The Milwaukee Bucks celebrated one of their own being involved in Hollywood recently. Giannis Antetokounmpo had his story to NBA greatness portrayed in the hit movie Rise. Now, another beloved Bucks player, Bobby Portis, has announced his involvement in an important film. Portis will portray Earl Lloyd, the first African American to play in a NBA game. The movie, Sweetwater, is about Nat “Sweetwater” Clifton, the first African American to sign a NBA contract.
Blessed to play a part in telling this incredible story! Watch the official trailer for SWEETWATER, inspired by @NBA Hall of Famer Nat "Sweetwater" Clifton, the first African American to sign an NBA contract. Only in theaters April 14. #SweetwaterMovie pic.twitter.com/en0fy81o27
— Bobby BP Portis (@BPortistime) February 17, 2023
Milwaukee Bucks Star Bobby Portis Will Portray a NBA Hall of Famer
Hannah Kirby of The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel wrote an astounding story on Portis’ involvement in the movie in which she gives fantastic background on the pioneers portrayed in the film:
“While [Nat] Clifton was the first African American player to sign an NBA contract, Earl Lloyd was the first African American to play in an NBA game. And Chuck Cooper was the first African American to be drafted by an NBA team, according to an NBA.com article.
“In the film, Portis portrays Lloyd.
“Lloyd, a Basketball Hall of Famer and Army veteran, would go on to help the Syracuse Nationals win the 1955 NBA title, joining teammate Jim Tucker as the first Black players to play on a championship team, according to an Associated Press report. Lloyd also was the first Black assistant coach with the Detroit Pistons.”
Per Kirby, Portis’ role in the movie is not large, but he does have some speaking parts and is part of a very emotional scene. Sweetwater will be released in theaters on April 14.
Of note, Clifton was a native of Little Rock, Arkansas, the same hometown as Portis.
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FAQs
When Was the Last Time Milwaukee Bucks Won a Championship?
The Milwaukee Bucks’ latest NBA Championship was captured in 2021. Giannis Antetokounmpo was dubbed MVP, averaging 35.2 points, 13.2 rebounds, 5.0 assists, 1.2 steals, and 1.8 blocks per game.
Who Owns the Milwaukee Bucks?
The Milwaukee Bucks are owned by a group of 20 investors. Major investors include Marc Lasry, Wes Edens, Jamie Dinan and Mike Fascitelli. Minority owners range from quarterback Aaron Rodgers to Gale Klappa, Executive Chairman of Wisconsin Energy Corporation.
How Many Championships Do the Milwaukee Bucks Have?
The Milwaukee Bucks have won two NBA Championships. The first came in 1971 under head coach Larry Costello. The latest came in 2021 under head coach Mike Budenholder.
Will the Milwaukee Bucks win the NBA Championship in 2023?
With another MVP-caliber season from Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Bucks continue to lead the Eastern Conference Central Division. Kris Middleton is getting healthy and Brook Lopez is having a career year – signaling the Milwaukee will make another run at the championship in 2023.
Who Is the Greek Freak?
Giannis Antetokounmpo is the Greek Freak. He was given the name based on his home country, Greece, plus his freakish size and athleticism for an NBA power forward.
