece is preparing to win their next fixture.
Thanasis Antetokounmpo is an experienced forward for the Greece national basketball team, which is coached by former EuroLeague star Vassilis Spanoulis. ERT, the Hellenic Broadcasting Corporation, serves as Greece's national public broadcaster, covering the team's international campaign as they compete in FIBA qualifiers for the 2027 World Cup.
Greece will return to the court on Monday for a crucial qualifier against Spain. Both Antetokounmpo and Spanoulis emphasized that the team must remain fully united as they prepare for the upcoming match.
