The Milwaukee Bucks are navigating a critical NBA free agency stretch, facing roster questions and major decisions ahead of the 2025-26 season. While all eyes remain on the uncertainty surrounding Giannis Antetokounmpo’s future, the franchise made a reassuring move on Monday, officially bringing back fan-favorite Bobby Portis Jr.
The Bucks re-signed Portis, a vital piece of their frontcourt and locker room, marking a key move amid growing speculation about Milwaukee's direction. In his 10th NBA campaign, Portis appeared in 49 games (7 starts) last season, averaging 13.9 points, 8.4 rebounds, and a career-high 2.1 assists per game while shooting 46.6% from the field.
Known for his energy and toughness, he also recorded 11 double-doubles, including a season-high 34 points and 10 rebounds against Washington.
Milwaukee Bucks
Milwaukee Bucks head coach Doc Rivers reacts the 2024 NBA Playoffs at Fiserv Forum.
Benny Sieu-Imagn Images
Since joining the Bucks in 2020, Portis has helped anchor the bench unit, racking up nearly 3,000 points as a reserve the third-most in franchise history and fifth-most in the NBA since 2020-21. A 2021 NBA Champion, he has become a mainstay in Milwaukee's playoff pushes, with 48 postseason appearances.
Meanwhile, the Giannis Antetokounmpo buzz continues. While the Bucks added center Myles Turner this offseason, the two-time MVP has yet to formally commit long-term.
Still, given his loyalty to the franchise, this situation is more of a watch-and-wait than a breaking emergency for now.
On the rumor front, the Bucks are reportedly eyeing Bradley Beal, who could become available via buyout from the Suns. Adding Beal would “help improve the team’s depth” and complement Antetokounmpo as Milwaukee pushes to return to serious title contention next season.