Milwaukee Bucks forward Bobby Portis found himself ejected from Game 4 of the first-round playoff series against the Indiana Pacers on Sunday evening following a scuffle with Andrew Nembhard. The incident occurred in the midst of the first quarter, resulting in Portis receiving two technical fouls for his involvement.
The altercation unfolded shortly after Khris Middleton drew a foul on Aaron Nesmith, driving to the basket early in the game. Portis and Nembhard became entangled under the basket, exchanging shoves after Nembhard initially hooked Portis’ arm. Portis then delivered an open-handed slap to Nembhard’s head, prompting the intervention of officials to separate the players.
Bobby Portis has been ejected after a scuffle with Nembhard
Bucks are now playing without him, Dame, and Giannis 😳 pic.twitter.com/EPP2Yina3G
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) April 28, 2024
Upon review of the incident via video replay, referees issued both players technical fouls for the initial altercation. However, Portis received an additional technical for his secondary action, leading to his ejection from the game.
Portis, recognized as a finalist for Sixth Man of the Year this season, had been elevated to the starting lineup in light of Giannis Antetokounmpo’s absence. Despite a less than stellar shooting performance in the previous three games, Portis had maintained impressive statistics, averaging 15.3 points and 13.3 rebounds per game with a double-double recorded in each match.
With Damian Lillard also sidelined due to an Achilles injury sustained in Game 3, the Bucks had relied heavily on Portis for Game 4. Prior to his ejection, Portis had already contributed four points and four shots within seven minutes of gameplay. Despite his efforts, the Bucks ultimately succumbed to a 126-113 defeat, placing them at a disadvantageous 3-1 deficit in the series.
Following a decisive victory in Game 1, the Bucks have faced consecutive losses, including a heartbreaking overtime defeat in Game 3. As they face the prospect of a second consecutive first-round elimination, the team’s postseason future hangs in the balance.
Game 5 is Tuesday in Milwaukee.
