Gilgeous-Alexander downplays incident after game and reacts to narrow win against Greece

By Aris Barkas/ [email protected]

Lille, France – At the end of the first day of play at the 2024 Olympic Games, Canada narrowly defeated Greece. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander contributed 21 points with 5/10 field goals.

“They are a really good team,” The 26-year-old combo guard reacted to the narrow victory.

“We saw that in the qualifying matches they could win games against really high-class teams quite easily,” He referred to Greece’s advancement through the FIBA ​​Olympic qualifying tournament in Piraeus at the beginning of the season break. “We expected them to give us a tough fight and they did. We’re just happy we came out on top.”

Shortly after completing his first participation in the Olympic Games, he clashed with Giannoulis Larentzakis.

“I have the feeling he has Nickeil (Alexander Walker) for no reason. So I just let him know that it’s not cool,” He described the small skirmish, “Yes (now it’s cool). I’ll get it.”

Canada never trailed, leading by 16 points, but the lead was cut to two points in crucial time. A crucial reaction from Gilgeous-Alexander restored a two-possession game with less than a minute on the clock and set up the victory on the opening day of Group A play.

“They play extremely hard. They have a lot of good shooters. Of course, Giannis himself is a force. He’s going downhill.” He replied about the strength of Greece, “They know how to play, they’re well coached and they’re obviously a really good team.”

Giannis Antetokounmpo scored 34 points for the team coached by Vassilis Spanoulis, the highest score of the game.

Photo credit: FIBA

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