Indiana Pacers’ Dramatic Overtime Victory Over Milwaukee Bucks
Apr 29, 2025, 09:31 PM ET
INDIANAPOLIS — In a thrilling showdown that had fans on the edge of their seats, Tyrese Haliburton and the Indiana Pacers pulled off a stunning victory against the Milwaukee Bucks on Tuesday night. The game was a rollercoaster of emotions, culminating in a nail-biting finish that saw the Pacers snatch a 119-118 win in overtime, securing a 4-1 series triumph.
The Pacers’ victory was sealed in the final moments of the game, thanks to some clutch plays and a bit of magic from Haliburton. With just 17 seconds left in overtime, Indiana forced two crucial turnovers. Then, in a moment that will be replayed on highlight reels for years to come, Haliburton blew past the formidable Giannis Antetokounmpo to score the go-ahead layup with a mere 1.3 seconds remaining on the clock.
This victory wasn’t just a win; it was a statement. The Pacers closed the game with an impressive 8-0 run over the final 40 seconds of overtime, effectively eliminating the Bucks in the first round for the second consecutive season. Haliburton, who has become a beacon of hope for Indiana fans, finished the game with 26 points and 10 assists, maintaining his perfect 9-0 record in home playoff games.
The series was as intense as it was competitive, and it ended in a manner befitting its fiery nature. A shoving match erupted between the teams at midcourt, underscoring the high stakes and emotions that had been simmering throughout the series.
For the Bucks, this loss was a bitter pill to swallow. In an effort to stave off a third straight first-round exit, Bucks coach Doc Rivers made some strategic changes to the lineup. He introduced guards AJ Green and Kevin Porter Jr, along with forward Bobby Portis, into the starting lineup. However, the absence of 10-time All-Star Damian Lillard, who suffered a torn left Achilles tendon in Game 4, was keenly felt.
Despite the loss, Antetokounmpo delivered a performance for the ages. He finished the game with 30 points, 20 rebounds, and 13 assists. According to ESPN Research, he became the first player in postseason history to average at least 32 points, 14 rebounds, and 6 assists in his first five games of a single postseason. This remarkable feat, however, was not enough to carry the Bucks past the Pacers.
- Key Highlights:
- Tyrese Haliburton’s game-winning layup with 1.3 seconds left.
- Indiana’s 8-0 run in the final 40 seconds of overtime.
- Giannis Antetokounmpo’s historic postseason averages.
- Absence of Damian Lillard due to injury.
As the dust settles on this electrifying series, the Pacers move forward with momentum and confidence, while the Bucks are left to ponder what might have been. The stage is set for more drama and excitement as the NBA playoffs continue to unfold.
Originally Written by: ESPN.com
