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Giannis Antetokounmpo announces he will not play for Greece in the upcoming World Cup

The Greek Freak says he is not healthy enough to play in the World Cup.

Matthew Dugandzic

© Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
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Giannis Antetokounmpo ended weeks of speculation when he formally announced that will not play for Greece in the upcoming 2023 FIBA World Cup in Manila, Philippines.

The development was announced through social media by the Milwaukee Bucks main man himself.

It can be recalled that the Greek Freak underwent a knee procedure shortly after the Bucks’ stunning first-round exit the past season.

Not healthy enough for World Cup

The Greek Freak made it clear that he exhausted all efforts just so he could suit up Greece.

“Everyone knows my passion and love for my National Team has and never will change. Since the conclusion of my NBA season, I have been pushing my body to the limits to be the player I need to be to help our team achieve the goals we set,” Giannis said.

The Greek Freak said that “after months of work and multiple meetings with medical staff,” it was clear that he was not ready “ to compete in the level that I need to be to participate in the World Cup.”

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“This was not a choice but my only option in ensuring I get back to the level of basketball I have worked so hard to achieve so far in my career,” said Antetokounmpo.

Big blow for Greece

The two-time NBA MVP is “extremely disappointed” that he will not be able to play for Greece in the World Championships this year. Giannis, however, assured that the desire to play for his national team will remain.

“I’m going to continue to push myself to be ready for the next time my name is called. My personal, and our ultimate team goal is to qualify for the 2024 Olympics games, and it will be an honor to represent my National Team next year,” Antetokounmpo said.

Antetokounmpo’s absence will be a big blow for Greece, which is bracketed with the United States in Group C. Also in Group C are Jordan and New Zealand. Giannis played in the 2014 and 2019 World Championships, as he has FIBA career averages of 19.3 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 2.6 assists.

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Matthew Dugandzic
MATTHEW DUGANDZIC

Matthew finished his bachelor's degree in Economics (Management) at the University of Split and got his master's degree in the same field at the University of Zadar. Whether it is playing the game as an undersized 6'3'' power forward or simply watching it, Matthew can't get enough of it. After all, he has been an avid NBA fan since the 2000s. But don't get him wrong, as Matthew still loves the old-school NBA and is a true student of the game. From on-court moments to off-court stuff, whether it's about the stars of modern-day basketball or legends of the game, Matthew covers every category of the NBA world and basketball in general, as long as it makes for an engaging and exciting story.