Bobby Portis is back with the Milwaukee Bucks after testing the waters and chasing a better deal, reasoning that it is now time that he gets compensated.
Bobby Portis, Milwaukee Bucks, Naz Reid
Jan 8, 2025; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Bobby Portis (9) looks on during the third quarter against the San Antonio Spurs at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images
Portis signed a three-year deal worth $44 million last June to extend his stay with the team. He joined the Bucks in 2020 which he said was initiated by team superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo through a text.
He has been a serviceable back up big man since then, even got nominated for Sixth Man of the Year Award.
Staying in Milwaukee has always been the plan for him. Appearing at the Jack Allen KATV show back in his home state Arkansas, he said that he “couldn’t see myself playing anywhere else.”
He even called his time with the Bucks a match made in heaven.
“Easy flight to Milwaukee, you know. I’ll be able to contend for championships,” he said.
Portis, a fan favorite in the city, is projected to have an expanded role next season based on statements made by general manager Jon Horst. He, Myles Turner, Antetokoummpo, and Jerich Sims will be their core down under.
Myles Turner, Bobby Portis
Apr 22, 2025; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Bobby Portis (9) holds the ball while Indiana Pacers center Myles Turner (33) defends during game two of first round for the 2024 NBA Playoffs at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images
“To have multiple switch defenders on the floor,” Horst said.
“To play faster offensively and defensively in transition. And I think Myles adds that, as does Bobby (Portis) in a bigger, more important role for us than I think that he’s ever been in.”
Bobby Portis loves playing with Giannis Antetokounmpo
Another reason why BP decided to stay is to be able to play alongside the Greek Freak who he said is the best player in the world.
He also found it crazy that it’s just him and Giannis now remaining with the Bucks since winning the 2021 title. The last players to leave were Pat Connaughton (now with Charlotte Hornets) and Brook Lopez (now with LA Clippers).
Jrue Holiday and Khris Middleton, who were part of the Big 3 and became All-Stars in Bucks jersey, were traded earlier.
“Fun fact, there’s only two players left from our championship team, which is crazy. It is me and him [Giannis]” Portis told the reporter.
He also praised the front office for continued trust on him behind all the departures.
Bobby Portis, Jon Horst Milwaukee Bucks
Jan 11, 2023; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Bobby Portis (9) poses for a selfie with fans after a victory against the Atlanta Hawks at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
“It is wild to say. So it was kind of fun to keep getting better but at the same time, really cool to have an organization that believes in you and back you as well.”
“I really couldn’t see myself playing anywhere else.”
I asked Bobby Portis about his recent contract extension with the #Bucks during his annual camp at Hall HS.
The Little Rock native and #Arkansas legend told me he’s excited about starting his second decade in the #NBA. pic.twitter.com/QvBeHQseKr
— Jack Allen KATV (@JackAllenTV) August 9, 2025
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