Bucks Edge Heat in Overtime as Porter Shines in Clutch

MIAMI — With just 30 seconds remaining in overtime, Milwaukee Bucks guard Kevin Porter Jr. dribbled across half court, leading 121-115 against the Miami Heat. The two-time MVP, Giannis Antetokounmpo, suggested an alternative strategy as the play unfolded.

“He had the ball. He looked at me,” Antetokounmpo explained postgame. “I said, ‘No. Just get Brook (Lopez) in the pick-and-roll and get to your spot and make something happen.’” As Porter orchestrated the play from the right corner, Antetokounmpo positioned himself on the left, observing intently.

Porter executed a masterful move by splitting a double team and finishing with a contested finger roll, granting the Bucks a four-point cushion with just 10.8 seconds left. Milwaukee topped Miami 121-115, securing fifth place in the Eastern Conference with a record of 43-34.

“Fortunate enough I’ve been in those moments where one shot can win the game, or one play, so I just trusted my work,” Porter said. He tallied 24 points, 12 rebounds, and eight assists, solidifying his status as the game’s standout performer.

Antetokounmpo contributed significantly, scoring 36 points, grabbing 15 rebounds, and dishing out 10 assists in 43 minutes. His performance positioned him alongside NBA legends Oscar Robertson and Wilt Chamberlain as the only players to achieve consecutive games with at least 35 points, 15 rebounds, and 10 assists.

Trailing by seven points at the start of the fourth quarter, Porter spearheaded a 7-2 run to tighten Miami’s lead. Coach Doc Rivers emphasized the importance of Porter driving to the basket. “We need somebody to get downhill,” Rivers said, noting Porter’s crucial role.

Statistically, Porter has excelled in mid-range shooting, making 55 percent of those shots since joining the Bucks, according to Cleaning the Glass. Rivers encourages Porter not to settle for shots, urging him to fully utilize his skills to reach the rim.

Antetokounmpo echoed Rivers’ sentiments, explaining, “I feel like there’s some plays that he’s able to get downhill and he stops around the elbow. And I’m like, ‘Ah, keep going! Like you can go all the way.’”

As the game advanced, Porter’s determination to attack consistently disrupted the Heat’s defense. With just over two minutes left and the Bucks trailing by five, he pushed the pace, leading to a valuable catch-and-shoot three-pointer.

His hustle played a vital role in a critical late-game scenario when he recovered a loose ball and assisted Antetokounmpo for a dunk that reclaimed the lead for Milwaukee.

“When I get downhill, it opens up for everyone, including myself,” Porter stated. “I just gotta make that a point each and every game.”

Since joining the Bucks, Porter has faced challenges adapting to different roles amidst team injuries. However, his resilience and performance against the Heat showcased his potential as a key player as the regular season approaches its end.