Greece Humiliated in Basketball Qualifier

Portugal achieved a historic victory in a FIBA World Cup qualifier, with Diogo Brito leading the charge. He recorded an impressive 17 points, 9 rebounds, 2 steals, 2 assists, and 1 block. Rafael Lisboa contributed 16 points, and Travante Williams, a former player from Roanne, added 15 points to the Portuguese offense.

The Greek team struggled significantly, shooting a mere 19.4% from three-point range and 43.3% from two-point range. Their top scorer, Naz Mitrou-Long, managed only 11 points.

In Group B, both Portugal and Greece are now tied for second place with a record of 3 wins and 3 losses, trailing behind Montenegro. These three nations will face Spain, Ukraine, and Georgia in the next phase of the qualifiers, presenting a formidable challenge.

Following the defeat, Vassilis Spanoulis, a prominent figure in Greek basketball, expressed his deep disappointment. He stated:

"We presented a very poor image, one that the basketball world does not want to see in these prosperous years. Everyone, absolutely everyone, must apologize. We are winners, we have pride, and we will do better in the next international window to prove that we deserve to play in the World Cup."

Spanoulis further commented on the team's composition and responsibilities:

"I believe that at least nine players from the medal-winning team are missing... It is our mistake not to have called all the players... I take responsibility, along with the management... I also want to go on vacation, but anyone who is healthy should be here. Every window. This is our life... All Greeks ask for a role, for playing time. Here is the opportunity. The opportunity was there. And then what? It's the coach's fault after that... The pool of Greek talent is not immense; everyone must take responsibility."

He elaborated on the team's fragility without key players:

"When important players are absent, the team collapses. I cannot do everything; I am not a magician. After the medal, I could have also stopped and said there are not enough Greek players, but I love the national team passionately. Be assured that for the next window, everyone will be there. You expect us to be a complete team. Serbia lost to Switzerland and then fielded Nikola Jokic. It is our fault that Dorsey and Giannis (Antetokounmpo) are not here; it is entirely our fault."