Khris Middleton Celebrates with Bucks Fans During His Return to Milwaukee
Khris Middleton reflects on his time with the Bucks as he plays against them for the first time as a Washington Wizard, expressing gratitude and nostalgia.
Khris Middleton Celebrates with Bucks Fans During His Return to Milwaukee
Khris Middleton reflects on his time with the Bucks as he plays against them for the first time as a Washington Wizard, expressing gratitude and nostalgia.
MILWAUKEE – Khris Middleton has traversed the hallways of Fiserv Forum countless times. However, on a chilly Wednesday morning, as he prepared for the Washington Wizards shootaround before their season opener against the Milwaukee Bucks, he experienced it all from the opposing side for the first time.
Middleton described waking up in a hotel in Milwaukee as “weird,” reminiscing as he walked the path to the court that was once his home. “I鈥檝e done great things in here, so it was a moment to reflect when I arrived,” he shared. “Remembering the good times and the bad times, the ups and downs, all of it.”
Drafted as a second-round pick by the Detroit Pistons in 2012, Middleton was traded to the Bucks just before his second season. Initially considered part of a trade for Brandon Knight, he developed into a franchise icon during his 11 seasons in Milwaukee. Leaving for the Wizards, he was cherished as one of the most beloved athletes in Milwaukee鈥檚 history.
“This place will always hold a special place in my heart,” Middleton stated. “This organization helped me achieve many of my dreams.”
When he joined the Bucks, they hadn’t won a playoff series since 2001, lingering in mediocrity. Alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo, they transformed the franchise into a title contender, culminating in the Bucks’ first championship since 1971.
In his honor, the Bucks played a tribute video before the game, showcasing his best moments. “To have that type of welcome was special,” Middleton admitted, caught off guard by the display of affection.
Antetokounmpo expressed, “He should receive the warmest welcome ever. He means so much to this team and to me.”
Middleton had an impressive night, scoring 23 points and contributing six rebounds and three assists, all while taking a charge against his former teammate late in the game. After the match, the two enjoyed a moment at midcourt.
As he reflected on the fans’ support, Middleton expressed gratitude, noting how special it was to see his jerseys in the crowd. “People spending their money to buy my jersey is something I appreciate. I wish my father was here.”
His family, along with many in the crowd, shed tears during his emotional return. Antetokounmpo may be the star, but the past decade of Bucks basketball belongs equally to Middleton.
“Legacy is all about winning,” Middleton noted. “We built this team from struggling to champions, and that鈥檚 a memory that will always remain in this building.”
As Middleton entered the arena on Wednesday, his gaze was drawn to the championship banner hanging in the rafters. He dreams of seeing his No. 22 alongside it one day, but for now, he cherishes the love from the city. “Getting standing ovations isn鈥檛 common, so I wanted the fans to know I appreciated them. This is a dream come true for every player.”
Khris Middleton with fans
Milwaukee will always love you, Khris. 馃挌 @Bucks
