Bobby Portis gives the Bucks a sizeable spark in win over 76ers
By Dalton Sell
In the Milwaukee Bucks’ recent beatdown at the hands of the Boston Celtics, the former looked devoid of any energy whatsoever.
They were lifeless in what turned out to be a 41-point loss in a crucial game regarding the East’s standings. Nevertheless, they wouldn’t be able to dwell on it for long with the Philadelphia 76ers, another prominent East rival, coming to town. To bounce back, the Bucks would have to come out more energized right away. One player who got the memo was none other than Bobby Portis.
Bobby Portis gives the Bucks a sizeable spark in win over 76ers
The name Bobby Portis is synonymous with energy. The big man could get an entire arena on their feet to chant his name simply by grabbing a rebound. He’s the energizer of this bench brigade, and he undeniably takes pride in that role. In Sunday’s game against Philadelphia, Portis lived up to his role and gave this Milwaukee team a huge second-unit boost.
Portis had a terrific first half by tallying 11 points, four rebounds, and a blocked shot as the Bucks built up a 20-point lead over the 76ers. While Milwaukee felt good heading into the tunnel at the half, things changed in the third quarter. Philadelphia went on a huge run and cut their deficit to just four points. With all of the momentum switching to the 76ers, Portis drained a huge triple to put the Bucks back up seven and regain that precious momentum.
In total, the big man finished with 18 points on 8-of-11 shooting (72.7 percent), including a very efficient 2-of-3 from deep (66.7 percent), while notching five rebounds, a steal, and a block. The Bucks ultimately got a much-needed 117-104 win over the 76ers. Portis wasn’t alone in helping the Bucks get this win, as Giannis Antetokounmpo, Brook Lopez, Khris Middleton, and Jrue Holiday all also finished with double-digit points, but he unquestionably played a major part.
Portis has been one of the best sixth men in the NBA this season, and the team is certainly glad to have him on their side.
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The Milwaukee Bucks will be back in action against the Washington Wizards on Tuesday.