Giannis Antetokounmpo OUT for FIBA World Cup; Easier Path for Banchero, Team USA?

Orlando Magic star Paolo Banchero and Team USA could have an easier time at the FIBA World Cup after Giannis Antetokounmpo was ruled out for Greece.

The FIBA World Cup is soon to be without one of its top stars and it could have major consequences for Team USA's group.

Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo has ruled himself out of Greece's FIBA Basketball World Cup effort, citing lingering concerns over his recovery from knee surgery.

"After months of work and multiple meetings with medical staff, it is clear that I am not ready to compete in the level that I need to be to participate in the World Cup," Antetokounmpo tweeted. "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.

"I am extremely disappointed in this outcome but this was a decision made with the medical staff. I’m going to continue to push myself to be ready for the next time my name is called."

The Greeks are situated in the same group as a United States team featuring Orlando Magic star Paolo Banchero as well as Antetokounmpo's Milwaukee teammate Bobby Portis. Team USA and Greece are set to compete in Group C play with Jordan and New Zealand in Pasay. Both sides are due for an exhibition battle beforehand on Aug. 18 in Abu Dhabi.

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Geoff Magliocchetti is on Twitter @GeoffJMags

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