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Greece is making a bold statement at EuroBasket 2025, advancing to the semifinals for the first time since 2009. Leading the charge is ESPN’s No. 2-ranked Giannis Antetokounmpo, who has tormented opponents with his 29.8 points per game magic. The “Greek Freak” is determined to end his nation’s 16-year wait for a EuroBasket medal, but the path ahead is anything but easy: they now face a hungry Turkish squad, eager to secure a spot in the final for the first time in 24 years.

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Greece now faces an undefeated Turkey in the EuroBasket 2025 semifinals, a team that has dominated the competition from start to finish. Leading the charge is Alperen Sengun, whose sensational triple-double performance in the quarterfinals underscored his impact. Turkey’s roster is deeper and more balanced compared to Greece, boasting multiple players with NBA experience, while the Greek side lacks the same level of top-tier professional pedigree.

Judging by history, Giannis Antetokounmpo hasn’t had an impact on Greece’s success over Turkey. They have won the last four competitive games played. Antetokounmpo has featured in none of them. But those were also the early days of Alperen Sengun. He’s now a fully matured big man who understands his role for Turkey. Likewise, for Greece to stand a chance against his floor vision, they will need Giannis Antetokounmpo to continue his dominance. So let’s see if he will play.

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Is Giannis Antetokounmpo playing vs Turkey?

Giannis Antetokounmpo has faced some health setbacks during the early days of EuroBasket 2025, missing two games due to knee soreness, but the injury wasn’t serious. Then, Greece HC wisely opted to rest its superstar as a precaution. Since his return, however, the “Greek Freak” has been nothing short of dominant, securing the second spot in points per game. Fully recovered and firing on all cylinders, Giannis is ready to lead Greece with maximum intensity as they prepare for the crucial semifinal clash.

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While Turkey does have Sengun, he isn’t a renowned shot blocker. Antetokounmpo could have a favorable matchup in front of him in that sense. However, Sengun can put he ball on the floor for any of his teammates, who have consistently knocked down shots. Turkey averages 90.7 points per game (third best) and has the second-best efficiency in the tournament.

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So even though Greece has had historic success against them, Sengun and Co. have one sight in their eyes. They want a medal. Even FIBA predicts a tight contest, giving Giannis Antetokounmpo and Greece a 57% edge. But looking at Turkey’s flawless run, it’s an evenly matched game with both teams battling for pride.

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Can Giannis Antetokounmpo finally break Greece's EuroBasket curse against an undefeated Turkey?

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Where to watch the Greece vs. Turkey EuroBasket 2025 semifinals in the USA?

The group stage games were shared between four hosts. However, all of the knockout stage games are taking place in Latvia. While Kristaps Porzingis and Co. suffered a stinging defeat, the Riga crowd’s energy remains captivating.

Time: 2:00 pm E.T./ 9:00 pm Local time

Venue: Arena Riga in Riga, Latvia

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Watch: FIBA’s official streaming platform, Courtside 1891 (available via DAZN)

Tonight’s semifinal between Greece and Turkey is a high-stakes clash of rivalry, pride, and basketball dominance, with Turkey unbeaten at 7-0 and Giannis Antetokounmpo leading Greece’s charge. One victory will not only secure a spot in the EuroBasket 2025 final but also settle the long-standing rivalry between these two nations. Do let us know whom do you support tonight!

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Can Giannis Antetokounmpo finally break Greece's EuroBasket curse against an undefeated Turkey?

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