For several weeks, it has been a certainty that Giannis Antetokounmpo would suit up for Team Greece in this summer’s EuroBasket tournament.
Yet, despite that confirmation, the Greek superstar has been absent from the squad’s exhibition matches and early preparations.
The reason, according to reports, is that he has been waiting for the Milwaukee Bucks to provide their official written clearance allowing him to participate.
That situation finally appears to be moving in a positive direction. On Thursday, Eurohoops reported encouraging news: Greek national team head coach Vassilis Spanoulis revealed that Antetokounmpo has already begun integrating with the group and will be fully joining practices imminently.
“He already had a training session with contact with some guys from our team. On Saturday, he will start training normally,” Spanoulis confirmed.
The delay stemmed from a unique hurdle: because of the enormous value of Antetokounmpo’s NBA contract, he was obligated to secure Milwaukee’s permission to play, as FIBA’s standard insurance policy does not automatically cover such high-salaried players.
As a result of this paperwork and insurance process, Giannis missed all four of Greece’s opening warm-up games, much to the disappointment of both Greek fans and opposing coaches.
In his absence, the national team managed a split record, going 2–2: victories came against Belgium and Montenegro, while defeats were suffered against Israel and Serbia.
Looking ahead, Greece will continue its preparation by hosting the Acropolis Tournament in Athens, where they’ll face Latvia, Italy, and France from August 20–24.
These matchups will serve as their final tune-up before the EuroBasket group stage tips off on August 28.
Greek Coach Confirms Giannis Antetokounmpo's EuroBasket Status https://t.co/GAJVOdkHBF pic.twitter.com/QfV6P0VOOm
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) August 16, 2025
