In the world of professional sports, few things are as cherished as a hometown hero’s return. For the city of Cedar Falls, Iowa, and the greater Cedar Valley community, that hero is AJ Green. The 6-foot-4 shooting guard, a product of Cedar Falls High School and the University of Northern Iowa (UNI), has not only made it to the NBA but now finds himself playing for the Milwaukee Bucks, a franchise just a few hours’ drive from his childhood home.1 Green’s journey from a local high school standout to a key contributor on an NBA roster is a story of determination, perseverance, and the sweet satisfaction of coming full circle.
Green’s roots in Cedar Falls are deep. He was a dominant force for the Cedar Falls High School Tigers, becoming the school’s all-time leading scorer.2 His high school career was a preview of the offensive prowess he would later display on bigger stages. The support he received from his hometown was unwavering, and he chose to continue his career locally at the University of Northern Iowa, a decision that solidified his status as a hometown icon.
At UNI, Green’s star continued to rise. He was a two-time Missouri Valley Conference (MVC) Player of the Year, a testament to his scoring ability and leadership.3 He led the Panthers to two MVC regular-season championships and became the program’s all-time leader in three-point field goal attempts and career free-throw percentage. He was the heart and soul of the UNI basketball program, a player whose performances filled the McLeod Center and brought national attention to the mid-major school. His time at UNI was not just about basketball; it was about representing his community with pride, a lesson he carries with him to this day.
After going undrafted in the 2022 NBA Draft, Green signed a two-way contract with the Milwaukee Bucks.4 It was a dream come true, not just because he was in the NBA, but because he was so close to home. Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is a manageable drive from Cedar Falls, making it possible for his family and friends to attend games and for him to return home during the offseason. The familiarity of the Midwest, the shared values, and the proximity to his support system have all played a significant role in his adjustment to the professional game.
Playing for the Bucks, Green quickly carved out a niche for himself. He’s known for his sharpshooting from beyond the arc and his ability to spread the floor. While his early seasons were spent developing on a two-way contract, splitting time between the Bucks and their G-League affiliate, the Wisconsin Herd, he proved his worth and earned a full-time spot on the roster. He’s now a reliable bench player, providing a scoring punch and consistent three-point shooting off the bench.5
The transition to the NBA hasn’t been without its challenges. The pace of the game is faster, the players are bigger and stronger, and the competition is relentless. Green has had to adapt his game, focusing on the specific skills that make him valuable at the professional level. His dedication to his craft is evident in his improved defense and his ability to find open spaces against some of the world’s best defenders. He’s also had the invaluable opportunity to learn from and play alongside superstars like Giannis Antetokounmpo and other seasoned veterans, soaking up knowledge and experience that you can’t get anywhere else.6
Being a part of the Bucks organization has been a special experience for Green. The team’s fan base, while not the same as the intimate crowds at UNI, is passionate and dedicated. The energy in the Fiserv Forum is electric, and Green says it reminds him of the support he received back home. He’s also part of a winning culture, one that has celebrated championships and has a constant goal of being the best.
Ultimately, AJ Green’s story is a powerful one. It’s about a young man who never gave up on his dream, who stayed true to his roots, and who found a way to make it to the highest level of his sport. For the people of Cedar Falls, he’s more than just a basketball player; he’s a symbol of what can be achieved with hard work and dedication. And for Green, playing for the Milwaukee Bucks isn’t just a job—it’s a homecoming.
