Greece national basketball team are among the top contenders in EuroBasket 2025 but they are also among the oldest. The Giannis Antetokounmpo-led team only got one player that is born in 2000s.
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Aug 6, 2024; Paris, France; Germany passes the ball against Greece centre Georgios Papagiannis (14) and power forward Konstantinos Mitoglou (44) during a mens basketball quarterfinal game during the Paris 2024 Olympic Summer Games at Accor Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
This is why star Kostas Sloukas is more determined to bring glory to his country. Sloukas has been with donning the Greece colors since 2009 and now at 35, he believes this could be his last chance to win a title for them.
“It’s a great honor and pride to represent my country since I was 12 or 13,” he said in an interview with FIBA.
“I’ve only missed tournaments because of injuries. I feel a responsibility because it’s likely my last one, and I want to leave behind a legacy that brings all Greeks together with one big success.
Sloukas did not apply for the NBA but he has been dedicating his basketball life to Greece. He first played for Olympiacos basketball team and currently for Panathinaikos.
Greece national basketball team
Aug 6, 2024; Paris, France; Greece huddles before the game against Germany during a mens basketball quarterfinal game during the Paris 2024 Olympic Summer Games at Accor Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
He’s won everything there is to win – whether individual or team glory. He’s won EuroLeague, FIBA Intercontinental Cup, Super Cup MVP, All Europe team and many more.
Sloukas talks Giannis Antetokounmpo’s impact
Antetokounmpo is the main reason why Greece are contenders. For Sloukas, the Milwaukee Bucks star’s impact is not just on the basketball court.
He said that he makes his teammates try harder. This is despite the fact that the Greek Freak is yet to join them in a friendly even though he should be.
Reports said this is due to money issues between the Hellenic Basketball Federation and the Bucks.
“What makes him unique is his work ethic,” Sloukas said.
Giannis Antetokounmpo, Greece
Aug 6, 2024; Paris, France; Greece small forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) runs onto the court before the game against Germany during a mens basketball quarterfinal game during the Paris 2024 Olympic Summer Games at Accor Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
“He comes first, leaves last, and loves what he does. Even after everything he’s achieved, his thirst doesn’t stop. He’s an example for all of us.”
Overall, the Panathinaikos veteran believes they got a quality team to grab the EuroBasket title which they already won twice but the last one was in 2005.
“Together with our veterans and talented young guys, it’s a beautiful mix that gives me optimism.”
Giannis is expected to make an appearance for team’s friendly with Latvia this Wednesday.
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