The Pacers destroy the Bucks: a giant Giannis is not enough
Antetokounmpo's great performance against a team that was far superior to Milwaukee, who dominated them in Indiana
Dominant victory for the Indiana Pacers over the Milwaukee Bucks with a score of 117-98 in the first game of the 2025 NBA playoffs. Giannis Antetokounmpo put on a great performance, but it wasn't enough against a much stronger and complete team.
The Greek star had 19 points out of the Bucks' total of 43 by halftime, shooting 43% from two-point range, 12% from beyond the arc, and 53% from the free-throw line. Understandably, with those numbers, the Bucks were trailing 67-43 at the half. We'll see if Damian Lillard can make it to the second game. Milwaukee needs a Plan B in their offense during playoffs; otherwise, it will be impossible for them to contend against Indianapolis.
In the second half, the Bucks tried to stay in the game, but the 18-34 run in the second quarter sealed their fate.
Antetokounmpo finished with 36 points and 12 rebounds, which ultimately didn't make a difference. The other Bucks starters combined for only 14 points, with Taurean Prince and Kyle Kuzma scoreless. Bobby Portis, coming off the bench, shot 2 for 8. Only Kevin Porter, Gary Trent, and AJ Green managed to contribute, although not significantly.
Overall, the Pacers performed at a high level, led by Pascal Siakam as the top scorer with 25 points. Myles Turner added 19 points, and Andrew Nembhard chipped in with 17. Tyrese Haliburton had a tough game, ending with 10 points, 11 assists, 0 for 7 from three-point range, and 3 for 13 from the field. Nonetheless, a comfortable win for his team.
This is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Los Pacers destrozan a los Bucks: no basta con un gigantesco Giannis
