Dorian Finney-Smith's Salute: A Gesture of Respect and Resilience

When you think of intensity, passion, and never-back-down mentality in the NBA, one name that stands out is Bobby Portis. Known for his relentless hustle, fierce competitiveness, and unmatched energy, Portis has become a fan favorite, especially with the Milwaukee Bucks.
From his early days in Arkansas to winning an NBA Championship with the Bucks, Portis has always been the ultimate hustle player. His defensive grit, rebounding dominance, and fearless attitude make him one of the most impactful role players in the NBA today.
But among all his memorable moments, one stands out—his most intense hustle play that left fans in awe! ππ₯
Let’s break down what makes Bobby Portis one of the most intense players in the NBA, his most legendary hustle plays, and why he’s an irreplaceable piece for the Bucks.
Before becoming an NBA fan favorite, Bobby Portis made a name for himself at the University of Arkansas. He was a dominant force in college basketball, known for his high motor and relentless effort on both ends of the floor.
π Arkansas Career Highlights (2013-2015):
✅ SEC Player of the Year (2015)
✅ Averaged 17.5 PPG, 8.9 RPG in sophomore season
✅ Led Arkansas to the NCAA Tournament
Portis' energy, work ethic, and rebounding dominance made him a first-round pick in the 2015 NBA Draft, selected by the Chicago Bulls.
With the Chicago Bulls, Portis quickly gained a reputation as an enforcer—a player who never backs down from anyone.
π Key Hustle Moments with the Bulls:
✅ Chasedown block followed by a coast-to-coast layup
✅ Diving into the crowd for a loose ball, saving a key possession
✅ Tough rebounds against elite big men like Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins
However, his fiery intensity sometimes led to clashes, including a notorious altercation with teammate Nikola MirotiΔ. But that same fire and competitive nature would later make him an invaluable piece for a championship team.
After stints with the Wizards and Knicks, Portis signed with the Milwaukee Bucks in 2020, bringing his intensity, rebounding, and defensive toughness to an already elite squad.
π₯ His energy off the bench was a GAME-CHANGER.
π 2021 NBA Finals:
✅ Game 6 vs. Suns – 16 points, 3 rebounds, clutch defense
✅ Diving for loose balls, battling for offensive rebounds, hyping up the crowd
✅ Iconic moment: Flexing and screaming after a crucial and-one bucket!
Portis helped deliver Milwaukee’s first championship in 50 years, earning legend status among Bucks fans.
Among all his high-energy moments, one hustle play stands out as his greatest ever—a sequence that showcased his heart, grit, and never-quit mentality.
π The Play: Bucks vs. Celtics, 2022 Playoffs
1️⃣ Milwaukee was down by 2 with less than 10 seconds left.
2️⃣ Jrue Holiday missed a crucial free throw.
3️⃣ Portis OUTWORKED two Celtics defenders for the offensive rebound.
4️⃣ Despite falling to the floor, he managed to tip the ball in for the go-ahead basket!
5️⃣ He sprinted back on defense, helping Milwaukee secure a HUGE playoff win.
π₯ WHY THIS PLAY WAS SPECIAL:
✅ Pure hustle & determination – He REFUSED to give up on the play.
✅ Strength & toughness – Outmuscled defenders for the clutch rebound.
✅ Game-winning impact – This play helped the Bucks steal a playoff win on the road!
Fans went wild, and this moment became one of the most memorable hustle plays in recent NBA history!
Portis doesn’t just score points—he impacts the game with his energy, defense, and intensity. Let’s compare him to some of the greatest hustle players in NBA history.
π‘ What Makes Portis Special?
✅ He’s a relentless competitor, never afraid to do the dirty work.
✅ He feeds off the crowd’s energy, making him a fan favorite.
✅ He’s a WINNER—a player you NEED on your team in big moments.
At just 29 years old, Portis is still in his prime and has many more epic hustle plays ahead.
π₯ What’s next for Portis?
✅ Can he help the Bucks win another championship?
✅ Will he become one of the most beloved Bucks players ever?
✅ Could he earn a spot in the Hall of Fame for hustle & heart?
One thing’s for sure—as long as Bobby Portis is on the floor, the Bucks have a fighter who will NEVER give up. πͺπ₯
π¬ What’s YOUR favorite Bobby Portis moment? Drop it in the comments below! ππ