Sat Oct 25 03:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Middleton Returns to Milwaukee, Receives Standing Ovation in Wizards Loss
MILWAUKEE – Khris Middleton’s return to Milwaukee as a Washington Wizard was filled with emotion and appreciation, despite a 133-120 loss for his new team. After 12 seasons and a championship run with the Bucks, Middleton received a hero’s welcome from the sold-out crowd at Fiserv Forum on Wednesday night.
The cheers began during pregame introductions and swelled again during a first-quarter tribute video highlighting his contributions to the Bucks. A final standing ovation erupted as Middleton, who led the Wizards with 23 points, checked out of the game.
“It was almost a perfect night, if I would’ve got the win,” Middleton said, reflecting on the warm reception. “But to get that type of recognition, appreciation from the city, the organization, that meant the world to me.”
The trade that sent Middleton to the Wizards in February, bringing Kyle Kuzma to Milwaukee, marked the end of an era for Bucks fans. The moment was poignant for Middleton’s longtime teammate, Giannis Antetokounmpo, who described the experience as “weird.” The two former teammates faced off several times during the game, a familiar sight from their years of practice battles.
“Even when we became All-Stars and champions, during the summertime, playing our one-on-one battles,” Middleton said of his relationship with Antetokounmpo. “We talk a lot. It’s all just competitive. We both want to win, we both want the best out of each other.”
Antetokounmpo, who led the Bucks with 37 points, 14 rebounds, and 5 assists, acknowledged Middleton’s continued skill and basketball IQ. “He’s still a big threat when he’s out there on the court,” Antetokounmpo said. “He always plays the right way. Makes a good decision, makes his teammates better defensively.”
While the Bucks secured the victory, the win was dampened by an injury to point guard Kevin Porter Jr., who sprained his left ankle in the first quarter. Coach Doc Rivers described the injury as “pretty bad” and Porter Jr. is scheduled for an MRI on Thursday.
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