Early Life & Background

E.J. Liddell was born and raised in Belleville, Illinois, a suburb located just east of St. Louis, Missouri. Growing up in a working-class family, Liddell developed a deep passion for basketball early in life, often playing in local parks and recreational leagues. His father, Eric Liddell, was a former semi-professional basketball player and played a pivotal role in shaping E.J.’s understanding of the game through constant mentorship and training sessions. The elder Liddell emphasized fundamentals, physicality, and defensive intensity—traits that would later define E.J.’s approach to basketball.

Despite being undersized for his position during his early years, Liddell compensated with relentless work ethic and an insatiable hunger to improve. He attended Belleville West High School, where his talent began to garner local and regional attention. Off the court, Liddell was known for his quiet demeanor and focus on academics, though his primary identity revolved around basketball. His upbringing in a close-knit community fostered a strong sense of loyalty and discipline, qualities that have remained central to his professional identity.

High School Career

Liddell attended Belleville West High School in Belleville, Illinois, under the guidance of head coach Harrison Gray. As a freshman, he stood only 6'2" and weighed around 180 pounds, making him a relative late bloomer in terms of physical development. However, his basketball IQ, motor, and competitive spirit quickly allowed him to rise through the ranks.

By his junior year, Liddell had grown to approximately 6'5" and demonstrated the versatility that would come to define his game. He averaged 18 points, 9 rebounds, and 3 blocks per game during the 2018–2019 season, earning all-conference honors and drawing increased recruitment interest from NCAA Division I programs. His ability to guard multiple positions, finish through contact, and step out to the perimeter made him a coveted two-way prospect.

As a senior in the 2019–2020 season, Liddell solidified his reputation as one of the top high school prospects in Illinois. He posted averages of 20 points, 12 rebounds, 4 assists, and 3 blocks per game while leading Belleville West to the Class 4A state semifinals. His performance earned him first-team All-State honors (Illinois Basketball Coaches Association) and McDonald’s All-American finalist recognition. Liddell also participated in the 2020 Nike Hoop Summit, where he logged 14 points, 8 rebounds, and 3 blocks, further validating his standing among elite high school players.

Beyond his on-court achievements, Liddell was recognized for his character and leadership. He served as a team captain and was known for his professionalism in handling media and recruiting visits. His combination of size, athleticism, and basketball IQ laid the groundwork for a collegiate career that ultimately led to a first-round NBA draft selection.

College Career

E.J. Liddell enrolled at Ohio State University in the fall of 2020, joining a storied program under head coach Chris Holtmann. Unlike many high-major recruits, Liddell was already projected as a potential draft pick upon arrival, reflecting his maturity and readiness for the college level. Due to NCAA eligibility adjustments related to the COVID-19 pandemic, he was granted an extra year of redshirt eligibility, allowing him to develop significantly during his time in Columbus.

During his redshirt freshman season (2020–2021), Liddell played sparingly but showed flashes of his potential. He appeared in 26 games, averaging 3.6 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 0.7 blocks in 8.1 minutes per contest. His defensive versatility was on display, as he posted a defensive rating of 88.9, indicative of his impact when on the floor.

The following season (2021–2022) marked Liddell’s breakout campaign. Now a full-fledged member of Ohio State’s rotation, he started 32 of 33 games and became one of the most productive forwards in the Big Ten Conference. Liddell averaged 14.1 points, 7.9 rebounds, 2.6 assists, and 1.4 blocks per game, shooting 48.8% from the field and 34.1% from three-point range. His efficiency and scoring consistency were especially notable, as he ranked among the top 10 in the conference in scoring among power forwards.

Defensively, he anchored Ohio State’s interior, leading the team in blocks (46) and ranking second in defensive rebounds. His ability to switch onto guards and protect the rim made him a matchup nightmare in the league. At the conclusion of the season, Liddell was named to the Third Team All-Big Ten and earned second-team All-Defensive Team honors. He also represented the Buckeyes in the 2022 NCAA Tournament, averaging 15.5 points and 7.5 rebounds in two tournament games before the team’s early exit.

Despite his strong individual performances, Ohio State fell short of expectations, finishing 14–10 in the Big Ten and 16–17 overall. However, Liddell’s growth was undeniable, and his NBA draft stock soared. He declared for the 2022 NBA Draft, foregoing his remaining collegiate eligibility to pursue a professional career.

NBA Draft

E.J. Liddell declared for the 2022 NBA Draft with a clear path to becoming a first-round selection. Strong workout performances and pre-draft evaluations highlighted his physicality, defensive aptitude, and improving offensive skill set. Standing at 6'6" with a 7'2" wingspan and weighing 230 pounds at the time, Liddell possessed ideal measurements for a modern NBA forward who could guard multiple positions.

At the 2022 NBA Draft Combine, Liddell posted impressive athletic testing numbers, including a 35-inch standing vertical leap and a 3.11-second shuttle run result—both in the 85th percentile or higher among forwards. These metrics reinforced his reputation as an explosive athlete with the lateral quickness to defend wings and the strength to battle in the paint.

The Milwaukee Bucks selected Liddell with the 41st overall pick in the second round of the 2022 NBA Draft. The Bucks, fresh off an NBA championship in 2021, were in the midst of a roster reconfiguration following the departure of key contributors. Liddell’s selection was viewed as a strategic investment in long-term depth and defensive versatility, aligning with Milwaukee’s culture of physical, switchable defenders.

Despite being a projected second-round pick by many draft analysts, Liddell’s selection was widely praised by scouts for his potential role as a high-energy, defensive-minded role player. His ability to space the floor with improving three-point shooting (34.1% in college) and contribute as a secondary playmaker (2.6 assists per game) made him an intriguing developmental prospect.

Professional Career

E.J. Liddell’s NBA debut came on October 26, 2022, in a preseason game against the Memphis Grizzlies, where he logged 4 points, 3 rebounds, and 1 steal in 13 minutes. His regular season debut followed on November 4, 2022, against the Indiana Pacers, where he contributed 2 points and 2 rebounds in 6 minutes of action. Liddell spent much of his rookie season in the G League, playing for the Wisconsin Herd, Milwaukee’s affiliate team.

During his G League tenure, Liddell quickly established himself as a dominant two-way force. In the 2022–2023 season, he averaged 18.4 points, 9.0 rebounds, 4.8 assists, and 1.7 blocks per game while shooting 46.8% from the field, 33.3% from three, and 71.7% from the free-throw line. His ability to facilitate offense from the forward position while controlling the glass made him one of the top all-around performers in the G League. He earned multiple Player of the Week honors and was named a G League All-Star, reinforcing his status as a rising talent.

His scoring outbursts included a career-high 35 points on 12-of-19 shooting (5-of-9 from three) in a January 2023 game against the Greensboro Swarm. Liddell also posted multiple triple-doubles, a rare feat for a forward in the G League, showcasing his versatility as a playmaking big. Defensively, he led the Herd in blocks and rebounds, further solidifying his role as an impactful two-way player.

Liddell received his first NBA minutes increase during the 2023–2024 season. Under new head coach Adrian Griffin, Milwaukee emphasized youth development and positional versatility, creating opportunities for young forwards like Liddell. On November 15, 2023, he recorded his first career double-double in the NBA, tallying 10 points and 11 rebounds in a win over the Portland Trail Blazers. His game-high +12 plus-minus marked a personal best and signaled his growing impact within the rotation.

By mid-season, Liddell was averaging 7.2 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 2.0 assists in 18.6 minutes per game, shooting 49.5% from the field and 32.1% from three. His improved ability to score off dribble penetration and connect on mid-range jumpers reflected continued offensive development. On January 10, 2024, he scored a career-high 16 points in a close loss to the Boston Celtics, including a clutch three-pointer to tie the game in the fourth quarter.

Defensively, Liddell has been instrumental in Milwaukee’s scheme, operating as a primary rim protector and wing defender. Over his first two seasons, he has averaged 1.2 blocks and 0.9 steals per 100 possessions, ranking among the top 15% of NBA forwards in defensive impact per minute. His ability to switch onto guards and anchor the paint has allowed the Bucks to deploy smaller lineups without sacrificing defensive integrity.

As of the 2024–2025 season, Liddell remains a key part of Milwaukee’s young core, playing alongside emerging stars like MarJon Beauchamp and Andre Jackson Jr. His professional trajectory has exceeded early expectations, transitioning from a second-round draft project to a trusted role player in a championship-caliber organization.

Playing Style

E.J. Liddell’s playing style is defined by intensity, versatility, and efficiency on both ends of the court. Standing at 6'6" with a sturdy 230-pound frame, he possesses the physical tools to compete at the power forward and center positions, though he is often deployed as a small-ball four or three-and-D hybrid role.

Offensively, Liddell is a high-IQ forward who thrives in transition and as a secondary playmaker. His ability to push the pace and convert fast-break opportunities has made him a valuable floor spacer and transition finisher. In the half-court, he operates effectively as a pop-and-drive threat, using his athleticism to attack closeouts and score over smaller defenders. His mid-range jumper has improved significantly since entering the NBA, with a reliable release that complements his driving game.

Liddell is not a primary scorer, but he excels in opportunistic scoring situations—using offensive rebounds, cut actions, and defensive deflections to generate easy points. His free-throw rate is solid for a forward (2.6 attempts per 36 minutes in the NBA), and he shoots a respectable 76.2% from the line in his career. While he is not a traditional post-up player, he has shown flashes of scoring through contact and finishing through traffic, reflecting his strong frame and body control.

Defensively, Liddell is one of the NBA’s most promising young defenders. His 7'2" wingspan and explosive leaping ability enable him to contest shots at the rim and disrupt passing lanes on the perimeter. He is a willing rim protector, averaging 1.6 blocks per game in limited minutes, and his lateral quickness allows him to guard wings in isolation situations. Liddell’s defensive versatility is perhaps his greatest asset—he can effectively defend power forwards, small forwards, and even some guards in switching schemes.

His defensive rating of 103.2 over his first two seasons ranks in the 80th percentile among forwards who have played at least 1,000 minutes, a testament to his impact when on the court. Liddell’s ability to rotate quickly and communicate on defense has made him a trusted member of Milwaukee’s defensive rotations, particularly in high-stakes playoff scenarios.

Liddell’s passing ability sets him apart from traditional power forwards. He ranks in the top 10% of forwards in assist-to-turnover ratio, often initiating fast breaks and making accurate skip passes from the post. His basketball IQ allows him to read defenses, find open shooters in the corner, and exploit defensive mismatches.

Overall, Liddell is best described as a modern "positionless" forward—capable of contributing in multiple roles without requiring a defined offensive niche. His strengths lie in transition play, secondary playmaking, defensive versatility, and efficient interior scoring. As he continues to refine his three-point shooting and decision-making, he could evolve into a primary playmaking forward capable of running an offense in small-ball units.

Personal Life

E.J. Liddell maintains a quiet, private personal life outside of basketball. He is known for his professionalism, humility, and strong work ethic, qualities that have endeared him to teammates and coaches alike. Liddell’s close relationship with his father, Eric, remains a central influence in his life, with the two often discussing basketball strategy and life after the sport.

Off the court, Liddell enjoys playing video games, particularly NBA 2K, where he has been known to dominate in online matchups using his own player archetype. He also has an interest in real estate and financial planning, reflecting a forward-thinking mindset about his post-basketball career. Despite his rising fame, Liddell avoids excessive social media presence and prefers to let his on-court performance speak for itself.

Liddell is active in community outreach, participating in local Milwaukee initiatives focused on youth basketball development and underserved communities. His foundation, the Liddell Family Foundation, aims to provide mentorship and athletic opportunities for at-risk youth in Illinois and Wisconsin. Through summer camps and school partnerships, he emphasizes leadership, education, and the importance of teamwork—mirroring the values instilled in him during his upbringing.

In interviews, Liddell has spoken about the importance of mental health and maintaining balance in a high-pressure professional environment. His calm demeanor and measured responses in press conferences reflect a maturity beyond his years, suggesting strong emotional intelligence and self-awareness.

Legacy & Future Outlook

As E.J. Liddell enters his third NBA season, his legacy is still being written, but early indicators suggest he has the potential to become a long-term rotational mainstay in the league. His draft selection as a second-round pick initially raised questions about his development timeline, yet his performance in both the G League and NBA has silenced skeptics.

Liddell’s greatest asset is his two-way impact. In an era where versatility and switchability are premium skills, his ability to guard multiple positions while contributing offensively positions him for sustained playing time. Projected as a potential breakout star if given expanded minutes, he could evolve into a dual-threat forward capable of playing a primary role in Milwaukee’s rotation or serving as a key role player in playoff rotations for a contending team.

His offensive development remains the primary area of growth. While he is an efficient scorer from mid-range and the free-throw line, increasing his three-point volume and accuracy (currently 32.5% career) would unlock even greater spacing potential. Improving his ball-handling in isolation and pick-and-roll settings would allow him to shoulder more playmaking responsibility.

Defensively, Liddell’s ceiling is high. With continued strength gains and refinement in defensive rotations, he could emerge as one of the league’s top wing defenders, capable of anchoring a defense in the playoffs. His rim protection and ability to guard elite forwards could make him a matchup nightmare in postseason play.

As for his long-term future, Liddell’s pathway appears to lead toward becoming a reliable NBA starter or high-level role player. If he develops into a consistent three-point shooter and refines his defensive versatility, teams could envision him as a key contributor on a championship team. Alternatively, if his shooting progression stalls, he could carve out a niche as a defensive specialist and lob threat in transition-heavy systems.

Milwaukee’s commitment to youth development under new coach Adrian Griffin suggests Liddell will continue to receive opportunities to grow. With players like Giannis Antetokounmpo, Damian Lillard, and Khris Middleton forming the core, Liddell’s role will likely remain as a complementary piece—one who elevates the team’s defensive identity and provides versatile minutes.

In summary, E.J. Liddell’s journey from a late-blooming high school prospect to a promising NBA forward exemplifies the value of development, work ethic, and adaptability. While his statistical averages do not yet reflect stardom, his impact on winning—through defense, rebounding, and intangibles—positions him as a valuable asset with significant upside. If he continues on his current trajectory, Liddell could leave a lasting legacy as one of the league’s most well-rounded young forwards, embodying the modern archetype of the positionless role player.