(4) Indiana Pacers vs. (5) Milwaukee Bucks
Series Result: Pacers win 4–1
📊 Series Overview
The Indiana Pacers eliminated the Milwaukee Bucks in five games, marking the second consecutive year they’ve ousted Milwaukee in the first round. Indiana’s balanced offense and resilience were key, while Milwaukee grappled with injuries and late-game execution issues.
🧩 Key Storylines
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Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Herculean Efforts:
Giannis delivered remarkable performances throughout the series, including a triple-double in Game 5 with 30 points, 20 rebounds, and 13 assists. Despite his efforts, the Bucks couldn’t capitalize on his dominance. -
Damian Lillard’s Injury Woes:
Lillard returned in Game 2 after a prolonged absence but suffered a torn Achilles in Game 4, sidelining him for the remainder of the series and impacting Milwaukee’s offensive dynamics. -
Tyrese Haliburton’s Clutch Leadership:
Haliburton orchestrated the Pacers’ offense with precision, averaging 17.4 points and 11.6 assists per game. His game-winning layup in Game 5 epitomized his clutch play and leadership. -
Balanced Pacers Attack:
Indiana showcased depth with multiple players stepping up. Pascal Siakam, Myles Turner, and Aaron Nesmith provided consistent scoring and defensive contributions throughout the series.
🏆 Game-by-Game Breakdown
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Game 1: Pacers 117, Bucks 98
Indiana dominated from the start, leading by as much as 28 points. Siakam scored 25 points, and Turner added 19. Giannis’s 36 points weren’t enough for Milwaukee. -
Game 2: Pacers 123, Bucks 115
Despite Giannis’s 34 points and Lillard’s return, Indiana’s efficient shooting (48.9% FG, 44.4% 3PT) and double-doubles from Siakam and Haliburton secured a 2–0 series lead. -
Game 3: Bucks 126, Pacers 108
Milwaukee bounced back with Giannis and Gary Trent Jr. each scoring 37 points. Trent’s nine three-pointers set a franchise playoff record, cutting the series deficit to 2–1. -
Game 4: Pacers 130, Bucks 113
Indiana’s offense exploded, shooting 60% from the field. Turner led with 23 points, while Haliburton dished out 15 assists. Lillard’s early injury hampered Milwaukee’s chances. -
Game 5: Pacers 119, Bucks 118 (OT)
In a thrilling overtime finish, Haliburton’s layup with 1.1 seconds left clinched the series. The Bucks squandered a seven-point lead in the final 45 seconds, with critical turnovers sealing their fate.
⭐️ Series MVP:
Tyrese Haliburton – Averaged 17.4 PPG and 11.6 APG. His leadership, playmaking, and clutch performances were instrumental in Indiana’s series victory.
🔍 Post-Series Reflections
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Indiana Pacers:
The Pacers advanced to the Eastern Conference Semifinals, facing the top-seeded Cleveland Cavaliers. Their cohesive team play and depth position them as formidable contenders moving forward. -
Milwaukee Bucks:
The Bucks face an offseason of uncertainty. With Lillard’s injury and Giannis’s contract situation, Milwaukee must reassess its roster and strategy to return to championship contention.
