As EuroBasket 2025 moves deeper into the knockout stages, Greece is gearing up for a high-stakes Quarter-Finals clash with Lithuania. Head coach Vassilis Spanoulis spoke about the team’s approach, emphasizing the preparation and strategy his coaching staff has developed for these critical games.
Reflecting on his previous comments after Greece’s win over Israel on Sunday, Spanoulis noted the role of long-range shooting in the team’s success during the preliminary round in Limassol.
“We indeed used three-pointers to reach the Round of 16, but we also had very good spacing, we had altruism, we read mismatches very well, and generally were very solid. We would have done the same with Israel yesterday, it’s just that the shots came out very different from the ones we had in the preliminary round, because they set traps for Giannis, and the Israelis yesterday didn’t do that,” Spanoulis explained, highlighting how adjustments and defensive schemes affect shot selection.
With NBA superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo leading the squad, much of Greece’s offensive focus revolves around him.
“We are ready to punish every defense,” Spanoulis said, pointing to a key strength of his team. “The guys are ready to shoot and pass, we are very good in this area. There is no more simplified game than ours! In offense, we give the ball to Giannis and have good spacing. We have good creators. It couldn’t be simpler.”
Giannis has delivered on that plan, averaging 30.0 points, 9.8 rebounds, 4.0 assists, 0.8 steals, and 0.3 blocks per game across four EuroBasket appearances.
His brother, Thanasis Antetokounmpo, described the team’s focus: “We will follow the plan, play hard, and play our game,” contributing 2.5 points, 2.0 rebounds, 0.8 assists, 0.5 blocks, and 0.1 steals per contest.
Greece now turns its attention to Lithuania at Xiaomi Arena, where a victory would secure a spot in the Semifinals and a chance to challenge for a medal.
“We just have to win to advance to the top four, which would be a big deal for our country and the national team,” said Giannoulis Larentzakis. The 31-year-old wing has been a reliable contributor, averaging 4.4 points, 1.2 rebounds, 1.0 assists, and 0.4 steals per EuroBasket game.
Spanoulis’ philosophy is clear: maintain spacing, maximize Giannis’ strengths, and play an unselfish, adaptable game. With the Quarter-Finals looming, Greece aims to execute this plan to perfection.
🇬🇷 Vassilis Spanoulis shares on Greece’s offense #EuroBasket
— Eurohoops (@Eurohoopsnet) September 8, 2025
🗣️ “We give the ball to Giannis and have good spacing. We have good creators. It couldn't be simpler”https://t.co/fX6BmThGoj
