Bobby Portis highlighted the impact of Minnesota’s third-quarter rally in the Milwaukee Bucks’ 103-100 defeat at Target Center on Sunday. “If we cut that seven, eight minute stretch out in the third quarter, you know, we are victorious tonight,” Portis said.
The forward noted the Wolves’ aggressive play and extra possessions as decisive factors. “They came out, they was aggressive, start making shots, getting extra possessions… credit to them. They made the adjustment in the second half, was a little more aggressive on the boards,” he explained.
Portis emphasized the challenge of offensive rebounds and second-chance points. “They were getting two or three chances at it one time, and they actually shot the three and tied the game up… if we clean up that part of it, we would have won the game,” he said.
On Minnesota’s new starting lineup featuring three big men, Portis praised adaptability. “Every game is different… no matter who started we just try to go out there and win the game and play for each other,” he noted.
He also discussed playing alongside Myles Turner. “It’s good… basketball is more of a read and react game now. Having multiple guys that can get the ball going side to side… not getting the ball stuck with one person,” Portis said.
Portis reflected on maintaining composure during runs. “When the big fellas play and the team starts to go on the run… player movement, getting the ball side to side, and running our sets… the first seven, eight minutes of the game was beautiful,” he said.
Despite the loss, Portis highlighted positives from the contest. “A lot of good basketball being played tonight… so many positives that we can take from the game to help us on Tuesday night,” he added.
The Bucks struggled to sustain offense late, shooting 29 percent from three and committing 16 turnovers, while Kevin Porter Jr. posted 24 points, 10 rebounds, four steals, and nine assists. Minnesota’s Anthony Edwards scored 24 points, including a decisive layup with 21 seconds remaining, and Rudy Gobert recorded 11 points and 18 rebounds, reaching 10,000 career boards.
Minnesota improved to 19-10 with the victory, winning nine of its last 11 games. Milwaukee fell to 11-18 and will visit Indiana on Tuesday, while the Timberwolves host New York.
