Giannis Antetokounmpo flirted with a triple-double to lead Greece to a thrilling 90-86 victory over reigning champion Spain on Thursday, sealing the top spot in their group at the FIBA EuroBasket tournament.
Greece exploited Spain's strategy of collapsing defensively on Antetokounmpo, punishing them with torrid outside shooting to build an early 36-23 lead.
With guard Tyler Dorsey back in the lineup, the Greeks extended their advantage to 50-35 by halftime.
But Spain mounted a furious second-half comeback, eventually surging ahead 84-82 with just 2:30 left to play.
That’s when Antetokounmpo took over, imposing his will down the stretch to secure the victory. He finished the game with 25 points, 14 rebounds, and 9 assists, narrowly missing a triple-double. The win ensures Greece will have a more favorable path in the upcoming knockout stage.