Milwaukee Bucks center Myles Turner had to confront the emotions of his homecoming Monday night as he returned to Gainbridge Fieldhouse, the place he once called home for a decade.

Instead of cheers, the former Pacers star was met with a wave of boos, even after a heartfelt tribute video honoring his years of service to Indiana.

Turner's Emotional Return Turns Cold

Indiana Fans Boo Myles Turner Ahead of Pacers vs Bucks Indiana Fans Boo Myles Turner Ahead of Pacers vs Bucks
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A video montage, celebrating ten years of Turner in Indianapolis, played on the scoreboard with just moments remaining before tipoff. But once it ended, cheers quickly gave way to jeers in the lingering resentment over his offseason move to Milwaukee.

Turner, who signed a four-year, $108.9 million contract with the Bucks, reacted to the crowd with a sarcastic wave and a book-closing gesture to indicate the end of an era.

But despite the cold welcome, Turner went on to have an excellent game, finishing with 33 points, 13 rebounds, and five assists as the Bucks pulled out a 117-115 victory over Indiana.

Turner Opens Up About the Boos

After the game, Turner acknowledged that the reaction stung.

"It was disheartening, man. It was frustrating. You give 10 years of your life, your blood, your sweat, your tears. You take pay cuts, you survive trade rumors, you try to do everything the right way, and then sometimes that's how stuff shakes out. It's cool. I'll take it on the chin."

Giannis Defends His Teammate

According to TMZ Sports, Giannis Antetokounmpo quickly jumped to Turner's defense, appealing to the human side of the game. The Greek Freak said that it's "bigger than sport," saying that it's not fair for someone who gave everything to the Pacers to be booed.

Turner became an instant success in Indiana. He is a former two-time NBA blocks leader, averaging 14.1 points, 6.8 rebounds, 2.2 blocks, and 1.2 three-pointers per game in 642 outings. Recognized for being a defensive anchor and having loyalty towards the franchise, many Pacers fans still struggle to come to grips with seeing him go.

Gratitude Despite the Reaction

Turner added that his return was also an opportunity to reconnect with the people behind the scenes. Still, he wanted to show love to the people who helped him develop his talent in Indiana. Regardless of how fans felt, he thanked them at those times when they badly needed support, especially during the NBA Finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder.