- Indiana took a 2-0 lead in the series after a 123:115 win over Milwaukee in Game 2
- Pascal Siakam led the Pacers with 24 points and 11 rebounds, while Haliburton added 21 and 12 assists
- Giannis Antetokounmpo had 34 points and 18 rebounds but couldn’t prevent the Bucks from falling again
Key Takeaways:
Indiana Pacers made another vital step towards the next phase of the NBA Playoffs after defeating Milwaukee Bucks 123:115 in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference quarterfinals. In Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Rick Carlisle’s team kept control throughout and survived every push from Doc Rivers’ squad. The game marked the return of Damian Lillard, who came back after a lengthy absence due to a blood clot diagnosis.
The Pacers made the most of their home-court advantage and now lead the series 2-0. The match-up will now move to Milwaukee, with Game 3 set for April 26 (Saturday).
Hali and the Pacers spoil Dame's return 👀
The series shifts to Milwaukee as the Bucks look for their first win. pic.twitter.com/LeUvg3kO8C
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) April 23, 2025
Indiana’s trademark offensive start paid off early as Myles Turner, Pascal Siakam, Aaron Nesmith and Tyrese Haliburton established the momentum. Milwaukee struggled to respond, and despite efforts from Lillard and Giannis Antetokounmpo, the hosts led by 10 points after the first quarter. The second period followed a similar pattern. Antetokounmpo was Milwaukee’s lone bright spot in attack, but the Pacers maintained a 68:60 lead at halftime.
Siakam stepped up again after the break, keeping the Bucks at bay and helping Indiana stretch the lead to 12 points by the end of the third quarter. In the final frame, Indiana pushed further ahead through Benedict Mathurin, Siakam and Turner. Milwaukee responded with a late 19:6 run led by Bobby Portis, Lillard and Antetokounmpo, cutting the deficit to just 2 points in the final three minutes. Crucial three-pointers from Siakam and Andrew Nembhard restored the Pacers’ cushion and sealed the win.
Siakam finished with 24 points and 11 rebounds for Indiana. Haliburton added 21 points, 5 rebounds and 12 assists. Nembhard scored 17 and dished 6 assists, Nesmith had 16 with 4 threes, Turner contributed 15, and Mathurin ended with 14 points.
Antetokounmpo led Milwaukee with 34 points, 18 rebounds and 7 assists. Portis added 28 points, 12 boards and 6 threes. Lillard returned with 14 points and 7 assists, while Kyle Kuzma had 12.