A look at Bobby Portis' fit in Team USA

Bobby Portis could shine for Team USA.

© Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports

Milwaukee Bucks forward Bobby Portis was a surprise addition to the Team USA squad that seeks to bring back lost glory in the 2023 FIBA World Cup next month in the Philippines. While not as star-studded as past iterations of Team USA, the team features plenty of talented players who will be counted on to do what will be asked of them.

One of them is Portis, the Bucks' dependable reserve who consistently provides the team with a jolt of energy, defense, and timely shotmaking off the bench. Joe Vardon of The Athletic recently took a look at what each player brings to the table and how their skills can help tip the scales in Team USA's favor.

Glass cleaner

The Arkansas native brings grit and toughness to a Team USA that expects to encounter stiff resistance from world basketball powerhouses such as France, Serbia, and the reigning champions Spain. Portis nearly averaged a double-double last season for the Bucks with 14.1 points and 9.6 rebounds per game in a reserve role. Portis' ability to dominate the glass will be key in utilizing Team USA's superb skills in transition.

Space the floor

Perhaps the most crucial aspect could become Portis' ability to knock down the three-ball. A 40 percent shooter from long range in his time with the Bucks, this skill will be vital, especially against the likes of France, which employs former NBA Defensive Player of the Year, Rudy Gobert.

"When the Americans play France, and Rudy Gobert is standing there in front of the rim with his arms stretched high, putting Portis on the floor leaves the French and Gobert with a tough decision, at least theoretically. Will they let Portis shoot? Will Gobert have to chase him out there? And then, if Portis is making those 3s — like he did during the Bucks' 2021 title run — would France have to consider sitting Gobert for someone who can chase Portis?" Vardon wrote.

Team USA's FIBA World Cup roster 👀

Anthony Edwards
Brandon Ingram
Jalen Brunson
Tyrese Haliburton
Mikal Bridges
Jaren Jackson Jr.
Paolo Banchero
Austin Reaves
Josh Hart
Cam Johnson
Walker Kessler
Bobby Portis

USA taking home the gold? 🥇 pic.twitter.com/0xKFiZgPBG

— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) July 2, 2023