The Milwaukee Bucks haven’t exactly stormed out of the gates this season. Sitting at 11-15, it’s been a rocky ride filled with more questions than answers-especially with Giannis Antetokounmpo sidelined by a calf strain and trade rumors swirling around the franchise cornerstone.
But earlier this week, something clicked. In a gutsy 116-101 comeback win over the Boston Celtics, the Bucks reminded everyone that there’s still plenty of fight-and talent-left in this roster.
And no, it wasn’t Giannis leading the charge. With the two-time MVP watching from the sidelines, it was Kyle Kuzma who stepped into the spotlight, delivering his best performance since arriving in Milwaukee last season in the Khris Middleton trade. Kuzma dropped 31 points on an ultra-efficient 12-of-17 shooting night, giving the Bucks the offensive punch they desperately needed.
But make no mistake-this win wasn’t a one-man show. Kevin Porter Jr. and Bobby Portis were just as instrumental in flipping the script against a Celtics team that came in expecting to handle business.
Kevin Porter Jr. Delivers a Statement Game
Porter Jr. put together a masterclass in versatility, notching his fourth career triple-double with 18 points, 10 rebounds, and 13 assists. He’s quietly having the best statistical season of his career, averaging 21.3 points, 6.9 assists, and 4.4 rebounds per game.
But beyond the numbers, it was the way he controlled the tempo and found his teammates that stood out. This wasn’t just about stuffing the stat sheet-it was about setting the tone for a team that needed someone to step up.
And in the postgame, Porter Jr. made sure to shine the spotlight on someone who’s been doing the dirty work for years: Bobby Portis.
Bobby Portis: The Emotional Engine of the Bucks
If you’ve watched the Bucks for any length of time, you know what Bobby Portis brings to the table. Energy.
Grit. Toughness.
And when he gets rolling, buckets. Against Boston, Portis came off the bench and absolutely lit it up-27 points on 11-of-13 shooting, plus 10 rebounds.
That’s his 81st career double-double off the bench, which ranks third all-time in NBA history. That’s not just impressive-it’s elite company.
Portis has taken his share of criticism over the years, with some fans questioning his fit or consistency. But inside the locker room, there’s no doubt about his value. Porter Jr. summed it up perfectly:
“Everyone knows what [Bobby Portis] means to this organization. Way before I came here.
The energy is contagious. The fans love him.
Every time Bobby goes in it’s ‘Bobby’ chants, and that’ll turn anyone up. [Bobby] deserves all the love.”
It’s true-few players in the league can ignite a crowd the way Portis does. And this season, he’s added another layer to his game, shooting 47% from three-his best mark since the Bucks’ championship run. That kind of floor spacing, combined with his physicality and rebounding, makes him a critical piece of Milwaukee’s rotation.
Portis’ Commitment Sends a Message
Let’s not overlook the bigger picture here. Portis re-upped with the Bucks this past offseason, reportedly after conversations with Giannis about the future.
That kind of behind-the-scenes commitment matters. Had Portis chosen to walk, it might’ve added fuel to the fire surrounding Giannis’ long-term plans in Milwaukee.
Instead, his decision to stay sent a different message: this core still believes in the mission.
And that mission hasn’t changed. Giannis and Portis are still here.
The Bucks are still chasing a championship. The road hasn’t been smooth, but if this win over Boston is any indication, the heart of this team is still beating strong.
There’s a lot of season left, and Milwaukee has work to do. But for one night, without their superstar, the Bucks showed the kind of resilience and depth that keeps hope alive in Wisconsin.