Bucks Defeat Pacers 126-119 in Thrilling ECF Showdown

MILWAUKEE, Wis. — The Milwaukee Bucks edged the Indiana Pacers 126-119 on March 15, 2025, clinching their third straight win and solidifying their place in the Eastern Conference playoff race. Giannis Antetokounmpo spearheaded the Bucks’ effort, finishing with 34 points, ten rebounds, and seven assists, as Milwaukee established a commanding presence early in the game.

The game started with intensity as Milwaukee held a slight lead through much of the first quarter. A remarkable three-pointer from Damian Lillard alongside consecutive shots by Antetokounmpo propelled the Bucks to a 38-30 lead at the end of the first quarter. However, the Pacers, led by Tyrese Haliburton and Aaron Nesmith, displayed resilience, chipping away at the lead throughout the game.

In the second quarter, the Bucks surged to a 19-point advantage, but the Pacers responded with a rally, narrowing the gap to five points by halftime. Siakam and Obi Toppin contributed significantly during this stretch, keeping Indiana competitive with a combined 17 points before the break.

Despite struggling defensively in the third quarter, where Milwaukee shot an impressive 72.2% from the field, Indiana continued to fight. The third concluded with the Bucks leading 100-82, thanks to Antetokounmpo’s dominant performance, who scored 14 points in that quarter alone.

As the fourth quarter began, the game turned tense. Antetokounmpo fouled out with a little over two minutes remaining, leaving the Bucks vulnerable with Indiana trailing by just eight points. A clutch layup from Haliburton and a three-pointer from Andrew Nembhard narrowed the deficit to just three points, putting the Bucks on high alert.

Although Milwaukee had established a comfortable lead at various points, Indiana’s comeback posed a challenge. Lillard and Taurean Prince converted crucial free throws down the stretch to hold off the Pacers’ charge and secure the victory.

“We can’t let our guard down now. Every game counts as we’re heading toward the playoffs,” Lillard said after the game, highlighting the team’s urgency as they approach the postseason.

Nesmith shined for Indiana, leading all scorers in the fourth quarter with 13 points and finishing the game with 30 overall, a new career high. Siakam and Haliburton also had significant contributions, scoring 26 and 24 points, respectively, while Haliburton dished out 15 assists.

Both teams are under pressure as they approach the end of the regular season. Indiana has now lost four of its last five road games, allowing over 120 points in five of the last six. The Pacers now look to regroup as they prepare to face the Minnesota Timberwolves on March 17.

“We fought hard, but we’ve got to finish stronger. It’s the small details now,” Haliburton remarked, emphasizing the need for improvement as they navigate the tight playoff race. With both teams eager for a postseason push, the stakes are high as they continue their pursuit of playoff positioning.