The
Indiana Pacers made a strong statement to open the 2025 NBA Playoffs, securing a dominant 117-98 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks in Game 1 of their Eastern Conference first-round series.
Pascal Siakam Leads the Way
Pascal Siakam
powered the No. 4 seed Pacers with 25 points, while Myles Turner added 19 points and 4 blocks, anchoring Indiana’s defense. Andrew Nembhard chipped in 17 points, and Tyrese Haliburton delivered a well-rounded performance with 10 points and 12 assists.
Hot Start Fuels Indiana Blowout
Indiana shot over 60% from the field in the first half and built a 24-point lead by halftime, thanks to sharp ball movement and efficient scoring. The Pacers' largest lead ballooned to 28 points in the third quarter, and though Milwaukee made a late push, they never got closer than 12.
Giannis Antetokounmpo Shines Solo in Lillard’s Absence
With Damian Lillard sidelined, Giannis Antetokounmpo led the Bucks with 36 points and 12 rebounds. However, Milwaukee’s starters struggled, combining for just 14 points beyond Giannis. Bench players A.J. Green (15 pts), Gary Trent Jr. (14 pts), and Kevin Porter Jr.
(12 pts) provided some spark, but it wasn’t enough to overcome Indiana’s efficiency.
The Bucks also struggled from beyond the arc, going just 2-for-15 in the first half and finishing the night at 24.3% from three-point range.
What’s Next: Game 2
Game 2 of the Pacers vs. Bucks playoff series is set for Tuesday at 7 p.m. ET at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis.
