From Second-Round Pick to G-Leaguer to NBA Champion, Milwaukee Bucks’ Khris Middleton Has Come a Long Way

The NBA Championship has returned to Milwaukee. Precisely 50 years since their last glory, Giannis Antetokounmpo’s side rewrote the history books. The Bucks overcame a deficit of two games to rout the Phoenix Suns in six thrilling encounters. Their’ secret weapon was their illustrious small-forward Khris Middleton. Whenever they found themselves in trouble, Middleton pulled off something magnificent from his back pocket.

Rags to riches story of Khris Middleton

Middleton was born in 1991, in Charleston, South Carolina. The 29-year-old started playing basketball at a young age, and flourished. He went on to become a star player for the Texas A&M University, impressing one and all. In 2012, the Detroit Pistons drafted Khris Middleton in the 39th overall pick.

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Middleton had a mediocre rookie year, averaging close to six points per game for the Pistons. He started only 27 games, and never really made his presence felt. As time passed, however, the American only got stronger and better. Towards the end of the year, Middleton was sent to the NBA’s Development League, where his level plummeted.

In 2013, Khris got traded to the Milwaukee Bucks, where he soon found a second home. Middleton and the Bucks were a match made in heaven. Having graduated from the G League, he became its first NBA All-star in 2019.

Middleton’s hard work pays dividends in 2021

After some gruesome battles over the past decade, the biggest prize of them all finally found its way to Middleton. The two-time NBA All-star had a phenomenal season with the Bucks, averaging over 20 points per game for his side. In the Finals, Middleton had a PPG of 24, which perhaps made the difference.

Following the momentous victory, fans worldwide showered the starlet with the heartiest congratulations. Middleton took to social media to mark his side’s success. “CHAMPS!!!” said the champion’s post, who will now head to Japan for the Olympics.

The 2020-21 season was the fruit of Khris Middleton’s efforts over the years. Led by the ‘Greek Freak’ Antetokounmpo, the Milwaukee Bucks straddled home to victory on their own turf. Next up, Middleton will set his sights on the Tokyo Olympics 2021, where he will be eager to secure the gold for his national side.

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