Khris Middleton Receives Heartwarming Reception in Milwaukee Return
Milwaukee welcomed back Khris Middleton on Wednesday night with an emotional tribute as he played his first game as a visitor at Fiserv Forum. After 12 seasons and 735 games with the Milwaukee Bucks, including a pivotal role in their 2021 NBA Championship victory, Middleton donned the uniform of the Washington Wizards for a season opener that ended in a 133-120 loss.
The sold-out crowd at Fiserv Forum made their appreciation known, showering Middleton with standing ovations throughout the game. The first came during pregame introductions, followed by another as a tribute video played during a first-quarter timeout. The final standing ovation occurred when Middleton exited the game after scoring a team-high 23 points.
“To get that type of recognition, appreciation from the city, the organization, I mean that meant the world to me,” Middleton stated. “To get a standing ovation on the road doesn’t happen often, so I wanted to make sure that they knew I acknowledge them.”
Middleton’s return was significant, particularly since he was traded to the Wizards before the trade deadline in February 2024 as part of a multi-player deal that saw Kyle Kuzma join the Bucks. The warm welcome extended beyond the crowd; he was greeted by the team mascot and band, with several staff members stopping to take pictures and offer congratulations.
The evening held emotional weight for Giannis Antetokounmpo, Middleton’s former teammate. Describing the situation as “weird,” Antetokounmpo noted the nostalgia of facing off against someone he had practiced with for over a decade. “Even when we became All-Stars and champions, during the summertime, playing our one-on-one battles,” Middleton reflected on their competitive spirit.
During the game, Middleton successfully drew a charge on Antetokounmpo in the second quarter, highlighting their long-standing rivalry. “I saw his eyes light up when he saw me under the rim,” Middleton said with a smile. “I’ve got worse hits from that guy. That one was light.”
Antetokounmpo acknowledged Middleton’s talent, stating, “Obviously he had a great game, he still can hoop. He’s still a big threat when he’s out there on the court.” In just 27 minutes, Antetokounmpo tallied 37 points, 14 rebounds, and five assists, showcasing his continued prowess on the court.
This marked the first time Antetokounmpo played without Middleton as a teammate in the NBA. The two had previously faced off in a matchup in Washington, D.C., following the trade. Antetokounmpo humorously remarked, “I got him. Two-one, I’m up,” referencing their competitive encounters.
While the Bucks celebrated their victory, they faced a setback when point guard Kevin Porter Jr. sustained a sprained left ankle after stepping on the foot of teammate Bobby Portis. Porter had contributed 10 points on 3-of-5 shooting before the injury, which left Bucks coach Doc Rivers concerned. “It didn’t look good,” Rivers said. “I’ll just say that. Got to hope for the best, but looking at it, it was a pretty bad sprain.”
Middleton’s return to Milwaukee encapsulated the deep connections formed during his long tenure with the Bucks. The tributes and recognition from fans and the organization underscored his impact and legacy within the city.
