Bucks' General Manager Reveals the Reason For Re-Signing Bobby Portis

Bucks' General Manager Reveals the Reason For Re-Signing Bobby Portis originally appeared on Athlon Sports.

Securing Bobby Portis Jr. was one of the first things the Milwaukee Bucks did this summer. Portis was expected to be a free agent after declining his $13.4 million player option. Fortunately for both sides, they agreed to a three-year, $44 million contract to continue their partnership.

Portis has evolved into a fan favorite in Milwaukee. The big man has also proven to be a reliable player off the bench. In the past three seasons, the former No. 22 pick finished in the top three of the Sixth Man of the Year voting.

The Bucks center has been integral to the team's success, especially in their 2021 title run. He has averaged 13.6 points and 8.3 rebounds per game on 39.7% field-goal shooting over his five years with Milwaukee.

The Athletic's Eric Nehm got the opportunity to interview the Bucks' general manager, Jon Horst. In their discussion, Horst revealed the reason why the front office decided to bring Portis back.

“Bobby wasn’t short on options, but he wanted to be here,” Horst said. “He wants to win, and he wants to win with this group of guys. He loves playing with Giannis. He loves the things that we’ve done in free agency.” 

The Bucks also brought back Gary Trent Jr., who stepped up big time in the playoffs against the Indiana Pacers. Trent averaged 18.8 points and 2.6 steals through five games in the postseason.

Another acquisition for the Bucks was the signing of Cole Anthony. Horst even compared the son of Greg Anthony to Portis.

"When I saw the idea of Cole Anthony, him being free and our chance to get him, I think he’s like a guard version of Bobby Portis. I think he can bring so much swag and energy to our team," he added.

The Bucks believe they have the right group around Giannis Antetokounmpo to contend for another NBA championship.

Related: Bucks Celebrate 2021 NBA Title Via Cryptic Social Media Post

This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 19, 2025, where it first appeared.