Mar 14, 2024; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks guard AJ Green (20) reacts after scoring a basket during the fourth quarter against the Philadelphia 76ers at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
Milwaukee Bucks forward Bobby Portis is lobbying for teammate AJ Green to secure a spot in the three-point shooting contest at this season’s NBA All-Star Weekend, scheduled for February 15.
Nov 10, 2024; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks guard AJ Green (20) drives to the basket against Boston Celtics guard Jrue Holiday (4) and guard Derrick White (9) during the fourth quarter at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-Imagn Images
Portis acknowledges that Green might not be a popular choice due to his lower profile but argues that the 25-year-old guard has earned the opportunity. Green is one of the NBA’s most efficient three-point shooters, making him a deserving candidate. With voting for the league’s annual showcase already underway, Portis made his case.
“He’s for sure deserving. Dynamic shooter. More than just a shooter, too, but his ability to come in and change the game by knocking down shots and providing spacing for other guys on the court is huge,” Portis told Jim Owczarski of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. “I feel like he makes at least two threes every game. That has to count for something.”
Mar 1, 2023; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) high-fives guard AJ Green (20) during the fourth quarter against the Orlando Magic at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
Portis also highlighted Green’s growth and consistency this season. “Obviously, he’s always been a confident player, but this year is different – his minutes are up, and he has more responsibility. The team relies on him to make shots every game,” Portis added. “I know he’s not the most popular player, but if you watch our games, you can see the impact he brings to the team.”
AJ Green’s Contributions to the Milwaukee Bucks This Season
AJ Green has emerged as a vital rotational player for Milwaukee. The 25-year-old guard is averaging 7.8 points, 2.1 rebounds, and 1.3 assists in 21.4 minutes per game over 27 appearances, including four starts.
According to NBA.com, Green ranks 11th in the league in three-point percentage at 44.9%. Additionally, he is tied for 46th in total three-pointers made with 62, placing him alongside notable players like De’Aaron Fox, Cade Cunningham, Dennis Schroder, and Donte DiVincenzo.
A spot in the three-point contest has already been reserved for Damian Lillard, but it would be a memorable moment for AJ Green to compete against his teammate in February.
