How can Giannis Antetokounmpo and Greece still qualify for Paris Olympics quarterfinals? All scenarios explained
Giannis Antetokounmpo-led Greece are in must-win situation heading into the their last group-stage game of the 2024 Paris Olympics. Greece squares off with Australia in Group A on Friday (Aug. 2).
All 12 teams in the men's basketball competition have played two games each. Four teams, including two nations from Group B, have qualified for the quarterfinals. Canada (Group A), Germany (Group B), France (Group B) and Team USA (Group C) stormed into the knockouts after winning their first two games.
With each team slated to play one more game in the group stage, there are four quarterfinal spots up for grabs. With Puerto Rico eliminated, there are seven teams vying for the four remaining spots.
Despite losing their first two games, Greece remains in contention for a quarterfinal spot.
Let's take a closer look at how Giannis Antetokounmpo and Greece can still qualify for the 2024 Paris Olympics quarterfinals.
Greece qualification scenario for quarterfinals
As per the rules, the top two teams from each group along with the two best third-ranked teams will reach the quarterfinals. The two best third-ranked teams will be determined on the basis of points difference.
Greece are in Group A and cannot finish No.1. The best-case scenario for Vassilis Spanoulis' team is to finish in second place, securing automatic qualification for the next round.
Group A standings
#1 Canada: Two wins in two games with a points difference of +17
#2 Australia: One win and one loss after two games with a points difference of +2
#3 Spain: One win and one loss after two games with a points difference of -5
#4 Greece: Two losses in two games with a points difference of -14
For Greece to cement the second position, there are two things that need to happen. First, Vassilis Spanoulis' team need to triumph over Australia by 10 or more points. Second, Canada must register a victory over Spain.
There are multiple scenarios that could see Giannis Antetokounmpo and Co. finishing third in the group. If Greece registers a win over Australia by any margin and Spain beats Canada, Spanoulis' team will secure third position.
If Greece registers a three-point victory over Australia and Canada beats Spain, the European country will end up third in the group.
Greece will be eliminated from the quarterfinals race if it finishes fourth in the group. If Greece suffers a defeat against Australia, Giannis and Co. will finish fourth in Group A. Greece will also end in fourth place if it registers a one-point win against Australia and Canada beats Spain.