Indiana Pacers vs. Milwaukee Bucks Key points of Game 3

The Indiana Pacers faced the Milwaukee Bucks in Game 3 of their first-round Eastern Conference playoff series on April 25, 2025, at Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee. The Pacers led the series 2-0 after convincing wins in Game 1 (117-98) and Game 2 (123-115) at home. Below is a summary of key points for the game based on available information:

• Series Context: The Pacers dominated the first two games, leveraging their home-court advantage and offensive depth. They won Game 1 by 19 points and Game 2 by 8, despite a late Bucks rally. Game 3 was pivotal for Milwaukee, as no NBA team has overcome a 3-0 deficit in a playoff series. The Bucks needed to protect their home court to stay alive.

• Game Importance: Milwaukee faced immense pressure to avoid falling into a 3-0 hole. The Bucks relied heavily on Giannis Antetokounmpo, while the Pacers’ balanced attack, led by Pascal Siakam and Tyrese Haliburton, gave them an edge. The game was a test of Milwaukee’s adjustments after being outplayed in Indiana.

• Key Matchup: Pace vs. Defense:

• The Pacers’ high-octane offense (120.0 PPG in the series) thrived in transition, ranking 5th in fast-break points during the regular season. Their depth allowed them to throw multiple defenders at Antetokounmpo.

• The Bucks, with a slower pace, leaned on Antetokounmpo’s dominance (35.0 PPG, 15.0 RPG in the series) and needed better 3-point shooting (24.3% in Game 1) to open the floor. Milwaukee’s defense struggled, allowing 51.9% field goal shooting in Game 1.

• Injury Concerns:

• Bucks: Damian Lillard returned in Game 2 after missing 14 regular-season games due to deep vein thrombosis in his right calf. His 14 points and 7 assists in Game 2 showed rust, and his health remained a concern. Khris Middleton, playing through a lingering ankle issue, was expected to step up.

• Pacers: No major injuries were reported. Key players like Siakam, Haliburton, and Myles Turner were available, giving Indiana a full rotation.