The Milwaukee Bucks are coming off a 120-112 victory over the Indiana Pacers last Tuesday, as they came back from 19 points down in the third period to take the game in the final minutes. Bobby Portis played a huge role in the win, as he recorded 14 points, 15 rebounds, three assists, and two steals on 6-for-14 shooting from the field.
Bobby Portis has drawn praise from his coaches and teammates for being a serviceable replacement when Giannis Antetokounmpo has missed games, and the latest guy to compliment him was Chicago Bulls head coach Billy Donovan.
“He comes across as an unbelievable competitor – that certainly stands out. But I give him a lot of credit because he’s on a team that’s really, really good and when he’s had opportunities to step in in the absence of Giannis or other players, he’s answered the call,” Donovan said about Portis via Jim Owczarski of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.
“To me, there’s a level of sacrifice that goes with that because clearly, he has shown that he’s a terrific player and can do that in Giannis’ absence and still maintain and help their basketball team. I think one, it speaks to his unselfishness and also two, it speaks to being a pro in that when his number’s called upon he’s been ready to play,” he added.
Milwaukee Bucks’ record when Bobby Portis replaces Giannis Antetokounmpo
The Milwaukee Bucks have played six games without Giannis Antetokounmpo this season. Bobby Portis has started five in those games, compiling a 2-3 record as a starter.
Bobby Portis has averaged 21.2 points 11.6 rebounds, 4.6 assists, 1.4 steals, and 1.0 blocks on 46 percent shooting from the field in those five matches. Before the Indiana Pacers game, the Arkansas product started the previous four games without the Greek Freak and recorded two double-doubles and a season-high 34 points against the Washington Wizards last December 21.
With Antetokounmpo back in the mix, Portis reverts to his usual off-the-bench role, something he has done since joining the team in 2020.
