NBA news: When you think about Team USA’s star-studded roster for the upcoming FIBA World Cup, Milwaukee Bucks big man Bobby Portis is not the first name that pops up. In fact, some fans might even question why a guy like Portis is in the lineup alongside big-name superstars such as Anthony Edwards, Jalen Brunson, and Jaren Jackson Jr., to name a few.
NBA News: Bobby Portis’ Integral Role for Team USA
Team USA head coach Steve Kerr picked Bobby Portis for a reason — and a very good one at that. The 28-year-old won’t be asked to score in bunches off the bench, nor will he be required to play the role of the team’s defensive stalwart. In fact, Portis might even struggle to find significant minutes once the tournament begins.
They mic’d up the Bucks big man in practice, though, and it is clear from the video that Portis is going to be an important voice within the squad as he brings his veteran presence to the table for a squad filled with young and relatively inexperienced stars:
🔊 Check out Bobby Portis mic’d up during #USAMBNT training camp ahead of their next game!
👀: Exhibition vs. Slovenia
📅: Saturday, August 12th
📺: FS1, 3:30pm/et pic.twitter.com/8yUGtA2dGm— NBA (@NBA) August 9, 2023
Portis is no star, but he’s going to be a key player for Team USA in the upcoming FIBA World Cup, particularly inside the locker room.
NBA News: Bobby Portis’ Stellar Team USA Debut
Based on what we saw from Portis in his first game for Team USA, it is also clear that he’s going to be more than just a leader off the court.
In the national team’s 117-74 victory over Puerto Rico in a tune-up game, Portis came off the bench to make a significant impact in the contest. The 6-foot-10 forward/center dropped 11 points in just 13 minutes of action, while also bringing his trademark tenacity and energy to the game. In his brief time on the court, the one-time NBA champ logged a very impressive +23 +/- rating against Puerto Rico.
Team USA is expected to win the gold medal in the FIBA World Cup, and Portis will play an important role in this quest.
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