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Bobby Portis Jr. plays limited minutes in Team USA's win over New Zealand

Bobby Portis Jr. didn’t see much action in Team USA’s win versus New Zealand.

Matthew Dugandzic

© Michael McLoone-USA TODAY Sports

Bobby Portis Jr., the bull-strong forward of the Milwaukee Bucks, had a quiet night as Team USA had to shake off a sluggish start before beating New Zealand, 99-72, on Saturday night (Philippine time) in the 2023 FIBA World Cup at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City, Philippines.

Portis ended up with four points, one rebound, one steal, and one turnover in only eight minutes of play.

Limited minutes for Bobby

Playing in a reserve role, Portis went 2-of-4 from the field, missing his lone three-point attempt. Bobby played limited minutes and didn’t even see action in the entire first quarter, which saw the Americans fall to a 4-14 hole.

Team USA slowly recovered from the poor start as they seized the upper hand after the opening period, 19-18. Portis was subbed in at the start of the second and made the US’ first basket in the period, a layup off a nifty assist by Austin Reaves that tied the contest at 21.

The Americans would outscore the upset-conscious Tall Blacks in the second period, 26-18, and another 31-22 in the third, allowing them to take full control of the game.

Paolo Banchero led the Americans with 21 points, while Anthony Edwards scored 14. Jaren Jackson Jr. and Reaves added 12 points apiece, while Tyrese Haliburton and Jalen Brunson contributed 10 each.

Milwaukee Bucks teammates collide

Up next for Team USA is fellow Group C member Greece. The two squads will gun for a second straight win in a game that will pit Portis against Bucks teammate Thanasis Anteotokounmpo.

Collecting nine points, five rebounds, three steals, a block, and an assist, Thanasis had a solid showing when Greece opened their tournament with a 92-71 win over Jordan. 

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Matthew Dugandzic
MATTHEW DUGANDZIC

Matthew finished his bachelor's degree in Economics (Management) at the University of Split and got his master's degree in the same field at the University of Zadar. Whether it is playing the game as an undersized 6'3'' power forward or simply watching it, Matthew can't get enough of it. After all, he has been an avid NBA fan since the 2000s. But don't get him wrong, as Matthew still loves the old-school NBA and is a true student of the game. From on-court moments to off-court stuff, whether it's about the stars of modern-day basketball or legends of the game, Matthew covers every category of the NBA world and basketball in general, as long as it makes for an engaging and exciting story.