Paris Olympics Men’s Basketball Complete: Greece, Spain, Brazil, and Puerto Rico Claim Final Spots

The 2024 Paris Olympics Men’s Basketball tournament is set after the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournaments concluded on Sunday, July 7th. Greece, Spain, Brazil, and Puerto Rico emerged victorious from their respective qualifiers, securing the final four spots available.

These four nations join the previously qualified teams: France (host), United States, Canada, Australia, South Sudan, Japan, Serbia, and Germany. Brazil makes a triumphant return to the Olympic stage for the first time since 2016, marking their 16th Summer Games appearance. Puerto Rico, on the other hand, will be competing in their first Olympics since 2004.

Brazil dominates Latvia

Brazil wasted no time in Riga, Latvia, dismantling the host nation 88-61. Led by forwards Leo Meindl and Bruno Caboclo, who each scored 21 points, Brazil dominated from the start, putting the game out of reach with a scorching 34-11 first quarter.

Greece triumphs against Croatia

Meanwhile, in Piraeus, Greece capitalized on their home turf advantage, defeating Croatia 80-69. Giannis Antetokounmpo led the charge with 23 points, while Georgios Papagiannis added 19 points. Nick Calathes orchestrated the offense with 11 assists, propelling Greece back to the Olympics after a 16-year absence.

Spain and Puerto Rico Round Out the Qualifiers

Spain secured their record sixth Olympic appearance with an 86-78 victory over the Bahamas in Valencia. Guard Lorenzo Brown paced Spain with 19 points, while veteran Rudy Fernandez chipped in 9 points at the impressive age of 39.

In San Juan, Puerto Rico erupted in celebration after defeating Lithuania 92-80. Jose Alvarado spearheaded the victory with 23 points and 6 rebounds, while Tremont Waters chipped in with 18 points. This win marks Puerto Rico’s first Olympic appearance in 20 years.

Looking Ahead to Paris

With the qualifiers complete, the stage is set for an exciting Olympic Men’s Basketball tournament.

Greece and Spain will find themselves in Group A alongside Australia and Canada.

Brazil joins Group B with France, Germany, and Japan.

Finally, Puerto Rico heads to Group C, where they’ll face the United States, South Sudan, and Serbia.

Basketball fans around the world can expect a thrilling competition filled with familiar stars and rising talents vying for Olympic gold.