Greece coach Rick Pitino says he is planning on trying to qualify for the 2020 Olympics without Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Pitino officially took over as coach of the Greek national basketball team on Monday. He said he would leave a roster place open for Antetokounmpo in qualifying games but is not sure if he will be able to rely on his best player.
Greece will try to reach the Olympics by winning a qualifying tournament. The dates could clash with the NBA schedule, possibly ruling out Antetokounmpo.
Rick Pitino the new coach of the Greek national basketball team answers to a question during a press conference in Athens, Monday, Nov. 11, 2019. The 67-year-old American has agreed to coach the Greek national basketball team and lead its effort to qualify for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. (AP PhotoThanassis Stavrakis)
The 67-year-old Pitino has returned to Greece after coaching Athens club Panathinaikos last season.
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Rick Pitino the new coach of the Greek national basketball team answers during a press conference in Athens, Monday, Nov. 11, 2019. The 67-year-old American has agreed to coach the Greek national basketball team and lead its effort to qualify for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. (AP PhotoThanassis Stavrakis)
Rick Pitino the new coach of the Greek national basketball team listens a question during a press conference in Athens, Monday, Nov. 11, 2019. The 67-year-old American has agreed to coach the Greek national basketball team and lead its effort to qualify for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. (AP PhotoThanassis Stavrakis)
Rick Pitino the new coach of the Greek national basketball team leaves the panel after a press conference in Athens, Monday, Nov. 11, 2019. The 67-year-old American has agreed to coach the Greek national basketball team and lead its effort to qualify for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. (AP PhotoThanassis Stavrakis)