Slovenia, led by NBA star Luka Doncic, will not be advancing to the Paris Olympics after a decisive 96-68 loss to Greece, spearheaded by Giannis Antetokounmpo, on Saturday.
Despite Doncic scoring 21 points, Slovenia was eliminated in the semifinals of the Paris Olympics qualifying tournament held in Piraeus, Greece. Antetokounmpo contributed 13 points in 21 minutes, while Thomas Walkup led Greece with 19 points, pushing them to the tournament final. Greece will face the winner of the semifinal between the Dominican Republic and Croatia, with the final’s victor advancing to Paris.
Tournament Highlights
- Luka Doncic’s Performance: Doncic managed to score 21 points but couldn’t prevent Slovenia’s elimination.
- Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Contribution: Antetokounmpo scored 13 points in limited play, helping Greece secure a comfortable lead.
- Thomas Walkup’s Leadership: Walkup led the game with 19 points, steering Greece into the tournament final.
Slovenia’s Struggles
Slovenia struggled from the outset, falling behind 13-0. Greece maintained control throughout, leading by as many as 23 points in the first half and holding a 16-point lead at the start of the fourth quarter, allowing them to conserve Antetokounmpo for the final.
Related Context
Luka Doncic, despite being hindered by multiple injuries during the NBA playoffs, helped the Dallas Mavericks secure one victory in the NBA Finals before being defeated by the Boston Celtics.
Additional Qualifying Tournaments
Other men’s basketball Olympic qualifying tournaments are occurring in Puerto Rico, Spain, and Latvia.