Pacers Defeat Bucks in Game 1 of Playoff Series

INDIANAPOLIS – The Indiana Pacers opened their playoff series with a decisive 98-74 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks on Saturday at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. The fourth-seeded Pacers set the tone early, led by Andrew Nembhard‘s strong performance.

Nembhard, a 6-4 guard, surprised everyone by charging onto the court just as player introductions were underway. He quickly established himself as a key player, contributing 15 points in the first half alone. “I didn’t want to foul him, honestly,” Nembhard said about his foul against two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo. “But I think it did set a good tone for us.”

The game was characterized by aggressive defense from the Pacers, who forced Antetokounmpo into a challenging position. He scored 36 points but had only one assist, with the Pacers doubling up on him frequently. “Giannis is going to go out there and get his points,” said Pacers center Thomas Bryant. “But we have to make it hard for him.”

Milwaukee struggled offensively, shooting just 41.7% from the field and making only 9-of-37 attempts from three-point range. This offensive drought allowed the Pacers to build a lead as large as 28 points by the third quarter.

Pacers’ coach Rick Carlisle praised his team’s performance but warned that complacency could lead to trouble. “Winning the second game after you’ve won the first is hard,” Carlisle noted. “We have to expect hard and embrace it.”

Pacers point guard Tyrese Haliburton also acknowledged the need for continued focus going into Game 2, stating, “We expect them to throw a big punch in Game 2.”

The Pacers will look to maintain their momentum in Game 2, scheduled for Tuesday at 7 p.m.