By Eurohoops team/ info@eurohoops.net
Giannis Antetokounmpo registered a new personal best in an official game with the national team with 21 points, along with 5 rebounds and 2 blocks after 25 minutes of playing time and Giannis Bourousis “touched” the double-double (16 points, 9 rebounds) as Greece defeated Mexico 86 – 70 to win first place in Group A of the Olympic Qualifying Tournament of Turin. Both teams had already advanced in the semifinals where Greece will play against the winner of the Croatia vs Tunisia match, and Mexico will face tournament’s hosts Italy.
Francisco Cruz scored 19 points for the losing side, while Hector Hernandez added 14 plus 7 rebounds.
While the “Guerreros” had the upper hand in the first twenty minutes, being ahead in the score 35-33 at halftime, things radically changed after the teams’ return from the locker rooms. Playing superlative basketball in the third quarter and amplifying the sound of their efforts with increased levels of energy, the Greek players scored 27 points against their opponents 13, to enter the final period from a 60-48 pole position.
Even though Mexico tried to answer back, Coach Katsikaris’ squad kept delivering the appropriate goods in their offensive game, holding a steady and safe lead until the end.