Australia Advances to Quarterfinals Despite Loss; Greece Keeps Olympic Hopes Alive

Giannis Antetokounmpo led the Greek charge with a dominant performance, racking up 20 points, 7 rebounds, and 6 assists. Dinos Mitoglou and Thomas Walkup provided crucial support, contributing a combined 31 points.

Although losing their final group stage game, Australia clinched second place in Group A and a ticket to the next round due to Spain’s exit.

In a thrilling encounter, Spain, needing a win to stay alive, fought valiantly against Canada. Dario Brizuela ignited Spain’s offense with 17 points, while Juancho and Willy Hernangomez added a combined 18. However, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s 20-point performance, capped off by a game-winning free throw with two seconds remaining, propelled Canada to victory and shattered Spain’s Olympic dreams.

Earlier in the day, Brazil secured a comfortable 102-84 victory over Japan in Group B, guaranteeing them a coveted top-two third-place finish and a quarterfinal berth. Bruno Caboclo spearheaded Brazil’s efforts with a monstrous double-double, pouring in 33 points and grabbing 17 rebounds.

Key Takeaways:

• Australia advances to quarterfinals despite losing to Greece.
• Greece remains in contention for a quarterfinal spot.
• Spain is eliminated from the tournament after losing to Canada.
• Canada secures top spot in Group A with the win.
• Brazil advances to the quarterfinals after a dominant win over Japan.

Looking Ahead:

Greece awaits the outcome of the South Sudan-Serbia game to determine their quarterfinal fate. A South Sudan win would send Greece through. The United States, having already secured Group A’s top seed, faces Puerto Rico in their final group stage match.

Source: GCT//Bill Kouras