https://www.cbssports.com/nba/news/giannis-antetokounmpo-to-miss-2023-fiba-world-cup-to-recover-from-knee-surgery/
LOL.. this makes the job of predicting the matches much easier. I really don't think that Greece has got any chances now, without Giannis Antetokounmpo in the squad. And don't forget that Greece this time is placed in a very tough group. They are facing United States, New Zealand and Jordan in Group C. There is a good chance that they won't be able to qualify for the second round. That said, even without Giannis they have some very good players, such as Thanasis Antetokounmpo and Georgios Papagiannis. But none of them can fill the gap left by Giannis.
About that, let's check their roster.
https://twitter.com/FIBAWC/status/1681946211387944960
It will be hard to believe they will win their group with this roster. Giannis is their best chance, after him two players who are both Antetokounmpo's are the most known players on their roster. With the USA team in their bracket, I guess we all know who will win that. I won't get my hopes high when they face them but they may have a chance against other teams although it's pointless if they cannot beat the strongest.
It looks like the FIBA is going to be really competitive this year.
Here is one good news in the friendly games at Aegean Acropolis Tournament.
fiba.basketball/basketballworldcup/2023/news/are-italy-the-hottest-team-in-town-after-sweep-in-athens
It's getting more exciting as we get near the date of the event.