When Giannis Antetokounmpo married his long-time girlfriend, Mariah Riddlesprigger, in Greece, his best man was clear—teammate and close friend, Khris Middleton. Middleton wasn’t just there for Giannis at his wedding; he’s been a key figure in Giannis’ NBA journey. Over 700 games together, their bond has been the backbone of an NBA championship-winning duo for the Milwaukee Bucks.
Khris Middleton: Giannis’ Best Man On and Off the Court – An Exploration of a Championship-Winning NBA Duo
The Origins of Khris Middleton and Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Partnership
Giannis and Khris began their partnership in 2013 when the Milwaukee Bucks acquired both players. Giannis arrived as an athletic, unknown rookie, and Khris came as part of a trade from the Detroit Pistons. At the time, neither was seen as a franchise cornerstone. Giannis was a 15th overall pick with potential, and Middleton, a second-round pick, who was fighting for a spot in the league.
What began quietly turned into one of the NBA’s most enduring partnerships. As the Bucks navigated early struggles, their mutual respect grew. The challenges they faced—playoff exits, injuries, and roster changes—strengthened their bond. These experiences allowed them to grow as both players and leaders, forming the core of a new era for the Bucks.
As Giannis evolved into a two-time MVP, Middleton emerged as the perfect complement, becoming a three-time All-Star himself and forming a powerful duo. Together, they laid the foundation for one of Milwaukee’s most successful periods, highlighted by their NBA Championship run in 2021.
How this NBA Duo’s On-Court Chemistry Drives the Bucks’ Success
While Giannis is the physical powerhouse—dominating the paint with his athleticism, length, and ferocity—Middleton provides the perfect balance with his shooting precision, mid-range game, and ability to score under pressure. The duo’s contrasting skills create problems for defenses. Giannis draws multiple defenders with his drives to the rim. This opens space for Middleton, who thrives in catch-and-shoot situations and one-on-one mismatches. When the game is on the line, Middleton has repeatedly proven himself as the Bucks’ go-to closer, knocking down clutch shots in key moments.
The 2021 NBA Championship run was a testament to their chemistry. Time and again, the duo showed their trust in each other, whether it was Middleton hitting game-winning jumpers or Giannis controlling the paint on both ends of the floor. In Game 6 of the NBA Finals, Giannis scored 50 points to seal the title, but Middleton’s playmaking and clutch shooting were just as crucial. Their ability to play off each other fueled the Bucks’ first championship in 50 years.
Their chemistry isn’t just about individual performances—it’s the unspoken understanding that comes from years of playing together. Whether it’s a well-timed pass or knowing when to take over a game, their synergy is what keeps the Bucks competitive at the highest level.
Khris Middleton’s Leadership: The Quiet Force Behind Milwaukee Bucks’ Success
While Giannis is the face of the Milwaukee Bucks, Middleton’s steady leadership is just as vital, making them an elite NBA duo both on and off the court. Giannis leads with his passion and energy, inspiring teammates with his intensity. Meanwhile, Middleton’s calm, collected approach keeps the team grounded.
In an appearance on The Old Man and the Three podcast, Middleton reflected on the team dynamic with Giannis. He emphasized how it’s never been about who is the No. 1 or No. 2 option, but rather about winning:
“As we got older, the respect that was formed and bonded between those intense practices… we realized none of this matters. We had our battles in practice, now our job is to go out and win. So, whoever is 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5, that doesn’t matter. As long as we win, everything is taken care of… Everybody gets paid, everybody is happy, and everybody gets to go wherever they wanna go.”
This quote illustrates Middleton’s selflessness and team-first mentality, which is why he’s been such a reliable leader for Milwaukee. It’s not about individual accolades or roles; it’s about winning. Their leadership was tested during the Bucks’ 2021 playoff run. After Giannis suffered a knee injury in the Eastern Conference Finals, Middleton stepped up to keep the team afloat and helped secure the series win against the Atlanta Hawks. His ability to carry the scoring load and make critical decisions in Giannis’ absence showed his leadership. It also demonstrated the trust the team places in him.
Milwaukee Bucks’ Future with Giannis, Khris, and Damian Lillard
The Bucks added NBA 75th Anniversary Team player Damian Lillard before the 2023–2024 season, boosting championship hopes. However, his first season ended in a disappointing first-round exit against the Pacers. Now, with a full offseason to prepare, Lillard is poised to make an even bigger impact this season.
If Giannis, Khris, and Lillard stay healthy and are surrounded by the right pieces, this trio has the potential to dominate the Eastern Conference and compete for another title. With the right coaching and strategy, they could lead the Bucks to new heights. Giannis will continue to lead with his physicality. Lillard’s scoring and clutch performances will be game-changers. Middleton, the ultimate team player, will do whatever is necessary—whether it’s making key shots, defending, or facilitating for his teammates.
