Khris Middleton, a former Milwaukee Bucks star, made his much-anticipated return to Milwaukee on Tuesday night as a member of the Washington Wizards. The game marked Middleton’s first appearance as a visitor in the arena where he spent 12 memorable seasons, culminating in an NBA championship in 2021. It was an energy-filled night, and the crowd went wild as Middleton entered the court. Fans and team staff, and even the Bucks’ mascot, welcomed him with open arms.
Excitement beamed off Middleton as he walked into the Fiserv Forum leading up to the game. His welcome back was made even more special by his team mascot and the Bucks band welcoming him home in proper style. That moment was poignant for Middleton personally, as he thought back on his years with the team and his connection to the city. When his name was called out in pregame introductions, the applause and cheers from the crowd were no less than rapturous.
Getting that recognition and appreciation from the city and the organization was the greatest feeling in the world. It really underscored my hard work and commitment! Middleton stated after the game.
Throughout the match, Middleton faced off against his longtime teammate Giannis Antetokounmpo, showcasing their enduring rivalry. The two players went at each other numerous times on the floor, reminiscing old summer one-on-one war stories in the process. Middleton reminisced about their competitive spirit, noting, “Even when we became All-Stars and champions, during the summertime, playing our one-on-one battles.”
In spite of all the emotional moments, the photo-finish game ended up a gut-wrenching loss for Middleton and the Wizards. The Bucks beat Washington 133-120 in a game one wouldn’t expect to be close. After the final buzzer, several Bucks staffers approached Middleton for greetings and photos, further emphasizing the camaraderie that he built over his years in Milwaukee.
A more emotional moment came during the first quarter’s final timeout, when a tribute video aired on the scoreboard. While the video tribute was meant to celebrate everything that Middleton brought to the team, it definitely produced a nostalgic outburst from him and the fans.
After the game, Middleton elaborated further on his bond with the city of Milwaukee, saying “Milwaukee will forever love me.” His words caused palpable emotional reactions from those in attendance, further highlighting the groundbreaking legacy he created in such a short time with the Bucks.
Giannis Antetokounmpo admitted that it was heavy to go up against his erstwhile teammate. He described the night as “strange.” This was their third meeting since Middleton’s deal to Washington ahead of the February deadline. Antetokounmpo praised Middleton’s skills on the court, noting, “Obviously he had a great game, he still can hoop.”
The deal that sent Middleton to the Wizards in 2022 also netted Kyle Kuzma, who would flourish in Milwaukee. This historic move represents a new chapter for each player. Though Middleton has switched teams, his relationship with Milwaukee endures.
Reflecting on their time together, Middleton shared how their competitive nature fueled their performances: “We talk a lot. It’s all just competitive. We both want to win. We both want the best out of each other.” He humorously recalled their physical encounters on the court, saying, “I saw his eyes light up when he saw me under the rim.”
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