Giannis remains out for Greece; Jokic dominates, Doncic grows vocal, Osman lauds European calendar
giannis-absence-jokic-dominance-doncic-leadership-osman-comments
Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo is still sitting out Greece’s build-up to EuroBasket, missing his third consecutive preparation game on August 10 against Israel. Although listed for the main tournament later this month, the two-time NBA MVP has been working out individually in Athens.
National team head coach Vassilis Spanoulis said on Greek television that Antetokounmpo’s status for the next exhibition—Thursday’s matchup with Montenegro in Thessaloniki—remains undecided. “Giannis will be on the court when he should be,” Spanoulis noted.
Opposition reacts
Serbia originally scheduled last Saturday’s friendly with Greece in hopes of seeing Antetokounmpo face Nikola Jokic. Serbian coach Svetislav Pesic voiced his frustration after the forward skipped that contest as well, stating, “I’m sorry that Giannis is not here; that’s why we scheduled this tournament.”
Jokic takes charge
Without Antetokounmpo on the floor, Jokic powered Serbia to a 76-66 win over Greece, finishing with 23 points, 19 rebounds and four assists. The Denver Nuggets center controlled the paint as Serbia built a decisive lead in the second quarter.
Doncic’s new voice with Slovenia
Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic has impressed Slovenia’s locker room not only with a leaner frame but also with a louder presence, teammates told Sport Klub. Veteran guard Klemen Prepelić said Doncic spoke “significantly more than in previous years” during the first practice, adding that his enthusiasm and court vision set the tone for the group.
Osman enjoys frequent national duty
Former NBA wing Cedi Osman, now suiting up for Turkey at EuroBasket, said playing in Europe lets him join the national team more often. “Here, I can also take part in the FIBA windows,” Osman explained. “Every two or three months I get the chance to come to Turkey and play for the national team, which helps build continuity and chemistry.”
The EuroBasket tournament begins later in August.
Source: Hoops Rumors
